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Decoding The It Factor: Through Performance Psychology
The It Factor captures the stories of seven people, revealing how these otherwise ordinary people with very different backstories have created and manifested the behaviors that cause others to assess them as having the “It Factor.” This book is intended to educate and inspire you to unleash your personal “It Factor.”
I have focused the last thirty-five years of my life on optimal performance coaching for professional athletes, entrepreneurs, entertainers, and a host of others from all walks of life. Over the years, I have witnessed coaches, movie producers, and others referring to one of their players, on whatever field of play, as having that special something that we commonly refer to as “It.” As a result, I’ve become fascinated with what “It” is, and I share my personal observations in this book.
Having the “It Factor” is never an assessment of self. In fact, when someone declares themselves as having the “It Factor,” my immediate assessment of them is that they are harboring a false belief. Rather, having the “It Factor” must be an assessment offered by others, and their assessment must be grounded with supportive evidence. And that is what I present here.
It is my sincere hope that the lessons you glean from this book will open whole new worlds of possibility for you and enable you to inspire and contribute to the lives of others.
—Dr. Don Steele
I have focused the last thirty-five years of my life on optimal performance coaching for professional athletes, entrepreneurs, entertainers, and a host of others from all walks of life. Over the years, I have witnessed coaches, movie producers, and others referring to one of their players, on whatever field of play, as having that special something that we commonly refer to as “It.” As a result, I’ve become fascinated with what “It” is, and I share my personal observations in this book.
Having the “It Factor” is never an assessment of self. In fact, when someone declares themselves as having the “It Factor,” my immediate assessment of them is that they are harboring a false belief. Rather, having the “It Factor” must be an assessment offered by others, and their assessment must be grounded with supportive evidence. And that is what I present here.
It is my sincere hope that the lessons you glean from this book will open whole new worlds of possibility for you and enable you to inspire and contribute to the lives of others.
—Dr. Don Steele
194 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 9, 2024
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August 18, 2024
‘The “It Factor” is an outward expression of inward internal dialogue!’
Multitalented Don Steele, PhD is a university professor, a teacher of Family Business and Leadership Development, a consultant and coach in sports, entertainment, and business, as well as a musician and author. He obviously has found his own It Factor and now provides a well-informed, scientifically grounded introduction discussing such significant information as Dr. Martin Seligman’s PERMA Model and theory of well-being with its "five factors that contribute to a successful pursuit of happiness – Positive, Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Achievement - the five characteristics of a flourishing individual.”
Continuing his ongoing fascination with people whose It Factor is evident, Dr. Steel provides overviews of seven people who possess the traits he discusses. Pat Doyle instigated the internship at Central Michigan University ‘that became his signature act of doing for others.’ According to the author, ‘he always finds ways to make people feel better about themselves.’ Denise Mills, a leadership development expert and founder of Six Degrees Solutions, ‘focuses her power of discernment and heartfelt empathy to help others through recognition and encouragement.’ She makes an international impact with The LeaderFuel Center, ‘bringing faith into corporate environments.’ Scott Holman, a Renaissance man of Bay Cast Inc. and developer of Michigan’s King Lake area, has elevated the important impact of relationships and intelligent risk taking as the keys to happiness and success. Amy Bartels Roe is honored for genuinely caring for people and her positive energy: ’she is an empath.’ She is the director of the Mustard Seed Shelter in Saginaw, Michigan – the mission: ‘to water the seed of inner strength in women experiencing homelessness so they can make a better life for themselves and their children’ - and supporter of the importance of faith in our earthly existence.
Jon Cisky, a former Michigan State Senator, is the founder of Michigan’s Crime Stoppers, encouraging citizens to help the police solve crimes. His motto, ‘it is not how far up the ladder you climb, but how much you accomplish while on the ladder.’ Jon is respected for his charisma, ‘always the one to get people feeling good through humor – one of the most powerful positive emotions one can share.’ Paul Pasco, an inveterate traveller and a global restaurateur, spreads optimism, coaching people to be optimistic and to look at the positives – a true humanist. John Kulhavi, author of NO SOLDER LEFT BEHIND, a decorated Vietnam combat veteran and business leader at Merrill Lynch, is noted for his highly developed emotional quotient, integrity, fearless-warrior mindset, and determination to succeed.
Dr. Steele not only provides expert biographies of seven remarkable people, he also provides analysis of the PERMA model for each, tracing the steps in development that initiate the factors that result in the creation of their becoming owners of the It Factor. The result – a fascinating book that is both entertaining and inspiring, and a suggested textbook for creative classrooms!
Multitalented Don Steele, PhD is a university professor, a teacher of Family Business and Leadership Development, a consultant and coach in sports, entertainment, and business, as well as a musician and author. He obviously has found his own It Factor and now provides a well-informed, scientifically grounded introduction discussing such significant information as Dr. Martin Seligman’s PERMA Model and theory of well-being with its "five factors that contribute to a successful pursuit of happiness – Positive, Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Achievement - the five characteristics of a flourishing individual.”
Continuing his ongoing fascination with people whose It Factor is evident, Dr. Steel provides overviews of seven people who possess the traits he discusses. Pat Doyle instigated the internship at Central Michigan University ‘that became his signature act of doing for others.’ According to the author, ‘he always finds ways to make people feel better about themselves.’ Denise Mills, a leadership development expert and founder of Six Degrees Solutions, ‘focuses her power of discernment and heartfelt empathy to help others through recognition and encouragement.’ She makes an international impact with The LeaderFuel Center, ‘bringing faith into corporate environments.’ Scott Holman, a Renaissance man of Bay Cast Inc. and developer of Michigan’s King Lake area, has elevated the important impact of relationships and intelligent risk taking as the keys to happiness and success. Amy Bartels Roe is honored for genuinely caring for people and her positive energy: ’she is an empath.’ She is the director of the Mustard Seed Shelter in Saginaw, Michigan – the mission: ‘to water the seed of inner strength in women experiencing homelessness so they can make a better life for themselves and their children’ - and supporter of the importance of faith in our earthly existence.
Jon Cisky, a former Michigan State Senator, is the founder of Michigan’s Crime Stoppers, encouraging citizens to help the police solve crimes. His motto, ‘it is not how far up the ladder you climb, but how much you accomplish while on the ladder.’ Jon is respected for his charisma, ‘always the one to get people feeling good through humor – one of the most powerful positive emotions one can share.’ Paul Pasco, an inveterate traveller and a global restaurateur, spreads optimism, coaching people to be optimistic and to look at the positives – a true humanist. John Kulhavi, author of NO SOLDER LEFT BEHIND, a decorated Vietnam combat veteran and business leader at Merrill Lynch, is noted for his highly developed emotional quotient, integrity, fearless-warrior mindset, and determination to succeed.
Dr. Steele not only provides expert biographies of seven remarkable people, he also provides analysis of the PERMA model for each, tracing the steps in development that initiate the factors that result in the creation of their becoming owners of the It Factor. The result – a fascinating book that is both entertaining and inspiring, and a suggested textbook for creative classrooms!
August 18, 2024
Great book for college grads, c-suite execs, leaders and others who want to be INSPIRED!
In “Decoding The It Factor: Through Performance Psychology,” Dr. Don Steele delves into the enigmatic quality known as the “It Factor.” This book is a compelling exploration of how seven seemingly ordinary individuals have harnessed unique behaviors that make them stand out in their respective fields. Dr. Steele, with his extensive experience in optimal performance coaching, offers a rich tapestry of stories and insights that aim to educate and inspire readers to discover and unleash their own “It Factor.”
Dr. Steele’s fascination with the “It Factor” stems from over three decades of observing professional athletes, entrepreneurs, and entertainers. He has seen firsthand how coaches and producers identify this elusive quality in their players and performers. Through his personal observations and experiences, Dr. Steele provides a nuanced understanding of what it means to possess the “It Factor.”
One of the book’s key takeaways is that the “It Factor” is not a self-proclaimed trait but an assessment made by others, grounded in observable evidence. Dr. Steele emphasizes that true recognition of the “It Factor” comes from external validation rather than self-declaration. This perspective challenges readers to reflect on how they are perceived by others and to cultivate behaviors that genuinely resonate with those around them.
Dr. Steele’s impressive background further enriches the content of this book. As a professor at Saginaw Valley State University and a corporate speaker and consultant for Fortune 500 and INC 500 companies, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. His coaching and consulting business, Performance Learning, Inc., has taught unique management and human relations methods to over 50,000 people across multiple countries1. This extensive experience is evident in the practical advice and insights shared throughout the book.
“Decoding The It Factor” is more than just a collection of stories; it is a guide to personal transformation. Dr. Steele’s sincere hope is that the lessons within these pages will open new possibilities for readers, enabling them to inspire and contribute meaningfully to the lives of others. Whether you are an athlete, entrepreneur, or simply someone seeking to understand and develop your unique qualities, this book offers valuable insights and practical advice.
Overall, Dr. Don Steele’s “Decoding The It Factor” is a thought-provoking and motivational read that encourages self-discovery and growth. It is a must-read for anyone looking to unlock their potential and make a lasting impact in their personal and professional lives. I recommend this book to college students, recent graduates, C-Suite executives, Executive Recruiters and others who assess the capabilities of others and those who are inspired by the success of others.
In “Decoding The It Factor: Through Performance Psychology,” Dr. Don Steele delves into the enigmatic quality known as the “It Factor.” This book is a compelling exploration of how seven seemingly ordinary individuals have harnessed unique behaviors that make them stand out in their respective fields. Dr. Steele, with his extensive experience in optimal performance coaching, offers a rich tapestry of stories and insights that aim to educate and inspire readers to discover and unleash their own “It Factor.”
Dr. Steele’s fascination with the “It Factor” stems from over three decades of observing professional athletes, entrepreneurs, and entertainers. He has seen firsthand how coaches and producers identify this elusive quality in their players and performers. Through his personal observations and experiences, Dr. Steele provides a nuanced understanding of what it means to possess the “It Factor.”
One of the book’s key takeaways is that the “It Factor” is not a self-proclaimed trait but an assessment made by others, grounded in observable evidence. Dr. Steele emphasizes that true recognition of the “It Factor” comes from external validation rather than self-declaration. This perspective challenges readers to reflect on how they are perceived by others and to cultivate behaviors that genuinely resonate with those around them.
Dr. Steele’s impressive background further enriches the content of this book. As a professor at Saginaw Valley State University and a corporate speaker and consultant for Fortune 500 and INC 500 companies, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. His coaching and consulting business, Performance Learning, Inc., has taught unique management and human relations methods to over 50,000 people across multiple countries1. This extensive experience is evident in the practical advice and insights shared throughout the book.
“Decoding The It Factor” is more than just a collection of stories; it is a guide to personal transformation. Dr. Steele’s sincere hope is that the lessons within these pages will open new possibilities for readers, enabling them to inspire and contribute meaningfully to the lives of others. Whether you are an athlete, entrepreneur, or simply someone seeking to understand and develop your unique qualities, this book offers valuable insights and practical advice.
Overall, Dr. Don Steele’s “Decoding The It Factor” is a thought-provoking and motivational read that encourages self-discovery and growth. It is a must-read for anyone looking to unlock their potential and make a lasting impact in their personal and professional lives. I recommend this book to college students, recent graduates, C-Suite executives, Executive Recruiters and others who assess the capabilities of others and those who are inspired by the success of others.
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