Who knew mistakes are a secret to creating a successful future? More specifically, that learning from our mistakes is the not-so-hidden secret? That’s what compelled CEO, speaker, and leadership thought leader, Skip Prichard to write The Book of Mistakes, 9 Secrets to Creating a Successful Future.
I had the good fortune to be a part of Skip’s launch team, which included a free copy of this business fable that is sure to become a timeless classic and inspire so many to a life of self-motivation. If you’re struggling or dissatisfied with your career, or you’re simply feeling stuck, this is a must read.
As someone who has spent his entire life seeking role models and drawing inspiration from them, this book easily and quickly resonated. The main character, David, through a life-altering event, meets and learns from the mistakes of 9 unique individuals. Meanwhile, a parallel back story weaves three universal laws into the overall story, establishing a complete and inspiring recipe for personal growth and success.
Mistakes Are Part of Refining Life
Even though we don’t like to admit it, we all make mistakes. Some are more grave than others. Some turn out to be blessings and new opportunities. Oftentimes, the outcomes of our mistakes are directly related to how we respond to them.
And, one thing I have learned for certain over the years, is that our only true failure is to not learn from failure.
The 9 Mistakes You Don’t Realize You’re Making
Hidden within a simplified narrative, The Book of Mistakes weaves a lesson about mistakes gleamed from the life of the main character, David. Like most of us, he is struggling with life. His life is not necessarily bad. On the contrary, it’s good by many measures. However, it is one that is just lacking in momentum. It’s one that is not living up to his expectations.
If you are familiar with books like, Sandbox Wisdom and The Janitor, you’ll quickly find yourself in a familiar style of prose. It’s simplified, but not too elementary. So it can be read casually, but not insultingly so. This creates mind room to better comprehend the lessons that Prichard teachers through a series of well-placed characters.
You’ll also find yourself introspective and deeper in thought.
With every “character” that David meets, he gains a powerful and unexpected revelation. the impact of which is a provocation to alter his mindset. Readers will likely experience the same awareness, as the hidden trappings of life gain focus.
Each mistake is taught through the eyes of a new representative, and you will connect with each one to varying degrees. That might mean you find yourself greatly troubled to learn you’re living someone else’s dream (Mistake #1) as the Playwright explains. Likewise, the entrepreneur may show you that you’re prone to letting temporary setbacks turn into permanent failures (Mistake #6).
Today, I relate most to the Bookseller (who shows the perils of staying in our comfort zones). Though I can’t say for sure, when I read the book a year from now, it may be the teaching of a different character’s mistake that most resonates.
Rising Above Mediocrity
I consciously chose to do fewer reviews and book launches this year. This is mainly because I was making the ninth mistake (among others). However, when I learned of this opportunity, I jumped at the chance. I knew the book was right in line with what I needed to make 2018 be the year I most desire.
I’m glad this is one I made the time to review.
In fact, there are very few books that I ever read more than once. This, again, is the exception. Yes, mistakes are a part of life. And, yes, not learning from them is a mistake all its own.
The Book of Mistakes has the potential to impact your life, career, and so much more.
If you are ready to begin this exciting journey, get Skip Prichard’s The Book of Mistakes.
Buy the Book of MistakesDon’t make mistake number 10 be not reading it.
About Skip Prichard
Skip Prichard is an accomplished CEO and a growth-oriented business leader. He’s well-known for a proven track record of successfully repositioning companies while dramatically improving their results and cultures. He’s a frequent keynote speaker on topics ranging from leadership and personal development to growth strategies, culture, turnarounds and more. In addition, he’s spent decades studying leadership psychology and interviewing over 1,000 of the most successful people in the world. Harvard Business Review recently labeled Mr. Prichard as a rare social CEO and a “relentless giver.” Inc. Magazine lists him as a “Top 100 Leadership Speaker,” and his Leadership Insights blog has won numerous awards. His views have been featured in print and broadcast media, including the BBC, The New York Times, CNN, NPR, The Daily Beast, Harvard Business Review, Information Today, The Bookseller, Publishers Weekly, Columbus CEO Magazine, Columbus Dispatch, The Tennessean.