Rise Above by Nicola Ward is an insightful exploration of the challenges faced in entrepreneurship, skillfully intertwining personal experiences with broader business wisdom. Ward offers a compelling narrative that draws from her own journey and interactions with various individuals, shaping a guide that resonates with both seasoned entrepreneurs and novices. The book emphasizes the indispensable role of strategic planning in business, akin to its necessity in life. Ward revisits the often-quoted maxim ‘Failing to plan is planning to fail,’ reinforcing its truth with practical examples. She extends this principle to the concept of positioning, cleverly arguing that being in the right place can invite repeated opportunities. The author delves into familiar tools such as business plans and SWOT analysis, shedding light on their profound impact beyond their surface-level simplicity.

Ward’s fusion of theoretical frameworks with real-world scenarios adds a layer of authenticity to her narrative. Her openness about past mistakes lends the book a relatable quality, illustrating that errors are inevitable and invaluable learning opportunities. Ward emerges as a mentor figure, balancing firm guidance with empathetic understanding. Her powerful and engaging delivery equips the reader to face diverse challenges. Ward navigates through topics like sales, marketing, customer behavior, and decision-making with clarity and focus, avoiding tangents yet remaining thorough. Her approach is detailed but accessible, avoiding jargon without underestimating the reader’s intellect. The personal anecdotes included are tastefully shared, enhancing the narrative without oversharing.

Describing Rise Above as an enriching experience parallels the satisfaction of the captivation of a final, riveting lecture or the delight of a first bite after hours of cooking. This book is not just a collection of advice and anecdotes; it’s a journey through the art of entrepreneurship, offering a nuanced understanding that extends beyond business into the realms of personal growth and resilience.

Pages: 170 | ISBN : 0646891596