I had mentioned to Tess several weeks ago that I had read Birthing the Elephant and loved it. She was kind enough to ask me to write a book review to share with all of you. Here it is!

Birthing the Elephant by Karin Abarbanel and Bruce Freeman.

The title page of the book reads “The woman’s go-for-it! Guide to overcoming the big challenges of launching a business.” I assumed it was another “how to” book on setting up the business, marketing, social media, etc. Was I ever wrong.

Karin and Bruce, and all of the entrepreneurs who shared their stories, showed me a side of the business I had never thought about. What to do after 3 months when you don’t have a lot of clients, when your family and friends are starting to think this is a “fun” thing for you, when you begin to have doubts. They also stress a lot that to survive a start-up “you need to think and act like an entrepreneur.” This takes a whole new mind-set.

Throughout the book there are stories relating to the chapter topic, as well as Quick Tips at the end of each chapter which summarize what you’ve just read. One story that sticks in my mind tells about Ronnie Fliss who bakes biscuits and treats for dogs. She was approached by a potential customer who asked her to put sugar on the top of the treats. She thought about it and told him no – that would be against her philosophy. She lost the sale, but kept her integrity. She would not compromise her values and ethics – not even for the financial gain it would have brought her business.

This is not a step-by-step guide to setting up your own business. It tells us all how to deal with the other challenges we may face – using your brains instead of “borrowing” the bucks to start up; turning breakdowns into breakthroughs; finding your own business rhythm; and, avoiding the ten biggest pitfalls.

I have read this book twice now and keep it on the bookshelf near my desk. I know that I will probably encounter some of these same situations – but also know that there are others who have “been there” before me.

You can buy the book new from Amazon for $10.98. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/158...SIN=1580088872 It’s worth the investment. This is the balance to all the “how to” books.

Carol Johnson
CJ’s Virtual Business Solutions
www.cjvbs.com

I have heard about this book and I am so happy that you reviewed it Carol as I was thinking along the same lines as you! Thanks so much and I'm ordering it right now!

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Kasey P. Lian, Owner, KL Virtual Office Solutions
http://www.facebook.com/KLVirtualOfficeSolutions

I'll have to add this one to my "to read" list. Something bothers me, though, what kind of person would request sugar on be placed on top of a doggy bisquit lol

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Stephanie
New VA in the research phase :daisy:

I have had this book for several months now and I think it is a fantastic look at the other side of business startup and development. We always get the nuts and bolts but rarely the emotional side of starting a new business. So glad that you reviewed this book.
Diana

I really liked the book. Thanks for your comments.

As for the "sugar" man - it reminded me of one client I had who wanted me to write letters on my letterhead, over my signature, berating some companies who did offer him business! Guess I don't have to tell you what my answer was to him - I WAS polite when I said NO, NO, NO, a thousand times NO!!!

Carol
CJ's Virtual Business Solutions
www.cjvbs.com

I haven't read the book but "birthing an elephant" is just what we do as we market ... so much pain, sweat and tears, but our baby elephant is worth it and more.

Lynne

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The Wordpro Wizard
www.wordprowizard.com

Thanks for the book review - I will add it to my "Must Read" list.

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Virtual Express Inc.:daisy:
Ramonita Comas