The book focuses on three themes, all of which can help you better understand the people around you, Brooks writes: curiosity, empathy and self-awareness. That's because they're better at taking interest in other people and giving them the floor to share their stories and perspectives authentically, Brooks writes. "Diminishers are not curious about you, they don't ask you questions," Brooks said during a discussion at Colgate University in February. But diminishers often ask questions that aren't open-ended, or use your response as a way to talk about themselves. Then, try to provide some insight, Brooks writes — rounding out the conversation by letting them know you're here for them.

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Persons: Bill Gates, David Brooks, Brooks, Gates, diminishers Organizations: New York Times, Colgate University