Business Book Club: Be a Free Range Human
I've set myself a goal to blog about the books I read. I will extract wisdom from the best business and personal development books I've read and share it with you.
This time around I’m reading “Be a Free Range Human” by Marianne Cantwell
About the book
This book is an invitation to redefine success and live life on your own terms. At its core, the book champions the idea that one doesn't need to be tethered to the traditional 9-5 job to lead a fulfilling and successful life. In our modern era, where the lines between work, passion, and lifestyle often blur, Cantwell’s insights become ever more relevant.
Now, if Marianne Cantwell's name rings a bell, it's no surprise. She's not just an author but also a career change coach who has touched many lives with her fresh perspectives. Drawing from her own journey of breaking free from the corporate world and venturing into the vast landscape of entrepreneurial success, Marianne serves as a beacon for anyone to become more “free range” in their life.
Be a Free Range Human by Marianne Cantwell
Structured thoughtfully, the book addresses our deep-rooted beliefs about work, gradually dismantling the myths that keep us chained to the conventional. From there, Marianne guides readers through a process of self-discovery, helping them identify their unique strengths and passions. As the chapters unfold, practical advice merges with inspiring anecdotes, empowering readers to take those bold leaps, whether it's starting a side hustle, pivoting careers, or diving headfirst into entrepreneurship.
Here are some of my favourite lessons from the book
1. The ‘safe job’ myth: most people feel more secure in a nine-to-five job, but this isn't necessarily the case. As long as someone else gives you a job they can also take it away and my budgets are tight an employer could always choose to let you go in this sense being employed might be described as being risky as someone else is in control. In the current work environment, there are more opportunities than ever before to create your own path. You no longer need someone to provide work for you, you can be in charge of your own career direction.
2. Find Your Own ‘Thing’: before venturing out, pinpoint what you’re genuinely passionate about. Your business should reflect what you love and what aligns with your values. Knowing what you want is half the battle. What would it be like if you could choose your life to be any way you wanted it? What would you do every day? What would there be less of? What would they be more of? What type of career do you want?
3. Find your superpower: this one is close to my heart. You've probably heard me talking about strengths. You should definitely follow your strengths and let them be your guide. what are you passionate about? What are your strengths? Choose a direction which is unique to you we all have something to offer what problems can be sold? What problems have you sold for yourself that others might benefit from? Pay attention to the throwaway idea that you've probably dismissed.
4. Start Small: this is one of my favourite tips in the book. Most people think they need a massive business plan and lots of funding to get started but the best business ideas often start with a very small idea this expanded on later. You don't need to make a massive leap of faith you could test out your new direction today on a smaller scale. Marianne suggests having a play project, small version of what you want to do that tests the waters. Don't wait for a perfect moment or a fully-fledged business plan. Start small, learn from mistakes, and iterate. Your passion project can be your side hustle until it's strong enough to sustain you.
5. You don't need to be original: you may hear people talking about a USP or unique selling point. Perhaps you've heard salespeople ask questions like “Why should people buy from you?” If you've ever listened to my “99 Problems but a Boss Ain't One” podcast you'll know that I've often said that you don't need to be different, you don't need to be first, you don't need to be the cheapest and you don't even need to be the best. Some people just like the way that you do things. Your style will just resonate with certain people. Your experience is enough for some people. You don't need to be the expert, you just need to be one step ahead of where they are right now. In fact, most people prefer to work with people in a similar place to them.
6. Spot the saboteurs: Cantwell explores the fact that there are some people who won't get what you're looking to do. She explains that some people just don't want to escape the 9:00 to 5:00. Many people dream of it, but very few people actually do it, making excuses for why they can't or don't want to change. Don't let these people steal your shine. It's just their fears speaking. Focus on what is right for you.
7. Suit your style: whatever your personality type or style you can be a free-range human in a way that works for you. There is no special type of person that runs their own business. Cantwell introduces three free-range styles; the attractor, the connector and the trusted person. I really like these as they show how you can use your personality style and strengths to achieve the same results. She also explains how to sell without feeling like a pushy second-hand car salesman.
8. Getting noticed: you don't need a big following to get started. In fact, Cantwell describes how you can leverage either new or existing relationships to get going. I think this is great advice as you don't have to start from scratch. Connect and network with other people who share an audience and subject matter with you.
9. Overcome fear with action: It’s natural to feel fear, especially when leaving a stable job. However, taking small, consistent actions can help you overcome this fear and build momentum. I like the way that Cantwell spenda so much time in the book talking about what it takes to overcome fear. For most people, it's this that holds them back rather than technical expertise.
10. It’s Okay to Pivot: If something isn’t working, or you discover a new passion, it's okay to pivot. Flexibility can lead to unforeseen opportunities and success. You're not just choosing a career you're creating a life. It's OK to make changes if you're not going in the direction you want.
What did I think of the book?
This book not only contains lots of good advice but it has some very practical exercises at the end of each section to help you put these ideas into action. I like that this book spends a lot of time upfront helping the reader explore their ‘why’, visualise and create the life that they want and deal with any potential barriers or confidence issues. Impatient readers might be keen to get onto the how, but in my experience, it's the mindset and the mentality that create the biggest barriers. There are also additional online resources provided by the author to help you on your journey.
This book is a gem for budding entrepreneurs. If you've ever dreamt of launching your own venture or have a brilliant idea scribbled on a napkin, Marianne Cantwell’s insights can offer that nudge to turn your dreams into reality. But it's not just for the start-up enthusiasts either. Individuals feeling trapped in their jobs, those in a career rut or anyone yearning for more freedom and authenticity in their professional life will find inspiration in this book. Even if you're content in your 9-5 but are looking to infuse more passion into your side projects, there's a wealth of knowledge waiting for you.
If you do read the book I would suggest the following tips for getting the most out of it:
1. Reflect As You Read: Don’t just breeze through the pages. Take moments to pause, reflect, and jot down how the content resonates with your personal journey.
2. Engage with the Exercises: Cantwell various exercises and self-assessments. Engage with them wholeheartedly. They can be instrumental in guiding your free-range journey.
3. This isn't a one-time read. As you evolve in your career and life, revisiting certain chapters can offer fresh perspectives and renewed motivation.
In essence, "Be a Free Range Human" encourages you to break free from societal norms and craft a life and career that truly resonates with who you are. Dive in, embrace the journey, and remember to enjoy the process!Over to You
Have you flipped through "Be a Free Range Human"? How did it speak to you? Did it spark any personal revelations or reshape your perspectives?
Share your experiences, thoughts, and any questions you might have.
