Dare to Be Naive: How to Find Your True Self in a Noisy World

by Joshua Berry

Has anyone called you naive for suggesting that businesses can do more good and make a positive impact on not just profits, but also on employees, consumers, and the world? …If so, you’re in good company. Increasingly more employees, customers, and business leaders agree that how and why money is made is equally as important as the amount of money made. Yet business leaders often fear being labeled as naive if they pursue social good while pursuing profit. That fear can be paralyzing, ultimately keeping them from sharing – and acting on – their biggest and best ideas. When we screen ourselves to present only what’s accepted as realistic within the mainstream, we eliminate the option for positive transformation. So how do you take informed, impactful action and lead your business to be a force for good, considering the rapidly changing workforce and evolving consumer expectations? You dare to be naive. While most people think being naive is a bad thing (especially in business), an intentional, chosen naivete leads to better business and a more fulfilled life. Through reading Dare to Be Naive , you’ll learn how to generate two types of ROI – a positive Return on Investment AND profound Ripples of Impact – as well Equipped with this knowledge, you’ll have everything you need to use your influence for good to cultivate a better world.

216 pages, Hardcover

Published November 28, 2023

About the author

Joshua Berry is a world-class facilitator of change.

As an author, speaker, entrepreneur, and director of Econic, Joshua has spent the last two decades evolving the what, who, and why of Fortune 500 companies and venture-backed startups.

For employees and leaders looking to grow themselves and their organizations, Joshua speaks on overcoming limiting beliefs, adaptive leadership, and the innovation systems and mindsets that create engines for growth.

Learn more at econic.co and joshualeeberry.com.

Reviews

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book reads a bit like a personal workshop or coaching session, coaxing the reader towards curiosity and action. The author presents a variety of viewpoints along with actual business examples then follows with a series of inquiry prompts.

The personal impact: I felt a sense of camaraderie and encouragement. I’ve made some unconventional decisions in my career and the prompts, case studies and questions reminded me why I have made those decisions and helped me gain more conviction in continuing onward. I also walked away with additional curiosity on adjacent topics and additional reading suggestions. I’d highly recommend this short read for anyone considering people-centric, values-driven business decisions that don’t fit the conventional status-quo.

[Krystal Wiebelhaus · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great (and quick) read. I was pleasantly surprised by the format of the book - the author gives plenty of space for readers to sit and reflect, versus an instructional “how-to” book. He also introduces a valuable beliefs framework and shares inspiring success stories from leaders embracing naivety.

While I would have loved a few more personal examples, the focus on readers, not the author, is evident. I recommend it to those interested in using business for good and exploring their personal or professional beliefs.

[Melissa Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

From word one, this book feels like a warm conversation with a curious friend. The author provides the reader with an opportunity for reflection and integration rather than writing another book that tells you what it thinks you should be doing, without any context of who you are and how you show up to the world. I spent time really thinking about my approach to work (and life), loving how Berry allows for imperfection in himself and the reader and even in the application of the learning he's suggesting. It's a refreshing approach.

You'll want to work for or be the leaders and organizations Joshua highlights in these stories, and the reflection exercises give plenty of practice on examining your beliefs and whether they are serving you in achieving your goals. Changing those beliefs is core to changing our approach to work. And who doesn't want to show up in a more authentic and human way at work? This book is a great start on that journey!

[Allison Dahl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Berry reminds us the origins of the word naive - a return to our authentic, innate, true self. In bite-sized stories and reflection questions, this book offers a fresh take on leadership. This book has me thinking differently about the written/unwritten rules of business.Dare to Be Naive: How to Find Your True Self in a Noisy World

[tammy denmark · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would encourage anyone on the planet to spend some time experiencing the world through this authors lens. If you find yourself in a leadership or creative role of any kind (parenting, running a company, leading a team, mentoring youth, leading a workshop, etc.) Read this book and reflect on what the world is telling you, and what might be possible. I know I've been on the receiving end of the messages like "this is just how the world is" or "that's a nice thought, but that will never happen" or "you can count on people taking advantage of you". It becomes increasingly challenging to hold onto those amazingly bright ideas we have in our youth, that tend to get stamped out by adulting. This is a book I will share, and continue to come back to!

[Shandigity · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Dare to Be Naive" is a thought-provoking masterpiece that challenges the norm and inspires readers to break free from conventional thinking. With profound insights and captivating storytelling, the author invites us to embrace curiosity, creativity, and the willingness to question the status quo. This book is a must-read for those seeking to unlock their full potential and unleash the power of fearless exploration.

[Kenny Thanh Nguyen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an exceptional book on how to rethink a basic concept (naivete) and use it as a lever to make a positive impact on the world.

I've been widely considered naive (by others as a negative thing) most of my life. And I now believe it's a good attribute that I can learn how to leverage more effectively.

The audiobook version is highly recommended too. It's like a live workshop in book form.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Berry’s brilliant storytelling highlights how authenticity - and naivete - in life and leadership can take experiences, relationships, and business to a place of greater significance and depth. Its message holds impact that transcends a book title; Berry’s thought-provoking lessons offer a pathway toward a more meaningful way of business and life. You don’t want to miss out on this treasure!

[Patrice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book. The example stories may be business related but the ideas within are still applicable in every face of life.

[Chris Poore · Rating 5 out of 5]

These are my people! Nice to know there are others in the world who think and act like me. Great stories of examples that show you can be creative and naive in business.

[Hitoshi Akabane · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was my cheerleader as I went through a major job transition from US to Japan. It helped me stay positive as I experienced the unlearning and relearning which could have been frustrating at times otherwise. Highly recommended for anyone who has an idea for change but not sure where to start.