August 17, 2015
In a succinct, engaging business guide for entrepreneurial individuals, from millennials to baby boomers, veteran entrepreneur Dawkins (Everyday Entrepreneur) writes a narrative of two groups of characters willing to tackle their career aspirations and obstacles in a six-day intensive workshop. Despite concerns that differences of age and experience will cause friction between the younger and older participants, they eventually bolster long-term cooperation and augment opportunities. Under the mentorship and coaching of Sam Macleod, a fictional seasoned entrepreneur and public speaker, the participants embark on a path of self-discovery in order to build their prospective small businesses. The lessons learned through in-class discussions and from thriving small-business owners include becoming one's own brand, understanding key concepts of entrepreneurship, assessing risks and rewards, grasping the affects of globalization and technology, rapid change and competition, and overcoming today's economic barriers. Dawkins emphasizes personal traits such as self-determination, resilience, and adaptability as the required mindset of entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurship, the book argues, can be taught. Furthermore, treating every problem as an opportunity can alleviate qualms and trials for anyone, regardless of age, who's contemplating starting a new business.