The book is a collection of experiences and opinions.
There is something we’ll experience right off the bat … that Hugh makes no effort to sugarcoat his opinions. He is unabashed, both with the language and his opinions.
Matter of fact, he uses his raw language as one of his USP. I have to say, I was sold !
Almost 30% of the book has folded corners. This is to help me remind of all the important points.
The book won’t change your life but will talk about it in a language, you’ve not been talked to before. A good read.
Here are some of the ideas I loved.
# Great Ideas alter the power balance in relationships
# That is why that’s why Great Ideas are resisted.
With business colleagues – They’re used to dealing with you in a certain way. They’re used to having a certain level of control over the relationship.
And they want whatever makes them more prosperous. Sure, they might prefer it if you prosper as well, but that is not their top priority.
If your idea is so good that it changes your dynamic enough to where you need them less or, God forbid, the market needs them less, then they’re going to resist your idea every chance they can.
# More talented people need fewer props
Best software engineers can work without a Macbook. The poor ones need a pillar to hide behind. ( like a Mac )
# The definition of being good at it is – being able to make it look easy.
But it is never easy. Ever.
That’s what the stupidly wrong people conveniently forget.
# Do it for yourself.
Mind says – this is totally stupid. This is utterly moronic. This is a complete waste of time.
I am going to do it anway.
And you go do it anyway.
# Sex and Cash Theory
A creative person basically has two kind of jobs:
One is the sexy, creative kind.
The second kind that pays the bills.
Sometimes the task at hand covers both bases, but not often. This tense duality will always play center stage.
# Everybody has their own private Mount Everest they were put on earth to climb
Your mountain.
Your private Mount Everest.
Yes, that one. Exactly.
Let’s say you never live it. Do you have a problem with that ?
Can you just say to yourself, “Never mind, I never really wanted it anyway,” ?
My advice? You don’t need my advice. You really don’t.
The biggest advice I could give anyone would be this “Admit that your own private Mountain Everest exists. And that is half the battle.“
And …. the final idea
.
# Nobody cares. Do it for yourself
(image by Hugh Macleod)