Though a small book, Soul Proprietor is packed full of lessons for entrepreneurs. The author, Jane Pollak, goes through a list of 101 lessons. Each lesson is one to two pages long, which makes this an easy read. The book is also divided into chapters, each covering a general subject.
Chapter 1, Image, covers exactly that. Your image and your company images are the basis of this chapter.
Systems is the next chapter. It covers a lot of lessons, but very important ones. Some topics are getting advice, organization, and goal setting. If you are just starting out with your business, make sure you thoroughly read this chapter.
Chapter 3 is entitled Not Every Day is a Winner. So very true for small business owners. A lot of good ideas on what to do when your day isn’t going the way it should. Jane discusses evaluating your work, making a commitment to yourself, and controlling your own destiny.
The next chapter covers Surprises. Jane touches on business plans, goals, having a sense of humor, and Murphy’s Law.
Chapter 5, Letting Go and Perseverance, is another must read chapter. You have to step out of your comfort zone to grow your business. The lessons in this chapter will help you.
Risk Taking and Overcoming Fear addresses just that. Follow your inspiration and trust your instinct are a few of the lessons in this chapter.
Customer Service is what can make or break a business. This short chapter emphasizes the customer. Some very good information over these 6 lessons.
Listening and Passion, I believe, should always be part of Customer Service. After all, how would you know what a customer wants or needs if you don’t listen?
Chapter 9 is simply Support. The lessons in this chapter tell off getting support in various ways. It can be coaching, finding people who can guide you, and asking for support.
Lessons from the Masters is the final chapter. Jane shares lessons from her past as well as others. The last lesson of the book covers her core values.
- Having time for the people I care about
- Feeling valued for what I do
- Keeping my life uncomplicated
In the back of the book are several pages of resources – groups, magazines, books, etc. which can further help you as an entrepreneur.
I though this book has a lot of good information. If you have a small business, buy the book, read it, and learn from it.
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