For readers stuck in neutral gear, this book, written by seasoned experts, creates the impetus to move forward.” Library Journal
“This is a must-read to increase the level of innovation in your organization. You’ll leave this book being able to take immediate action to learn how to innovate in a way that is right for you.” Wayne L. Delker, Senior Vice President Chief Innovation Officer, Clorox
“Schlesinger, Kiefer, and Brown’s Just Start is a distilled, step-by-step, proven method for how to create something new in uncertain environments.” Tom Watson, Dean, Omnicom University, and Cofounder and Vice Chairman Emeritus, Omnicom Group Inc.
“This book is one huge step in the right direction for anyone compelled to forge a dynamic future in uncertain times.” Bill Hybels, Senior Pastor, Willow Creek Community Church, and President of Board, Willow Creek Association
“ Just Start is a uniquely practical book that helps prepare the next generation of entrepreneurial leaders and will equip them with the key frameworks for success.” Marina Kim, Executive Director, Ashoka U
“In Just Start , the authors take what the research tells us about those who have succeeded the most in volatile environmentsserial entrepreneursand applies their lessons to the rest of us. They provide a practical, step-by-step method to navigate through complex and uncertain environments, bounce back from setbacks, and overcome obstacles. A must-read for anyone struggling with uncertainty.” Steve Mariotti, Founder, Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship
Schlesinger (president, Babson Coll.) and organizational learning consultant Charles F. Kiefer (president, Innovation Associates), with journalist Paul B. Brown (coauthor, Your Attention Please: How To Appeal to Today's Distracted, Disinterested, Disengaged, Disenchanted, and Busy Consumer), aim to show readers a new way to plan for business or personal success in an unpredictable world. Bringing together academic research with proven practices, the authors teach a process they call "creAction," which emphasizes acting and creating rather than overthinking and analyzing. The gist is that one begins with a strong desire to achieve a particular thing, then takes a small step toward that goal as soon as possible. This action is followed by an evaluation of the results, and then another small step in pursuit of the goal. While the authors primarily encourage readers to start doing something, they also provide criteria for understanding current situations and assessing acceptable losses. A particularly useful chapter covers how to get others to commit to a cause or business plan and provides exercises to help do just that. VERDICT For readers stuck in neutral gear, this book, written by seasoned experts, creates the impetus to move forward.