Screw It, Let's Do It

I'm not a big reader, outside of business magazines, for the most part. So, when I read a book, it better be good! That was definitely the case with the book I just finished reading: Screw It, Let's Do It by Richard Branson. Branson is the infamous entrepreneur and founder of the Virgin brand (Virgin Music, Virgin Airlines, Virgin Galactic). He also happens to be my "business idol" - he's the answer I always give when the question is asked: If you could meet anyone in the world, who would it be?

"Screw it, let's do it" is Branson's philosophy, in work and life. He certainly has a bit of swagger to him, but in the many years I've followed him, I have never seen it as being cocky...just confident. And, having the "screw it, let's do it" mentality is how he's been able to create the success he has created (and the philanthropic impact he's made).

As I read through the book and learned more about the different challenges and opportunities (both strategic and "lucky"), it was fun to draw parallels to circumstances I've gone through (or going through) in business - although not quite to the same levels as the Virgin empire...yet!

I have always thought, "Yah, it would be a lot easier to make a decision like that if I had the money of Richard Branson." But, in truth, the money wasn't always there. It came over many years, and many crazy sacrifices and risks and failures. Branson's confidence in himself and his belief in his people is amazing. And, Screw It, Let's Do It really walks you through those core beliefs that have taken little Ricky Branson and turned him into Sir Richard Branson, the multimillionaire.

Highly recommended: https://www.amazon.com/Screw-It-Lets-Do-Lessons/dp/0753510995