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59 - Can Nice People Get Ahead?

59 - Can Nice People Get Ahead

I talk about the book “Barking Up the Wrong Tree” by Eric Barker and I have to say, it really got me thinking. As a nice person, I often wonder if it’s possible to get ahead in life and work without being a jerk. And according to Barker, it is! Sure, appearance and making a good impression on bosses are important, but in the long run, it’s the givers who are more successful. By practicing generous tit-for-tat and forgiving after being betrayed, we build a reputation as trustworthy and kind people. So let’s focus on reciprocity and being the best versions of ourselves because that’s what really pays off in the end.

Links

https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=2785

https://www.bakadesuyo.com/

https://www.amazon.com/Barking-Wrong-Tree-Surprising-Everything/dp/0062416049

Jill’s Links
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps

Twitter startwithsmallsteps

Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

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About the Podcast

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Start with Small Steps
Thoughtful personal growth through small, realistic steps you can use in everyday life.

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About your host

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Jill McKinley

I’m Jill from the Northwoods. Professionally, I work in Health IT, where I untangle complex systems and help people use technology more effectively. But at heart, I’m a curious lifelong learner—always exploring how things work, why people grow the way they do, and how even the smallest steps can spark real transformation. That curiosity fuels everything I do, from problem-solving at work to sharing insights through my creative projects.

My journey wasn’t always easy. Growing up, I faced a rough childhood, and books became my lifeline. They introduced me to voices of ancient wisdom, modern psychology, and the natural world around me. Those pages taught me resilience, gave me perspective, and helped me see that wisdom is everywhere—waiting to be noticed, gathered, and shared.