Love your work, work for what you love, and change the world—all at the same time.
What matters most to you? Should you focus on earning a living, pursuing your passions, or devoting yourself to the causes that inspire you? The surprising truth is that you don’t have to choose—and that you’ll find more success if you don’t.
That’s the breakthrough message of the TOMS One for One movement. You don’t have to be rich to give back, and you don’t have to retire to spend every day doing what you love. You can find profit, passion, and meaning all at once—right now.
In Start Something That Matters, Blake Mycoskie tells the story of TOMS, one of the fastest-growing shoe companies in the world, and combines it with lessons learned from other innovative organizations such as Method Products, charity: water, FEED Projects, and TerraCycle. Blake presents the six simple keys for creating or transforming your own life and business, from discovering your core story to being resourceful without resources; from overcoming fear and doubt to incorporating giving into every aspect of your life. No matter what kind of change you’re considering, Start Something That Matters gives you the stories, ideas, and practical tips that can help you get started.
Why this book is for you:
You’re ready to start something that matters.
©2011 Blake Mycoskie (P)2011 Random House
"My eyes welled up several times!"
Blake actually reads his own book, and than is really very cool. He is so down to earth, you can't help but love him. His message is really worth listening to, and I think he accomplishes his objective. He tells you what it is at the end of his story. He's got me thinking in new directions, I never even thought about before. The story itself, is actually amazing, and all along it he gives you advice. I really think you should give it a try. Thanks Blake!
"AWESOME"
I have recommended this books to many friends, already I just love the story but also the fact that it gives you resoiurces to use to follow your own passion to be able to "Start something that Matters"
His Story on how he got started and then how his ideas began to grow.
Blake himself
I've listened to it twice now and have gone out a baught a copy to tab and highlight for future references.
I would encourage everyone with a passion about anything to go and read this one.
"Great story of purpose and inspiration!"
Inspiring...Motivating...Challenging
The narration is the one thing I had trouble with...his tone and reading style I did find annoying, I'm sad to say. I still listened to this audio twice because I was so encouraged by the stories and content but had to push myself passed the narration style. I appreciate that the author wanted to perform the reading but his choppiness and very predictable inflections at the end of every sentence made the audio part...sorry I have to say it...annoying.
I completely love the finding a deeper purpose stories of not only TOMS but many other stories included. It made me very envious of all the people that found their own purpose and greater purpose because it helped others. Very likely I will listen to this audio a 3rd time and hope inspiration hits me square in the face.
"I almost didn't buy this. I'm happy I did."
I almost didn't buy this audio-book. The little sample I heard didn't wow me, but the idea behind the book did. I'm so happy I bought it. I loved the story behind his company and the inspiring stores about the other companies he mentions. It will make you think about your business and your life. I have to see if he sells 10.5 EEE shoes.
"Motivating"
I got through it pretty quick because it kept my interest. I put it on 2x speed and that was a perfect tempo.
He made it personal and that made all the difference. He came across as real and unpretentious. He makes the listener feel that they can do it too, his ego is in check.
You must be okay with failing a bunch of times and keep going.
I don't know how political he really is, but, I like how he didn't make his book political. All realms of politics seem to be congested with people that are holier than thou. I have a feeling he's more interested in looking for good in people and he finds it much more often than most.
"Loved it"
Yes
The fact that encourages you to not give up and to help others
No.
Do something that matters and give back.
"This book matters"
I enjoyed the story and was inspired to start a master mind group and start something that matters.
"Great guy, good story... mediocre business book"
May be I was looking for the wrong thing, but I was waiting for some insights and lessons fro the guy who started this sensational business, didn't find any though!
"One of the BEST!!!!"
Just get it!!! This is a wonderful book! Inspiring, Educative, Funny at certain points! I am Tom's fan too. Thank you Blake!!!
"Blake provides a practical and inspiring guide..."
Yes, this book is a true testimony to be shared with anyone, particular with friends on their journey to inspire and make a difference in the lives of others.
When Blake reiterates that every venture he undertakes should be a difference in the lives of others and not just the financial gain that he receives. Additionally, using the customer to help make a difference, their involvement is not merely a consumer only but also an advocate of the business. I was able to identify with his leadership style when he describes how to create an organisation that is built on trust and mistakes by employees should be forgiven. I agree there should be zero tolerance for dishonest and untrustworthy employees. Blake's academic referencing adds to the quality of the book.
This is my first time reading Blake's material.
To start off with a small idea that matters and grow it into something big. Also avoiding unnecessary overheads and use the resources that are readily available to grow the business. Having left my job a few weeks ago I needed to hear Blake's professional and personal experiences, suggestions and inspiring message.
This book has awaken the burning desire within me to succeed as an upcoming entrepeneur. This is inspiring material I will forever reference.