simran2205

I picked this book up earlier in the year while browsing in the bookstore. That's partly why I picked up the book; I succumbed to a dangerous moment. Putting me in a bookstore is like putting an alcoholic in a bar -- we're both going to get something. Yet I also found the subtitle enchanting. "The Time-Tested, Battle-Hardened Guide for Anyone Starting Anything." I was initially intrigued by the idea of starting my life over again, so I sat down on the floor in the bookstore aisle to see what this book had to offer. I was immediately impressed by Kawasaki's tone and style. He's very down to earth and practically minded. I knew without reading very far that I could potentially use this book some day, so I purchased again. Again, putting me in a bookstore . . . . It was months later that I actually picked up to read all the way through. I wasn't ready before when I started reading it in the bookstore. Now after reading books to formulate my own career plan and feeling energized about the prospect of being my own boss, I was ready. And Kawasaki did not disappoint. There is a saying, a very old saying, quoted in one of my favorite films of all time -- The Mask of Zorro. "When the pupil is ready, the master will appear." Kawasaki is clearly a master. His practical style revealed a no-nonsense approach to business, and he uses real-life examples from both his experience and the experience of the common person to expound and further clarify his concepts. And he starts right from the start by discussing the importance of meaning in what we do. "Meaning is not about money, power, or prestige. It's not even about creating a fun place to work. Among other meanings of "meaning" are to make the world a better place, increase the quality of life, right a terrible wrong, and prevent the end of something good. Goals such as these are a tremendous advantage as you travel down the difficult path ahead. . . making meaning is the most powerful motivator there is." It caused me to reflect on the meaning I am creating with my business. Of course, Kawasaki is a venture capitalist, and while I appreciated his rubber-hits-the-road approach, some of his counsel regarding approaching venture capitalists did not ring with me. But that is simply because I never planned on seeking venture capital to formulate my business. Even with that proviso, I could see that the advice he gives in that regard is as solid as the rest. The book is a very easy read (I devoured it in three settings) yet very hands-on in its approach. If you want fluff, this is not the book for you. If you want feel-good mush, seek it elsewhere because you won't find it here. But if you want real, if you want what you to do to contribute to making this world a better place, then I highly recommend this book.

2022-10-29 03:57