The big idea In Good to Great, Collins explores the answer to the question: what makes a company go from good to great? Collins assembled a research team to closely analyze mountains of data and carefully categorize the results that highlight several major characteristics or companies that achieve greatness. Why to read Jim Collins’ books […]
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
The big idea The Alchemist is a fable that follows the journey of Santiago, a maturing shepherd boy, as he decides to leave the only place he has ever known in pursuit of his dreams. Throughout the fable, Santiago encounters numerous mentors and teachers who help him interpret his personal legend and grow towards his […]
Mastery by Robert Greene
The big idea Robert Greene is on a mission to convince you that you too can be a master of your craft. In Mastery, Greene takes us on a journey through the lives of historical masters like Mozart, Leonardo da Vinci, Benjamin Franklin, as well as contemporary masters like boxing coach Freddie Roach, entrepreneur/investor Paul Graham, and […]
Business Model Generation by Alexander Osterwalder & Yves Pigneur
The big idea Business Model Generation is the vehicle for a compelling “business model canvas” that provides any budding or experienced entrepreneur with a framework for considering potential business concepts without having to write a useless, 60-page business plan. Why to read The canvas is highly adaptable and easily understood by audiences of all sorts, […]
Drive by Daniel Pink
The big idea Daniel Pink has found three core pricniples that make up the surprising truth about what motivates us. The three principles are autonomy, mastery, and purpose and Pink highlights them throughout the book by citing data-driven research and anecdotal evidence. Why to read As with many of the books in this guide, Drive […]
Influence by Robert B. Cialdini
The big idea In Influence, Cialdini describes the six primary drivers of influence, including: Reciprocation; Commitment & Consistency; Social Proof; Liking; Authority; and Scarcity. Beyond digging into the research, Cialdini provides actionable methods for influencing others and guarding against the methods of influence in everyday life. Why to read Influencing others is one of the […]
How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie
The big idea Dale Carnegie shares actionable advice for leading others by making them like you, winning them over to your way of thinking, and inspiring change without fueling resentment. Why to read As one of many actionable how-to books from Dale Carnegie’s prolific writing career, How to Win Friends and Influence People may be […]
The Art of Non-Conformity by Chris Guillebeau
The big idea In the Art of Non-Conformity, Guillebeau uses his personal story to highlight the idea that we don’t have to live a conventional life. He provides a blueprint of actionable advice for doing good in the world while doing well for yourself. Learn about your real priorities, what work means to you, and […]
Linchpin by Seth Godin
The Big Idea In Linchpin, Godin makes a very compelling argument for the fact that we can truly make ourselves indispensable at work. But first, we have to learn to adopt a whole new mindset on why we work, how we show up, and what we do when we get there. Why to Read Linchpin […]
The 4-Hour Work Week by Tim Ferriss
The big idea Tim Ferriss is the epitome of what it means to live an intriguing life. He is a serial entrepreneur that created a business and life that led him to working 80 hour weeks and being miserable by his own doing. In The Four-Hour Work Week, Ferriss takes his personal experience in cutting […]