The title of this book might sound a little too good to be true, and you could be forgiven for being sceptical. But Chris Guillebeau’s life (See Travels section) is proof that it is possible. He belongs to the microbusiness revolution’s new breed of entrepreneurs who never thought of themselves as businesspeople, yet have found ways of earning a living while creating a life of independence and purpose. These people say, “no thanks” to traditional work, choosing instead to chart their own path. While small businesses are not new, it is now easier than ever to test, launch and scale your project.
Most business start-up books have complicated jargon and push you to draft an elaborate 50-page Business Plan. Guillebeau does away with getting an MBA and simplifies the process of starting a successful business. His blueprint focuses on freedom (what we are looking for) and value (how we achieve it). He does not teach you to get rich quickly but to build something other people will value enough to pay for. While the author shares stories from his own colourful life, what makes this book even more credible are the insights he has distilled from over 100 people he interviewed. He presents diverse and fascinating case studies like an accidental worldwide wedding photographer based in Chile and a one-stop IT platform for music teachers.
Each chapter has bite-size tasks to get you started, from a decision-making matrix on what idea to pursue to a one-page business plan (with a PDF you can even download and print). The book is practical, inspiring and easy to follow. I have no doubt Guillebeau will contribute in increasing the number of unexpected entrepreneurs – myself included.
