Delivering Happiness – The Official Book Review

“I wrote this book without the use of a ghostwriter…and probably make my high school English teacher cringe,” is one of the first sentences in the book that launches today, Delivering Happiness, A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose by Tony Hsieh, CEO, Zappos. I knew right away I was going to enjoy this book just by that sentence. It told me I was going to get a real, possibly raw, look inside Tony’s world. Good for you, Tony!

So what is the secret to the success at Zappos, as maybe you would believe to be revealed in such a book. Well, don’t expect a direct answer. This 244 page book share all kinds of insights, but I think the truth you’re looking for needs to be found within. For Tony, it began from within, and with a worm farm.

“My parents paid $33.45 for a box of mud that was guaranteed to contain at least 100 earthworms,” said Hsieh. He was on his way to what he fully expected to be the number one worm seller in the world! Such ambitions! At the early age of nine, he did what he thought was best to grow his worm farm; fed them well, gave them a good place to live and patiently waited for them to multiply so he could sell his worms. “Unfortunately, I didn’t find any baby worms. I didn’t find any adult earthworms either.” Oh yeah – first business lessons were racking up right away. He goes on to talk about his school, college choice and future businesses he launches and nurtures.

Then we get to Zappos.

I didn’t know Hsieh originally invested in the company but wasn’t the founder. I had never heard of a culture book, although I believe in a strong culture. I didn’t fully realize the impact of core values until I read them through his eyes. This book was profound for me on a couple levels.

First, I was inspired so much by the idea of the culture book, we have started one at Silver Square. In fact, it’s such a wonderful idea, any business owner interested in capturing the human side of their business should begin one right away. You can keep it brief or minimal or simple; but get one started. Figure out what your culture and this project means to you and allow it to evolve and document your work life.

Next, we took the time to make our mission and values final. We had our mission in s working state for over a year, but didn’t fully commit to language. Our core values were phrases we all lived by, just didn’t put formally on paper. We made the time and commitment to integrating these in to our work life. It’s important for us on the inside and for those who want to work with us or be a client on the outside.

The only downside of this book is the end chapter. I think I was a little numb to this part because I hear it and live is so much already. I know what I need to be happy; I know it comes from me. I don’t need others or things to make me happy. I get that. Some people are still in search of this, though, or actually, we all can get off route from time-to-time. So I know why it’s in there. I guess everything can be a good refresher, right?

Bottom line, if you are looking for a business book that helps you work on the human side of your business, this one is a no brainer. It’s relevant, it’s enjoyable to read (not like some boring business books I’ve read) and it’s actionable. You can read and find yourself in the pages, which I think Tony would like. Read the book and make your own Zappos story come to life. It can only add to your work life joy and profits, as proven by one company’s very big success story.

 (This book was reviewed as part of a promotion for the book, which was a great marketing idea on their part. Check out their details)