Two Mirrors And A Cheetah: Think Differently, Own Your Career & Succeed By Being Yourself

by Fiona McDonnell

Two Mirrors And A Cheetah is an easy reading career book that will empower you to take control of you career. It uses stories and abstract metaphors to make the lessons fun, easy to relate to and easy to remember.

Are you a passenger in your career, wanting more but fearful of change or failure? Do you wish you could just be yourself at work?

Two Mirrors and a Cheetah will help you to challenge the assumptions and choices that hold you back, and inspire you to find real career fulfilment just by being yourself. Providing insights, examples and simple exercises, this book will equip you to: understand and showcase your unique capabilities; identify the contexts that help you to thrive; recognise and successfully navigate change; deal with challenges like the ‘bad’ manager, the job hunt and the promotion; and define your own work-life rhythm.

‘A dose of thoughtful, structured and amazingly practical advice, and exercises to get you where you want to go in your career.’
Amanda Mackenzie OBE, CEO of Business In the Community

Fiona McDonnell is a business leader with more than 30 years’ experience with global companies like Amazon, Nike, Kellogg’s, McCormick and Kraft. A professional mentor and STEM Ambassador, she speaks regularly on the topic of careers and her work has featured in the media. She was voted Diversity Leader of the Year at the 2019 Tech Leaders Awards.

Genres: Business

224 pages, Paperback

First published October 5, 2021

About the author

Fiona McDonnell is a business leader with more than 30 years’ experience with household names like Amazon, Nike, Kellogg’s and Kraft. She is a professional mentor and STEM Ambassador who speaks regularly on the topic of careers and her work has been featured in the media. She was voted Diversity Leader of the Year at the 2019 Tech Leaders Awards.

Two Mirrors and a Cheetah; Think Differently, Own Your Career & Succeed by Being Yourself , is Fiona's first book. Fiona decided to write the book, which is a collection of story telling and abstract ideas which she uses to coach and mentor people, as a way of bringing some inspiration to as many people as possible as we re-look at our world of work since the emergence of the pandemic.

Reviews

[Carol-ann Gibson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I often find some career books a bit preachy or not quite right for me. Fiona has a similar background work wise to where I currently am and where I aspire to be. Hearing her thoughts on making a change when necessary, stretching yourself and looking after your team were all things that I could relate to. This has given me the strive to do better for myself and my team. Well written and narrated!

[Briana Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two Mirrors and a Cheetah by Fiona McDonnell
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

🐆Overview: Career book which empowers you to take control of your career, written by business leader with 30+ years’ experience from Amazon, Nike, Kelogg’s.

📖 Genre: Personal Development | Career Advancement

👍Likes: Clear, concise and inspiring overview of advancing in your career. Great balance of stories and tips throughout. Well laid out. Easy concept to remember with the 2 mirrors and a cheetah! Personally, loved the connection to Amazon throughout since it’s where I work and have previously met Fiona.

👎Dislikes: I wish this book existing 10 years ago so I could have read it then!!

📘Format: Audio via Audible (narrated by the author)

🐆Recommend For: Anyone hoping to advance their career either within a company, their own start up, as a new manager, etc.

📖 Book Summary by Sentence: Know yourself, be yourself and adapt your context to suit you best.

📚 Book Summary by Chapter:

Part☝️: Building Understanding

1️⃣ Know Yourself- Mirror 1
- We each have 4 aspects to ourselves which include self awareness, your toolkit, your motivations, your preferred work styles.
- Lean into your gut instincts, get feedback from others.

2️⃣ Be Yourself- Mirror 2
- Bring your whole self to work.
- Be authentic.

3️⃣ The Cheetah
- Like a cheetah, always being aware of their surrounding, timing things well, etc. we should operate the same in our external contexts.
- Take note of what brings you stress and what brings you energy.

4️⃣ Adaptability
- Ability to deal with and strive on change.
- Ask: how much effort will it take to change Vs the effort of staying as you are? Let this guide your decision on making a career change.
- Think before you leap in your career steps: stop, breathe, think, act

Part ✌️:Applying the knowledge
5️⃣ The job hunt
- Get out of neutral and get into gear to find your next role
- Begin with the end in mind: visualise what your ideal role looks like

6️⃣ The career pivot
- Know yourself, be yourself and adapt your context to suit you best.

7️⃣ The internal move
- Keep your ears and eyes open for opportunities within your existing role.

8️⃣ The promotion
- Lean into self awareness

9️⃣ The “bad” manager
- 2 of 3 new managers do not receive management training.
- Be inspired by strong leaders from your own career.

1️⃣0️⃣ The coach- helping others
- Build and maintain personal connections with your team; rather than staying in your “ivory tower”.
- Do not underestimate the impact your words have on others as a leader.

1️⃣1️⃣ Finding your rhythm
- Ask yourself: “what’s the worst that could happen?”
- If diversity is being invited to the ball, inclusion is being asked to dance.
- What advice will you give to your younger self? Slow down. Be patient. Be bold. Do it with conviction. Be kind.

[Kelley Rowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book motivated me to rethink my career options, and gave me the confidence to make a change - which has already started to pay dividends. Anyone struggling with finding where they fit in professionally, and that needs a new way of thinking through common pain points like a crappy manager, or a role that's not suited to your strengths... this book will give you the reassurance to be yourself in making career choices / changes and some tools to help you take action. Fiona's stories made me laugh, but most importantly gave me a fresh perspective to relate to in my own professional life. By the end, I felt like I gained a new mentor, cheering me on from the sidelines - and I can't put a price on that! Grateful for this booTwo Mirrors And A Cheetah: Think Differently, Own Your Career & Succeed By Being Yourselfk and highly recommend! (note: I read an advanced copy of this book)

[Mr Ruwan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two Mirrors and a Cheetah is an engaging, authentic and easy-to-read guide for taking ownership and control of your own career. The book beautifully combines real-world practical examples with simple analogies, from pasta to evil queens, that give you lightbulb moments on how to shape you career. As you delve deeper into the book it feels like you have your own personal career coach whispering in your ear, giving you the confidence and clarity to tackle anything life throws at you. If, like many others, you’re at a point where you feel your career has plateaued, you’re being gaslighted into thinking you’re not good enough, or you’re generally unhappy in your job but not sure why or what to do about it - then this book is essential reading. Unlike other books, Two Mirrors and a Cheetah does not take a cookie cutter approach to your career. Instead it encourages you to ask probing questions of yourself and makes you think more long term and strategically about your career, so you don’t just live in the day-to-day.

[Kim Lawden · Rating 5 out of 5]

This career book is exceptionally well written. I have a poor attention span and switch off fairly easily. This book however, kept me gripped - I read it over 2 days, it makes so much sense and is so relatable. There is no fancy jargon, it's just very readable. I started out in the corporate world and now work freelance - this book has demonstrated to me how I could have taken control of my career from an early stage and been so much more fulfilled and inspired. However, it's not too late, and with the benefits of Fiona's experience and advice, I can see the opportunities are still there for me to take, when I'm ready. This career book will benefit people whatever their seniority, providing sound advice not only for them but the people they manage and wish to inspire. I think it should be handed out to everyone on their induction day, so we call be singing from the same hymn sheet and conversations can be honest and productive from the get go. If managers are thinking of giving their staff an inspirational book, here it is!

[Caleb N · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have not read many career development books and when given an advance copy of Two Mirrors and a Cheetah, I had a few pre-conceived ideas about how it would read that, to Fiona's much-deserved credit, did not materialize. :) It was a great read, and I found myself fully engaged in answering the questions she poses throughout and scribbling notes for how to apply her capabilities-self awareness-context framework to my organizations. The book's lessons serve the new entrant to career-building as well as seasoned veterans. In particular, I have seen many bad managers - not because they are bad people, but because they are put into these positions with little or no training. This book provides intuitive, repeatable approaches for getting into management and then managing competently, including gotchas to avoid, backed by real-life examples, written in real-speak vs management consultant jargon (thankfully!). And as a mentor and sponsor, I certainly will be using Fiona's prompts and mechanisms to help the people in my orbit.

[Fuchsnl1 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an advanced copy of Two Mirrors and a Cheetah at a moment in my life where I had to decide what the next step in my career should be. This book acts like a personal friend asking the tough questions while at the same time offering support through examples, guidance, tips and tricks.

Although it's an easy read, I found the book most impactful when you take your time reading the chapters and going through the exercises. Because only when you dare to look objectively and truthfully into the two mirrors the book is named after, you understand who you are and what you want your next step to be. The second half of the book helps you act on these outcomes.

And as we humans change over time, and our situations as well, this is a book that will guide you throughout all the phases of your career. This is one of those books that you should put on your bookshelf and pick up every couple of years to go through the exercises again to see if you're still where you want to be.

[Seb OKeefe · Rating 5 out of 5]

All too often one tends to dive into a new career and not question the environment around you as you strive to make an impact or succeed no matter what - when you finally come up for air you realise you are years down the line and not even sure you like what you are doing - Im personally guilty of being particularly bad at taking that time to reflect, to pull back and actually think about whether what I am doing is really giving me the energy it ought to. Even though Im now almost 20 years into my career this book provided a simple and practical framework for understanding who you are and what you want from a job/manager, how you come across to others and how you can harness that, and how to continuously gather relevant information from around you to help you adapt and improve in a way that helps you align with your goals - I found the book very easy to read and relevant to me, a “semi-tenured” individual, as well as to those on the beginning of their journey

[Jan Runge · Rating 5 out of 5]

The title says it all: being yourself, know what your passions are, your strengths, ambitions, goals is key for a successful career. And to give your career a purpose and make it more than just a series of promotions and paychecks. This makes the book different to all those other books out there that mainly focus on one topic, but ignore the big picture.

Also, you notice that the book is based on Fiona's own experiences, which makes it truly actionable. Her advice is what worked for her in her own career, and countless other people whom she coached or advised. And for me, this makes the book way more actionable for myself than a book from a professional coach, who has not discovered, tested and developed these principles first hand.

I can truly recommend Two Mirrors and a Cheetah both to people in their early career, but also experienced managers.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Building self-awareness and understanding to ensure you can be your best and yourself is so important to a successful career. This book was filled great tools, exercises and actionable tips that are backed up by stories, examples and anecdotes from the author's own experience. The author takes you by the hand and guides you step-by-step to greater self-awareness and authenticity.

I particularly liked the Cheetah reference to learning to read and understand the context you are operating in. This is a vital step that can so often be overlooked as the ability to know yourself and adapt is so critical.

If you're looking for some sensible and thought-provoking career advice, I would highly recommend you check out this book. (Reviewed by an advanced copy sent by the author.)

[Lim Choon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two Mirrors and a Cheetah provides honest and engaging advice for anyone setting career goals; it practices what it preaches, in holding up the mirror to one’s unvarnished reality, embracing fears and failures, as tools to face the future. It is a timely publication, as the pandemic upends entire business sectors, this book has a grounding effect in putting the analysis before action. Fiona generously peppers the book with her corporate and personal experiences, helping make relatable the advice which she offers without ever seeming out of touch. This book is good for motivating your corporate team, great for when at professional crossroads, and excellent when having a pang of professional doubt.

[Samuel Squire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Practical and engaging advice on how to manage your career. Fiona McDonnell distils her 30-year career in the consumer goods industry to provide a wealth of advice on building and managing a successful corporate career, being yourself and achieving your best, and bringing out the best in the teams you manage. Will be equally valuable for early career starters, mid-career changers, and senior management looking to develop their teams. Her engaging writing style backed up with many anecdotes and some practical exercises is easy to read and will get you to think. Everyone's paths are different, but I would certainly have benefitted from Fiona's sage advice in navigating my own corporate career. Well worth a read.

[Tracy Doyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fiona's achieved the rare combination of personal storytelling and career advice with humor and tangible actions. This book is for everyone who has been at a crossroads in their career, questioned their personal path or just wanted to feel more confident about the direction of their professional life. So often we feel that there is one particular road to having a fulfilling career and balanced life. By sharing her experiences, insights and practical advice as colleague, manager, mother and woman, Fiona provides tangible steps and actions to take to ensure you thrive first and foremost as yourself-the rest will follow. With these tools in hand, you'll be challenged to rethink how you approach your career!

[Brett Parker]

I read an advance copy of this book and found it really useful. Fiona describes a series of lenses through which to view yourself and your current / future job and provides checklists and exercises to encourage self reflection. The writing is very accessible and is filled with stories and anecdotes from real life which help to put the messages into context and show how Fiona has applied these in her own career. Don't be put off thinking that this is a book for job seekers, it's equally valid for looking at where you are in your career an how you can get the most out of your next role with your current employer - be that a change or a promotion.

[Alfonso SERRANO · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Two mirrors and a cheetah” offers a comprehensive (yet easy) framework to think about when building one’s career, and tangible examples on how to apply the framework to critical milestones along one’s career. As a professional with close to 20 years of experience, I can definitely relate to the ideas and situations that Fiona describes, and would endorse most (if not actually all!) of them.
Having had the chance to read an advanced copy of the book, I have found it very entertaining thanks to the combination of strong ideas, personal anecdotes, and compelling food for thought.
Highly recommended for those looking to build, accelerate, or consolidate their careers!

[Sandra Hirschberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is refreshingly different from so many other self help books out there. It comes from the heart of someone who has had a rich and successful career, but who is not trying to promote a professional coaching brand. This makes it very authentic, with the author basing the book on her own experiences.
Although I would say I’m at a stable phase in my career I found the useful and in and made me think about the purpose of what I’m doing and what motivates me. This book would be very useful for someone finding their way at the start of their career, but I would also recommend it for anyone, even experienced managers, to re-check and be more self aware in their career journey.

[Paulina Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish I had this book at the start of my career, when going through role transitions often felt challenging and unnerving. It gives such fantastic insight on how to navigate your career, whilst staying true to oneself - something which is often forgotten as we focus on what we think others want to see us do.

Reading the book made me think of the overused phrase 'there is no 'I' in team'. Well... there is actually. Building a team starts with 'I' - self awareness, personal development and continuous improvement. In fact, if the manager forgets about the 'I', they risk setting the wrong tone for the team and can lead to frustrations further down the line.

[Garri Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the pre-publication edition in a morning, over a couple of coffees. Like Fiona I have 30 years of “work-experience” and have been reflecting on how ones personality affects work and non-work life. What I liked about the book was its personality. It was like having a coffee with a mentor. There was a consistently to the reflection that was genuinely helpful. Not all the advice may suit you, but you can see how it suited Fiona and that makes you think. And at the end of the day, that is what the book implores you to do - think and live YOUR life to the full, whatever that means to you.

[Camilla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always enjoy reading a good, ‘how I did it’, book and this generous share did not disappoint .
It encourages you to reflect on what success looks like to you and then provides some practical tools to help you head in that direction, most importantly, on your own terms.
It is packed with advice and words of wisdom, visualized through some funny stories.
If anyone is wondering about how to develop their career, negotiate a difficult transition or looking for inspiration with big life decisions, this is certainly a good read.

[Rosemary Diaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful career book with purpose ! With easy-to-read stories and the easily-remembered imagery of 2 mirrors and a cheetah, it’s a must-read for employees and managers alike. With these techniques and ways of thinking, we can all benefit from everyone bringing their whole selves to work. What a wonderful and successful place every office would be if we would all apply this advice and thrive at work by being true to our selves ! Thank you, Fiona, for this authentic and personal contribution to bringing true diversity and inclusion in the workplace!

[Craig Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author's writing style is very personable, making this seem like a chat over coffee with a trusted mentor.

There are several elements of the book that stand out.

Firstly, it is a practical book giving an authentic look at the modern career journey. It has tips and tools to help you find yourself and reflect on your 'You' or your 'Why' and provides some exercises in building a positive mindset to evaluate your values and career possibilities.

Secondly, it is an honest and personal book. Fiona shares some real insights from her own journey, including battles with anxiety (panic attacks are more widespread than you think - it isn't just you that has them), her life choices - Diving Instructor course or MBA? - and how she dealt with peers, subordinates, and managers.

Lastly, it provides guidance for people who may be at a critical decision-making point - 'Should I stay, or Should I go?'. It is an altogether easy read, a reminder of some good personnel and management hygiene, and a resource for people at various stages in life.

[Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend Fiona McDonnell’s book, ‘Two Mirrors and a Cheetah’. Whether you are simply reflecting as 2021 comes to a close, or preparing for a new chapter in 2022, ‘Two Mirrors and a Cheetah’ Is not only an easy read, it will absolutely get you reflecting and building on your experiences; the great ones, and the testing ones.

A couple of topics really resonated, particularly where she talks about assessments/profiles. It was refreshingly open and honest, and a great read. I highly recommend!

[J · Rating 3 out of 5]

Firstly I should point out that I am not the best reader, and for this book my reading pattern wasn't consistent enough. So for this reason I will read it again at some point. There was some useful content, but I felt there was a lot stories from the writers career in a biographical sense rather than a more self-help styled book (along the lines of a Stephen Covoy). I felt like I was going through the motions of getting to the end with some parts. The first read I didn't take away a great deal, but I will update once I have done a second read.

[Visser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read an advanced reader copy of this book and got so inspired by the content that I started making plans on future working life before finishing the book.
I would recommend this book to anyone that feels somewhat stuck in their work routine and could do with some inspiring advice from a leader who seems to know what she’s talking about.
The advice on how you think about your CV is, on its own, well worth spending your money!

[Caroline Orange-Northey · Rating 5 out of 5]

A refreshingly read. Two Mirrors And A Cheetah is a practical career book, but it also has a soul (and a sense of humour). I enjoyed it immensely and it provoked in me much self-reflection, self-awareness and understanding. I wholly recommend this book to anyone at a career crossroads or simply looking to reinvigorate their passions - it has already enriched my own career journey. A superb book!

[Daniel McCarthy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Fiona for affording me a preread of this great book. Packed full of insight from your career, but also delivered with honesty and authenticity. I have really enjoyed reading it in snippets with a great coffee, and have now ordered the book for my three teenage girls to read. It will help them navigate life's journey better I'm sure.

[Emanuel Carretero · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fiona's advice for being yourself while developing your career is both startlingly original and wise. She illustrates her points with honest facts of her own adventures along with her career path to CEO of top tier Companies. I have already alerted my network of this book and I highly recommend it to anyone who is searching for a meaningful and satisfying career path.

[Stephen P Lister · Rating 5 out of 5]

Packed full of ideas to stimulate self-awareness and development in order to set and follow your own path, this is an inspirational book by someone who has been there and done that. Highly recommended. (Reviewed from an advanced copy sent from the author).

[Ali Shariat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Essential reading for aspiring careers. The lessons in this book are drawn from real life experiences from Fiona's own career, they are practical and actionable - and packed with little nuggets that will give you ideas for your own journey.

[Jerome Marron · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book helped me understand some of the critical moments in my career development. It is a must-have for anyone who want to take ownership and control. Insightful while easy to read and hands-on, i can definitely recommend it.