Raise Your Game [Paperback] Hazelton, Suzanne Paperback – 1 January 2014

I picked this book up at a friend's house and (with a brief pause to eat) read it until I'd finished, so I went and bought my own copy. Although I'd seen some of the ideas before, I found this a really easy, punchy read with useful stuff in every chapter. I loved the focus on positive ideas: this is not a book about analysing problems but instead about building new habits that bring real benefits. Although it is aimed at small business owners I think the advice in it is useful to anyone with an interest in how to make their life more satisfying, meaningful and happier. One of the best self help books I've read in years, and I've read a few! The advice in it has already made an impact on my life, and I know every time I re-read it I take more away.

I really enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to all those who wish to pursue excellence in their work and family life. The length of each chapter is not too long and it is written in simple "get to the point" English. Reading this book had a similar first impression on myself to what I had many years ago when I first read(and still at times read) "What to Say When You Talk To Yourself" by Dr Shad Helmstetter and "Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway" by Dr Susan Jeffers.The author has made several references to the phrase "transformational results" in the book and that phrase now seems to have found a place in my sub-conscious mind. I also liked how the use of one line phrases have appeared in the book and the location of inserting these phrases appears to be just right. The book has given me ideas for my world of work and also for the development of two sons and for my wife in her career. I look forward to the next book by the author.

Raise your Game is a gem. It contains valuable and PRACTICAL thinking, approaches and suggestions for making positive changes in your business. The ideas are logically sequenced and Suzanne uses plain language throughout. You would have to attend several excellent workshops to come away with so many tips and how-to's. I have been running my own business for 17 years and had pulled through several set-backs since the recession - so why would I want to raise my game? Well you get used to hard work and it's wonderful to be reminded that things can be easier and more effective! Since reading this book I have outsourced a function of the business (oh joy!), had several new ideas and have resurrected a long-abandoned but very worthwhile goal. Reading it was stimulating but more important, galvanized me into action.

Raise your game offers a strategic and easy to follow guide for implementing change and achieving transformational results. An empowering read and one which is written in a catchy and accessible manner, with short sections, relevant theory, and useful directions for action. Draws from business, practical experience, and psychology, and comes highly recommended. I found it very useful as both a practitioner and small business owner, as well as on a personal level.

This is a great guide for anyone that wants to be or continue to be successful in their chosen field. It literally guides you through a process and sets out steps for you to follow that will deliver transformational change. The title "raise your game" is particularly apt for people in sales and I would thoroughly recommend that any sales managers out there should go and buy a copy for every member of your team!!