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The Fun Formula: How Curiosity, Risk-Taking, and Serendipity Can Revolutionize How You Work
Find more success in work and in life than you ever dreamed possible—by pursuing fun.
The demands of work and the breakneck pace of technological change wear heavily on all of us, whether we are employees at a large company, solo workers in the gig economy, or entrepreneurs launching a new venture. The “hustle-and-grind” lifestyle that we’ve been told is essential to success actually leads to physical ailments, emotional burnout, and a darkness in the soul. But Joel Comm has found a better way.
In The Fun Formula, Comm reveals that the best path to success—in work and in life—is to focus on our passions, curiosity, and the things that bring us great pleasure. Doing this leads not only to more dramatic results in whatever we do, but also to a more fulfilling life. Using entertaining stories and illuminating anecdotes from Comm’s own life and those of others, famous and not, The Fun Formula lays out a plan for making the subtle changes to our thinking and routines that will enable us to design the life we truly one of significance and joy.
The demands of work and the breakneck pace of technological change wear heavily on all of us, whether we are employees at a large company, solo workers in the gig economy, or entrepreneurs launching a new venture. The “hustle-and-grind” lifestyle that we’ve been told is essential to success actually leads to physical ailments, emotional burnout, and a darkness in the soul. But Joel Comm has found a better way.
In The Fun Formula, Comm reveals that the best path to success—in work and in life—is to focus on our passions, curiosity, and the things that bring us great pleasure. Doing this leads not only to more dramatic results in whatever we do, but also to a more fulfilling life. Using entertaining stories and illuminating anecdotes from Comm’s own life and those of others, famous and not, The Fun Formula lays out a plan for making the subtle changes to our thinking and routines that will enable us to design the life we truly one of significance and joy.
222 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 5, 2018
39 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 19, 2018
This is one of those books that you get engrossed in. Once I started reading it had to finish it. This book did a couple things for me, one, confirmed that in my professional life I have done things right. Two, provided insight on ways to grow my business while having fun. yes we all have to take risks but doing it in such a way to not be afraid to fail as along as we get back up.
Personally, I do share Joel's love of fun. If you are in business or starting a business this needs to be on your must read list. It will be one that gets read over and over.
Personally, I do share Joel's love of fun. If you are in business or starting a business this needs to be on your must read list. It will be one that gets read over and over.
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May 18, 2018This is not a book I would typically read but as I am in the process of switching jobs, I decided to read this one. Joel Comm encourages his readers to not just work, but to follow their passions to make a living. Comm also encourages his readers to work smarter, not longer hours. Using examples from his own life as well as the lives of others, Comm shares how following your passions can lead to success better than doing what others think you should do.
While this book is filled with a lot of great advice, I am not sure how practical all of it is for those who can't afford to just follow their passions. While Comm does touch on this a little bit, I would love to see a book more applicable to those who live in a low income/poverty situation.
Overall, The Fun Formula is a quick read full of great advice. Comm uses short case studies of people who have followed their passions as different examples throughout the book as well as examples from his own life, which also helps the book read quicker.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher.
While this book is filled with a lot of great advice, I am not sure how practical all of it is for those who can't afford to just follow their passions. While Comm does touch on this a little bit, I would love to see a book more applicable to those who live in a low income/poverty situation.
Overall, The Fun Formula is a quick read full of great advice. Comm uses short case studies of people who have followed their passions as different examples throughout the book as well as examples from his own life, which also helps the book read quicker.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher.
May 20, 2018
The Fun Formula doesn't lay out an exact equation to have fun in business as you may suspect from the title. There are no step-by-step instructions. Instead, Joel lays out a vision for finding YOUR fun in business and chasing it. He illustrates his point with lessons learned through his career in the online world.
There were many valuable lessons, but maybe my favorite part was hearing Joel's stories of how he made a living online. He started in the '90s people! He was in at ground floor when you had to code your own website or put ads on America Online.
As an entrepreneur of my own freelance business, this book left me inspired to chase the fun in my personal and professional life. You never know where chasing the fun will lead. And even if it ends in failure, you will have had fun!
Some of my favorite quotes:
"I've discovered the more organic the unfolding of my businesses, the more likely I am to succeed in them and have a happier life along the way."
"You can't engineer serendipity, but you can create an environment that lends itself to things happening...I call it 'showing up.'"
"You'll know you're on the right track when you don't just start seeing success at turning your hobby into a profession but when you also feel embarrassed about that success."
"I've discovered that relationships forged and discussions in the hallway are infinitely more valuable to me than whatever I learn in seminars."
"Wealth and power are the unstated goals of a hustle and grind lifestyle, and none of it is ultimately satisfying."
There were many valuable lessons, but maybe my favorite part was hearing Joel's stories of how he made a living online. He started in the '90s people! He was in at ground floor when you had to code your own website or put ads on America Online.
As an entrepreneur of my own freelance business, this book left me inspired to chase the fun in my personal and professional life. You never know where chasing the fun will lead. And even if it ends in failure, you will have had fun!
Some of my favorite quotes:
"I've discovered the more organic the unfolding of my businesses, the more likely I am to succeed in them and have a happier life along the way."
"You can't engineer serendipity, but you can create an environment that lends itself to things happening...I call it 'showing up.'"
"You'll know you're on the right track when you don't just start seeing success at turning your hobby into a profession but when you also feel embarrassed about that success."
"I've discovered that relationships forged and discussions in the hallway are infinitely more valuable to me than whatever I learn in seminars."
"Wealth and power are the unstated goals of a hustle and grind lifestyle, and none of it is ultimately satisfying."
December 15, 2018
Thank you Thomas Nelson and Netgalley for an ARC of this book.
This book was a great inspiration for me to help find more enjoyment in my working life. I particularly enjoyed the case stories throughout the book I would use this book to dip in and out of as a pick me up for inspiration in the future.
This book was a great inspiration for me to help find more enjoyment in my working life. I particularly enjoyed the case stories throughout the book I would use this book to dip in and out of as a pick me up for inspiration in the future.
June 5, 2018
Joel reminds us all in this book that work CAN and SHOULD be fun! Your passions can coexist with your work and together they will create JOY in your life. Working smarter, not harder, is not a crime. An uplifting and often needed reminder that we don’t have to “hustle and grind” our lives away to make our dreams come true.
July 17, 2019
I had so much fun reading THE FUN FORMULA and thinking about applying its helpful concepts to my writing life. New York Times bestselling author and social media entrepreneur Joel Comm shares the secret to his biz success, which is not to put one’s nose to the grindstone but to have fun while working and in life. Just Google Joel and his photos show a truly happy guy. He walks the talk!
Comm recommends pursuing passionate interests, the things we are most curious about, and those activities that bring us the most pleasure. In doing so, we have the best chance to produce dramatic results, he says, because we are naturally engaged. He also shares lively examples from his life and that of others to inspire change in thought and routine to advance us toward lives we’ll love. Highly recommended!
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are fully mine.
#TheFunFormula #NetGalley
Comm recommends pursuing passionate interests, the things we are most curious about, and those activities that bring us the most pleasure. In doing so, we have the best chance to produce dramatic results, he says, because we are naturally engaged. He also shares lively examples from his life and that of others to inspire change in thought and routine to advance us toward lives we’ll love. Highly recommended!
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are fully mine.
#TheFunFormula #NetGalley
June 11, 2018
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
It was just okay, honestly. I think it applies to a select group rather than every individual (people who work online). I can’t say I gleaned much, or would necessarily recommend it.
It was just okay, honestly. I think it applies to a select group rather than every individual (people who work online). I can’t say I gleaned much, or would necessarily recommend it.
June 5, 2018
I just started reading The Fun Formula by Joel Comm and I've already started taking notes right from the intro! I know I'm going to love it and be inspired with new ideas for my business.
I learned a few years ago that life is short and decided after going through a challenging time in our family life that if "It" isn't fun, I'm not going to do "It". It, can stand for anything that causes you grief to even think about. That motto has served me well in finding my passion and striving to make a living, doing what I love so I don't work a day in my life.
I've followed Joel for many years, I've had the opportunity to hear him speak at a couple of events and love his style. Joel truly does have fun with his work and is someone I would highly recommend listening to and following.
As an entrepreneur and a lifetime learner I'm always open for new and current information on topics that resonate and who doesn't want to have FUN!
Joel is doing it right! If this title resonates with you at all, you can't go wrong. Step out of your comfort zone and take action!
The Fun Formula: How Curiosity, Risk-Taking, and Serendipity Can Revolutionize How You Work
I learned a few years ago that life is short and decided after going through a challenging time in our family life that if "It" isn't fun, I'm not going to do "It". It, can stand for anything that causes you grief to even think about. That motto has served me well in finding my passion and striving to make a living, doing what I love so I don't work a day in my life.
I've followed Joel for many years, I've had the opportunity to hear him speak at a couple of events and love his style. Joel truly does have fun with his work and is someone I would highly recommend listening to and following.
As an entrepreneur and a lifetime learner I'm always open for new and current information on topics that resonate and who doesn't want to have FUN!
Joel is doing it right! If this title resonates with you at all, you can't go wrong. Step out of your comfort zone and take action!
The Fun Formula: How Curiosity, Risk-Taking, and Serendipity Can Revolutionize How You Work
June 5, 2018
"JOEL COMM is the epitome of the adage "Growing Old is Mandatory... But Growing Up is Optional". He has the uncanny ability to add a sense of fun into everything he does and embodies the philosophy that "If You Do What You Love... You Never Work a Day in Your Life". His constant thirst for excitement and adventure into new frontiers is what keeps him on the forefront of all the most cutting edge trends and technology. His unconventional, out-of -the-box thinking is also why he was selected to be inducted into the prestigious "Guerrilla Marketing Hall of Fame" in 2017. Joel's newest book, "The Fun Formula" takes the reader on a wild roller coaster ride of ideas on how to add a spark of childlike enthusiasm and creativity into your daily quest to conquer the world. Joel's book is a must read for every Entrepreneur...come play in his Sandbox!"
Jeannie Levinson, Co- Founder; CEO
Guerrilla Marketing International
www.gmarketing.com
Jeannie Levinson, Co- Founder; CEO
Guerrilla Marketing International
www.gmarketing.com
June 8, 2018
Joel Comm takes you through his life journey and shares his experiences. Once I started reading, I couldn't put the book down.
After loosing my husband several years ago, I felt stuck in a job of 20 plus years. My stress and anxiety were intensified by the increasing uncertainty in my career, and the unpredictability of events. I felt stuck and paralyzed by the future. My job no longer provides satisfaction, has never been fun. Joel said " WHEN I'VE HAD THE MOST FUN, I'VE HAD THE MOST SUCCESS".
After reading Comm's book, it has given me approval to take a chance and do something I always wanted to do, open a food truck business. I had this idea in my head since the early 80's and fear held me back. I started exploring the possibilities, researching and seeing where I needed to start. I am believing in myself and want more fun in my life. " YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT’S GOING TO HAPPEN WHEN YOU PUT YOURSELF OUT THERE". I am truly excited about my future.
After loosing my husband several years ago, I felt stuck in a job of 20 plus years. My stress and anxiety were intensified by the increasing uncertainty in my career, and the unpredictability of events. I felt stuck and paralyzed by the future. My job no longer provides satisfaction, has never been fun. Joel said " WHEN I'VE HAD THE MOST FUN, I'VE HAD THE MOST SUCCESS".
After reading Comm's book, it has given me approval to take a chance and do something I always wanted to do, open a food truck business. I had this idea in my head since the early 80's and fear held me back. I started exploring the possibilities, researching and seeing where I needed to start. I am believing in myself and want more fun in my life. " YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT’S GOING TO HAPPEN WHEN YOU PUT YOURSELF OUT THERE". I am truly excited about my future.
June 10, 2018
"When you follow your passion, magic can happen." This is just one of the many awesome quotes in this book. This was such a fun and informational read! The author uses his own real-life successes and failures to convey how it is possible to live a life we love, especially in our professions! He uses many examples of other successful people, as well, including professional bloggers, lawyers, publishers, even a twelve-year old entrepreneur. I am thankful to have received a digital arc from the publisher, but I plan to order a copy so I can go back and highlight sections of the book because there were so many nuggets in there that will be helpful in my own quests in this life. This book came at a time when I was starting to wonder if I would ever find a job I love. There is hope and Joel Comm lit the fire!
November 17, 2019
When I finished the book, I felt that it was full of motivational statements, yet I find that I highlighted more of the book than I had realized. The author is encouraging and motivating about seeking fun and taking risks is essential to making the best use of your life while you can. I found that his audience is likely entrepreneurs and "creatives" that may respond more to his anecdotes and experiences with social media and creating new enterprises. In contrast to books that focus on having five and 10-year plans, the author believes that life is too unpredictable and that serendipity can work in your favor. This book fits an American audience where there are ample business opportunities and flexible labor markets. I think the author has some good points, but I was less impressed with his supporting stories.
June 3, 2018
Working hard or smart? Professional life and private life- how to find a balance? If you are burned out or just looking for some good advice- this book is for you! The author describes in a simple way how to work more effectively and having a lot of fun at the same time. Joel Comm uses other people's experiences as well as his own. I received an advanced copy from the publisher and still reading it. The book gripped me and I keep turning the pages. The Fun quote I like the most is " Change can be tough , even if it takes you where you want to go". Many years ago I made the biggest change in my professional life, it was a new country, a big risk but now I can say with a smile that I did the right thing ' cos my work is my passion. This is my honest review.
June 12, 2018
I loved this book! I can be a creature of habit and uncertainty scares me but Joel gave such a new and fresh perspective on change. It also opened my eyes to how much I let other people affect my decisions.
In a world that can be heavy Joel brought a message of FUN and LIGHT! I received an advanced reader copy and it was just what I needed!
Can’t wait to share it with my Entrepreneur friends who are struggling with the hustle!
In a world that can be heavy Joel brought a message of FUN and LIGHT! I received an advanced reader copy and it was just what I needed!
Can’t wait to share it with my Entrepreneur friends who are struggling with the hustle!
August 22, 2018
I enjoyed reading this work by Joel Comm mostly because he reminded me of how to really enjoy what it is I'm doing. While some tasks may seem monotonous, Comm gave simple, practical steps to making those tasks fun-seeing them as stepping stones to something more exciting. Comm reminds readers that by doing something that brings joy to life, it certainly doesn't feel like work at all.
I received an Advanced Reader's Copy from the Publisher.
I received an Advanced Reader's Copy from the Publisher.
June 16, 2018
If you're looking for advice on how to balance work & life this is the book for you! I have been lucky enough to have received an advance copy of Joel Comm's The Fun Formula in exchange for my honest review. Granted I haven't yet completed the whole book yet (check back for updated completed review SOON). ***Don't forget to pick up a copy in a store near you, avail Tuesday June 5, ****
August 30, 2019
Check out my interview with Joel Comm here!
www.closemindedpodcast.com/9
This is a fun little book about seeing and taking opportunities to find work at the intersection of your interests and skills, rather than slowly waste away in unfulfillment—as too many people do.
www.closemindedpodcast.com/9
This is a fun little book about seeing and taking opportunities to find work at the intersection of your interests and skills, rather than slowly waste away in unfulfillment—as too many people do.
January 2, 2021
Finished the first book of 2021 I saw this book at Mardels yesterday and had to devour it!! Engage in curiosity, risk taking, and serendipity to do your greatest works!! Love what you do and pursue what brings the greatest joy! Allow shifts to happen to evolve into your greatest works! #SeenKnownLoved
June 6, 2018
Is your work something your passionate about? Are you enjoying what you do in life? This book opens your mind to the possibility that the two can come together as one.
Worth reading.
Life is to short to now enjoy your life and your work.
Worth reading.
Life is to short to now enjoy your life and your work.
June 20, 2018
I was encouraged by Joel’s approach to looking to your passions, curiosity and joys as an inroad to for finding success in your life. The difficulty I had with the book lay in the fact that, financially I can’t just drop this sure thing to pursue my passions - I’ve got a family to provide for.
November 20, 2020
Very good book. I saw Joel talk at Social Media Day Denver and then picked up the book. It was very good. Lots of good tips in here for getting out the rat race and bringing more fun into your life. It's kind of a philosophy book but much more light hearted.
July 8, 2018
"The Fun Factor" is Stevo's Business Book of the Week for the week of 7/8, as selected by Stevo's Book Reviews on the Internet.
August 3, 2018
It’s fun, easy to read with some stories that can help you to understand about the context of the books. Joel tries to make this book fun to read ;) I enjoy reading this book. Thank you 👍👍
November 28, 2018
Great Book
February 3, 2019
A out of world book to see work as fun or fun as work
June 12, 2019
Sprinkled with good ideas here and there
August 30, 2019
Loved this book!! It lived up to its name. Will implement the things they suggested
Read
January 24, 2020This book felt like a sit down with a good friend, where you chat about work related challenges and experiences, and as a matter of fact, I enjoyed it.
November 12, 2020
This is a book that easy to read. The book is all about to look in positive ways, fun ways. It got me new perspectives to live the way i live easily, positively.
May 22, 2023
Fun to listen to, interesting. But really not much takeaway.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews