It's Not How: What You Do Next Will Change Your Life

Author: Paul Arden
Overview

It's Not How by Paul Arden is a compact yet powerful book that offers a fresh perspective on how to approach life, creativity, and work. Arden, former executive creative director at Saatchi & Saatchi, shares unconventional wisdom and thought-provoking ideas on how to achieve success and fulfillment, challenging conventional thinking and inspiring readers to think outside the box.

Key Takeaways

1. Challenging the Norm:

   • Arden argues against traditional methods of achieving success and emphasizes the importance of intuition and personal beliefs.
   • “It’s not how good you are, it’s how good you want to be.”
   • He suggests that sometimes the best way to succeed is to break the rules and pursue what feels right rather than adhering to established norms.

2. The Power of Belief:

   • Belief is a central theme throughout the book. Arden teaches that believing in yourself and your abilities is crucial to achieving greatness.
   • “You are your most valuable asset.”
   • He encourages readers to have confidence in their ideas and to be unafraid to act on them.

3. Embrace Failure:

   • Failure is not something to be feared but something to be embraced as a learning opportunity.
   • “Fail, fail again, fail better.”
   • Arden argues that mistakes are often the seeds of future success and innovation.

4. Creativity:

   • Creativity is not just for artists but a vital skill in all aspects of life. Arden suggests that creativity comes from having the courage to be different and not following the herd.
   • “Doing something different makes you stand out.”
   • He encourages readers to embrace their individuality and use it to set themselves apart.

5. Changing Perspectives:

   • The book teaches readers to view challenges and opportunities from a different perspective, often by looking at them sideways rather than head-on.
   • “If you don’t risk anything, you risk even more.”
   • Arden advises to question everything, including one’s own beliefs, and not to be afraid to take risks.

6. Taking Action:

   • Action is crucial for progress. Arden emphasizes that ideas are useless unless acted upon.
   • “The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance.”
   • He encourages a proactive approach to life rather than being passive and waiting for opportunities.

7. Think Big, Act Bigger:

   • Arden’s final message is to think big, dream big, and take bold actions. He believes that it is our thinking that often limits our potential.
   • “If you don’t take risks, you’ll always work for someone who does.”
   • By thinking beyond what seems possible, you open yourself up to greater opportunities and achievements.

Who Should Read It

This book is ideal for:

• Creative professionals looking to enhance their creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Entrepreneurs and business leaders seeking unconventional strategies for success.
• Students and young professionals needing motivation and guidance on achieving their goals.
• Anyone interested in personal growth and challenging conventional wisdom.

Why You Should Read It

• Quick and Impactful Read: Arden’s wisdom is delivered in short, digestible chapters, making it easy to absorb and apply his teachings quickly.
• Practical and Accessible: The lessons are universally applicable and can be integrated into everyday life and work.
• Revolutionary Mindset: Arden’s ideas are revolutionary and can shift your mindset from fear to courage, from doubt to confidence.
• Inspiration from a Creative Legend: With Arden’s background at Saatchi & Saatchi, his insights are backed by a lifetime of creative success, providing real-world examples of his philosophies in action.

Famous Quotes

1. “If what you are doing is not making you nervous, you’re not doing your job.”
2. “Do not seek praise. Seek criticism.”
3. “If you don’t understand something, it’s probably a good idea to find out why not.”

Conclusion

It's Not How by Paul Arden is a short, but immensely impactful book that challenges conventional thinking and offers a new perspective on creativity, risk-taking, and personal fulfillment. Arden’s insights are as relevant today as they were when the book was first published. By embracing his philosophy, readers can unlock their full potential, take meaningful risks, and live a life unencumbered by fear and self-doubt.