Review

Rating: 8

Here’s what Daryl Cook had to say. www.darylcook.com

Having recently started by own freelance business, I’ve been scouring the library and the second-hand bookshops for interesting things to read, particularly on this topic. I recently found ‘Flying Solo: How to Go It Alone in Business’. It was almost by accident, and I’m glad that I did find it.

Flying Solo is not your run of the mill how to start a small business book. Unlike a lot of other books on this topic that deal with the mechanics of how to own and operate a small business, and focus on the more practical aspects such as the financials and legal structure, this book looks at the attitudes and aptitudes you’ll need to run your own venture. I also found the writing style and language very casual for a business publication of this type, but that adds to its appeal and its accessibility.

One of my favourite parts of the book is a chapter that sets out to deal with common misconceptions and prejudices against soloism. It address a list of the most common objections. Here’s a couple of examples to give you an idea:

1.You’ll only be productive if you work long hours; and
2. Most small businesses end quickly in financial ruin.

The authors provide positive and affirming counter arguments to each of these misconceptions and bust some of the myths surrounding going solo.

Other sections of the book that I really found useful were the chapters on marketing or spreading the word, and staying on track, or looking after yourself and staying “in love with your business”.

I must confess that I did not find the chapter on the Power of Vision all that useful. I tried to complete the exercises and follow the suggested method, but ended up being a little confused and off-track. Perhaps it’s because I already have a well-formed mental projection for my future and was trying to retro-fit this into the framework provided? But don’t let that deter you, I recommend that you give it a try for yourself.

To get the most out of the book, the authors recommend that you “allow yourself time and give yourself permission to think through any questions the book raises within you.” I did this. This review is–of sorts–the result of that exercise. In addition, there are a couple of reflections that I would like to share with you.

Firstly, setting up as a solopreneur, soloist (whatever you want to call it) is less about the practicalities than it is about your behaviour and your attitude. This can’t be understated.

Secondly, I was surprised by the number of references to authenticity, and genuineness, which according to test results are my signature strengths. This reinforced for me that by going solo and pursuing the work that I love and trying to make a difference in the world, I AM living my life in a genuine and authentic way. That’s pretty empowering.

Finally, after reading the book and reflecting on it, I feel inspired and motivated – a far different experience from reading other books of this genre.