What do you think?
Rate this book
The Will To Win: Leading, Competing, Succeeding
In his bestselling business book Driven, Robert Herjavec, the co-star of CTV’s Shark Tank and former co-star of CBC’s Dragons’ Den, urged his readers to embrace risk, take control of their lives and stay true to their visions. Now, Herjavec pushes his readers even further toward greatness.
Known for his honesty, integrity and powers of persuasion, Herjavec never fails to reach for the highest rung on the ladder. In The Will to Win, he shares some of his own secrets for greatness, whether it’s knowing when to be aggressive (and when not to be), when to talk and when to listen, or when and how to ask the right questions. And he reminds us that we all have the same 24 hours a day in which to maximize our future—it’s how we spend those hours that counts.
Whether you are seeking to build the next big communications technology company, become the most respected teacher in your education system or make a lasting impact as an artist in your field, the most important decision you can make, according to Herjavec, is to reject mediocrity. Drawing on anecdotes from his own life and from the lives of celebrity friends such as Oprah, Georges St-Pierre and Celine Dion, he delivers valuable lessons that will guide readers to greater happiness and success.
Known for his honesty, integrity and powers of persuasion, Herjavec never fails to reach for the highest rung on the ladder. In The Will to Win, he shares some of his own secrets for greatness, whether it’s knowing when to be aggressive (and when not to be), when to talk and when to listen, or when and how to ask the right questions. And he reminds us that we all have the same 24 hours a day in which to maximize our future—it’s how we spend those hours that counts.
Whether you are seeking to build the next big communications technology company, become the most respected teacher in your education system or make a lasting impact as an artist in your field, the most important decision you can make, according to Herjavec, is to reject mediocrity. Drawing on anecdotes from his own life and from the lives of celebrity friends such as Oprah, Georges St-Pierre and Celine Dion, he delivers valuable lessons that will guide readers to greater happiness and success.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 15, 2013
80 people are currently reading
611 people want to read
About the author
Robert Herjavec
14 books79 followersRobert Herjavec is one of North America's most recognizable business leaders. A first generation immigrant, Robert, age 8, arrived in Halifax, Canada on a boat with his parents after escaping Communism in the former Yugoslavia. From delivering newspapers and waiting on tables, to launching a computer company from his basement, his unlimited dreams led him to experience the classic “rags to riches” immigrant story.
A dynamic entrepreneur, Robert has built and sold several IT companies to major players including AT&T and Nokia, on his way to amassing a personal fortune. Following a short retirement, Robert recently launched, The Herjavec Group (THG), a $125 million managed security company that is recognized by Profit 100 as one of the fastest growing technology companies in North America. In 2013, Robert won the prestigious Canadian “Entrepreneur of the Year Award” for Technology and was presented with the Queen’s Jubilee Award for outstanding service.
Robert demonstrates his entrepreneurial expertise through his leading role on the Emmy nominated, hit American TV show, Shark Tank, now in its 5th season on ABC (produced by Mark Burnett Productions). His inspiring books, “Driven” and “The Will to Win”, were simultaneously Top 10 Bestsellers that earned him the title of “Best Selling Author”. Robert’s motivational business advice has received millions of impressions through TV, print, radio and digital media.
To Robert, running a business is a lot like one of his greatest passions, racing cars. He believes, “You have to stay LASER-FOCUSED when driving a car over 200 miles an hour, similar to growing a business in today’s world of rapidly changing technology.” For the past three years, Robert has competed as Ferrari #007 for The Herjavec Group Racing in the North American Ferrari Challenge Series including winning, “Rookie of the Year 2011.”
A dynamic entrepreneur, Robert has built and sold several IT companies to major players including AT&T and Nokia, on his way to amassing a personal fortune. Following a short retirement, Robert recently launched, The Herjavec Group (THG), a $125 million managed security company that is recognized by Profit 100 as one of the fastest growing technology companies in North America. In 2013, Robert won the prestigious Canadian “Entrepreneur of the Year Award” for Technology and was presented with the Queen’s Jubilee Award for outstanding service.
Robert demonstrates his entrepreneurial expertise through his leading role on the Emmy nominated, hit American TV show, Shark Tank, now in its 5th season on ABC (produced by Mark Burnett Productions). His inspiring books, “Driven” and “The Will to Win”, were simultaneously Top 10 Bestsellers that earned him the title of “Best Selling Author”. Robert’s motivational business advice has received millions of impressions through TV, print, radio and digital media.
To Robert, running a business is a lot like one of his greatest passions, racing cars. He believes, “You have to stay LASER-FOCUSED when driving a car over 200 miles an hour, similar to growing a business in today’s world of rapidly changing technology.” For the past three years, Robert has competed as Ferrari #007 for The Herjavec Group Racing in the North American Ferrari Challenge Series including winning, “Rookie of the Year 2011.”
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
August 22, 2020
The Book Is Filled With Amazing And Worth Reading Acumen About Business And Life In General, Robert Isn't A Hard Nosed Business Guy Rather A Dude Who Enjoys Business For The Life It Can Grant.
April 5, 2016
Its basically a compilation of short chapters with focus on various topics on business management and he manages to blend in what he's learned for a general application in life.
Sometimes its the other way round where he learns something from an experience or a person and applies it to business.
I haven't read his first book 'Driven', so I cannot say if its an extension of his previous publication.
The latter half of the book can be described solely as his personal experiences. The topics range from his celebrity status to his love and respect for his family, gratitude, philosophy (a bit), his love for racing, sports among other things.
This book provides good advice to managers and entrepreneurs especially who are facing a tough time. Its his take on issues and a few anecdotes about how he managed to overcome problems and beat his competitors.
It seems like he carries massive respect to his co-hosts of Shark Tank especially Cuban because he is able to relate Cuban's pleasure of competing. In fact, he's mentioned he's got one of Mark Cuban's quotes on competition framed and setup in his office.
He also happens to mention Kevin O' Leary a couple of times when he discusses about personal branding and one's approach to money and value.
Key Takeaways: (according to me)
1. Don't look at success and failure as two possible outcomes of an endeavour. Treat it as two sides of a coin which you carry in your pocket.
2. Focus on your Strengths, delegate or automate your weaknesses wherever possible. This arises out of the principle that strengths have unlimited potential to get better but weaknesses can be improved only to a certain extent.
3. After a point, money stops becoming the incentive. Its just used as keeping score of all your achievements. (something which I strongly concur with Mr. Herjavec)
4. The objective of a business is to create a customer. The rest will follow.
5. Success isn't defined as money or stardom or power, its being the best at what you do.
If you have picked up this book to learn a few management lessons and intend to apply them to your organisation or in your personal life, this may not be the best book. You can say his advice is a combination of His Experience + Logic. You can follow what he's said in the book by just putting some serious thought to your situation.
I've picked up this book to understand his perception, know a bit more of his story and experiences, this curiosity arisen from a devout following of Shark Tank.
It partially serves the purpose.
I hope he comes out with an autobiography. (or approves a biography)
Sometimes its the other way round where he learns something from an experience or a person and applies it to business.
I haven't read his first book 'Driven', so I cannot say if its an extension of his previous publication.
The latter half of the book can be described solely as his personal experiences. The topics range from his celebrity status to his love and respect for his family, gratitude, philosophy (a bit), his love for racing, sports among other things.
This book provides good advice to managers and entrepreneurs especially who are facing a tough time. Its his take on issues and a few anecdotes about how he managed to overcome problems and beat his competitors.
It seems like he carries massive respect to his co-hosts of Shark Tank especially Cuban because he is able to relate Cuban's pleasure of competing. In fact, he's mentioned he's got one of Mark Cuban's quotes on competition framed and setup in his office.
He also happens to mention Kevin O' Leary a couple of times when he discusses about personal branding and one's approach to money and value.
Key Takeaways: (according to me)
1. Don't look at success and failure as two possible outcomes of an endeavour. Treat it as two sides of a coin which you carry in your pocket.
2. Focus on your Strengths, delegate or automate your weaknesses wherever possible. This arises out of the principle that strengths have unlimited potential to get better but weaknesses can be improved only to a certain extent.
3. After a point, money stops becoming the incentive. Its just used as keeping score of all your achievements. (something which I strongly concur with Mr. Herjavec)
4. The objective of a business is to create a customer. The rest will follow.
5. Success isn't defined as money or stardom or power, its being the best at what you do.
If you have picked up this book to learn a few management lessons and intend to apply them to your organisation or in your personal life, this may not be the best book. You can say his advice is a combination of His Experience + Logic. You can follow what he's said in the book by just putting some serious thought to your situation.
I've picked up this book to understand his perception, know a bit more of his story and experiences, this curiosity arisen from a devout following of Shark Tank.
It partially serves the purpose.
I hope he comes out with an autobiography. (or approves a biography)
May 1, 2014
THE WILL TO WIN: LEADING, COMPETING, SUCCEEDING.
Robert Herjavec
Similar to Kevin O'leary's almost all-encompassing book on how to get by life, Robert reveals his business, relationship, and life advice.
Robert is a bit more homely and humble than Kevin, yet his advice is just as relevant. From starting a business, to pursuing your hobbies, to dealing with employees, and enjoying the celebrity lifestyle.
We learn a bit about Roberts exodus from Dragons den (I never knew he left), and the perks he gains, and the pitfalls of becoming a celebrity.
Robert entails some things hes overcome while managing employees, and growing a multi-million dollar business.
He uncovers some deep game-changers for succeeding within his Ferrari racing hobbies, and how it transitions into life, and his Shark-tank investments.
Furthermore, Robert is deeply a family-cherishing man. His family arrived with nothing from authoritarian Croatia, and Robert was able to create something grand in the world.
Nonetheless, it seems Roberts holds some resentments/chip-on-the shoulder towards those who bullied him, and exiled him for not being a Canadian.
Apparently, this drives Robert to some extent.
The Will to win is a great book, with some sound advice, and maybe a little celebrity gossip-like content mixed in. It's not a 100% purposeful book, but the philosophies are great to own and reinforce into your reality.
Recommend reading.
Robert Herjavec
Similar to Kevin O'leary's almost all-encompassing book on how to get by life, Robert reveals his business, relationship, and life advice.
Robert is a bit more homely and humble than Kevin, yet his advice is just as relevant. From starting a business, to pursuing your hobbies, to dealing with employees, and enjoying the celebrity lifestyle.
We learn a bit about Roberts exodus from Dragons den (I never knew he left), and the perks he gains, and the pitfalls of becoming a celebrity.
Robert entails some things hes overcome while managing employees, and growing a multi-million dollar business.
He uncovers some deep game-changers for succeeding within his Ferrari racing hobbies, and how it transitions into life, and his Shark-tank investments.
Furthermore, Robert is deeply a family-cherishing man. His family arrived with nothing from authoritarian Croatia, and Robert was able to create something grand in the world.
Nonetheless, it seems Roberts holds some resentments/chip-on-the shoulder towards those who bullied him, and exiled him for not being a Canadian.
Apparently, this drives Robert to some extent.
The Will to win is a great book, with some sound advice, and maybe a little celebrity gossip-like content mixed in. It's not a 100% purposeful book, but the philosophies are great to own and reinforce into your reality.
Recommend reading.
November 29, 2018
Most of my reviews usually list the cons first so let's get those out of the way:
The format of this book was kind of strange. It was part business advice mixed in with stories about his life and family with a moral at the end of each story.
Also, each chapter was a short standalone with no discernible theme linking the flow of the chapters together. It was sort of like a devotional where each day has a different reading and there's nothing linking to the previous day's reading.
On to the actual writing:
There's not much in this book that's original- as with the majority of business books. But when Robert says something I pay attention, even though it's something I may have heard before. One, I actually respect him. He seems like a genuinely 'nice' person with moral values, and he seems to dislike the stereotypical values of the people in his 1% club. (I chuckled every time he took jabs at Kevin O'Leary because I feel the same way.) He also has more merit to talk about certain topics seeing as he's lived on both sides of the socioeconomic fence. When he talked about the disdain the working class has for the 1%ers and why that disdain isn't always justified, I LISTENED. And when he briefly commented on class privileges, I grudgingly accepted that he had a tiny point though not enough to make up for the negative effects.
Secondly, he had some really good points to make about business. Again, nothing really unique because it's mostly all been said before. But some of his comments were really insightful. When he said a good night's sleep for him is 4-5 hours ... and I'm here sleeping 7-8 and complaining there's not enough time in the day. LOL.
All in all, I wouldn't read this if you were looking for a solid business book. But if you're looking to peek inside the life of a man who built himself up from very little, this is a wonderful easy read!
The format of this book was kind of strange. It was part business advice mixed in with stories about his life and family with a moral at the end of each story.
Also, each chapter was a short standalone with no discernible theme linking the flow of the chapters together. It was sort of like a devotional where each day has a different reading and there's nothing linking to the previous day's reading.
On to the actual writing:
There's not much in this book that's original- as with the majority of business books. But when Robert says something I pay attention, even though it's something I may have heard before. One, I actually respect him. He seems like a genuinely 'nice' person with moral values, and he seems to dislike the stereotypical values of the people in his 1% club. (I chuckled every time he took jabs at Kevin O'Leary because I feel the same way.) He also has more merit to talk about certain topics seeing as he's lived on both sides of the socioeconomic fence. When he talked about the disdain the working class has for the 1%ers and why that disdain isn't always justified, I LISTENED. And when he briefly commented on class privileges, I grudgingly accepted that he had a tiny point though not enough to make up for the negative effects.
Secondly, he had some really good points to make about business. Again, nothing really unique because it's mostly all been said before. But some of his comments were really insightful. When he said a good night's sleep for him is 4-5 hours ... and I'm here sleeping 7-8 and complaining there's not enough time in the day. LOL.
All in all, I wouldn't read this if you were looking for a solid business book. But if you're looking to peek inside the life of a man who built himself up from very little, this is a wonderful easy read!
May 5, 2020
I like it! I go back to it, and that’s a win!
I am not a huge fan of motivational books and I am put off by authors who say “I am the best, so follow me!” This book is not like that. When I picked it up, I did not expect to become a business whiz or develop and overnight “Will to Win” by the end of the book. And so, I ended up enjoying it. This book is the author’s reflection on various aspects of his personal and professional life and the learnings he had from the same.
The author does not give an illusion of being perfect, he appears human in every situation, from dealing with the pain of personal loss to making tough decisions when needed in business. And in between all of this comes the wisdom that these experiences impart on the author, something he tries to convey to the reader as well. It sinks in for me. I find myself coming back to certain chapters of this book over and over again and I do end up feeling ready to focus on my own challenges, but do not get a *motivational high* (and a crash). I would say that is a win!
P.S. I particularly love how the book ends with a chapter with a heart-touching anecdote on kindness and positivity. It actually makes me smile every time I read it!
I am not a huge fan of motivational books and I am put off by authors who say “I am the best, so follow me!” This book is not like that. When I picked it up, I did not expect to become a business whiz or develop and overnight “Will to Win” by the end of the book. And so, I ended up enjoying it. This book is the author’s reflection on various aspects of his personal and professional life and the learnings he had from the same.
The author does not give an illusion of being perfect, he appears human in every situation, from dealing with the pain of personal loss to making tough decisions when needed in business. And in between all of this comes the wisdom that these experiences impart on the author, something he tries to convey to the reader as well. It sinks in for me. I find myself coming back to certain chapters of this book over and over again and I do end up feeling ready to focus on my own challenges, but do not get a *motivational high* (and a crash). I would say that is a win!
P.S. I particularly love how the book ends with a chapter with a heart-touching anecdote on kindness and positivity. It actually makes me smile every time I read it!
November 1, 2017
A rare mix of practical advice ranging from developing a willful personality to achieving business success, Robert Herjavec is engages through a display of intellect, wit, and interesting life experiences to capture the essence of his life philosophy on paper. While, I wouldn't adopt Robert's life-endangering, workaholic, win-at-all costs mindset because of this book; many of his key ideas / life experiences resonated deeply particularly his thoughts on running, personal challenge, and his honesty with himself and us about his priorities and objectives. More than an interesting commentary, Robert fills the books with tidbits of engaging information on everything from the unexpected success of the Jacuzzi to the dangers of eating Spicy Sausage and Pasta the night before a marathon. I greatly enjoyed this read, and with some reservations would anoint this book as the nearest thing to a must-read for enterprising individuals looking to build their life view.
October 30, 2024
The Will to Win" is a compelling mix of autobiography and business advice from Robert Herjavec, my favorite Shark Tank cast member. The book offers a glimpse into his childhood in Croatia and his family’s journey to Canada, which laid the groundwork for his strong work ethic and eventual success in founding a security company and landing a role on Shark Tank. Along the way, he shares invaluable lessons on branding, handling public perception, and the deeper motivations behind making money. Some memorable quotes include “pleasure is an easier sell than pain,” “focus on value, not price,” “don’t ask the customer questions you can answer yourself,” and “meet the right person at the right level.” The list goes on, with each piece of advice grounded in experience and insight. This book is a powerful guide for anyone striving to achieve both professional success and personal fulfillment.
May 8, 2019
Nice writing
It’s easy to read because of Robert’s way to communicate. I’ve enjoyed his points of view and experience. Is not a book as we will expect for entrepreneurship because it's more like Robert’s perspective about it. He tells what he has experienced and what he believes. It's our responsibility to see what we are going to do with what he's telling us. There’s not a precise to do list for success and nothing like that. He’s just a guy who passionate about his work and that's what he shares. Hence, it's a book you should enjoy at your own pace without the pressure of constantly searching for the key to success.
It’s easy to read because of Robert’s way to communicate. I’ve enjoyed his points of view and experience. Is not a book as we will expect for entrepreneurship because it's more like Robert’s perspective about it. He tells what he has experienced and what he believes. It's our responsibility to see what we are going to do with what he's telling us. There’s not a precise to do list for success and nothing like that. He’s just a guy who passionate about his work and that's what he shares. Hence, it's a book you should enjoy at your own pace without the pressure of constantly searching for the key to success.
July 4, 2020
This book was used to promote a Real Estate Investment course called Will to Win. Robert Herjavec was a spokesperson for the company promoting these courses. The company (Zurixx) is now under injunction by the state of Utah and the FTC and has been shut down. The Will to Win program is a scam. I would not recommend this book.
January 27, 2022
My Favorite Shark
This is both an autobiography and business adviice from my favorite Shark Tank cast member. You learn of his childhood in Croatia. His immigration to Canada and starting the security company that would make him.part of Shark Tank. Along he gives sound advice branding, dealing with rumors and making money for the right reasons.
This is both an autobiography and business adviice from my favorite Shark Tank cast member. You learn of his childhood in Croatia. His immigration to Canada and starting the security company that would make him.part of Shark Tank. Along he gives sound advice branding, dealing with rumors and making money for the right reasons.
June 4, 2017
A collection of many, short stories explaining his ideas and philosophies. inspirational and lots of business wisdom.
May 24, 2021
Lots of practical advice worth paying attention to.
February 24, 2024
Useful as a prop to hold up your window. The will to window, if you will.
January 28, 2025
It just wasn’t my cup of tea. It did not grab my focus or attention. The only part I found interesting was his Oprah Winfrey encounter. I’m also not business savvy so that may be my fault.
November 14, 2025
The will to win is Herjavec breaking down how he built his life from nothing — immigrant kid, no money, no connections — and turned it into massive success. It’s part mindset, part strategy, part reality check.
The whole message is simple:
Success isn’t talent or luck. It’s hunger, discipline, and refusing to quit.
He’s not trying to sound like a motivational speaker. He’s just showing the harsh truth: most people don’t win because they don’t want it badly enough.
⸻
1. Your mindset decides everything
Herjavec stresses that winning isn’t just about goals — it’s about the internal drive behind them.
Most people wish they were successful.
But winners decide they’re going to be, and then refuse to be talked out of it.
A big theme:
When you expect more from yourself, you get more from yourself.
⸻
2. Outwork everyone
He keeps repeating something that’s painfully true:
You have to outwork people.
There’s no hack around that.
He talks about:
• showing up earlier
• staying later
• learning faster
• taking the hits
• grinding when everyone else is tired
Work ethic doesn’t guarantee success, but without it, you have zero chance.
⸻
3. Be willing to start at the bottom
A lot of young people want to skip steps. Herjavec explains that starting small isn’t a setback — it’s the foundation.
He started in the mailroom.
He made coffee.
He took low-status jobs.
And he used each role to learn, observe, and position himself.
His message:
Ego kills opportunity.
If you want to win, you take whatever job gets you inside the building.
⸻
4. Success demands uncomfortable choices
One of the strongest points:
Your future requires sacrifices your comfort won’t like.
He talks about:
• skipping parties
• investing money instead of spending it
• learning new skills instead of wasting time
• choosing long-term results over short-term pleasure
People love the idea of “winning,” but not the lifestyle that creates winners.
⸻
5. Every setback is part of the process
Herjavec lost businesses, got fired, made huge mistakes, and got embarrassed publicly.
But every time, he treats setbacks like data, not disasters.
He says winners see losses in two ways:
• lesson
• fuel
Not excuses.
This mental shift basically bulletproofs you.
⸻
6. Be obsessed with improvement
He talks a lot about how winners constantly sharpen their skills.
They read, study, ask questions, and analyze themselves honestly.
He hates the idea of being “good enough.”
Good enough = invisible.
Winning requires:
• learning faster
• adapting faster
• never becoming complacent
He compares it to sports:
If you’re not improving daily, someone else is catching up.
⸻
7. Execution beats ideas
A huge theme:
Ideas are worthless without action.
He says everyone has ideas, dreams, and plans — winners are the ones who act on them relentlessly.
The world rewards:
• commitment
• consistency
• follow-through
• execution
Not “potential.”
⸻
8. Treat people with respect
Herjavec’s competitive, but he’s not cutthroat.
He says long-term success is built on relationships, reputation, and treating people well.
People remember:
• how you spoke to them
• whether you kept your word
• whether you lifted others up
The “nice guy” doesn’t finish last — he finishes surrounded by allies.
⸻
9. Don’t wait — move
Procrastination kills dreams more quietly than failure does.
Herjavec pushes this hard:
Start now. Not tomorrow. Not when conditions are perfect. Now.
Waiting is the enemy.
Momentum is the advantage.
⸻
10. Winning is a lifestyle, not a moment
The book ends with this idea:
Winning isn’t a one-time victory.
It’s the result of a consistent identity — someone who:
• shows up
• works
• learns
• adapts
• stays humble
• never quits
“The will to win” isn’t hype.
It’s a way of living.
⸻
The Real Takeaway
This book hits harder because it’s simple truth:
Most people lose because they quit early, complain, fear discomfort, or refuse to sacrifice.
The ones who win aren’t superhuman — they’re just relentless.
If you combine:
• hunger
• discipline
• humility
• consistent effort
…you become almost impossible to stop.
The whole message is simple:
Success isn’t talent or luck. It’s hunger, discipline, and refusing to quit.
He’s not trying to sound like a motivational speaker. He’s just showing the harsh truth: most people don’t win because they don’t want it badly enough.
⸻
1. Your mindset decides everything
Herjavec stresses that winning isn’t just about goals — it’s about the internal drive behind them.
Most people wish they were successful.
But winners decide they’re going to be, and then refuse to be talked out of it.
A big theme:
When you expect more from yourself, you get more from yourself.
⸻
2. Outwork everyone
He keeps repeating something that’s painfully true:
You have to outwork people.
There’s no hack around that.
He talks about:
• showing up earlier
• staying later
• learning faster
• taking the hits
• grinding when everyone else is tired
Work ethic doesn’t guarantee success, but without it, you have zero chance.
⸻
3. Be willing to start at the bottom
A lot of young people want to skip steps. Herjavec explains that starting small isn’t a setback — it’s the foundation.
He started in the mailroom.
He made coffee.
He took low-status jobs.
And he used each role to learn, observe, and position himself.
His message:
Ego kills opportunity.
If you want to win, you take whatever job gets you inside the building.
⸻
4. Success demands uncomfortable choices
One of the strongest points:
Your future requires sacrifices your comfort won’t like.
He talks about:
• skipping parties
• investing money instead of spending it
• learning new skills instead of wasting time
• choosing long-term results over short-term pleasure
People love the idea of “winning,” but not the lifestyle that creates winners.
⸻
5. Every setback is part of the process
Herjavec lost businesses, got fired, made huge mistakes, and got embarrassed publicly.
But every time, he treats setbacks like data, not disasters.
He says winners see losses in two ways:
• lesson
• fuel
Not excuses.
This mental shift basically bulletproofs you.
⸻
6. Be obsessed with improvement
He talks a lot about how winners constantly sharpen their skills.
They read, study, ask questions, and analyze themselves honestly.
He hates the idea of being “good enough.”
Good enough = invisible.
Winning requires:
• learning faster
• adapting faster
• never becoming complacent
He compares it to sports:
If you’re not improving daily, someone else is catching up.
⸻
7. Execution beats ideas
A huge theme:
Ideas are worthless without action.
He says everyone has ideas, dreams, and plans — winners are the ones who act on them relentlessly.
The world rewards:
• commitment
• consistency
• follow-through
• execution
Not “potential.”
⸻
8. Treat people with respect
Herjavec’s competitive, but he’s not cutthroat.
He says long-term success is built on relationships, reputation, and treating people well.
People remember:
• how you spoke to them
• whether you kept your word
• whether you lifted others up
The “nice guy” doesn’t finish last — he finishes surrounded by allies.
⸻
9. Don’t wait — move
Procrastination kills dreams more quietly than failure does.
Herjavec pushes this hard:
Start now. Not tomorrow. Not when conditions are perfect. Now.
Waiting is the enemy.
Momentum is the advantage.
⸻
10. Winning is a lifestyle, not a moment
The book ends with this idea:
Winning isn’t a one-time victory.
It’s the result of a consistent identity — someone who:
• shows up
• works
• learns
• adapts
• stays humble
• never quits
“The will to win” isn’t hype.
It’s a way of living.
⸻
The Real Takeaway
This book hits harder because it’s simple truth:
Most people lose because they quit early, complain, fear discomfort, or refuse to sacrifice.
The ones who win aren’t superhuman — they’re just relentless.
If you combine:
• hunger
• discipline
• humility
• consistent effort
…you become almost impossible to stop.
October 30, 2014
I read the The will to win by Robert herjavec and let me tell you that it was one of the most interesting,most informational book I have ever read! This book has a profound effect on your work because it motivates you to do more.The book was about his life story and how he came here from Croatia to canada with only 25$ between his whole family.It also explains how to run a buissness from the beginning and he gives you life lessons throughout the book.
This book made me think about what will I do in my future and how will I execute it.This book gave me so many good lessons to use in life like to never settle on “good enough in business and life”.This book also made me think about how to start a business and the whole book ties itself together into a great story.
Overall this was the best book I have ever read in my life because he is such a positive guy (robert herjavec) and so down to earth. I myself really respect Robert himself for his kindness while he still has so much wealth.I would really recommend this book to anybody that wants life lessons and on how a business works.
This book made me think about what will I do in my future and how will I execute it.This book gave me so many good lessons to use in life like to never settle on “good enough in business and life”.This book also made me think about how to start a business and the whole book ties itself together into a great story.
Overall this was the best book I have ever read in my life because he is such a positive guy (robert herjavec) and so down to earth. I myself really respect Robert himself for his kindness while he still has so much wealth.I would really recommend this book to anybody that wants life lessons and on how a business works.
April 7, 2013
Robert Harjavec's second book (his first Driven is a long-standing bestseller is really readable, but not unique. Built around short chapters on entrepreneurship, management, and business common sense, there are lots of anecdotes. These reveal Herjavec failing to shrug his Mr. Nice Guy personality. For all Herjavec's business savvy and ultra-competitiveness, his stories of immigrant life to Canada, family, and willingness to put money second just make you like him. So when you read business advice that you've heard already, it sounds new and great.
Follow me on Twitter:@Dr_A_Taubman
Follow me on Twitter:@Dr_A_Taubman
May 28, 2013
I like it. Support my fellow canadian and a fellow immigrant. Granted it is not the most original book, but as inspiring as any others I've read. I did pick up a few good points, like if you want to hire competitive people, everything else being equal, pick those who play competitive sports. Also I am very impressed by what Robert Herjavec says about putting his children through competitive sports training as a way of drilling into their head that nothing worthwhile comes easy. The fact that Mr. Herjavec gets up every morning at 4:30 to start his day puts me to shame - if a billionair works this hard, what excuses do I have to "take it easy"?
April 18, 2014
I can't help but compare this book to the more well known Kevin O'Leary's Cold Hard Truth. If you are expecting something of that nature, then you are exactly right. They are from the same show and even the covers look similar. The authors are smiling at the reader while crossing their arms. The style of writing and advice given are almost indistinguishable.
This is not to say this wasn't a good book. In fact, it has some interesting stuff in it. The biggest theme of this book is you have to take some risk if you want to make money. This is what worked for Herjavec and is probably true. Be prepared for lots of racing and sport references.
This is not to say this wasn't a good book. In fact, it has some interesting stuff in it. The biggest theme of this book is you have to take some risk if you want to make money. This is what worked for Herjavec and is probably true. Be prepared for lots of racing and sport references.
March 22, 2016
Robert Herjavec is the key note speaker for Stream, my business, in a few days and I wanted to read his book before our event. I'm not going to make it to the convention, and since I read this book I'm even MORE sad that I'm not going. I LOVED Robert's point of view. I'm sure everyone else in our business will also respect and relate to him.
I particularly liked a quote that's on page 241 "Wealth gained by true entrepreneurs should be an incentive, an example of what it is possible to achieve through imagination, dedication, hard work and, yes, a little luck from time to time."
There is opportunity for everyone - you need to be open to it.
I particularly liked a quote that's on page 241 "Wealth gained by true entrepreneurs should be an incentive, an example of what it is possible to achieve through imagination, dedication, hard work and, yes, a little luck from time to time."
There is opportunity for everyone - you need to be open to it.
June 15, 2014
Advice you've already heard, but from someone who started two steps behind and is now way ahead. What, exactly, is your excuse?
'The question "What's the difference between me and very wealthy and successful people?" is usually followed by "I work hard, I think I'm intelligent and I know I'm ambitious. So why can't I live in a big house and drive expensive cars and mingle with celebrities?"
No matter who asks this question, my answer always comes down to the same core: risk.'
'The question "What's the difference between me and very wealthy and successful people?" is usually followed by "I work hard, I think I'm intelligent and I know I'm ambitious. So why can't I live in a big house and drive expensive cars and mingle with celebrities?"
No matter who asks this question, my answer always comes down to the same core: risk.'
August 28, 2014
I always liked Robert on Dragons Den and Shark Tank and admired his story and views. The book was an interesting, very light read, almost like if you had been just having a conversation with him and had written down anything he said. I wouldn't say that it stands, overall, as a monumental piece which everybody needs to read but it is full of little gems and also serves as a good show of a good-hearted individual who is successful in business.
May 23, 2016
I liked chapter 29 best on pampering your strengths; automating and delegating your weaknesses. That was in my view worth millions in happiness and wealth. He spoke to me like no other person or book ever has. I finally 'got it'.
He has a lot to offer the world. Was amazed at how widely read he is; and how much of a student of life he is.
The chapters on sales (24-26) help you get over yourself already. :)
He has a lot to offer the world. Was amazed at how widely read he is; and how much of a student of life he is.
The chapters on sales (24-26) help you get over yourself already. :)
May 19, 2015
Some interesting insights, but this book focuses far too much on 'celebrity' and trying to convince the reader that it doesn't affect the way Robert lives. I would much rather have heard more gritty stories from failures and lessons learned than about his philosophy on failing.
June 21, 2016
Loved it! Despite some chapters having one or two key points that interlay in his stories it's a great read- I prefer more of a get to the point style but Robert has a very unique story and has a lot of great information in this book! Loved it.
June 25, 2014
Very good book, with some really interesting advice.
November 10, 2016
Very inspiration and motivating. Great balance between life stories and how it is applied to life in general. Would love to meet Robert someday. Huge fan.
May 14, 2022
Fan of herjavic which is why I decided to pick up this book. His writing resembles that of a fifth grader in a wholesome way. Some advice was helpful while most was just forgotten.
April 3, 2017
its very inspiring when you read at the 2nd last chapter about his childhood experience and his life living back in Croatia.This book must read!!Never complain and always believe in your dream.
May 2, 2019
The will to win gives life-, relationship-, but mostly business- lessons through Robert Herjavec’s life experiences. It is a fascinating book for people who are interested in business, but often cannot get through a book because it is too theoretical or abstract. I enjoyed reading about his view on the importance of failure and teamwork in particular.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews