Book Description

Reviews (5)

To truly clear the air about Napolean Hill........
I have been following Napolean Hill since 1975. The review that precedes mine indicates that Hill only wrote a few books that the reviewer posts. The fact is that Napolean Hill wrote ALL the books that bear his name. TRUE, some of his books have been repreinted by other publishers, I believe this is what the reviewer is trying to communicate.

Saying that he did not write all the books he is credited with is like saying that is not Napolean Hill's voice on the tape programs.

Obviously, this reviewer is as confused as the reviewer from Canada. In fact, probably the same person who suddenly decided to live in New Jersey.

Just To Set The Record Straight
Just to set the record straight Napoleon Hill only wrote the following books.

1919-1920
"The Golden Rule Magazine"
Napoleon Hill edited and published

1928
"Law of Success"
published (Ralston Society, Publishers)

1930
"The Magic Ladder to Success"

1937
"Think and Grow Rich"

1939
"How to Sell Your Way Through Life"

1953
"How to Raise Your Own Salary"

1960
"Success Through a Positive Mental Attitude"

1970
"You Can Work Your Own Miracles"

All other books were either compiled by others or used his notes to write the books, he himself did not write them, period. I have been studying his works for 15 years. Yes, I am rich from studying his works.

As with any revision there will always be some critics, the original LOS contained only 15 laws, I have seen the original set with my own eyes, again the authors are correct.

Some of the things in this book could have been done differently as with all revisions, however they did their best to remain true to the spirit of the book...

I purchased the huge paperback and enjoyed the little notes they added, some of them could have gone a little deeper, but no biggie.

Ideally, in a perfect world it would be perfect. Keep in mind they worked with a lot of people who all had to agree on these things.

I have to disagree with the reviewer from Canada...
First on the quality of information in this book, it is outstanding. The tossil marker, sufficient. But more to the point, this reader says Napolean Hill did not write a book called Keys to Success; I beg your pardon. He certaintly did. It is subtitled: The 17 Principles of Personal Achievement and actually offers even more concrete information on these 17 principles than Think and Grow Rich.

Hill also wrote The Master Key to Riches which this reviewer from Canada refers to. EASY MISUNDERSTANDING. Just wanted to clear that up.

The first four principles to success
I have to admit, I love books and I particularly like success books especially the hardbound books like this one. Seems to make them more enjoyable and adds to the value.

In this edition, you will learn the first four principles of success as written by Hill via Andrew Carnegie.

Another reviewer writes that he was dissappointed because Hill does not cover NLP (it wasn't invented then or was it?) In reality what Hill teaches via autosuggestion, visualization etc. is very similiar to NLP and probably just as effective. The trick is to combine these techniques with a burning desire, emotion, vividness and consistency. I know they worked for me.

This book is outstanding and I highly recommend it. Powerful material.

Not very good.
I'm going to take another stand with this review: In my opinion, Napoleon Hill is a poor advocate of what he teaches. 1) He teaches in people to have an open mind, and that in the lesson on TOLERENCE, that anyone who claims the final word on a subject is doomed to a close mind. It's interesting how in "How to Raise your Own Salary" he states that sleep has NO BENEFICIAL FUNCTION OTHER THAN REST. Wow, that's a pretty powerful statement. Should I blindly follow Dr. Hill and give up my lucid dreaming skills?

Another instance: in this highly unscientific book, he talks about how all thoughts that are released circle around the entire universe thru the ether (the "ether" theory that carries radio waves has been disproven since then). But to communicate and reach this he suggests to stick your fingers in your ears, close your eyes, and repeat your definite chief aim to yourself and hopefully let your mind attune these vibrations. I know this sounds stupid, sounds like a joke, but I assure you I am being serious.

I decided to try and follow this advice, because of his plea to believe it anyway and not be skeptical because he's been studying success for 20+ years etc, and found this to be a very serious mistake.

I urge to you look elsewhere. Is your problem simply lack of motivation or too much procrastination? Check out "The Now Habit". Read the reviews to be sure. Do you want to self-discipline your mind? Dr. Hill will tell you all the wonders about this, but won't give you a method to do so, other than simply "think good thoughts, not bad thoughts". Not the most practical... check out "The Silva Method" by Jose Silva.

Thanks for reading my review. ... Read more

Book Description

Andrew Grove, Lee Iacocca, P. T. Barnum, Muriel Siebert, Jack Welch, Andrew Carnegie, Henry Ford, and John D. Rockefeller. Imagine the priceless advice you could reap from these immortals of the business world. The Book of Business Wisdom offers you the opportunity to share the insights and wisdom of more than 50 of the greatest business minds that ever lived. Never before have the writings of such a large and diverse group of business heroes been collected between the covers of a single book.

In The Book of Business Wisdom, more than 50 business legends, past and present, share their passion for excellence and their views on success in business. You'll hear from Andrew Carnegie and Victor Kiam about the road to business success, David Ogilvy and Richard Sears on leadership, Carl Icahn and Bernard Baruch on what it takes to succeed on the Street, and Mary Kay and John H. Johnson on connecting with customers, just to name a few.

For easy reference, the 54 essays featured in The Book of Business Wisdom are organized into eight categories, covering how to get ahead, character, leadership, management, selling and customer service, individuality, entrepreneurship, and investing. Throughout the book, pearls of wisdom from each contributor have been highlighted to draw attention to some of the more memorable and quirky ideas. Each essay is preceded by a brief introduction that offers interesting and insightful information about its author's life and career, and places the essay in historical perspective.

A collection of timeless and universal essays from the sharpest business minds ever, The Book of Business Wisdom is an indispensable source of ideas and inspiration for everyone who wants to succeed.

"This book is a delight to read and a revelation. It contains a wealth of wisdom about how to succeed not just in business, but in life." —Daniel P. Tully Chairman of the Board, Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc.

Lee Iacocca: "If you make believe that 10 guys in pin-striped suits are back in kindergarten class playing with building blocks, you'll get a rough idea of what life in a corporation is like."

Andrew Carnegie: "Boss your boss just as soon as you can; try it on early. There is nothing he will like so well if he is the right kind of boss. If he is not, he is not the man for you to remain with — leave him whenever you can, even at a present sacrifice, and find one capable of discerning genius."

Malcolm Forbes: "A big shot who has never laid an egg . . . is in the position of a hen under a similar handicap, about to be made a meal of." bl12

Muriel Siebert: "Everyone said that the reason there had never been a woman on the floor of the Stock Exchange before was because no lady could stand the language. So I learned the language."

"This serious and well-researched anthology should be in the personal library of anyone who aspires to or desires insight into business leadership." —R. D. Kennedy former Chairman and CEO, Union Carbide Corp.

"A very useful collection which points up the size, scope, boldness, and ever-changing nature of American business and its legendary leaders. The essays are informative, provocative, useful, inspiring, and sometimes funny. In an age when endlessly new information flickers across our computer screens, it is satisfying to hold something that deserves to be bound in leather." —Glen L. Urban, Dean Sloan School of Management, MIT

"This book is a way of getting a century of ideas and experience into the bloodstream of a new generation of entrepreneurs and businesspeople. Perhaps, most of all, it will help revivify the American Dream." —Peter G. Peterson, Chairman The Blackstone Group former U.S. Secretary of Commerce ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A Classic
do yourself a favor and read this book. I've already ordered the Book Of Investing Wisdom to read and I'm sure Ill read Peter"s other books.

Rich Insight into the Motivation of Great Business Leaders
This is a collection of 54 2-5 page essays by giants of business over the past 200 years.

I have found it to be simply fascinating... providing rich insight into the thoughts, values and strategies of great business leaders.

After reading this book, I am convinced that any great business leader only becomes so through the application of a STRONG personal conviction about a specific view of customers, partners, hard work, employees, life, etc.

One of the opportunities we all have is to help our children and co-workers discover or develop deep personal convictions that can be leveraged into a successful personal vision. This book could be a catalyst to develop this kind of vision.

Reading this book is a great investment of your time... for yourself, and for those you have a chance to influence.

An excellent book
This book is well worth the price. I hope I read this 15 years earlier when I was a teen. Although lots of the advices are common sense, they are still very valuable reminders. If you have a chance, read it.

Great!
Corporate America can be a very harsh environment. I found lot's of good advice in this book and would recommend it all. ... Read more

Book Description

Pearls of Wisdom from How They Achieved

"Pride comes from knowing what you want to do and trying your best.You may not always get there, but you will be proud of the experience of trying your best.And if you really, really try and enjoy the process, nine times out of ten you will get there."––John Chen, President and CEO, Sybase

"Be the most passionate guy in the room.Not the smartest, not the cleverest, but the most passionate.Care more than anybody.You’ll be the guy that wins."––Ted Bell, Vice Chairman and Worldwide Creative Director, Young & Rubicam

"People who are lucky enough to be in a position to choose their career should ask themselves, ‘What interests me? What makes me really excited?’Then they should get going and never take no for an answer."––Susie Tompkins Buell, founder and former owner, Esprit Clothing

"People usually plan their vacations more carefully than they plan their careers.I’m a compulsive planner, but there were times when I had no idea what I was doing."––Bob Cohn, CEO, Octel and Lucent Technologies

"A lot of it is timing, but a lot of it is a desire to work hard and to contribute, to not be somebody sitting on the sidelines and commenting, but to be someone playing a part in what’s happening.It’s also having the courage to toss your ideas out even though eight out of ten of them will be shot down."––Jane Cahill Pfieffer, President, NBC, and former vice president, IBM ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A great achievement
Lucinda Watson made reality her dream of understanding how very successful people get where they are. The book is lucid and informative. More importantly it is inspirational. The great collection of interviews serves as a learning voyage into the minds of greatness and determination.

Highly Inspirational!
This book is very well organized, systematic, and most of all very very inspirational. It is a compilation of stories from 20 highly successful people. It is about how they made it, their inspirations, their values and beliefs and how all these factors combine to make them who they are today. These people are divided into 3 categories: CEO's, Entrepreneurs, and Visionaries. This distinction is very useful because there are different traits that are associated with each category. To be successful is to hold firm to your own beliefs, but we all know this is difficult because you will be taking enormous amount of risks and inevitably be facing a lot of insecurities. This book will remind you that you are not alone and many of these highly successful people have gone through the same thing. This book is a must read for anyone who wants to find support in achieving their goals and dreams.

Take it along on your summer vacation
This is a great book--full of interesting insights and sound advice, yet fun and spunky--just like the author.

There is no substitute for hard work...
I had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Watson previously and this book is every bit delightful and enlightening as she is. Her book shows that strength of character, passion and hard work are the most important components to a successful business career and happy life. She brings her subjects to life, and leaves the reader with the impression of really knowing these super-achievers at a very intimate level. How They Achieved is a badly needed antidote to the Internet generation's belief of overnight success.

the most helpful book ever
Interesting and helpful, this book has made all the difference in making my business more succesful. I cannot imagine what my life would be like without it, thank you Lucinda. ... Read more

Book Description

Translated into fifteen languages with more than 7 million copies sold, The Power of Positive Thinking is unparalleled in its extraordinary capacity for restoring the faltering faith of millions. In this insightful program, Dr. Peale offers the essence of his profound method for mastering the problems of everyday living. You will learn:

• How to eliminate that most devastating handicap -- self doubt
• How to free yourself from worry, stress and resentment
• How to climb above problems to visualize solutions and then attain them
• Simple prayerful exercises that you can do everyday, throughout the day, to reinforce your new-found habit of happiness

Eliminating all the negative thoughts that prevent you from achieving happiness and success, The Power of Positive Thinking is an inspiring program that will help you create a positive change in your life. ... Read more

Reviews (96)

The Practical Benefits of Belief..
are what you will find in the pages of this book. One afternoon when I was cleaning out my storeroom, I came across a copy of "The Power Of Positive Thinking" in paperback. The edition was from 1956 and had been my father's. I opened the old, yellowed, dog-eared copy and began reading and found that Peale had taken the concepts of an earlier work by Dale Carnegie and elaborated on them with a spiritual twist.

This book can be life-changing, period. If you read it with an open mind and heart and follow the simple and very practical exercises in its pages, you will be changed forever in a very special way. It has stood the test of time and critics, both from the "anything goes, new age" people who say it is too conservative to the "Bible-pounding fundamentalists" who decry its message as heretical. Peale shows us a God who loves us, who is more than ready to give us "every good thing." Yet, if you are not religious in the conventional sense, you will find a new way of thought that will bring peace and harmony to your life through your greatest gift: the power of your mind.

More than just a book, it is a guide to living your life with a maximum of joy. I thank Dr. Peale for his wonderful gift to all of us, "The Power Of Positive Thinking." (P.S. If you find this book a little too heavy in religious emphasis, try reading Dale Carnegie's "How to Stop Worrying and Start Living" which does a great job in a more expanded fashion and is full of examples and practical steps).

VERY motivating FANTASTIC book!
This book will change your life! You will never go through any situation the same way again! Your thinking will change, your actions will change and all for the better! This book contains the solution to every problem there is and ever will be. If you are seeking to build your faith to overcome obstacles in your life this book will do it. This book reminds me of the fact that anything is possible with God! I almost didn't buy this book because of some comments I'd read on certain Christian websites about the author. But I had the condensed version at home and loved it, so after reading all 45 reviews on this book with 99.9% of them being in favor of the book I went ahead and bought it and I'm VERY glad I did! I am over halfway through with this book and I count it 2nd in importance only to the Bible! Do yourself a favor that will last a lifetime and buy this book NOW!

"Nothing on earth is greater..."
"than the human mind in potential power." NVP

A Peale classic!!! Another spring cleaning survivor! My copy has been rained on etc. but not ruined! I'm not throwing this one out.

I first read this many, many moons ago in college. My father had passed away during that time and I was unsure I would be able to complete my studies. My mind was flooded with so many worries. My sister gave me this book to read and whenever I would regress to my woe is me mode of thinking, she would snap, "Go read your positive thinking book."!

I've since read other Norman Vincent Peale books and they're all written on the same lines. I would classify them as self-help books but upon a christian foundation; Norman Vincent Peale was a protestant pastor of Marble Collegiate Church in New York City. The power of positive thinking was published in 1952.

My only criticism, and the reason NVP fell from a 5 star grace to 4 is that his ideas fit too much into the traditional American idea of working your way to success and not into the biblical one. The goal of the christian is to become more christ-like in character, not to become a financial success in the American marketplace. But surely there are some people who are genuine christians and are successful that way. But the main thing is the inner character which should reflect Christ's.

The sixth chapter on "fuming and fretting" contains my personal favorite verse to meditate on when my mental balance is being tipped: "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee"-Isaiah 26:3. Obviously, I accepted and applied Norman Vincent Peale's practical advice to meditate on and repeat that verse as an antidote to such a mental state. It works for me but might not work for others, if you do not fully comprehend what that 'Thee' (God) is all about. If you don't know who the biblical God is, grab a Bible and read! It's the only book I've read ten times from cover to cover.

Wonderful...A Classic!!
This book helps one at home and at work!

There are always two ways of seeing a situation, any given situation. Peale puts it in simple language and does not try to loose the reader in psycho-babble.

GREAT BOOK~~

the power of praying
This book learns you techniques for positive thinking, based on belief in God and the techniques of praying. The main message that this book wants to bring to you is that if you want to improve your life, visualize what you want and pray for it.
I know a lot of people who found extra power in this book to fight against the misfortunes of life. If you belief in God and want to explore how praying can improve your life, I can strongly advice this book. But this is where the book stops. A better title for this book would be "the power of praying", or "the power of believe". The word thinking in the title is confusing, thinking is more then praying and believing.

Personally I agree with the fact that the way you think, can influence your life a lot, but it is also important to learn how you should think. Especially, you should learn to take the responsabilities for what you think and how it influences how you feel. This book fails on learning you these consequences of your thinking. And this is essential in order to take the correct actions to improve your life. I certainly agree that belief in God (and pray to God) can help, but you definetely need some additional techniques, not found in this book. Books doing and excellent job here are the following books : "The Resilience Factor: 7 Essential Skills for Overcoming Life's Inevitable Obstacles" by Andrew Shatte, Karen Reivich and
"Your Erroneous Zones" by Wayne Dyer. Remark that these books present techniques independent of your belief in God. I would strongly advice these books. If you are a believer in God, you can buy "The power of Positive thinking" in addition to the books I just mentioned.

I wish everybody a lot of success in the exciting and never ending process of improving your life. ... Read more

Book Description

He didn't work for money.
He was willing to walk away.
He invested His emotions wisely.
He did sweat the small stuff.

Beyond work, beyond entrepreneurism, there is "spiritreneurism" -- work that allows you to do well by doing right. In Jesus, Inc., Laurie Beth Jones, bestselling author of Jesus, CEO, shows you how to find soul satisfaction in your work.

In Jesus, CEO, Laurie Beth Jones offered an irresistible motivational proposition: If Jesus could change the world with a team of just twelve men, shouldn't he have something to teach us all about managing our teams? The answer was a resounding yes, and it made the book a bestseller.

Now, in Jesus, Inc., Jones shows that there is no contradiction between earning a comfortable living even as you use your job to promote your deepest spiritual and personal beliefs. How exactly is this possible?Using timeless wisdom from the Bible and anecdotes from her own life and consulting career, as well as tales from the best and worst work situations in today's rapidly changing business environment, she reveals how you can inspire yourself and your coworkers to use your highest gifts to benefit the bottom line.

Never before have so many individuals been willing to launch new businesses, and never before have so many of them been looking for a new business model. Here, in Jesus, Inc., entrepreneurs and "spiritreneurs" will find timeless wisdom and biblical principles that will help create a new world of joyful and satisfying work.

A genius at making the powerful familiar, Jones offers a commandingly fresh and compelling case for Jesus as a role model for modern times. Rich with humor, exercises, meditations, and case histories, Jesus, Inc. is essential reading for those seeking to put their spirituality to practical use. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Beyond a Business Book
I bought this book for business purposes, yet found it changing my personal life too. This book speaks directly to your heart! I have discovered ways to be a better business owner, wife, family member, friend, etc. The wisdom and life-experiences packed in this book make it hard to put down. Not only is it hard to put down, but I want to read it over and over again to make sure the principles are being implanted in my mind and spirit. Laurie is an earthy writer who doesn't try to please everyone or play the politically-correct game. She tells it like it is! And she fully understands that no other man but Jesus has changed so many lives and is still doing so today!

Jesus, Inc -- the spriitual view of business
This book encompasses and embodies all of steps, stumbling blocks and successes that spiritual entrepreneurs find themselves facing as they walk out their business careers.

This book is not for everyone. If you are not tuned into God's way of conducting business and personal accountablility, read something else.

My overall rating of this book is beyond excellent. I am on my second reading.

Sacrilegious and stupid
This book combines the worst of self help books for losers, fawning CEO worship and dim-witted management guides and adds a generous dollop of ignorant sacrilege to boot. Folks, Jesus is not a CEO and CEOs are not Jesus.

According to Christian doctrine, Jesus was also not a wise man, or a philosopher, contrary to what heretics like GW Bush and Muslims like Osama bin Laden believe. Real Christians believe Jesus was God.

In the early days of Christianity, people had their tongues cut out or were forced to drink molten lead for spouting the kinds of heresies you'll see in this book. Not very nice, I admit, but at least it kept the faith alive. A few more books like this and Jesus will be making guest appearances on reality TV shows with other washed up celebs before diappearing forever from human memory.

Helped me realize what my goal is
I bought this book for a school project and I couldn't put it down. It's so easy to read. As a high school senior trying to decide what to do for the rest of my life this book really helped me put things in order. It helped me see that "Jesus' definition of success was 'to do the will of God.'" I loved the examples within the chapters of how people had applied these tips to their life. The questions at the end of each chapter were good but didn't really apply to me or help me. Overall I would definitely reccomend this book to people. Especially if you are struggling to find a job that suits you. This book really helps you put your values into persepective and realize that you will be the most successful if you pursue that job that makes you happiest and brings you closest to God.

A Book for the Economist with a Soul
Jesus Entrepreneur by Laurie Beth Jones is a book for economists with a soul. The type of economist who is entirely concerned with pluses and minuses has become abundant in today's society. Along with their increase in number, books for their appeal have also increased. This has persisted to the point where many economic books say nearly the same things. That is why this book by Jones is a breath of fresh air for the tight-collared, worldly business man or woman. It is not only for Christians.
The morals discussed in Jesus Entrepreneur can be accepted across the world. Some, if not all, are Christian morals, but not too extreme to where the normal human being couldn't accept them. The main objective of this book is to bring moral reckoning to a job that can lure its workers away from such ethics. The economy was always thought of as being concrete, black and white - no room for ethical standards. Jones has made room, and shows us how to work within physical, and spiritual boundaries.
This book is helpful to all types of economists, Christian or non-Christian, as long as they like being successful (like I said, all economists). Also, one need not be an economist to enjoy this optimistic book which gives light to a profession that may need it. I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in becoming successful in spirit and in their profession. ... Read more

Book Description

In this inspirational guide to work and life, a Harvard-educated lawyer who left her corporate job to write and follow her dreams poses this question to readers: If you're successful doing work you don't love, what could you do with work you do love?

If you've ever wanted your own personal mentor, champion of your gifts, advocate for your dreams, your support system has arrived. As an accomplished alternative career coach who has walked the walk, Tama J. Kieves now shares the wisdom she has taught for years in her popular workshops. While examining each fear you might encounter on your journey to self-fulfillment, the author transforms the ideal of doing work you love into actuality. Through personal stories of overcoming in-securities, Kieves recounts her experience of leaving behind life as a corporate lawyer to rediscover her buried creative self, focus on her writing ability, and develop a soul-inspired livelihood.

Filled with solutions to the anxieties and roadblocks you may confront on your path, This Time I Dance! is for everyone who is unfulfilled in their current position and uncertain of the practical steps that they should follow to achieve their dreams. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

This book is an Exceptional Find!!!
No other book has done for me what this book has! It changed my attitude about how to live my life! It was a joy to read.

I'm 42 years old and when I bought this book, I was still searching for what I wanted to be when I grew up. Not only did this book assist me with that amazing discovery, it's also a wonderful guide in helping you through all of the fears that come up when you are going after something that you really want. While exploring this unfamiliar territory, I found that by following the author's lead, I was able to shift my perspective and transform fear into antisipation, excitement and joy.

I can't say enough about this book and have actually bought it for my friends and family. I would love to see this author, Tama J. Kieves on Oprah! This book can help so many of us who are trying to find ourselves. Not only did this book give me clarity about my life's work, it is a wonderful guide in helping you find your own unique path. This book reminds you to dance while on your journey to make the work you love become a reality!

The Real Deal.....
As I read this book I felt like I was along on Tama Kieve's journey. Her book is like a "permission slip" which allows the ability to get off the crowded, usual path and onto the extraordinary path... the different, less traveled way AND the way back to our true selves.

Especially heart warming is the truthfulness of the writing.

Just because Kieves is a "Harvard Lawyer" doesn't mean this whole process was a piece of cake... not at all! Her doubts, her fears, her wonderings, musings and continuings are similar to the ones I have felt as I have traveled my "unconventional path."

As you seek your perfectly unique, beautiful -- and perhaps unconventional path -- you will, like me, laugh in recognition and delight to hear of the first Creative Writing class where Tama writes in amazement, "She had plumbing and plumbing problems! Then she yawned, revealing silver fillings. As if all that weren't enough, I happened to notice that a part of her hem hung longer than the rest of her denim, made-in- America, made-on-my-planet, skirt." followed by her HUGE a-ha "This writing guru was an ordinary woman!"

This book is wise, hilarious, inspiring, thought evoking and much much more than can be put into words.

Kieves chooses her words with artful thought. She literally seems to have lodged herself in my thoughts regularly. I know it is a book I will return to repeatedly.

Read this one now. You won't be disappointed.

Comfort food for a hungry soul!
Sometimes we all need a voice of reason, a voice of direction, but also the "you CAN do it voice," Tama's book provides this voice. An excellent read.

Excellent for those in career transition!
Tama's book is a "must read" for anyone in career transition because it comes from her heart and is so indicative of what so many women go through in career transition. I am a career coach and educator and use her book with clients and students. In the classroom, I am using some of the exercises she used in the book, and having students answer poignant questions arising from their reading.

This book is different than most books written about career transition because it speaks to the heart of the issues -- the fears, the ups and downs, the negative and positive emotions, and the courage to do exactly what you always wanted to do. It challenges people to find their way, with the help of someone who has done it.

I work with women over 40 in my coaching practice, and they find that the book "gives them permission" to pursue goals they have kept hidden while they were raising families. Now, they are able to strike out on their true dreams because they've found a kindred spirit.

I recommend this book highly to anyone, but particularly to those in transition.

Not a typical self-help book!
Finally! A guide to changing career paths that is far more relatable than a typical self-help book. Kieves invites the reader to commence the journey of discovering and manifesting our heart's desire, as she shares in a humorous and poetic style her own transition from Harvard-educated attorney to published author. In doing so, Kieves does not ignore the uncertainties and challenges of such an undertaking, but offers a new and helpful perspective for navigating what is often a difficult passage. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is yearning for a more satisfying and fulfilling life; this book is truly an inspiration to begin creating one. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Doing more in less time and more; as promised.
This book is more then a time efficiency book but a how to book on managing all aspects of the office from scheduling and pructing meetings to effective communications. This is good starting and improving your SOHO (small office / home office) operations. It starts off each chapter discussing popular beliefs. I loved the chapter on "work tapes". People have different beliefs about work from being "good for you" to "the harder you work the more successful you are". The truth regarding discipline. The difference between being efficient and effective. Doing the right job (efficacy); doing the job right
(effective). Handing disruptions; papers; goal planning; the right way to use a TO DO list. The only problem is the material is dated to 1979. (Before email, teleconferencing and Intenet) My copy had a printing error on page 267 the publisher missed printed the pages and started over with page 33. Missed "efficient Communications") This continued for about 40 pages before picking up with last chapter of the book. Even though dated and with this defect I enjoyed the book. It's an easy read and I highly recommended it.

The best book on time management I ever read.
This book is best book on time management I ever read. I'm sure I squeezed out an extra half hour each workday with these principles. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Uncovering Innovative Work Place Potential
Creativity is power. The author makes a compelling case that in today's complex and chaotic environment, it is essential to solve what increasingly seems like the unsolvable.

The author, an emeritus USC professor of management, breaks his treatment of creativity into four parts:

1. Learning to harness your creative intelligence.
2. Exploring opportunities to apply your creativity.
3. Helping others recognize and use their creativity.
4. Creating open environments to support creative endeavors.

To me the most practical part of the book is a test instrument which identifies a person's creative potential.The 25-question test determines the taker's aptitude for the four basic creative styles:

1. Innovative
2. Imaginative
3. Intuitive
4. Inspirational

With the problems facing business and society, it is surprising more effort is not made to identify and encourage creative thinkers and thinking.

Oliver Wendell Holmes once said, "A mind that is stretched to a new idea never returns to its original dimensions."

Given the number and depth of the problems facing humankind, it is surprising to me that we continually resort to the same, worn-out and tired solutions.

Creativity is essential for success in business and life
The best parts of this book are providing an understanding that there are different kinds of creativity and being able to assess one's creative potential, the chapter on education and how essential the creative process is for learning, and how to use our creativity to understand and solve problems in our turbulent society. Creativity helps in taking the risks that improve problem solving.

It is absolutely essential to develop our creativity to our fullest potential in order to be successful in our careers as well as in our personal lives. Creativity helps us see more options in every situation that confronts us.

For today's business people and for educators, I believe this book is an absolute must! ... Read more

Book Description

The best business managers and leaders often have an adversarial relationship with each other, yet they have one thing in common: the search for that elusive advantage that will propel them and their organizations to greater success. It explores the practical aspects of the schism between managers and leaders, suggesting ways to exploit this natural tension to gain positive results. Offering a wealth of insights drawn from over 15 years as a top management consultant, Craig Hickman shows the ways in which the strengths of these two distinct personality types complement each other. From the strategic analyzer and the strategy planner to the concrete thinker and the visionary to the nit-picker and the risk-taker--he shows how each individual perspective contributes to overall success. While specific chapters are grouped around five major organizational success factors, it is designed for rapid, random access depending on the reader's interests. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Gets to the heart of most internal corporate conflicts
Hickman's "Mind of A Manager, Soul of A Leader" is 281 pages of lucidly written management insight that goes well beyond the typical dry, anecdotal discourse of the genre. The co-author of "Creating Excellence", Hickman dissects the psychological core of the conflict between the "manager" and "leader" personality types; a conflict he ably shows can be productive if understood and harnessed.

Numerous business scenarios and reality-based interactions are viewed through the perspective of each personality.

One such evaluation is "Conserving Plus Risking" whereby the "manager" conserves assets while the "leader" risks them. The "Plus" refers to the author's ongoing assertion that both can be had by the organization if astute enough to recognize the potential of each. If not, the organization will likely be dominated by one mind-set or the other, losing the value of the missing perspective and valuable resource.

Hickman does well in presenting a balanced view of both perspectives without condescension to either. The value of both to the organization is enhanced by the combination of the two.

The book can be of great benefit to both corporate and entreprenuerial businesses and individuals. The value of the human capital of all businesses is fully realized when the potential of both mentalities is used in concert to accomplish a balanced perspective. ... Read more

Book Description

A Zen teacher who balanced his committment to Zen practicem with a high-level business career shares the wisdom and practical experience he gained by integrating spiritual practice into the workplace. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Man becomes zen monk while working at a large company
I think the title is misleading. It may better be labeled "Man Becomes Zen Monk While Working in a Good Position at a Large Company." I was expecting a more generic coverage of what "American" Buddhism might be about, especially Zen and capitalism/competition or even more detail about his progress via zazen. I was also disappointed that he did not elaborate on his feelings about his master's death (he brought it up and immediately dropped it) and at his suggestion that a male Zen Buddhist would have the ability to make a woman not feel like she was "taken for granted." Enlightenment is knowing oneself and not necessarily others but in that latter point I felt he missed all that that complaint may emcompass. At that juncture the book lost me.

Wisdom at it's best!
Just the right amount of yin-yang, between business and bliss; this book is a pocket tucker. There are 166 pages fraught with stories and experience from this Zen Master. Chapter's entitled--True Nature, Enlightenment at Work, and Spiritual Life, Daily Life, encompass the freedom you'll gain by imbibing in the gem of a book. A worthwhile tax deduction at the price!

Spiritual teachings in and from the marketplace
Review of Zen at Work. Bright side. Les Kaye is a Soto Zen teacher who spent several decades in training, starting with Suzuki-roshi, and concurrently worked as an engineer at IBM for the same period of time. In this text he shuttles back and forth between work anecdotes and more standardized spiritual teachings (sermon-like). In doing so he intertwines threads of the theoretical and the real to illustrate how Zen contextualizes problems so they appear as they are rather than as we imagine them. The book covers a fair ground of topics, i.e., relationships, self-expression, communication, fearlessness, letting-go, emphasizing two principles; big (oceanic) mind, and no separation between subject and object. Most Zen authors mention the need for an integration of spiritual practice and everyday life. Les Kaye has taken this recommendation one step further by illustrating how he dealt with corporate problems spiritually. This is clearly the strength, as well as the emphasis of the book; carrying water and chopping wood really are the focus of everyday practice. It is fun to imagine that Les has a subtle sense of humor, that is, the title reads as a pun. Take it as "Men (Zen) at Work", an icon of religious effort, or read it simply as Zen brought to the marketplace. Dull side. Les Kaye's description of his work life and his practice life seems incomplete. During the three plus decades covered by this memoir-teaching, San Francisco Zen centers and IBM went through momentous changes in growth and leadership, some positive and some negative. I assume that Les Kaye wanted to restrict his description of Zen and worklife to basically positive events but a description of Zen and "real life" might demand an assessment of what makes Zen work under trying circumstances. Not every Zen manual has to describe how traumatic life can be, but Les lived through historic times for western Zen practice and I feel he has a responsibility to tell us how he dealt with it. Possibly, Mr. Kaye was never strongly concerned with these dramatic changes; raising a family and working full time are certainly involving by themselves, but if this is true he should tell us rather than leave us wondering. ... Read more

Reviews (30)

Sandbox Wisdom, change your point of view.
This book really made me realize the basics again. As I read the book, it really made me realize where I was going wrong with my own selling approach, and pointed out the simplicity in the solution. The examples and subject matter is relevant to todays business situations, and he uses effective quotes and stories to drive his points home. It is important to note that I read this book in one sitting! This is something that I never do! This book is entertaining, has a relaxing tone, and is an easy read. I highly recommend it.

Better than you think!
"Sandbox Wisdom" is like a breath of fresh air. Tom breaks us out of the box of the typical corporate culture by getting the reader to see the other person (or customer's) perspective. ..and also to look at all the angles. He does this in a way that is very easy to understand by using a story approach. The method in itself is also part of the wisdom of this book.

"Sandbox Wisdom" is a must read for any Manager or Supervisor who wants to increase the productivity of his/her people by unleashing their energy and potential.

Added Bonus: There is an additional plus to this book. In addition to helping to enhance your effectiveness at work, this book will also help in your personal relationships. If you want to understand better how to relate to others, you must read "Sandbox Wisdom".

Back to the basic
This books works in parallel to "Everything I Learned, I Learned in Kindergarten" but conveys the message in a single narrative. The message is also similar to Tom Peter's BrandYou. It goes back to the simplicity of the sandbox and childhood to convey the message for a successful business life today. Well written, indeed enchanting without being overly pedantic. A short and easy read but well worth it. Enjoy!

Tom gets it!
I first came across Tom's writing in an online marketing newsletter I received. In it, he wrote about how important it is to understand, and care about, our customers' feelings. Most important, he did it with a real eye towards getting results, which is obviously "top of mind" in the business world. The other thing that struck me about Tom's writing is that he writes in a real way, about the real stuff we all go through. In creating a business, building a brand is one of the most critical pieces. Tom shows you how to do it, with some help from the kids. Because, after all, the children get this stuff - they walk through puddles and sprinklers. They taste first snows on their tongues. And Tom gets that they get it, so he shares it with us. Thanks, Tom!

Looking back to get ahead....
What a treat it was to read Sandbox Wisdom. But better yet, putting the principals to work that Tom's book teaches is even more rewarding. Thank you Tom for taking me back to the basics that I have managed to smother with my life's experiences. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who interacts with people....... My gosh, I guess that's everyone. ... Read more

Book Description

Memos from the Chairman is a particularly encouraging example for all business managers and leaders who, through humor, insight, and shared inspiration, strive to run and build a firm with outstanding success an good cheer. Through his notorious memos, Greenberg expounds upon business ethics, telephone manners, cycles and trends, and other important issues. Greenberg has helped transform Bear Sterns into one of the most profitable investment banks in the world. His use of memos inspire, exhort, and coax his employees, revealing a unique and provocative business management philosophy. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Brilliant - a must read for future bankers
A truly inspirational insight into the creation of the corporate culture of Bear Sterns, one of the most successful US investment banks. Put simply, the book is a collection of memos passed around the office, written by the ubiquitous Ace Greenberg. His fascination with saving on paper clips and lighting expenses should be a lesson to us all.

At the time I read the book, I was so impressed with the content that I wrote to Mr Greenberg personally, and asked him for a job - need I say any more!!

Absurd -- but it worked!
Ah - a book that recalls the days when people wanted to work for corporations! As a former employee of Bear Stearns who received some of the memos in this book, I can say that those memos created an atmosphere of comraderie and humor during the recession of the early '90s. Back then, Bear Stearns was considered a great place to work. Of course, Mr. Greenberg is not running the company anymore. At that time, BSC was one of the largest banking institutions in the world, and every level of employee was very proud of his or her role in the success of the company. I recommend this book for managers who need to remember who is really doing the work!!

Excrement
Insulting, board room drivel. I used to work at Bear Stearns and am deader inside for having done it.

Pithy sayings from a fertile imagination
If you can weather a few cultural references that not be cheered in these days of political correctness, you will be treated to a book full of "ACE" Greenberg's exhortation to keep your eye on the ball. Mr. Greenberg makes his points to the "troops" by focusing on the smallest detail. In one case this is paperclips, and so it goes on from there. Several mythical characters live in Greenberg's memos, and so keep the reader's interest. All this is window dressing for the main point, cut costs, even in good times, and you will keep the wolves at bay when things get soft.

An easy read, but worth the time.

Good Book
The philosophy mentioned quite useful, teach us the value of, being cost concern, staying humble...etc

Is worth-reading. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Great self-esteem booster
This is a great collection of tips and stories to help alter the way we think of ourselves. These tapes give my self-esteem a boost and make the world a better place. The formula of Experience + Response = Outcome is just one of the great ways this tape influences posative thinking. The only down side is that this product isn't sold as a CD.

Jack Canfield is my motivational role model
Jack Canfield is my motivational role model and for good reason. Jack is a warm and lovable fellow who believes in people--to do better and be better. I love to listen to these tapes over and over again. They are really motivating. And by the way he's funny too! Zev Saftlas, Author of Motivation That Works

Fantastic Self-Help Tapes
I first bought this set of tapes several years ago at an education seminar and it was a valuable investment. Jack Canfield is caring, understanding, knowledgeable and has a great sense of humor. He comes across as a 'real' person who uses teaching examples from his own life and degrees of self-disclosure that help create a 'trust' atmosphere for the listener. He has a speaking manner that puts you at ease and makes you want to listen to everything he has to say. Self-esteem, self-confidence and relating to other people is who we are every day and he helps improve this with techniques for developing and strengthening our 'inner selves'. I've listened to these tapes every 6 months for the last 7 yrs. and I listen to them whenever I am going through a really stressful time. They are uplifting and healing.

Excellent Introduction to Books on Tape
This was the first cassette purchase I made, and I was so impressed, I have begun to keep my eyes open for more books on tape. Jack Canfield, well known for his uplifting "Chicken Soup" series, is just as uplifting in voice. The series is very practical, with Jack outlining simple exercises you can do with minimal time, that will improve your outlook. It is true that repetitive listening makes a difference, though I've only gotten through it 4 times completely. He spices his tips up with stories of success, and the fact that it's a taped live seminar, makes it sound like you are really there listening to him in person. The only thing I could do without were the questions at the end, and the section of affirmations did not strike my imagination too strongly, though both of these would be welcomed by other listeners I'm sures.

Scrolls of Life's Sea
Going through the tape of Jack Canfield, I found many good tips on how to become more positive and the good thing is his voice reflects the kindness that some other positive thinkers lack. It raises above the average in that respect, even though in the field of the ideas, it is similar to the others. It definitely has its value listening though. I would recommend it. ... Read more

Book Description

Small firms in Chicago employ more than 1.6 million individuals-nearly 50 percent of the private work force, according to a new study released this fall by the Small Business Administration. The survey, which defines small firms as those employing less than 500 people, also shows that these businesses generate 47 percent of the area's total receipts of $278 billion dollars. However, SBA statistics also reveal that, on average, of the small businesses starting today,53 percent will not be in business four years from now. Of these closings, it's estimated that 15 percent will close due to business failures. Chicago businessman Jay Goltz understands what it takes for a small business to succeed. During the past twenty years he has owned and operated Artists' Frame Service in Chicago. Goltz started the business in 1978, and today it's the largest, custom retail picture framing facility in the world. Now, Goltz shares some his secrets of success. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Great Read For Entrepreneurs
It seemed everyone buying my book was also buying "The Street-Smart Entrepreneur," so I decided to give it a read.

I think "The Street-Smart Entrepreneur" Jay Goltz should be read by all serious entrepreneurs. The book is divided into 133 short sections, each giving a lesson Goltz learned in building a large, picture-framing company in Chicago.

Entrepreneurs owning manufacturing companies will benefit the most from reading this book. But, nearly all entrepreneurs will find much of value.

Some of my favorite lessons:

* Don't demotivate your employees and hire carefully. Goltz suggests a "BATH" criteria for hiring employees. Do employees Buy into your company's concept and way of doing business? Are they Able? Are they Team players, who are also ready to take individual responsibility? Are they Hungry? (Not for lunch, but to excel and succeed.)

* Distinguish between "work fors" and "work withs." Goltz tells us that not all employees want the same level of responsibility. Some just want to be told what to do. Others want to contribute more and are willing to work with you in building your business. The optimal extent of oversight and guidance depends upon the type of person the employee is.

* Don't stop delegating just because screw-ups happen. Especially, distinguish between poor performance and accidents. Let good employees who make mistakes know you don't hold it against them and that accidents are just part of the cost of running a business. Poor performance, however, can't be tolerated. Goltz says mediocre employees belong with the competition.

Goltz writes: "There's nothing to be gained by screaming at employees who make an occasional mistake or standing by while they eat themselves up with guilt or embarrassment. ...I don't want my employees ...worrying that I'm angry at them."

Goltz emphasizes you shouldn't just sit back and expect employees to come to you. Go to them and find out what's up.

* Have a good computer-accounting system and effective ways of doing things.

Goltz writes: "...Have good systems in place that give you the numbers you need. You know how much inventory you have, how much you sell each month, what your receivables are, and what your expenses are."

* Understand out-of-control growth can kill a company. Goltz emphasizes controlled growth that can be funded is better than explosive growth that leads to bankruptcy, because the company can't pay its bills.

Goltz notes: "There's a mathematical formula to determine how much you can grow and remain self-funded. To do that calculation, you first have to figure out how much money you need to invest in your business to generate a sales dollar. As your business grows, you will need more money to finance your inventory, receivables...."

"The Street-Smart Entrepreneur," however, is easy-to-read, with no mathematics. Goltz suggests having your accountant help with such a calculation, if you desire one.

* Listen to what your customers say they want and need. Don't just assume you know what your customers want. Especially, focus upon figuring out who your best customers are and finding more like them.

* Learn to say "No" to unprofitable customer orders and don't be afraid of losing a bit of business due to your prices. Goltz says you can't provide the best of all three of price, customer service, and quality. Rather, aim to be the best at two of the three.

* Read business publications and adapt other people's good ideas to your business. Goltz emphasizes talking to other business owners, customers, and anyone who can provide insight into your business endeavor.

* Don't worry about coming up with a brilliant, unique idea. Goltz writes: "If you want to be successful in business, execute well."

* Do keep an eye out for industry trends. Goltz said he noticed that his customers' cars were getting smaller, but their picture frames were getting bigger, so he offered delivery service.

* Take care of your health. Goltz says we need to balance family and personal demands with business demands.

* Develop a thick skin. Goltz writes: "If you're in a position of authority, no matter how nice and fair you are, some people will dislike you. ...There are many times when, for the good of your business, you will have to say or do things that upset people. It's naïve to think if you fire someone who has been doing a bad job, he/she will say, 'Oh, listen, I totally understand. If I were in your shoes, I'd do the same thing.'" Kick butt, when necessary.

* Deliver value to your customer. Goltz says: "To me, customer service is an issue of ethics. The reason why your business should give customers great service isn't because you will lose business otherwise, but because you have promised to deliver a product or service in exchange for their money." Further, many entrepreneurs just feel better when they offer great products and services.

* The competition isn't the enemy. Don't spend your time watching them. Goltz says mediocrity is the enemy. Spend time improving your products and your customer service. Mediocrity doesn't just happen, it sneaks up on a company.

While many of Goltz's lessons are valuable for all entrepreneurs, some are a bit more specialized and are of most value to companies producing physical, industrial products or services. For example, Goltz tells us to be sure your employees are properly classified for worker's compensation. The wrong classification could cost money. This applies more to industrial workers and people whose jobs might pose physical danger or an appearance of danger than, for example, an accountant.

Goltz also tells us his utility rates are partly determined by his maximum electricity usage during the day. So, rather than turning all lights and machinery on at once in the morning, he staggers turning stuff on over the first two hours. This is more useful for a manufacturer than for a small, computer programming company.

I highly recommended this book to entrepreneurs.

Peter Hupalo, Author of "Thinking Like An Entrepreneur"

This book covers a lot of issues I have never seen anywhere
I have probably read ten business books since I have started my business. I am always looking for ways to solve my problems and grow my business and found most of the other books on the market to be of limited value. Goltz's book on the other hand talks about the real problems I have from and firing to how to borrow money from the bank. I found myself taking notes through out the book and actually put many of his "lessons" to use the next day at work. This book is a must read for anyone who is running a business!

good stuff
If you need more check out www.antiventurecapital.com for startup manual for entrepreneurs who are unable or unwilling to tap venture capital.

This Picture Framer Gives It 5 Stars!
This is probably the only entrepeneurial book I have ever read, but I would highly recommend it to anyone contemplating going into retail. The lessons Jay Goltz shares in this book are important, whether you're a 'lone ranger' going-it-alone retailer, or an administrative type. How, as a picture framer and administrator, he juggles all his balls in the air, and hats he wears, is impressive indeed. My own hat goes off to him. An aquaintance of mine (like myself, a picture framer)recommended this book to me, and I'm glad he did. The author speaks in broad enough terms so that you certainly don't need to be a picture framer to apply the valuable lessons he's sharing. Definitely worth reading for anyone at all interested in getting it right in business. Go Jay!

Business Lessons Learned the Hard Way
The Street Smart Entrepreneur is a well-written book that draws upon Goltz's experiences in the workforce. In his book, he details the useful lessons he learned, some of which may seem like common sense, but others could be quite surprising, such as how entrepreneurs are not necessarily the best person to hire new employees. Because of its reliance on Goltz's own experiences, The Street Smart Entrepreneur possesses solid credibility. It's as good as Guerilla PR: Wired, which also supplies valuable lessons on business leadership and entrepreneurial tips. ... Read more

Book Description

Success @ Life is timely and inspiring. It is a guide for twenty-first century Zentrepreneurs on how to achieve goals, catch and live their dreams, liberate their natural energies, and—most importantly—to live lives of passion and purpose. Quite simply, it is a book that changes attitudes. And sometimes, that is all it takes. Without changing anything else, if you change your attitude, you can change everything else. Indeed, you can change the world.—From the "Ministers" of The Republic of Tea, one of the fastest growing and successful beverage brands in America today.

As the leading purveyor of only the finest teas and herbs in the world, The Republic of Tea is a progressive, socially conscious California company that was founded in 1992 by the co-creators of The Banana Republic. In 1994, an entrepreneur named Ron Rubin bought and took charge of the company, and shortly thereafter marketing veteran Stuart Avery Gold joined him in the company's mission to create a Tea Revolution. Applying ancient and contemporary wisdom, the two self-described Zentrepreneurs have guided The Republic of Tea into an enormous success, capturing the imagination and loyalty of its customers by maintaining its high ideals despite the aggressive nature of today's business.

Rubin and Gold's unusual—and highly successful—approach to business and life has brought them numerous speaking invitations from colleges and organizations nationwide. The most often asked question: What is their secret? Their answer in a nutshell: If you do what you love, you will never work a day in your life. Is it possible for anyone to live the life they imagine? Yes, say Rubin and Gold, if they prepare their mind to do so. In these pages, Rubin and Gold share their personal experiences and their philosophy of "enlightenment and discovery" for living a happy, fulfilled life-in the hope that others will learn to journey down a path that will allow them to catch and live their dream.

While an entrepreneur creates a business, a Zentrepreneur creates a business and a life. ... Read more

Reviews (45)

Success@Life is a success
The book "Success@Life - How to Catch and Live Your Dream" is a great book for any aspiring entrepreneur. Stuart Avery Gold and Ron Rubin help the reader find both his dream and the courage to try to make it come true. That, combined with lots of helpful hints on how to be successful, make this book a must read for any aspiring entreprenuer.

The authors are quick to admit it is not easy to be an entrepreneur - it involves a LOT of hard work and the path will be filled with failures and mistakes. The book does a great job of helping an entrepreneur avoid many of those mistakes, and more importantly how to get the most out of your talents and realize your dream.

The book does not cover the traditional areas of business (marketing, finance, accounting) but rather deals with what it is that seperates successful people from the rest. Whether it be desire, talent, advice from a mentor or your attitude; the authors will show you what it takes to be successful

Finding balance in your life
Success@Life, a fast, easy, humorous read, explains how to catch and live your dreams by finding your passion in life. Ron Rubin and Stuart Avery Gold describe something more than an entrepreneur. They have cleverly renamed the term "zentrepreneur" which is defined as one who creates a business AND a life. It is a motivating book that stresses finding your passion, taking risks, finding a mentor, and how to live a life of balance. If you are looking for the answer to "how to start your own business", don't look here. The most important message in Success@Life is to follow your dream and you will never work a day in your life. A truly refreshing new look at life.

Glad I read this book