By: Michael Port
Reviewed by: Glain Roberts-McCabe
The Premise: Stand for something before someone stands on you, says the back cover of Michael Port’s latest offering, The Think Big Manifesto. Port has written this book as the ultimate guide for individuals who are ready to shake things up and get serious about “being the change they want to see in the world” to quote a very famous big thinker. The book lays out the case for thinking big and then provides readers with a code of behaviours to help you join the revolution (or start your own). Part inspiration, part sermon from the pulpit, part self-confession (Port lets you in on his own personal insecurities) and part motivational kick-in-the-pants, the Think Big Manifesto is less of a business book and more of a call to action that will either engage, repel or completely confuse its readers.
The Bottom Line: When I started reading this book, frankly, I didn’t get it. I didn’t understand what Michael Port was trying to do and what he was talking about. It felt repetitive, self-indulgent and a little too “out there”. Then I got into the actual “manifesto” component which outlines the real “how” of being a big thinker, and the book concept started to click for me. Within the manifesto are some really great, tactical suggestions and great reminders on what you need to do to make things happen. This is definitely a book for individuals who have a desire to really make an impact. The manifesto serves as a compass or set of reminders for the days you need to remind yourself what you’re trying to do. For any leader who’s trying to reconnect with the bigger “why” around what they’re trying to accomplish, this is worth the read.
Roundtable Rating: An inspirational read, once you can get your head in the game.
Check out the book and join the revolution here: Think Big Manifesto
