Cool Things My Friends Do (Week #136): Think Big - Act Bigger with Jeffrey Hayzlett

Each week on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

I am late on getting this "Cool Things My Friends Do" released, but I cannot hide the kudos for this book.  It is a MUST READ for everyone, especially those who listen to my podcast, as you know the topic of re-invention and raising yourself to a higher level of production is a theme I believe matters to all in a world full of mediocrity. 

Jeffrey Hayzlett is a global business celebrity, former CMO of Kodak, author, speaker, prime time Bloomberg Television host and is the chairman of the C-Suite Network.  I know Jeffrey from the National Speakers Association, and have spent time chatting with him at several conferences (and he has been a guest on my podcast).  Jeffrey is one who always gives his time to anyone, and has been a bit of a silent mentor to me since I met him last year.

Recently he released his second book, Think Big, Act Bigger: The Rewards of Being Relentless.  In this book he empowers business leaders to tie their visions to actions, advancing themselves past competitors and closer to their business dream. Drawing upon his own business back stories he sharing examples from the many leaders featured on “The C-Suite with Jeffrey Hayzlett,” Jeffrey imparts ten core lessons that dare readers to own who they are as a leader and/or company, define where they want to go, and fearlessly do what it takes to get there—caring less about conventional wisdom, re-framing limitations, and steamrolling obstacles as they go.

Being a consumer of many business and life-related books, I can tell you this one is an awesome inspirational read.  I am so happy to have this book and Jeffrey featured as week #136 of "Cool Things My Friends Do".  Check it out.  

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do (Week #117): Tim Hayden - "The Mobile Commerce Revolution"

Each week on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

Welcome back to "Cool Things My Friends Do".  This nearly weekly blog post series is now in week #117.  I have not posted lately, as this series has spun out a new podcast: "Cool Things Entrepreneurs Do", and launching a podcast is a lot of work.... but the first six shows are live (two new episodes each week coming to an iTunes or Stitcher account near you!!!).  Check it out, subscribe and leave a comment.

Tim Hayden just released his book, "The Mobile Commerce Revolution". That is cool. Tim is a serial entrepreneur, marketing guru, speaker (he just joined the National Speakers Association), and a friend. I have known Tim for several years, and I mentioned him in my 2nd book, The ABC's of Networking. It has been great to see him navigate the ups and downs of an entrepreneurs, solopreneur, and intrapreneur.

Tim is a real thought leader in the world of social and mobile marketing.  He is also a hard working entrepreneur who makes things happen.

His book ,which is co-authored with Tom Webster, is an actionable guide is packed with brand-new case studies and practical guidance from small startups to large brands. The authors share their immense experience in a way that will make the reader think.

Congratulations to Tim and Tom.  I am thrilled to have them as week #117 of "Cool Things My Friends Do".  Also, Tim has agreed to be a guest on the podcast... so check back in a few weeks to listen to that episode.

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do (Week #107): The CEO Tightrope by Joel Trammell

Each week on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

Congratulations to Joel Trammell for the upcoming launch of his new book, "The CEO Tightrope: How to Master the Balancing Act of a Successful CEO".  It will be released in September 2014, but I am fortunate to have an advance copy, which I am happily reading.

I have known Joel for a long time.  We are not friends in the way that we go out for beers or coffee (although I would enjoy chatting with him more), but I have always admired how he served as CEO of several successful Austin companies, and was still available and visible to the community.  He is considered one of the most approachable and generous executives in the local tech community.

This book is a good read.  It shows what lays ahead for those who ascend to the top, and he spells out the good and bad that comes with the ultimate responsibility.  

Another reason I think this book is cool is because I am the father of a teenage daughter who has aspirations to become a CEO.  While she is still a high school student, she looks toward a future of running companies.  At her age she does not fully know what that means or the responsibilities involved, but this book is an ideal resource for her to clarify her ambitions.  I hope she will read it this summer (one can't make a teen read a book!!!), as to have access to this first hand advice before she even gets to college could have a lifetime impact.

Thanks to Joel's team for offering me the pre-release copy.  I am excited to have it featured as week #107 of "Cool Things My Friends Do".  It is a great book.  Get yours on Amazon.

Discover more about Joel Trammell on his website: The American CEO.

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do (Week #101) - Vision to Reality by Honoree Corder

Each week on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.


My friend Honorée Corder has released a new book.  She is the creator of the phenomenal STMA (Short Term Massive Action) Coaching Program, and in this book she shares the principles and tools she's studied, coached, and lived for more than 20 years.  

Vision to Reality™ will teach you how to increase your efficiency and effectiveness, overcome challenges, increase your productivity, live with passion and purpose, and turn your wildest visions into your true reality. 

Not merely a collection of good ideas, this book spells out the steps used by successful men and women to transform their daily actions into the life of their dreams. With daily practical application, Honorée’s formula for success will transform your business and life beyond your wildest dreams!

I have known Honorée for several years, and she is an inspiration to those she meets.  She works hard, is always seeking new business ideas, and goes out of her way to promote others.  This is the second time I have included her in the "Cool Things My Friends Do" posts.

Join me in saying "Cheers" to Honorée for her newest publication.

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do - Patrick Henry's New Book: The Pancake Principle

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their work and personal lives. 

My friend Patrick Henry (not the "give me liberty or give me death" guy) just released his new book, The Pancake Principle.  In this entertaining book he shares his "seventeen sticky ways to make your customers flip for you".... and weaves his personal experiences with sage advice to better serve the world.

Patrick is one of the first people I met when I joined the National Speakers Association four years ago.  He is a second generation professional speaker who weaves his down-home southern wisdom with humor and an occasional song (he is also an accomplished guitar player and song writer).  It has been great to see his career expand over the past few years, and his book is a key part to what will be continued success educating and entertaining corporate and association audiences around the country.

Patrick, and his wife Lesley, were among an amazing group of people who made me feel at "home" at my first NSA national conference.  They both grew up around the business (Lesley's mother has worked for a legendary professional speaker for over 30 years) and they are a great example of how a career as a speaker really is a "family affair".  (side note: Patrick and Lesley actually originally met through the organization as teenagers attending the NSA Youth Leadership Program.....a very cool story, actually).

As I look back at a year of "Cool Things My Friends Do" posts each Friday, there are several times I have written about new books that my friends have released.  No matter how many people I know who publish new books... it is ALWAYS very cool --- and a huge accomplishment!!!  I think we need to remember to celebrate the milestones that impact the lives of those around us!

Congratulations to Patrick on this great publication! Order your copy today at Amazon.com.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

PS - I almost forgot, each of the 17 chapters begins with a home-made pancake recipe.  My kids are thrilled to have me cook my way through each flavor of pancake!!!

Innovation You by Jeff DeGraff

I recently read Innovation You: Four Steps to Becoming New and Improved.  It is a new book by the "Dean of Innovation", Jeff DeGraff.

I have been thinking about the topic of innovation.  Change has been so consistent in my life and I know the only way to find more success is to be willing to accept this reality.  If we want to discover our potential we must constantly be innovating.  I have the most fun working with those who are excited by change, as they are the ones who achieve results.

The companies, law firms and individuals I work with want more business in the changed economy, but many have remained the same in their attitudes toward business, sales, marketing, relationships, brand, visibility, etc.....  "We have always done it this way" has become the lamest excuse in the marketplace.  What worked before is no longer the guarantee for the future. (While it might work for some, not paying attention to what is new in your industry is a bad idea).

I also witness this struggle in myself.  As my business grows I find new and exciting opportunities, but I need to expand my expertise.  I am harnessed with the same economic conditions other businesses are facing, but I am not other businesses.  My unique situations present a chance for me to forge my own path to success.  I get excited when I can find ways to overcome problems with a new and fresh approach.

DeGraff is a professor at the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan and the Executive Director of Innovatrium, a creativity center for executives.  He works with some of the worlds "best and brightest" to help them rethink their innovation, approach, methods and journey.  His experience is important, but he goes further than just another academic who writes a book... he writes with impact that keeps the reader's attention and interest.

In the end, creativity is the key to innovation and success. He tells stories throughout the book that show how people can overcome the road-bumps and reached their victories.  The game has changed, and we all can use a dose on innovation.

Innovation You is a good book, and it is worth the time to read it, as it will kick-start your own re-engineering process.

Have A Great Day

thom singer

The Intentional Networker by Patti DeNucci

Networking and connections expert Patti DeNucci recently released her first book, The Intentional Networker.  Patti lives in Austin and is an institution in the Central Texas business community.  She is my friend, and we currently are both on the board of the Austin Chapter of the National Speakers Association.

Some might ask, "Why another book on Networking?... aren't there enough books on that subject?"  (You might think I would ask that since I have written seven!).  However, this topic is VERY important, and few people really know how to really cultivate the power of business relationships.  Most professionals think they are already good at networking, but are often puzzled as to why most of their efforts to make connections fall short of achieving results.

Patti's book is well written and clearly reminds people of not just the "how", but the "why" of attracting powerful relationships (ummm, referrals and results!!!).  If you have struggled with rationalizing all the reasons NOT to network, you should get over yourself and discover how to engage in your community to find more business, have an impact (giving back), become more efficient and have a ton of fun along the way.

The title of chapter one is "Know Who You Are".  Wow, right out of the starting gate Patti nails an often overlooked problem.... people do not really know their purpose, or even where they fit into the business landscape.  If you do not know who you are, how will other people understand the value you bring to the table?

Reading the book is a wonderful journey in understanding the benefits of being intentional in not just your networking, but in all areas of your life.   She quotes dozens of experts and shares touching stories of how people have established their personal and professional brands while discovering amazing levels of success.

Enjoy the book!

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

The Thank You Economy

Gary Vaynerchuk's new book, "The Thank Your Economy" is a good read.

(Disclaimer:  I know Gary.  We have met several times at conferences, and I drove him around Austin when he spoke at an event here last fall.  We are not close friends, and when he buys the New York Jets someday I do not expect an invite to the owners box.)

The stuff he talks about in the book is important.  Most people I work with instinctively understand that all business is personal, and that people choose to do business with those they know, like and trust.... but we get so focused on ROI and systems that a personal conversation does not make the list of business strategies.

Brand managers and left-brained professionals are obsessed with numbers (and the numbers do matter).... but people matter too.   Make someone feel significant and they will come back.  Leave them feeling like a number and you suck.

I have been teaching my philosophy of "Cooperative Significance" for years.  What Gary says in his book is not rocket science.  But you are most likely NOT doing the things necessary to stand out in our noisy social-media world.  The small personal actions can make you a giant.

If you have ever seen Gary speak live you know he is a force of nature. His passion makes him one of the best public speakers out there (even though he can be known to use the "F-word" over 30 times in a 60 minute presentation!... I know, cuz I counted!!!).  But his message holds strong printed in a book.

If you are one of those folks who say "I don't read books".... then realize you lose by not reading this one.  Just suck it up and read the 234 pages.  (then go read one of my books!)


Have A Great Day.

15 Minutes Including Q&A - A Plan To Save The World From Lousy Presentations

I just finished reading Joey Asher's "15 Minutes Including Q&A - A Plan To Save The World From Lousy Presentations".  I get sent books often to review, but few garner much interest for me to actually read them to completion.  This book got my attention because I, too, am on a quest to stop the spread of bad speaking.... and because it is well written and only 106 pages.

I wrote "The ABC's of Speaking" to help those business professionals who do not want to be a professional speaker, but instead need to make presentations as part of their job.  They do not want to suck on stage, but far too often they do!  Having access to realistic advice is key to success.  It is not hard to deliver a good speech, but if you "wing it" you will bomb.

Joey Asher does a fabulous job of providing easy and actionable tips to help people be better orators.

The title and premise of the book is that no talk needs to be more than 15 minutes long (half presentation, half Q&A).  While this is a cute idea, I totally disagree with this as a real life way to eliminate bad speeches.  There is a trend at conferences to make everything resemble a TED Conference.  I am a huge fan of TED, but their success is not as much based on their short format talks as it is on the way the speakers are vetted and coached to make an impact on the audience.  Four awful speakers in an hour is not better than one awful speaker. 

Ignore Asher's idea that short is always best, and then devour the rest of his advice on planning, rehearsal, messaging, delivery, style, and audience engagement.  After he gets past the silly notion of short as the only format for delivery, he knocks the rest of the book out of the park.

The book is worth your time if you want to improve your speaking skills.  Also a good gift for all bosses who host company meetings where any human beings are in the audience.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Entertain Like A Gentleman by David Harap

If you have written a book you understand just how cool it is to hold the first copy in your hands.

My friend David Harap had that experience recently with the release of his cookbooks; "Entertain Like A Gentleman" and "Entertain Like A Texas Gentleman".

David is a partner in a large international executive search firm, and a cooking enthusiast. He teaches cooking classes at Central Market in Austin, Texas and is known to all his friends for hosting great parties with amazing food.

The book is designed for men, but women will also enjoy the tasty and recipes and cooking tips. Knowing how to entertain for that special date or for a large crowd is the epitome of being a gentleman. There is no stronger way to impress someone than by showcasing your culinary skills.

Chef Harap has created a series of menus that any man can make his own. This book helps men create unforgettable meals for their guests without stress or needing years of cooking school. In addition to many exciting recipes for every occasion, that are tons of tips and secrets on how to become the ultimate host.

What is the difference between the regular and "Texas" editions? Everything is bigger in Texas, so he added more recipes inspired by the Lone Star State.

Order your copy today at Amazon.com.

Also, find more information about David Harap and get cooking tips at on his website: www.likeagent.com.

Have A Great Day.

thom

The Club No One Wanted To Join - Madoff Victims In Their Own Words

Yesterday I met Mary Thomajan, one of the 29 authors who share their stories in the newly released book "The Club Nobody Wanted To Join - Madoff Victims In Their Own Words". She is a delightful woman who lost everything because of the scams of Bernie Madoff, and she still has a positive message for the world.

Mary Thomajan was looking forward to retirement in Santa Fe, focusing on funding The Center for Community and Courageous Change. She lost everything. But she learned that "none of the stuff was me-not my money, nor my home, nor my clothes, my jaguar, my sassy red hair, my identity." The truth she came to recognize is that "we don't own anything...We are just tenants here, little columns of energy." But she has learned from a wise teacher in India who answered the question: “What does a man have when he has lost everything?” The answer was “Freedom.”

I have not yet read the book, but my copy is on order from Amazon. We have all heard the stories of Madoff's victims, but it is not everyday you sit at a dinner with a dozen people who share their stories..... and have one as powerful as this! In keeping with my efforts to read the books of the interesting people I meet, I just had to buy this book. You should too.

Have A Great Day.

thom

Four Books By People I Know: Brandon Eley, Valerie Hausladen, Shama Hyder Kabani, and Steve Harper

I am an avid reader of business books, self-help books, technology books, social media books, career books, and other similar genres. I have averaged reading over 20 books a year for eighteen years. That is a lot of information!

I also have a personal policy that if I know someone who wrote a book, I read it. In 1989 I met an author and he gave me a copy of his auto-biography. I read the whole thing and then sent him a "Thank You" note. He responded with a call telling me that the greatest compliment an author can receive is for someone to read their work. I took that to heart and made this my mantra.

This policy was easy for the next several years as I did not encounter that many authors. However now that I have written eight books of my own, and regularly find myself sharing the stage as a professional speaker at conferences and conventions with many top authors, I now meet a ton of people who have penned a book. Thus I find it hard to keep up with my policy of reading the books of those I know.

I just completed a stack of four books by people I know personally, and would like to share them with the readers of this blog, as they are all good reads:

Online Marketing Inside Out by Brandon Eley and Shayne Tilley.

I met Brandon at the 2010 South by Southwest Interactive conference. We had a great conversation about the professional speaking business, social media, networking, and the real power of cultivating business relationships.

His book is a great guide for those who are still on the sidelines of social media. While most of the people I know are more advanced when it comes to using the internet to promote their business, the majority of businesses out there are still wondering how they can harness the power of social networks.

The book is easy to read and logical in how it is laid out. My favorite part is where the authors remind the readers to be human: "One of the most common mistakes companies make when trying social media is that they maintain that corporate facade instead of behaving like normal, everyday human beings".

Professional Destiny by Valerie Hausladen

Valerie is a former corporate executive who realized that she was not living in alignment. She walked away from a high paying job and followed her dreams, which included writing this book. She is living her own "professional destiny" and is passionate about helping others find theirs. I met Valerie through a mutual friend, but had already heard here name in local circles in Austin, Texas.

The book does a great job of encouraging the reader to let their personal gifts and passions guide them to finding their path. "Your true purpose is your highest good and it brings you great joy", says Hausladen.

The Zen of Social Media Marketing by Shama Hyder Kabani

I met Shama at the 2008 South by Southwest Interactive Conference. I had already been following her on Twitter, but a chance meeting and a group impromptu trip to lunch made us fast friends. She is one of those who has the right to teach social media because she has not only lived it for several years, but has created real business for her company by her participation.

The forward of the book is written by social media guru, Chris Brogan, which gives the book even more credibility. The book is ideal for those who know their continued avoidance of social media is just plain dumb. All industries can benefit from understanding this medium.

Shama says "It is no longer a question of whether social media will influence your customers and your market - it already is!"

The Ripple Effect (Revised and Expanded Second Edition) by Steve Harper

I have known Steve Harper (AKA: "Mr. Ripple") for over five years. We met as we were both releasing books on the power of business relationships and have remained friends. His "8 Minute Ripple Seminars" are held regularly in Austin and around the country, and help people make meaningful connections.

His original book was already good, but many things have happened in the way we manage relationships over the past five years. Steve has released this new version of his book to expand on the theories and include the powerful additions of the new technologies that impact how we make connections. The added chapters (Chapter Five on using social media, Chapter Six on building and utilizing your network in tough times, and Chapter Ten is filled with real life stories of people creating "Ripples") makes this already great book even better.

Harper is right on the money when he says, "The people that influence us become the brush strokes of the masterpiece we paint called our life."

*******************

No matter your level of experience with the topics covered in these books, you will walk away with more knowledge from these well written books by authors I know. All four books are wonderful, and all four authors are way-cool people!

Have A Great Day.

thom

The Six Pixels of Separation

I read a lot of business books, but review few of them here on my blog. The reason for this is that few of them stand out from the pack.

I just finished reading "The Six Pixels of Separation" by Mitch Joel. There are several books on social media floating around right now, and I have read many, but this book was an above average informative piece.

Mitch Joel is the "Rock Star of Digital Media" (according to Marketing Magazine), and the president of Twist Image. His credentials aside, he wrote a book that can inform the novice while still making those with social media experience sit up and think about the topic.

I love the dedication to his family in the front of the book which begins with "Cells before Pixels", reminding us all that there is still the human element that outweighs the buzz about the digital age.

If you are looking for a book about this topic, I recommend this one.

Have A Great Day.

thom

"Ticket to the Limit" by Randy Cohen

Years ago I started a personal policy that if I meet someone who has written a book, I read their book. I put this into practice over 20 years ago when I first met H.R. Haldeman (yes, the White House Chief of Staff to President Nixon).

This policy served me well, as I read a lot, and I did not meet that many people who wrote books... thus fitting the occasional book of someone I encountered was easy. Authors enjoy it when people read their books, and I found it was a great way to help build relationships with people who write, by actually reading their stuff.

But now that I am an author and professional speaker I meet too many people who have written books. I still try to honor my personal policy, but it is not as easy. However, when someone I know well writes a book, I do buy it, read it, and review it.

Thus the purpose of this blog post.

My friend, Randy Cohen, recently released his first book, "Ticket to the Limit: How Passion and Performance Can Transform Your Life and Your Business Into An Amazing Adventure".

Randy has done a wonderful job of sharing his life's journey and laying out a road map for others who want to find success.

He is a high energy entrepreneur who believes in living life to the fullest. He encourages the readers to live by his "Randy's Rules of Reason"which include following your passion, living by values, cherishing family, helping others, laughing often, giving back, continuing to learn, taking risks, working hard (and playing hard), and following through.

Congratulations to Randy on a successful book. It is a good read and full of inspiration on each page.

Have A Great Day

thom

More About The New Book

The Spin Strategy Blog reviewed "Batteries Not Included: 66 Tips to Energize Your Career".

Thanks to Tim Tyrell-Smith for his kind words. Tim has really created a great resource for job seekers with his Spin Strategy brand.

Have A Great Day.

thom

Early Praise for "Batteries Not Included: 66 Tips to Energize Your Career"

"Thom managed to put a lot value in a little book. This is essential reading for anyone looking to get and stay influential. Very well written and leaves a lasting impression about the accountability it takes to be successful. Buy this book before your next mistake!"

Garrison Wynn CEO of Wynn Solutions and Author of “The REAL Truth About Success: What the top 1% do differently and why they won’t tell you!”

ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY AT AMAZON.COM

ONE STEP TOWARD SUCCESS - Tell People What You Desire

I write often about the importance of letting others know what you want to accomplish in life. If you do not tell them, they cannot serve as the link that connects you to your future.

Sometimes it is a friend who holds the answers, while some crossroads are mapped by complete strangers. If you keep your goals, dreams and desires to yourself, then you are missing out on the fastest path to success.

Last fall I received a phone call from Pam Sherman. Pam is a former practicing attorney, a writer, entrepreneur, consultant, trainer, speaker, and much much more. She had read my book, The ABC's of Networking, and referred it to several of her clients. She reached out just to tell me how she appreciated the motivational advice in the book.

When we spoke, I was boarding an airplane to fly to Phoenix to give a speech. She was in the back of a cab in New York City on her way to a client's office. We did not have much time to talk, but we had a great conversation. I could tell right away that she is a powerful personality.

At the end of our conversation she mentioned her desire to complete her first book, a compilation of articles she had written. I referred her to Dave at New Year Publishing. I figured if nothing else, he would have some useful ideas that could help her make the book a reality.

Six months later Pam's book, The Suburban Outlaw, is now in print and Pam has joined the New Year Publishing author family. (Available at Amazon.com).

I love this story. It is a simple reminder not to hide your dreams under a blanket. Instead, tell others what you want in life. A stranger on a plane 2000 miles away might have the phone number to your next project. The ONE step toward success is to simply tell others what you desire!

I believe in people. I have seen countless others lend me a hand and pull me up to higher levels time after time. I am confident that there are catalysts around every corner who can change our worlds for the better.... if we just give them a chance.

Pam has returned the favor and introduced me to possible speaking opportunities with groups like Young Presidents Organization and others. She is someone whom I know will become a good friend, too. All from a phone call.

Have A Great Day.

thom

I'm Having Twins

New Year Publishing is proud to announce the release of two new children's books:

I'm Having Twins and My Twins Are Coming Home are the first two books in the new My Friend Paris series, authored by ten-year-old author Paris Morris.

Paris is the eldest daughter of my dear friends (and business partners, editor, and visionaries behind New Year Publishing and my own series of books). She is also a good friend of my 11-year-old and a delightful young lady.

The books are the stories of a four-year-old girl (Paris) whose world is rocked with the addition of twin sisters. They are a fun read - and especially interesting and entertaining for any family who is blessed with the extra joy - AND EXTRA WORK! - of raising twins.

Paris is already getting media interviews lined up. I am sure that it is only a matter of time until Oprah Winfrey is calling.

The books are available on Amazon.com - but if you want to get a personally signed copy to give as a gift...contact me and I will put you in touch with this author -- She is available to sign books after she finishes her 5th grade homework!!!

Have A Great Day.

thom

Get ON Your Soapbox

About a month ago I had the chance to meet first-time author Kimberlie Dykeman at the Bootstrap Publishing Sub-Group Lunch. The group brings together small gatherings of authors and would-be authors to discuss a variety of options on how to get a book published, and more importantly, how to promote the finished product (writing a book is hard, promoting a book is 1000 times more difficult!).

Kimberlie is one of those BIG personalities that you come across who lights up the room, and someone you do not forget quickly. Interestingly we have been in the same orbit since we met, as our paths have crossed half a dozen times.

Last night my kids and I attended her book launch party at BookPeople. Her new book, Pure Soapbox, is a series of 65 quotes (one shy of my lucky number/favorite number, 66) that are coupled with her "cleansing jolt of perspective, motivation and humor."

Quotes books are not new, but Kimberlie has taken the genre to a new level by kicking the reader in the pants with her interpretations and fresh insights on how people can tackle life and better strive for grasping their individual brass rings.

My 11-year-old daughter asked why were were going to the book signing, and I told her that when someone you know accomplishes something big, you celebrate their achievement. A packed house of Kimberlie's friends, family, clients and others packed the top floor of the book store and toasted her success of getting her book out into the world.

I read much of the book and find it full of nuggets of encouragement. My favorite quote also appears on the back cover, and is from an anonymous source:

"Having a dream that you don't pursue is like buying an ice cream cone and watching it melt all over your hand". - anonymous

In one of her shortest soapboxes she simply asks the reader "what shall it be? Chocolate or vanilla?...or a stack of napkins?". I know that people want the delicious treats in life, but far too often let their dreams melt away. Kimberlie is showing everyone, by example, how to embrace your life.

This is a good book to put on your nightstand and read one Soapbox each morning to help you seize the day. Carpe diem!

Here is my personal quote, maybe #66 in the next edition of her book. I would welcome her Soapboxian Quip expanding on my favorite line:

"All Opportunities Come From People" - Thom Singer

Have A Great Day.

thom

Total Leadership by Stewart Friedman

Two days ago I blogged about being too short on time, and perhaps a bit overwhelmed at all that I have on my calendar. Then by pure serendipity I met author Stewart Friedman who was in Austin to promote his new book, Total Leadership, and speak at a meeting sponsored by Leadership Austin and Bootstrap Austin. The event was hosted by BazaarVoice, one of Austin's hottest growth oriented companies and leader in the area of social commerce.

The message of Friedman's Total Leadership is about being a better leader and having a better life. However, this in not your usual leadership book, but instead is focused on going beyond life / work balance and being more effective with the limited 24 hours that we all get every day. Stew is on a mission to allow others to create change that benefits work, home, community and self.

As the Wharton School professor spoke to the sold out crowd of over 100 business professionals, it was as if he had read my blog post from Tuesday and was speaking directly to my dilemma.

Each of us is challenged in different ways to make it through our lives, but Friedman teaches that leadership is not just about businesses, it is about life. One must begin, be real, be whole, be innovative and then reflect and grow from their unique experiences.

His research shows that those who can gain control over their lives are more productive in all areas of their life. Many look at the work / life movement as being all about the employee, but in reality, when done right, it benefits the individual, the company and the greater community.

The most telling part of his talk was that we put much of the pressure to perform on ourselves. When we explore the situation, we discover that that what we think people expect from us is usually much more than they actually expect. We are the ones who push ourselves to superhero levels when others have mortal expectations of how we go through our day.

I am anxious to dive in and read Total Leadership, as the book has "ah ha" moments waiting to be discovered.

Have A Great Day.

thom
www.thomsinger.com