Ravenweb Blog

The Maxims of Manhood isn't as outrageously funny (or perhaps as embellished) as something like I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell , but it's well-crafted, entertaining, and true to life. As the sub-title indicates, the book includes "100 rules every real man must live by", and below are some partial examples of what you'll find among the maxims: Your dog must be larger than a toaster. Tip well. Never use the word "blossom." Know how to chug a beer (and know that you shouldn't). Always hold the door.Never use emoticons. The Maxims of Manhood is definitely light reading and targeted at men, but it's funny and I recommend it.

I am an optimist. I believe that people are basically decent, and I believe in the kindness of strangers. I feel that despite the immense challenges of climate change, we will all come together and figure out a way forward. I believe that in the U.S. we will reduce the deficit and eventually make health-care work for everyone. I sense that my daughter and others in her generation will find new ways to solve old problems. I know that there really are second chances and people can succeed when they are determined and work hard. I believe in spring dawning and the promise of a new day. I suspect that it's not a coincidence that people with a positive outlook have more good luck than their more negative counterparts. I embrace sport, and truly believe that there's always next year, and next season. I believe that you play to the end , and keep your head held high, no matter the score. I resist misery loving company, and never cheer against a team that hasn'...

Seth Godin contends that the modern workplace has evolved such that many old jobs and functions have become automated, ossified, or completely eliminated. So, to succeed nowadays, you must make yourself indispensable or an artist at what you do. To do this, Godin says that you need to become "the artist you already are. To make a difference. To stand for something. To get the respect and security you deserve." I thought Linchpin was a personal book for Godin and appreciate that he wrote it. Intellectually, I agreed with him on most points, although, in full disclosure, I found myself more motivated and inspired after reading Rework .

Here Comes Everybody provides a penetrating analysis of how the Internet and social media have fundamentally and irrevocably changed the rules and costs of forming groups. By effectively eliminating the costs associated with organizing, groups formed from the bottom-up are now not only possible but increasing in number and influence. Shirky looks at organizations thriving under this new model, including Wikipedia, Flickr, and Twitter. Conversely, he also surveys entities becoming obsolete, such as the (traditional) newspaper publishing industry. I definitely recommend Here Comes Everybody , and not just for those interested in business or marketing books.

I'm very excited to be a part of the March of Dimes' March for Babies event this year. Please help me reach my goal by making a donation to my walk. It's easy and secure - just access the linke below to make a donation. http://www.marchforbabies.org/ravenweb