Every Christmas season, people seem to realize the importance of giving. Speaking honestly, I think that we sometimes fall victim to wondering when those around us are going to start giving, in hopes that maybe we’ll receive. (I can admit guilt here) But beyond the Christmas season comes a growing movement. Some may call it a trend, but I would prefer to call it more of a revolution. People are willing to go the extra mile or pay an extra penny to do something that makes a difference, to ensure that no one was harmed in the production process. People are doing something that matters. If you’re reading this, chances are you know about my heart of entrepreneurship, creativity, and “Dream Big” ideas. But, just like many other passion-driven creatives out there, the toughest question is “where do I start?”


Blake Mycoskie, founder of TOMS shoes, recently wrote “Start Something that Matters” and I was fortunate enough to get a first glimpse at the book thanks to a special delivery from TOMS. As I started to read, I realized how tough it would be to put this book down, as it answered so many questions that I had about TOMS Shoes, one of the fastest growing shoe companies in the world. I started the book with concerns and bitterness towards Mycoskie, asking “why would he choose to be a for-profit, when he could be a NPO and help more children?”, or the question that we ask for everyone who started something, “did you do it for the people or did you do it to make a name for yourself/build identity?” As I began taking notes and soaking up the history of TOMS, I fell more and more in love with this company. Blake challenges readers to consider their passions, start small, dream big, and invest in people. Along with words of wisdom from Blake to every entrepreneur comes the perspective of many other successful dreamers, including Scott Harrison, the brains behind charity:water, whom guarantees his customers that 100% of their purchase is directly contributing to clean water for those who need it most. Tony Hsieh, founder of one of my favorite organizational cultures, Zappos, also speaks wisdom through this book.


I wish I could summarize this book in a few paragraphs, but in looking through my pages of notes and highlights, I realize how little justice I could serve for the wisdom and guidance to anyone interested in taking action for a better good. I encourage anyone with a passion for people, service, and changing the world to grab this book. Purchasing the book actually follows the “One for One” concept that TOMS stands by. For every book purchased, a new children’s book will be provided to a child in need through FirstBook.org I will be posting some of my notes later this week, and have a special surprise for those who read my updates.