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In their book Built To Last, authors James Collins and Jerry Porras discuss successful habits of visionary companies, but not just any companies with a vision, but rather those companies which have indeed achieved success. The owners of several small businesses in Miami have told me, over the years, that they hold this book very dear because it is a revelation of habits that we can incorporate into our lives for positive change.

Change is never easy! Also, we think “well, that guy has money and/or social connections, so surely he will become more successful than me.” This is exactly the attitude we should not have. Rather, we need to listen to the testimony of those who have gone before us, especially those who have assumed great risks in their decisions - making decisions that even close friends and family did not support. However, in the end, these businessmen and businesswomen went on to experience tremendous success in their respective fields.

Here is a list of the chapters of the book, with a short comment of mine next to it:

Chapter One: The Best of the Best - it is always good to know who qualifies for such a title.

Chapter Two: Clock Building, Not Time Telling - we should enjoy our time in our business adventure.

Chapter Three: More Than Profits - life is about giving, and this really impacts our community.

Chapter Four: Preserve the Core - know your core, and watch it, because this is your “magic”.

Chapter Five: Big Audacious Goals - you should be able to write out your goals on paper.

Chapter Six: Cult-Like Cultures - personality is the heart of success - we are all people.

Chapter Seven: Keep What Works - let go of what doesn’t work, and keep what does (work).

Chapter Eight: Home-Grown Management - good management skills start at home.

Chapter Nine: Good Enough Never Is - high-quality is always important; mediocrity isn’t.

Chapter Ten: The End of the Beginning - every day is a new beginning - embrace it!

Even though I am just a Technical writer for software companies and not a business mogel, the principles in this book are simply AWESOME, and I believe everyone can similarly benefit from reading this book. I recommend you at least borrow this book from your local library, and see what the authors are trying to explain. Change comes from watching those who have achieved success and trying to incorporate some of those qualities and perspectives in your everyday routine. In this way, you can transform an otherwise stagnant life into one of upward mobility and change.

Tags: Books //