What It Takes: An Attitude of Hard Work, Commitment and Purpose

by Mark Bouris

In 2002 Mark Bouris (founder of Wizard Home Loans, Australia) launched his first book, Wealth Wizard. The book covered the issue of personal debt: mortgages, credit cards, and loans. It showed normal Australians how borrowing could build wealth. Written by a person who made his own mistakes with borrowing as a younger man, the simple message of Wealth Wizard was that debt can be a tool rather than a burden. In the intervening five years many things have changed. People are more in debt than they were in 2002; credit card companies are in a price war, housing prices have fallen, and interest rates are going up. During this time, women have emerged as the fastest growing sector of mortgage-borrowers. And increasingly, friends, siblings, young people, and gay couples are combining to enter into the home-buying market using financial and legal arrangements not seen ten years ago. What's more, baby boomers – who are supposed to be in pre-retirement mode – have become one of the most aggressive groups of borrowers. Trends and societal shifts have made a rewritten, updated edition of the original book essential. Wealth Maker addresses all of the above and much, much more.

Genres: Inspirational

304 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2013

Reviews

[Bryce · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good no nonsense, common sense business book. Mark provides a great review of what it takes to be a business owner.

My one qualm with the book is that Mark talks about working 6 day weeks 8am - midnight and pushes the narrative of hard work being necessary. I certainly don’t deny hard work is perhaps even the leading trait of successful business owners. I just think that once a business is established processes can be put jn place to get a business owners time back down to ‘more ‘reasonable’ hours.

That’s my inner critic however overall this was a great read. The book breaks down traits of successful business owners, giving you a better idea as to whether you have what it takes to be a business owner.

[PRJ Greenwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

No nonsense and matter of fact exposition on what's needed to succeed in business - any business. Tackles every aspect from starting, running and closing a business, including employee foibles, managerial style, job-oriented vs growth-oriented employees etc. It's all dry reading

Definitely eye-opening and covers ground I wouldn't have thought of in regards to business ownership, which probably goes a long way to explain why I don't own a business.

[Chris Carlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Must Read For Aussie Entrepreneurs

This book is a must read for Aussie entrepreneurs. Its a dose of tough love in true Mark Bouris style which is exactly what you need. Thankyou Mark for writing this book, looking forward to the sequel!

[Valluvan Thillairajah · Rating 4 out of 5]

What It Takes by Mark Bouris stands as an invigorating beacon for anyone seeking to elevate their professional journey. Delving into the book, I was particularly captivated by the anecdotes of Bouris's parents and their origins, shedding light on the foundational values that shaped his work ethos. These personal insights don't merely serve as a backdrop; they interweave with his professional philosophy, providing a holistic understanding of his approach to business.

One aspect of the book that resonated deeply with me was Bouris's emphasis on the principle of "Urgency." It's not just about doing things promptly but executing them with purpose and precision. This resonates with my own fervent work ethic, making me feel seen and understood. Through his compelling narratives and actionable insights, Mark Bouris offers a roadmap to not just achieving success, but also understanding the values and dedication it's built upon. A must-read for anyone looking to amplify their work practices and philosophies.

[Get Ahead Kids · Rating 5 out of 5]

"What it Takes" delves into the three key factors it takes to succeed in business and in life - singular purpose, persistence and hard work.

When the invaluable advice comes from Mark Bouris, who lives and achieves by this advice, it's only a courageous reader that would dispute this book.

'What it Takes' is an easy to read, practical guide for readers aspiring for achievement and success. It's one of the best books for success for the whole family.