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Do The Opposite (sort of): Unlocking Opportunity by Overruling Conventional Wisdom
171 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
April 4, 2026
Reading “Do the Opposite, (sort of)” felt less like discovering a new business book and more like reconnecting with a familiar voice from the early days of Compaq, one that challenged convention, valued integrity, and believed deeply in the people. As someone who lived a piece of that history and had the privilege of working with Compaq early on, the book resonated on a level that goes far beyond management philosophy.
What struck me most is how the book captures the spirit that made Compaq special. We were not just building computers; we were building an industry and a culture. A culture where doing what makes sense was not a slogan, it was proven practice. Rod Canion’s simple but powerful principle, “Do what makes sense,” was not just words. It was the backbone of how decisions were made, how teams were led, and how innovation happened at a pace that stunned the industry.
The book’s central theme, challenging assumptions and choosing the unconventional path when it leads to better outcomes, mirrors the mindset that propelled Compaq from a startup to a global force. Paul embodied that mindset every day and took the philosophy to many more successful organizations. He pushed people to think differently, to question the obvious, and never settle for the easy answer when the right answer demanded more courage, and just a little more work but the end results are outstanding.
What I appreciate about “Do the Opposite (sort of)” is that it does not promote contrarianism for its own sake. Instead, it highlights the disciplined, values driven approach behind truly meaningful innovation. It is not about rebelling, it is about being willing to stand apart when integrity, clarity, and long term thinking demand it. Paul also reinforces that failing is the learning part of growing.
For anyone who lived through the Compaq journey, the book feels like a reminder of why that era was so extraordinary. For those who didn’t, it offers a rare window into a leadership philosophy that built one of the most influential technology companies of its time.
In a world that often rewards shortcuts, “Do the Opposite, (sort of)” is a refreshing call back to the fundamentals: think boldly, act ethically, and always, always “Do what is make sense.”
What struck me most is how the book captures the spirit that made Compaq special. We were not just building computers; we were building an industry and a culture. A culture where doing what makes sense was not a slogan, it was proven practice. Rod Canion’s simple but powerful principle, “Do what makes sense,” was not just words. It was the backbone of how decisions were made, how teams were led, and how innovation happened at a pace that stunned the industry.
The book’s central theme, challenging assumptions and choosing the unconventional path when it leads to better outcomes, mirrors the mindset that propelled Compaq from a startup to a global force. Paul embodied that mindset every day and took the philosophy to many more successful organizations. He pushed people to think differently, to question the obvious, and never settle for the easy answer when the right answer demanded more courage, and just a little more work but the end results are outstanding.
What I appreciate about “Do the Opposite (sort of)” is that it does not promote contrarianism for its own sake. Instead, it highlights the disciplined, values driven approach behind truly meaningful innovation. It is not about rebelling, it is about being willing to stand apart when integrity, clarity, and long term thinking demand it. Paul also reinforces that failing is the learning part of growing.
For anyone who lived through the Compaq journey, the book feels like a reminder of why that era was so extraordinary. For those who didn’t, it offers a rare window into a leadership philosophy that built one of the most influential technology companies of its time.
In a world that often rewards shortcuts, “Do the Opposite, (sort of)” is a refreshing call back to the fundamentals: think boldly, act ethically, and always, always “Do what is make sense.”
March 18, 2026
I read this book in two sittings.
It is easy to read and offers such great insights and advice.
I love that the lessons in leadership are based on both successes and failures. We all learn so much more when we mess up!
I'd recommend this book to anyone looking for a professional development book that feels more like a conversation with a friend. If you have decades of experience, some of this might feel silly to you, but it is such a good reminder on how to thrive in the corporate world!
It is easy to read and offers such great insights and advice.
I love that the lessons in leadership are based on both successes and failures. We all learn so much more when we mess up!
I'd recommend this book to anyone looking for a professional development book that feels more like a conversation with a friend. If you have decades of experience, some of this might feel silly to you, but it is such a good reminder on how to thrive in the corporate world!
February 24, 2026
Practical advice in Leadership
This book felt easy to read as it is written in a very direct and relatable manner.
Most times it feels like an advice coming straight from a mentor, senior, adviser.
I would recommend it to any working in a corporate world.
This book felt easy to read as it is written in a very direct and relatable manner.
Most times it feels like an advice coming straight from a mentor, senior, adviser.
I would recommend it to any working in a corporate world.
March 14, 2026
Picked it up and couldn’t put it down. It felt like a conversation with a mentor. Highly recommend!
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews