Screw It, Let's Do It: Lessons in Life

Richard Branson is a house-hold name in global business. More often than not, we perceive entrepreneurship as a mind-boggling undertaking that keeps people awake all night. In his book titled Screw it, Let's Do it (2006),Branson brings a new perspective to the manner in which business ought to be perceived. He contends that it is feasible to have fun while making a ton of money. As he puts it, "I work hard and I play hard"(1). Brandson says he is honest when he tells people that there are no secrets to becoming a millionaire. He even insists that "there are no rules to follow in business"(12). Many folks reading Branson's words would be tempted to take them with a pinch of salt but he proves with verifiable anecdotes in this book that it is very feasible to make a lot of money without sacrificing personal pleasure. His modus operandi is "Screw it, let's do it." He does share some basic tenets that guarantee success in the business world:"Believe it can be done, have goals, never give up, prepare well, have faith in yourself, and live life to the full"(1). The lesson l learned reading Branson's book is to keep trying and to never give up.Screw it, Let's Do it is not all about business. Branson feeds readers with existential lessons. He puts a high premium on family values. In his own words, "put the family... first"(68). He describes his Virgin Corporation as "a big family"(68).This business guru gives pride of place to teamwork. He has the conviction that successful entrepreneurs have the savvy to pick the right people and reward talent. In his own words, " I have learned always to reward talent"(76).Richard Branson's book was a pleasant surprise to me. It feels good to hear from someone who is filthy rich and yet so down-to-earth. I would recommend this book to friends, family members and co-workers without hesitation. It is a tiny little book that can change one's life forever.Dr. Peter Vakunta is professor at the Defense Language Institute, Monterery-CA,USA

Super inspiring, after reading this bookI felt extremely motivated. This book took me on a journey of a human being who strived for success and had fun doing it, while overcoming obstacles.

What a life Richard Branson has had...I almost don't want to say anything, just to not spoil the book!!I ABSOLUTELY LOVED Entrepreneurial mindset and how he didn't let his Dyslexia stop him from starting his first Magazine which began his "Virgin" Life!!If I had any beef about the book, it was the section about Global Warming. I know it is a passion of his, and although I don't fully discredit it fully, I am sooo anti-Al Gore who has used the topic to become filthy rich over it, while people like Richard look for ways to "Help", and backtracks whenever someone finds evidence to the contrary to what he (Al) has said...anyway...that chapter for me, seemed painfully long, as Richard continued on and on about. I did however, find some of the History about how cars were meant to be run on other things and NOT gas, very interesting, and some of Richard's ideas for the future to help the environment very interesting as well...so, again, not a bad chapter overall, just (for me, the section around Gore and their cronies saying the world will end in a decade, and then that decade keeps getting pushed out, and they keep getting richer).

Richard Branson made his fortune because he's a shrewd business person, and also because he's been lucky at times. He's successful, however, because of his personality and attitude -- his personal philosophy -- and that's what this book is about. There is nothing earth shattering in his philosophy, except perhaps that it takes an extraordinary person to truly live up to it.I don't think that Branson was looking to make money on the book, but rather to share some ideas that, for good reason, he truly believes in. He's not one to overcomplicate things, and in this case shorter is better. He keeps it simple because to him it is simple. As other reviewers have noted, it's a small book and it can be read in one sitting. It seems like it was dictated and indeed could benefit from some editing, but perhaps that's what makes the book real and is part of its charm. If you're looking for more then buy his book "Losing My Virginity" which contains some details about his various ventures. Otherwise, Screw It, it's a good read so just buy the book.Steven K. GoldAuthor, Entrepreneur's Notebook: Practical Advice for Starting a New Business Venture

Entertaining and interesting, Richard Branson shares many of his life's lessons learned from experiment and adventure. The book reads more like one of his notebooks than a well-penned how-to, and that is part of the charm. 'Screw It' conveys Branson's enthusiasm and joy, ethics, and free spirit. It's a quick, fun read.

Much and fully respect Richard Branson. I would recommended reading the Bible, along with his book. So many lesson to learn from his life being raised in a Christian mother household has help him achieve his goals in business and in life.

I found this book to be very motivating and inspiring. It contains great insight on the founding of the Virgin brand and Richard Branson, himself.The stories are very well written and easily painted in your mind. My personal favorites are the balloon stories...although in my opinion the calculated risks out-weighted the rewards which, is a complete contradiction of his business motto. Richard Branson is at the top of my list of favorite people and this book confirmed that positioning for me. Business wise, nice man, big heart.