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Câu Cá Trên Trời - Cách biến những điều không thể thành có thể
Công việc của Steve Sims là hiện thực hóa những điều không tưởng. Dù bạn muốn tổ chức đám cưới tại Vatican, đi tham quan xác tàu Titanic hay trở thành James Bond, ông đều có thể thực hiện nó cho bạn.
Trong cuốn sách này, Steve Sims sẽ tiết lộ những bí mật đã tạo nên thành công của mình, cách ông đã biến những điều tưởng chừng không thể thành hiện thực. Chúng bao gồm:
Đừng tin những điều mà người ta kể cho bạn.
Hãy ích kỷ nếu bắt buộc phải như vậy.
Luôn hỏi tại sao ba lần.
…và thêm nhiều bí mật khác nữa.
Trong cuốn sách này, Steve Sims sẽ tiết lộ những bí mật đã tạo nên thành công của mình, cách ông đã biến những điều tưởng chừng không thể thành hiện thực. Chúng bao gồm:
Đừng tin những điều mà người ta kể cho bạn.
Hãy ích kỷ nếu bắt buộc phải như vậy.
Luôn hỏi tại sao ba lần.
…và thêm nhiều bí mật khác nữa.
244 pages, Paperback
First published October 17, 2017
207 people are currently reading
1697 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews
November 13, 2019
Steve Sims' Bluefishing: The Art of Making Things Happen was a quick read with some useful insights. In designing one-of-a-kind experiences for his clients, Sims stresses the importance of understanding why the client wants to have a specific experience. This same motivation, figuring out our own passions, can help us achieve our biggest dreams and goals. Is it enough to want to travel to a particular place or do we need to drill deeper to understand what it is about a specific place (perhaps an activity or association there) that can inspire us to make the trip/experience happen?
January 20, 2019
This book is more applicable to people working in the service industry. There are a lot of examples and advice on how to listen and understand customers and going above and beyond to provide them a fantastic experience. There's no magic to it. It's about hard work and creativity. For people who are willing to perform at that level would find this book inspirational. For people who aren't willing would find this book inauthentic. Both is true. When a salesperson is smiling warmly and trying to make you comfortable, it's for the job (not because he wants to become your new best friend). However, that is the type of service we all gravitate towards -- feeling special. There is also advice on keeping your energy up and surrounding yourself with the right people for a positive environment to continually give this high level of service.
May 26, 2018
Pretty much like all the other books on the subject. Nothing new covered here. The message was good and needs to be remembered but it's been covered before. I read it and it did however remind me to continue and start doing somethings that I've allowed to lapse.
May 27, 2018
This was an Audible Daily Deal and it looked slightly interesting - Steve Sims runs Bluefish, which is basically a sort of for-profit Make-A-Wish company for rich people. Tell him what your dream is (spend a night at the Playboy Mansion, sing on-stage with your favorite band, meet a celebrity) and he'll make it happen.
This book wasn't really about rich people and their crazy requests, however, and in fact, there weren't many anecdotes about Sims's actual clients at all. Instead, this is a self-help book in which Sims gives his advice for living, how to make things happen, rise above the herd, etc. etc.
Sims is clearly a dynamic personality, from a lower-class English family who was always told "Nice things aren't for people like us." And his rise from those humble beginnings, when he looked down a ladder and saw his entire family hauling bricks for a living and decided he wanted none of that, was a fairly inspirational (if generic) story.
After that, though, he just goes on about the art of "Bluefishing" and how to be a "Bluefisher." Be authentic, be genuine, only associate with people you'd chug a beer with, don't accept reasons why you can't do something, etc. And I did like his stories about how he dug into what his clients really wanted and gave it to them - like the closeted gay Wall Street broker who asked to go to the Playboy Mansion because he needed to show off his dudebro cred to his coworkers. Sims arranged for him to get receipts from the Playboy Mansion that he could show off at the office, and then sent him where he really wanted to go - a wine tour of the Napa Valley.
All told in his energetic, enthusiastic voice, and I totally believe he's the sort of guy who lives his life that way, but there's nothing really new or profound here.
So, if you want another book exhorting you to "live your best life," maybe Steve Sims's pep talk will motivate you. If you're looking for stories of crazy wish-fulfillment requests for rich people, you'll be disappointed.
This book wasn't really about rich people and their crazy requests, however, and in fact, there weren't many anecdotes about Sims's actual clients at all. Instead, this is a self-help book in which Sims gives his advice for living, how to make things happen, rise above the herd, etc. etc.
Sims is clearly a dynamic personality, from a lower-class English family who was always told "Nice things aren't for people like us." And his rise from those humble beginnings, when he looked down a ladder and saw his entire family hauling bricks for a living and decided he wanted none of that, was a fairly inspirational (if generic) story.
After that, though, he just goes on about the art of "Bluefishing" and how to be a "Bluefisher." Be authentic, be genuine, only associate with people you'd chug a beer with, don't accept reasons why you can't do something, etc. And I did like his stories about how he dug into what his clients really wanted and gave it to them - like the closeted gay Wall Street broker who asked to go to the Playboy Mansion because he needed to show off his dudebro cred to his coworkers. Sims arranged for him to get receipts from the Playboy Mansion that he could show off at the office, and then sent him where he really wanted to go - a wine tour of the Napa Valley.
All told in his energetic, enthusiastic voice, and I totally believe he's the sort of guy who lives his life that way, but there's nothing really new or profound here.
So, if you want another book exhorting you to "live your best life," maybe Steve Sims's pep talk will motivate you. If you're looking for stories of crazy wish-fulfillment requests for rich people, you'll be disappointed.
June 5, 2020
I like the idea of this book. If you want to be successful, you need to make things happen. The book shows you how to do it. Strongly recommended.
May 29, 2018
What is bluefishing? I think it's mostly just being confident and optimistic and not being a total jerk to people. I really can't understand how this is supposed to apply to my life or anyone else who doesn't work in the "bluefishing" industry, which as I understand it is just having clients who pay you to make stuff happen for them? I don't know.
October 16, 2019
There are those books that immediately resonate with you.
Maybe it's because the message is clear, it's about standing out and being different or it's about being relentless in your quest and passion.
Whatever it was, I listened to about 45 minutes of this book on a walk and when I returned home, I bought the physical copy as I can see my self highlighting the shit out of it and reading it again.
A quick listen/read but super enjoyable and is a great kick-starter to get your mindset to crush 2020 goals.
Favourite Quote: “No one ever drowned from falling in water. They drowned from staying there.”
Mr. Sims Sr.
Maybe it's because the message is clear, it's about standing out and being different or it's about being relentless in your quest and passion.
Whatever it was, I listened to about 45 minutes of this book on a walk and when I returned home, I bought the physical copy as I can see my self highlighting the shit out of it and reading it again.
A quick listen/read but super enjoyable and is a great kick-starter to get your mindset to crush 2020 goals.
Favourite Quote: “No one ever drowned from falling in water. They drowned from staying there.”
Mr. Sims Sr.
May 3, 2021
Stuck in a rut? Bluefishing by Steve Sims will get you out of it quickly. This very quick read will get your batteries charged and make you reflect on how you see life’s daily challenges.
Like most books that fit this genre, this one sticks. It forces you to ask questions, turn the page on negativity, and reevaluate your self worth.
I didn’t know what to expect in picking up this title, but in the end, I can easily see myself picking this up again to review the advice given. Well worth your time, and a very quick read to boot. Well done!
Like most books that fit this genre, this one sticks. It forces you to ask questions, turn the page on negativity, and reevaluate your self worth.
I didn’t know what to expect in picking up this title, but in the end, I can easily see myself picking this up again to review the advice given. Well worth your time, and a very quick read to boot. Well done!
May 11, 2023
I don’t know what this book wanted to be. At its best it’s a collection of fun stories and tips from a guy who worked his ass off to go from being a bricklayer to a sort of concierge for the rich and famous.
At its worst it’s kind of a vague series of stories without a lot of throughput or central theme. Nothing brand new here but that’s OK. Still entertaining.
At its worst it’s kind of a vague series of stories without a lot of throughput or central theme. Nothing brand new here but that’s OK. Still entertaining.
February 7, 2020
This book weaves together things I've read from books on marketing, business, persuasion, and social networking. The author explains how he started his company, a for-profit Make A Wish Foundation-type company for wealthy adults (example: clients ask for Playboy mansion tours, VIP tours of top vineyards, on stage performances with dream bands). This company relies on an extensive network. He discusses how he genuinely maintains his network and how to get to the core of a client's desire even if they're not communicating it up front, the latter of which is core of excellent marketing. This book throws a lot at you, in a good way.
Other top takeaways: Don’t be afraid of change, be afraid of standing still. The worst thing that can happen is to be in the exact same spot you are now, one year from now.
Put the time into what matters. Delegate and self audit ruthless: your relationships, your tasks, your projects. It's the only way to make sure you work on what's more critical.
One lesson I'd only heard from my favorite author Ramit Sethi: throw down internal boundaries, especially the ones that limit you and your knowledge. If you want to know what it's like to drive a Ferrari, rent one! You never thought you're the type who belongs in a top of the line hotel? Why not at least walk in, experience it, ask to see a room or go to the hotel restaurant? Now you'll be the type of person who can discuss what's the best drink/meal there, you'll know what it looks like. No experience is completely inaccessible to you. You'll never unlearn it or un-experience it. Be a sponge, especially for what gets you excited.
Other top takeaways: Don’t be afraid of change, be afraid of standing still. The worst thing that can happen is to be in the exact same spot you are now, one year from now.
Put the time into what matters. Delegate and self audit ruthless: your relationships, your tasks, your projects. It's the only way to make sure you work on what's more critical.
One lesson I'd only heard from my favorite author Ramit Sethi: throw down internal boundaries, especially the ones that limit you and your knowledge. If you want to know what it's like to drive a Ferrari, rent one! You never thought you're the type who belongs in a top of the line hotel? Why not at least walk in, experience it, ask to see a room or go to the hotel restaurant? Now you'll be the type of person who can discuss what's the best drink/meal there, you'll know what it looks like. No experience is completely inaccessible to you. You'll never unlearn it or un-experience it. Be a sponge, especially for what gets you excited.
December 30, 2020
A lot of whats inside has been told by other bestsellers. That said, I did found some great insights on the correct mindset to make the impossible happen. I found a few great rules when dealing with a client business, such as always overdeliver, small gifts go a LONG way, etc. Overall I enjoyed this book a ton.
May 24, 2019
In Business or in Life—you NEED this book!
My Full Review
My Full Review
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March 28, 2023Don’t judge me I had to read this for work
September 19, 2020
Practicle advice that works if you just take action
September 7, 2020
A great short book that gets you motivated to get after life! This is for anyone who needs a quick pick me up and confidence boost!
https://jsilva.blog/2019/06/20/bluefi...
Read the summary or reread the book if you need some classic go-getter motivation.
https://jsilva.blog/2019/06/20/bluefi...
Read the summary or reread the book if you need some classic go-getter motivation.
August 14, 2021
I surprised myself with how much I enjoyed this. I picked it up thinking it was going to be mostly memoir, but it wound up being pretty self-helpy. I stuck with it, and though it was definitely written for someone who self-describes as an entrepreneur, it wasn't too gimmicky.
Steve Sims has a pretty interesting life story, and he drops a lot of anecdotes in tandem with the business advice. And although it's decisively packaged as business advice, a lot of it can be applied to our personal lives.
To give you the quickest sense of what it's like - everything he talks about is driven by two key ideals: passion and relationships. Focus on work your passionate about, and do it with people you want to be around. It's not groundbreaking in it's insight, but it's a good, clear reminder of what we should be looking for as we curate our lives.
Steve Sims has a pretty interesting life story, and he drops a lot of anecdotes in tandem with the business advice. And although it's decisively packaged as business advice, a lot of it can be applied to our personal lives.
To give you the quickest sense of what it's like - everything he talks about is driven by two key ideals: passion and relationships. Focus on work your passionate about, and do it with people you want to be around. It's not groundbreaking in it's insight, but it's a good, clear reminder of what we should be looking for as we curate our lives.
March 28, 2020
*Audio book version * A nice short easy listen/read. Packed with great little business gems. It's a great focus on truly serving your customers and clients, especially in unique ways. Steve gets us to go the extra mile and do a little extra for our clients in really cool, memorable ways.
It's not cookie cutter, its not ordinary or average, its blue fishing.
Fun stories and the eccentric accent and attitude of Steve doesnt hurt either.
It's not cookie cutter, its not ordinary or average, its blue fishing.
Fun stories and the eccentric accent and attitude of Steve doesnt hurt either.
January 28, 2023
There are some great reminders in this book. It's a fairly fast read with some good take aways. I did find some of the recap points a little disjointed from the actual content and you definitely have to be willing to ignore the authors ego at times, but all in all I would recommend it. I liked the focus on being willing to take action and fail and the lessons about personalizing your relationships and communications.
February 22, 2022
Bummer I haven't met Steve (yet) as I'd enjoy a beer with him and getting a chance to hear his stories. Cool he's one to help others find their true passion and get to enjoy experiences that without him are just dreams and goals.
June 5, 2020
This book pushes you to the limit to face your biggest challenges. This was an amazing book that made me realize that you can truly do anything that you put your mind to
May 13, 2021
If I ever see this guy across the street I'll cross the street and have a non alcoholic drink with him!
What my 👂 heard ⤵️
it's less method and more mindset
no one ever drowned from falling in the water they drown from staying there
rich people in my Rolodex
people don't want what they can afford they want what they can't get
they want adrenaline
don't be easy to understand be impossible to misunderstand
it's not going to happen if it benefits only you
we work for win-win every time
experience beats the cash every time
I don't know what fuel you need in your engine to really move you
I don't know what river you have to pan to find your passion
if there's no passion there's no point
most of our communication is often said somewhere between the lines.. drill down for it
failure is just more discovery
it's not about your IQ it's about your I can
Walt Disney got turned down over 300 times while seeking financing for Disneyland
Colonel Sanders was turned down 1,000 times
a lot of people have a lot of dollars and no wealth
be fearful than an exactly one month you will be in the same place you are right now
those experiences can define you or you can grow from them
the things that happened to you are not your obituary
my wealth is simply that I am me
do you lie to people to sound more interesting?
he couldn't see the meaningless in it
you can have 10 million followers but only need 10 to be rich
you'll never be able to pay your bar tab with Facebook likes
the more you bring it to your life the more you dilute what you're doing
the residue from that negativity affects you for the rest of your day
when there's more effort than good times you know it's wrong
don't let anyone waste one minute of your life you can't get it back
I can't not without seismic consequences
people always want what other people want
the two of us are strangers having a forgettable exchange
you can't afford to be only business now with social media
I can't put my finger on the emptiness
if your too busy taking to strangers you cant make time for your friends
I'm the magical golddust you need
buy something that enchances what they already have if they collect diamonds get a inexpensive kit that tells how to grade them
if communication isnt personal it isn't communication
people like knowing what they know and being ignorant of what they don't know
have you gotten into rooms you didn't deserve access to?
he specializes in giving himself excuses there was an Olympic she would be the king
the twin devils of fear and embarrassment
im an idiot right now but im in this room to get just 1 percent smarter
if you can wrap passion and persistence together your invincible
sit down and have a drink with your excuses
demonstrably false
What my 👂 heard ⤵️
it's less method and more mindset
no one ever drowned from falling in the water they drown from staying there
rich people in my Rolodex
people don't want what they can afford they want what they can't get
they want adrenaline
don't be easy to understand be impossible to misunderstand
it's not going to happen if it benefits only you
we work for win-win every time
experience beats the cash every time
I don't know what fuel you need in your engine to really move you
I don't know what river you have to pan to find your passion
if there's no passion there's no point
most of our communication is often said somewhere between the lines.. drill down for it
failure is just more discovery
it's not about your IQ it's about your I can
Walt Disney got turned down over 300 times while seeking financing for Disneyland
Colonel Sanders was turned down 1,000 times
a lot of people have a lot of dollars and no wealth
be fearful than an exactly one month you will be in the same place you are right now
those experiences can define you or you can grow from them
the things that happened to you are not your obituary
my wealth is simply that I am me
do you lie to people to sound more interesting?
he couldn't see the meaningless in it
you can have 10 million followers but only need 10 to be rich
you'll never be able to pay your bar tab with Facebook likes
the more you bring it to your life the more you dilute what you're doing
the residue from that negativity affects you for the rest of your day
when there's more effort than good times you know it's wrong
don't let anyone waste one minute of your life you can't get it back
I can't not without seismic consequences
people always want what other people want
the two of us are strangers having a forgettable exchange
you can't afford to be only business now with social media
I can't put my finger on the emptiness
if your too busy taking to strangers you cant make time for your friends
I'm the magical golddust you need
buy something that enchances what they already have if they collect diamonds get a inexpensive kit that tells how to grade them
if communication isnt personal it isn't communication
people like knowing what they know and being ignorant of what they don't know
have you gotten into rooms you didn't deserve access to?
he specializes in giving himself excuses there was an Olympic she would be the king
the twin devils of fear and embarrassment
im an idiot right now but im in this room to get just 1 percent smarter
if you can wrap passion and persistence together your invincible
sit down and have a drink with your excuses
demonstrably false
May 30, 2024
A couple thoughts:
It’s hard to digest something when it’s filled with so many disparate, valuable nuggets of wisdom. But, the idea that everything has to be a win-win in order to happen, stuck with me. And, the fact that I can get creative with making it a win for somebody else. I also remember a sentiment along the lines of.. make people believe their opinion is what matters most to you. Not 100% sure how to do that, but it rings true. That’s interest in people, showing them the beauty in themselves, and maybe it involves getting down to their real passion with 3+ why’s, because that is truly valuable.
And my favorite nuggets:
“Never underestimate the power of simplicity. Don’t be easy to understand; be impossible to misunderstand.”
“No one ever drowned from falling in the water, they drown from staying there.”
“Nothing is ever going to happen if it benefits only you, work for win-win every time.”
“Ask “why?” at least three times. The first why is what they think they think. The second “why” is what they think you want to hear. The third “why” is what they feel.”
“Great is not a goal you can see. If you want to make your business great, first work to make it better than it was yesterday.”
“Get the right people to say the right things about you. That is marketing in a nutshell.”
“Do a self-audit. Because things don’t automatically get better. Take an honest look at your strengths and weaknesses. Invest in the strengths, and see what weaknesses you need to remove.”
“How do you walk into a room? Personal branding is figuring out your core persona, who you are, not who they want you to be.”
“Take money out of the equation, if you can. When you can take money out of the equation, you get to act based on principle.”
“When you do something, or give something, make sure you can honestly say I did this for you.”
It’s hard to digest something when it’s filled with so many disparate, valuable nuggets of wisdom. But, the idea that everything has to be a win-win in order to happen, stuck with me. And, the fact that I can get creative with making it a win for somebody else. I also remember a sentiment along the lines of.. make people believe their opinion is what matters most to you. Not 100% sure how to do that, but it rings true. That’s interest in people, showing them the beauty in themselves, and maybe it involves getting down to their real passion with 3+ why’s, because that is truly valuable.
And my favorite nuggets:
“Never underestimate the power of simplicity. Don’t be easy to understand; be impossible to misunderstand.”
“No one ever drowned from falling in the water, they drown from staying there.”
“Nothing is ever going to happen if it benefits only you, work for win-win every time.”
“Ask “why?” at least three times. The first why is what they think they think. The second “why” is what they think you want to hear. The third “why” is what they feel.”
“Great is not a goal you can see. If you want to make your business great, first work to make it better than it was yesterday.”
“Get the right people to say the right things about you. That is marketing in a nutshell.”
“Do a self-audit. Because things don’t automatically get better. Take an honest look at your strengths and weaknesses. Invest in the strengths, and see what weaknesses you need to remove.”
“How do you walk into a room? Personal branding is figuring out your core persona, who you are, not who they want you to be.”
“Take money out of the equation, if you can. When you can take money out of the equation, you get to act based on principle.”
“When you do something, or give something, make sure you can honestly say I did this for you.”
January 26, 2020
The most interesting thing about this book was the background story of the author, Steve Sims, a British blue-collar fellow that went from bricklaying in England and working as a bouncer in Hong Kong, to starting his own company as a sort of specialized 'events-planner', though Sims himself states towards the end of the book that he detests that kind of characterization of what he does.
The reason why it's difficult to label Sims is, sort of like Sherlock Holmes, who invented the job of "Consulting Detective" (to which he was the only one), Sims is sort of the only one of his kind, perhaps a "Consulting Networker"? His company "Bluefishing" aims to make 'people's dreams come true' (for a price). Whether that be to meet a celebrity, get into an exclusive event/club, or something even more exotic, he claims to be able to help his client achieve most whatever they would want.
How he got his job is sort of the subject of the book, as he claims to impart the knowledge of he became his role, which is simply, to get things done. What's the secret? Mostly treat others with sincerity, and don't be afraid to feel uncomfortable. The book is certainly more than that, but not that much more, and a though Sim's story is interesting, I suspect those looking for something substantive to improve their networking capability in-career are likely to be disappointed.
Like with many other business-y self-help books, this is another in a long line of 'pep'/'upper' readings, mostly designed to hype you up to get something done. If that's what you want, the 3 hour running time fits perfectly as a quick booster. If that's not what you're looking for, look elsewhere. Conditional recommend.
The reason why it's difficult to label Sims is, sort of like Sherlock Holmes, who invented the job of "Consulting Detective" (to which he was the only one), Sims is sort of the only one of his kind, perhaps a "Consulting Networker"? His company "Bluefishing" aims to make 'people's dreams come true' (for a price). Whether that be to meet a celebrity, get into an exclusive event/club, or something even more exotic, he claims to be able to help his client achieve most whatever they would want.
How he got his job is sort of the subject of the book, as he claims to impart the knowledge of he became his role, which is simply, to get things done. What's the secret? Mostly treat others with sincerity, and don't be afraid to feel uncomfortable. The book is certainly more than that, but not that much more, and a though Sim's story is interesting, I suspect those looking for something substantive to improve their networking capability in-career are likely to be disappointed.
Like with many other business-y self-help books, this is another in a long line of 'pep'/'upper' readings, mostly designed to hype you up to get something done. If that's what you want, the 3 hour running time fits perfectly as a quick booster. If that's not what you're looking for, look elsewhere. Conditional recommend.
December 13, 2020
What a great book, to imagine all these years I have wondered what to call the behavior that is represented in my lack of Pentagon Walk.
Steve uses a perfect example of what I used the very first time the President gave "back" tax incentives to stimulate the economy. I used it as an example of impact for my University class. Asking the adult students what they will do with the $350ish its been along time now but I used the purchase of a VHS/DVD player example for the family verses just paying bills. The Bills will always be there but use the money to mark the event and show your family you support them in their desires.
I completely agree with all Steve has said so much so its as if I wrote the book including the nagging from friends to write the books. Perhaps I need a career change, but really wouldn't it be nice to have someone around who cared about making what you desire happen...
Yes read this book because there are people whose life purpose is to make your desire come true, yes of course there is a cost but as I tell my brother make sure with all you do you tack on "A favor".
Great Job Steve, Now I will wait for you to write the book about that salesman who didn't leave waiting for the questions "template" used to make sure that you create protection boundaries. If we make sure you over encourage participation we know for sure they will not. People do not want anything for free or a reduced price because then it just won't be the same they want the most expensive and are willing to pay just to keep that imagine... keep up with those Jones People.
I am looking forward to your Podcast.
Steve uses a perfect example of what I used the very first time the President gave "back" tax incentives to stimulate the economy. I used it as an example of impact for my University class. Asking the adult students what they will do with the $350ish its been along time now but I used the purchase of a VHS/DVD player example for the family verses just paying bills. The Bills will always be there but use the money to mark the event and show your family you support them in their desires.
I completely agree with all Steve has said so much so its as if I wrote the book including the nagging from friends to write the books. Perhaps I need a career change, but really wouldn't it be nice to have someone around who cared about making what you desire happen...
Yes read this book because there are people whose life purpose is to make your desire come true, yes of course there is a cost but as I tell my brother make sure with all you do you tack on "A favor".
Great Job Steve, Now I will wait for you to write the book about that salesman who didn't leave waiting for the questions "template" used to make sure that you create protection boundaries. If we make sure you over encourage participation we know for sure they will not. People do not want anything for free or a reduced price because then it just won't be the same they want the most expensive and are willing to pay just to keep that imagine... keep up with those Jones People.
I am looking forward to your Podcast.
August 10, 2023
Takeaways from this great book.
Throw away the "That could never be me" mentality. Instead, ask, "Why couldn't it?"
No one ever drowned from falling in the water. They drowned from staying there. Don't be afraid to jump Bluefisher (The author’s name for high achievers). Be afraid of standing still.
Avoid Analysis paralysis. While other people are planning things to an early death, Bluefishers have already tried something four different ways and learned what works.
Nothing's ever going to happen if it benefits only you. Work for a win-win every time.
The experience beats the cash every time. Cash gets spent and forgotten—an experience you can give to someone sticks forever.
Failure is just an education in what not to do. For every failure, you're learning. Take pride in your scars.
What people think about you is just their perception; it's not a fact about you.
It's not about your IQ. It's about your I can.
How do you walk into a room? Personal branding is not marketing and Twitter followers. It's figuring out your core persona. Who you are, not who they want you to be.
Master the courage to say no: Remember, the more you bring into your life, the more you dilute what you can do well.
Get the right people to say the right things about you. That's marketing in a nutshell.
Dont let technology set the rules for your communication. If you hide behind the emails and tweets, no one will ever hear you.
Enter sponge Mode as often as possible. Walk into a room to learn something new and say: "Hey, I'm an idiot right now, but I'm here to get just one percent smarter"
Someday doesn't mean anything. Never plan for someday. Today is what matters.
Throw away the "That could never be me" mentality. Instead, ask, "Why couldn't it?"
No one ever drowned from falling in the water. They drowned from staying there. Don't be afraid to jump Bluefisher (The author’s name for high achievers). Be afraid of standing still.
Avoid Analysis paralysis. While other people are planning things to an early death, Bluefishers have already tried something four different ways and learned what works.
Nothing's ever going to happen if it benefits only you. Work for a win-win every time.
The experience beats the cash every time. Cash gets spent and forgotten—an experience you can give to someone sticks forever.
Failure is just an education in what not to do. For every failure, you're learning. Take pride in your scars.
What people think about you is just their perception; it's not a fact about you.
It's not about your IQ. It's about your I can.
How do you walk into a room? Personal branding is not marketing and Twitter followers. It's figuring out your core persona. Who you are, not who they want you to be.
Master the courage to say no: Remember, the more you bring into your life, the more you dilute what you can do well.
Get the right people to say the right things about you. That's marketing in a nutshell.
Dont let technology set the rules for your communication. If you hide behind the emails and tweets, no one will ever hear you.
Enter sponge Mode as often as possible. Walk into a room to learn something new and say: "Hey, I'm an idiot right now, but I'm here to get just one percent smarter"
Someday doesn't mean anything. Never plan for someday. Today is what matters.
July 2, 2018
This is a fluffy, but enjoyable book.
If you've read a good number of other "secrets to success" books, you probably won't learn that much new here, but you'll probably still enjoy it.
Just to summarize, Steve Sims is a "concierge to the rich". He helps really rich people have exclusive experiences like "Training with the Navy Seals" or "Watching Formula 1 in Monaco with royalty". Basically helping them to live out their wildest fantasies as long as they can pay.
He doesn't go into too much detail on EXACTLY how this works, but here a couple of things he mentions:
(1) Make it a win-win transaction. He gives an example of a client who wanted to meet his favorite band. He found out that both his client and the band leader had children with autism, so he arranged for both of them to perform at a charity event for autism. Clever! (not being sarcastic!)
(2) Leverage connections. Another client wanted to meet Andrea Bocelli. So he talked to his friends at the Vatican who called someone close to Bocelli and vouched for him and that made it work.
But the bulk of the book is more general and inspirational, but probably stuff that is not new to most people:
-Be persistent
-Find your passion
-Be authentic, don't be afraid to "be ugly"
-Embrace discomfort
-Don't be afraid to take time to recharge, even when under pressure
So if you like these sort of books and you're looking for a light read you'll probably enjoy it.
If you've read a good number of other "secrets to success" books, you probably won't learn that much new here, but you'll probably still enjoy it.
Just to summarize, Steve Sims is a "concierge to the rich". He helps really rich people have exclusive experiences like "Training with the Navy Seals" or "Watching Formula 1 in Monaco with royalty". Basically helping them to live out their wildest fantasies as long as they can pay.
He doesn't go into too much detail on EXACTLY how this works, but here a couple of things he mentions:
(1) Make it a win-win transaction. He gives an example of a client who wanted to meet his favorite band. He found out that both his client and the band leader had children with autism, so he arranged for both of them to perform at a charity event for autism. Clever! (not being sarcastic!)
(2) Leverage connections. Another client wanted to meet Andrea Bocelli. So he talked to his friends at the Vatican who called someone close to Bocelli and vouched for him and that made it work.
But the bulk of the book is more general and inspirational, but probably stuff that is not new to most people:
-Be persistent
-Find your passion
-Be authentic, don't be afraid to "be ugly"
-Embrace discomfort
-Don't be afraid to take time to recharge, even when under pressure
So if you like these sort of books and you're looking for a light read you'll probably enjoy it.
August 8, 2020
An Insightful Personal Development and Business Book
In the opening pages of BLUEFISHING, Steve Sims tells his personal story about laying bricks as a teen in East London. Then he makes a different choice with his life and now runs a business called Bluefishing to make the dreams and desires of others come true. The result is a careful balance of storytelling, how-to information and insightful personal development for every reader.
The stories in this book and the personal application made reading this book a remarkable experience. Each chapter ends with “Secrets from the Bluefishing Playbook” which summarizes the key mindset shifts from that chapter. I loved Chapter 19, Don’t Count Your Losses. If you have a bad day, take out a blank piece of paper, write those losses on one side, then turn it over and start the day fresh. Don’t let those losses or bad experiences drive your day. The subtitle of this book is true: “The Art of Making Things Happen.” Everyone should carefully read BLUEFISHING then apply it to their own lives. It’s that valuable and highly recommended.
W. Terry Whalin is an editor and the author of more than 60 books including his latest 10 Publishing Myths, Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed .
In the opening pages of BLUEFISHING, Steve Sims tells his personal story about laying bricks as a teen in East London. Then he makes a different choice with his life and now runs a business called Bluefishing to make the dreams and desires of others come true. The result is a careful balance of storytelling, how-to information and insightful personal development for every reader.
The stories in this book and the personal application made reading this book a remarkable experience. Each chapter ends with “Secrets from the Bluefishing Playbook” which summarizes the key mindset shifts from that chapter. I loved Chapter 19, Don’t Count Your Losses. If you have a bad day, take out a blank piece of paper, write those losses on one side, then turn it over and start the day fresh. Don’t let those losses or bad experiences drive your day. The subtitle of this book is true: “The Art of Making Things Happen.” Everyone should carefully read BLUEFISHING then apply it to their own lives. It’s that valuable and highly recommended.
W. Terry Whalin is an editor and the author of more than 60 books including his latest 10 Publishing Myths, Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed .
May 16, 2018
This book was a quick little read on keeping it real while getting things done, with a focus on relationships. Very down to earth guy, and I enjoyed his writing style. This is one (unconventional) business book that really held my interest. He had some noteworthy reminders such as:
“No one ever drowned from falling in water. They drowned from staying there.” (A quote from his Bricklayer father.)
“Negativity is the silent assassin that kills most people’s motivation.”
“There’s a world of noise out there. If you let technology set the rules for your communication, and if you hide behind emails, and automated drip campaigns, and scheduled Facebook posts, no one will ever hear you.”
“My fear is being in the same place - static. That’s not the nature of reality. The world’s constantly changing. You’re out of sync if you’re not changing.”
“While people are thinking about things and planning it to death, I’ve already put my shoes on and gone and done it. The Bluefishing creed is move, act, do, go. Action is everything. Learn what you don’t know, then try again.”
I checked this book out of the library, but I’m thinking maybe I need my own copy for a periodic kick-in-the-pants.
You go, Steve!
“No one ever drowned from falling in water. They drowned from staying there.” (A quote from his Bricklayer father.)
“Negativity is the silent assassin that kills most people’s motivation.”
“There’s a world of noise out there. If you let technology set the rules for your communication, and if you hide behind emails, and automated drip campaigns, and scheduled Facebook posts, no one will ever hear you.”
“My fear is being in the same place - static. That’s not the nature of reality. The world’s constantly changing. You’re out of sync if you’re not changing.”
“While people are thinking about things and planning it to death, I’ve already put my shoes on and gone and done it. The Bluefishing creed is move, act, do, go. Action is everything. Learn what you don’t know, then try again.”
I checked this book out of the library, but I’m thinking maybe I need my own copy for a periodic kick-in-the-pants.
You go, Steve!
June 7, 2018
It might not be the best book on how to motivate oneself out there, but this book feels very special to me. I love the stories. I love how every chapter feels so full of passion. It's absolutely infectuous in the best possible way.
It's a quick read with a lot of oomph in it, so I read it three times already. Just to get some of the things in this book stuck in my head, drowing out the negativness of my brain. This book made me realize that I had too many emotional and time-based vampires in my life, for example. Yeah, other books told me "get rid of people who only want stuff from you", but other books never actually made me tidy up my circle of "friends". This book did. And I feel so much better since I did.
There are tons of small hints on how to make meaningful connections with people and how to show you care about them (friends, family, but business-related, too, obviously). And most of all, I love how much passion is being repeated again and again. It struck a chord in me other books about the same topic never were able to even touch.
It's a quick read with a lot of oomph in it, so I read it three times already. Just to get some of the things in this book stuck in my head, drowing out the negativness of my brain. This book made me realize that I had too many emotional and time-based vampires in my life, for example. Yeah, other books told me "get rid of people who only want stuff from you", but other books never actually made me tidy up my circle of "friends". This book did. And I feel so much better since I did.
There are tons of small hints on how to make meaningful connections with people and how to show you care about them (friends, family, but business-related, too, obviously). And most of all, I love how much passion is being repeated again and again. It struck a chord in me other books about the same topic never were able to even touch.
November 9, 2020
Are the ideas in this book original? No. Is the format? No. The style? Yes. This book may be one of my favorites.
This is the most raw and unpolished self-help book I've read, and it is immensely refreshing. The "haul yourself up by your bootstraps" mentality is present and strong, and while I acknowledge that this mindset may not suit everyone, I recommend this book to everyone anyway.
Even though I really loved this book, I have 2 issues with it. Pace and audiobook format.
I did find the pace of the book to slow significantly by the 3/4 mark, which is a curious experience, seeing as how there is no overarching plot to give a pace, and I couldn't decipher any difference to the format.
And while the audiobook was formatted in a great way as to give plenty of breaks (facilitates finding you place or restarting the topic), I don't thinks Sims should have read the title of each chapter/ subchapter. It was distracting.
Again, one of my favorites. Sims is a pretty interesting guy with an interesting life. Very fun listen/ read.
This is the most raw and unpolished self-help book I've read, and it is immensely refreshing. The "haul yourself up by your bootstraps" mentality is present and strong, and while I acknowledge that this mindset may not suit everyone, I recommend this book to everyone anyway.
Even though I really loved this book, I have 2 issues with it. Pace and audiobook format.
I did find the pace of the book to slow significantly by the 3/4 mark, which is a curious experience, seeing as how there is no overarching plot to give a pace, and I couldn't decipher any difference to the format.
And while the audiobook was formatted in a great way as to give plenty of breaks (facilitates finding you place or restarting the topic), I don't thinks Sims should have read the title of each chapter/ subchapter. It was distracting.
Again, one of my favorites. Sims is a pretty interesting guy with an interesting life. Very fun listen/ read.
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