Your One Word

November 1, 2016

Have you ever been put on the spot by someone asking you to "describe yourself in one word," only to blurt something out embarrassing under the pressure? If you knew your one word, or personal motto, could it empower you to succeed personally and professionally? This is the premise of entrepreneurial coach Carmichael's book. Carmichael (whose word is "believe") guides readers through the steps of developing a brand starting with identifying their one word, then building on that model through personal and business practices. Going beyond the word, he emphasizes the importance of living the brand by incorporating it in the individual or company's culture and operations. This volume, while part memoir, profiles several successful companies and executives, including the Honest Company's Christopher Gavigan. The emphasis on maintaining one's focus makes it a possible companion to Gary Keller and Jay Papasan's The ONE Thing. Carmichael's modern and inspiring advice provides several introspective exercises and stories to encourage personal and professional growth. VERDICT Millennials and leaders looking for a new way to differentiate themselves will find Carmichael's guidance easy to implement.--Jennifer Clifton, Indiana State Lib., Indianapolis

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