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Leadership Not by the Book: 12 Unconventional Principles to Drive Incredible Results
If conventional leadership wisdom is to be believed, Hobby Lobby shouldn't work. So why does it?
David Green, the founder of Hobby Lobby and an unlikely leader, grew his company from a $600 startup to a $8 billion company that gives 50 percent of its profits away to fund initiatives all over the world. He blazed his own path in business, drawn not from business gurus but from the pages of Scripture.
In this inspirational book, David Green challenges talented leaders with hearts committed to Christ to consider this What if God wants to use you to do a new, even greater work? To raise up and encourage the next generation of leaders, David Green shares 12 unconventional principles that drive Hobby Lobby. These core principles can open doors to greater success in business and life.
Whether you lead a business or a nonprofit, a small business or a multinational corporation, a start-up or a department, this book will show you how breaking the conventional "rules" of business may be the best decision you ever make.
David Green, the founder of Hobby Lobby and an unlikely leader, grew his company from a $600 startup to a $8 billion company that gives 50 percent of its profits away to fund initiatives all over the world. He blazed his own path in business, drawn not from business gurus but from the pages of Scripture.
In this inspirational book, David Green challenges talented leaders with hearts committed to Christ to consider this What if God wants to use you to do a new, even greater work? To raise up and encourage the next generation of leaders, David Green shares 12 unconventional principles that drive Hobby Lobby. These core principles can open doors to greater success in business and life.
Whether you lead a business or a nonprofit, a small business or a multinational corporation, a start-up or a department, this book will show you how breaking the conventional "rules" of business may be the best decision you ever make.
240 pages, Hardcover
Published October 18, 2022
96 people are currently reading
1724 people want to read
About the author
David Green
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
November 26, 2022
Straight Forward Yet Pulls No Punches
David Green, the founder and CEO of Hobby Lobby, writes a series of 12 unexpected principles which drive the results of his multi-million-dollar business. Each of these principles come from the Bible and Green’s faith undergirds each one. These pages provide rich insight through his personal experiences combined with practical how-to information for anyone who wants to become a better leader. I found the book a page-turning experience.
Here's an example of the practical information: In chapter twelve: Go At It With All Your Might, Not Lifelessly, Green writes, “I would have missed an opportunity to lead Hobby Lobby, I believe, if I hadn’t given myself fully to the work in front of me, whether it was sorting glass, cleaning up messes, or cutting wood to make frames. Great leaders become great by diligently pursuing whatever work gets set before them.” (Page 197)
I highly recommend LEADERSHIP NOT BY THE BOOK.
W. Terry Whalin is an editor and the author of more than 60 books including his recent 10 Publishing Myths, Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed .
David Green, the founder and CEO of Hobby Lobby, writes a series of 12 unexpected principles which drive the results of his multi-million-dollar business. Each of these principles come from the Bible and Green’s faith undergirds each one. These pages provide rich insight through his personal experiences combined with practical how-to information for anyone who wants to become a better leader. I found the book a page-turning experience.
Here's an example of the practical information: In chapter twelve: Go At It With All Your Might, Not Lifelessly, Green writes, “I would have missed an opportunity to lead Hobby Lobby, I believe, if I hadn’t given myself fully to the work in front of me, whether it was sorting glass, cleaning up messes, or cutting wood to make frames. Great leaders become great by diligently pursuing whatever work gets set before them.” (Page 197)
I highly recommend LEADERSHIP NOT BY THE BOOK.
W. Terry Whalin is an editor and the author of more than 60 books including his recent 10 Publishing Myths, Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed .
August 11, 2024
I like how he discussed the title of the book by saying he probably should have entitled it "Leadership by the Book" meaning the Bible as the book he leans on and has over the years. I do not shop at Hobby Lobby, but my wife does and enjoys being at our local store. The restrooms are clean, Christian music is playing and the employees are usually very helpful. His story of success is something that I admire from afar and applaud the decisions he and his family and leadership team has made over the years (stores close on Sunday, close at 8:00 pm, do away with Halloween stuff and the company takes out gospel advertisements several times a year that promote the Christ the Savior. It is obvious where is heart is and why he believes God has blessed their business (and helped them overcome the Obama Supreme court challenge plus survive and thrive during and after COVID). It certainly does not come from him being the smartest businessperson in the world. He has obviously been humble and knows that every good gift ultimately comes from God. I do not agree with all that he says about what has worked for his business and life (to me the devil is in the details), but I see where most of what he says makes perfect sense. And at the writing of this book still going strong at 80 years old, amazing.
June 10, 2023
The Green family has a powerful and exceptional platform with Hobby Lobby. Reading this book explains how and why they have been so blessed over the years—they’ve put the Kingdom first in everything. David carries a profound humility that comes through in the book. His perspective on stewardship and making eternal investments were deeply inspiring and challenging. He isn’t just talking the talk; he’s giving away half the profits of an $8bn company. From the cheap seats that may seem easy to do, but it is clear David is swimming hard upstream against the cultural currents of materialism and selfish indulgence. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a biblical model of how to steward the resources we’ve been given and how to align ourselves with the blessings available to us.
4.6/5.0
4.6/5.0
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December 22, 2022I enjoyed reading about some of the history and "behind the scenes" of the Hobby Lobby organization. I love Hobby Lobby's generosity in giving half of their profit away and I loved the author's continual focus on people and family over business and money. I don't run a business or plan to, and I'm not in a leadership position, but many of the principles in this book still applied to me as someone who wants to do the best I can with what I've been given by the Lord.
January 19, 2024
Loved the book.
May 14, 2024
Very encouraging Biblical business book!!!
December 28, 2022
As a believer I love his boldness to talk about his faith. I do wish he had given us more practical advice. Like the saying goes - trust God, but lock your doors.
Okay, we get it, trust God, it’s His business. Now tell me practically how that played out in a real case scenario at Hobby Lobby?
This book could’ve been a pamphlet.
I *love* his stance and his trust in God, but what he had to say could’ve been summed up in 10 pages pamphlet.
Okay, we get it, trust God, it’s His business. Now tell me practically how that played out in a real case scenario at Hobby Lobby?
This book could’ve been a pamphlet.
I *love* his stance and his trust in God, but what he had to say could’ve been summed up in 10 pages pamphlet.
November 14, 2023
This book is a wonderful read. I have never been a leader or manager in a retail organization nor a merchandise expert. However, I found David Green, the founder of and CEO of Hobby Lobby’s principles of leadership applicable to any person committed to successful leadership in his or her field. Certainly, Green primarily writes on his experience in merchandising and his must-do approach to leading a retail organization. I found that his success begins with his acknowledgement that he is not an owner but a steward. Green makes it clear saying, “When you’re an owner, wealth can easily become a curse. When you’re a steward, wealth becomes a tool.” He tells his readers that Hobby Lobby belongs to the Lord and every principle he gives he gives with scriptural references.
David Green’s focus is not on this vapor life, but on eternal life: “Hobby Lobby gives away half of its profits every year because we believe that true success is sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with as many as we can. The more profitable we grow, the more ministries we can fund and the more lives we can impact for eternity. That, is the only way to become truly great.” Consider also that Green eliminated all long-term debt and instead developed an investments office where 50% of those profits can also be given away to help more people. You might ask how committed to stewardship is David Green? He hasn’t taken a raise in over 16 years and he still lives in the same house for at least that many years. He says “what would I do with more stuff?” and “Why would I want another house; the one I have now gives me enough problems?”
David Green also treats his employees well:
• He pays well above minimum wage
• All stores close at 8:00 p.m. No competitor does that
• Hobby Lobby is closed on Sunday (not only because it’s the Lord’s Day, but to give his employees the extra time off) No competitor does that
• Stores are open for just sixty-six hours a week. No competitor does that
• Once a month home city, Oklahoma City employees receive a free enrichment workshop
• Salaried managerial employees from across the country can attend an all-expenses free weekend retreat on marriage
• There are full-time chaplains available for on the clock who counsel for help with nonwork-related problems
Hobby Lobby focuses on being “the best at better.” They do try to be just good nor perfect but to be better at what they do than any other. And there is so much more about the practical way to lead an organization in this book. Hobby Lobby does not start trends, it keeps it simple and easier to manage, it does not sell what David Green calls “cousins,” different versions of your top valued items, it has great inventory policies and much more. If you want to be a successful retailer, read the book and you will find insights that help immensely.
There is so much more to say about this 80-year-old man and Hobby Lobby but his words in the final chapter of the books gives testimony of his character and mission:
“I can relate to Moses. God has anointed me as a merchant at Hobby Lobby, and I aim to make as much as we can so we can give as much as we can. As long as people still haven’t heard the good news of God’s love, I still have a job. I am eighty years old, but I haven’t retired yet. As long as God gives me strength, I want to stay faithful. I don’t want to just coast toward the finish line; I want to sprint. I want to do all that I can, as long as I can, to bring as many people with me to heaven as possible.
Whether you’re just starting your leadership journey or have traveled this road for years, God’s call stays the same: whatever you do, do it with all your might.
For the God’s glory.”
David Green’s focus is not on this vapor life, but on eternal life: “Hobby Lobby gives away half of its profits every year because we believe that true success is sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with as many as we can. The more profitable we grow, the more ministries we can fund and the more lives we can impact for eternity. That, is the only way to become truly great.” Consider also that Green eliminated all long-term debt and instead developed an investments office where 50% of those profits can also be given away to help more people. You might ask how committed to stewardship is David Green? He hasn’t taken a raise in over 16 years and he still lives in the same house for at least that many years. He says “what would I do with more stuff?” and “Why would I want another house; the one I have now gives me enough problems?”
David Green also treats his employees well:
• He pays well above minimum wage
• All stores close at 8:00 p.m. No competitor does that
• Hobby Lobby is closed on Sunday (not only because it’s the Lord’s Day, but to give his employees the extra time off) No competitor does that
• Stores are open for just sixty-six hours a week. No competitor does that
• Once a month home city, Oklahoma City employees receive a free enrichment workshop
• Salaried managerial employees from across the country can attend an all-expenses free weekend retreat on marriage
• There are full-time chaplains available for on the clock who counsel for help with nonwork-related problems
Hobby Lobby focuses on being “the best at better.” They do try to be just good nor perfect but to be better at what they do than any other. And there is so much more about the practical way to lead an organization in this book. Hobby Lobby does not start trends, it keeps it simple and easier to manage, it does not sell what David Green calls “cousins,” different versions of your top valued items, it has great inventory policies and much more. If you want to be a successful retailer, read the book and you will find insights that help immensely.
There is so much more to say about this 80-year-old man and Hobby Lobby but his words in the final chapter of the books gives testimony of his character and mission:
“I can relate to Moses. God has anointed me as a merchant at Hobby Lobby, and I aim to make as much as we can so we can give as much as we can. As long as people still haven’t heard the good news of God’s love, I still have a job. I am eighty years old, but I haven’t retired yet. As long as God gives me strength, I want to stay faithful. I don’t want to just coast toward the finish line; I want to sprint. I want to do all that I can, as long as I can, to bring as many people with me to heaven as possible.
Whether you’re just starting your leadership journey or have traveled this road for years, God’s call stays the same: whatever you do, do it with all your might.
For the God’s glory.”
January 25, 2023
In this book, David Green, founder and CEO of arts and crafts retailer Hobby Lobby, and Bill High, share the uncommon business practices – the “secret sauce” - that Hobby Lobby has adopted that has resulted in their incredible success. They write that every one of the ingredients in the secret sauce comes from the Bible. In addition, most of the pivotal moments in the company’s history took place after Green experienced some divine episode engineered by the Holy Spirit. They write that if you boil down the secret sauce to one key ingredient, you will find the one element that makes the others work is listening to God and obeying His Word.
Hobby Lobby celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2022. In those fifty years, they have gone from less than $150 to $8 billion in sales. They carry more than one hundred thousand items (including seasonal merchandise), employ more than fifty thousand and give away 50 percent of their profits to help fund initiatives for God’s kingdom all over the world. The unconventional principles discussed in this book can apply whether you lead a business, a church, a nonprofit, or are just contemplating the idea of leadership.
The secret sauce ingredients can be organized in three major categories:
• God-centered practices
• People-focused practices
• Commonsense practices
Some of my takeaways about Hobby Lobby’s secret sauce were:
• To see yourself as a steward, not owner, of your business or ministry.
• The importance of prayer in our work.
• The importance of giving.
• The importance of character for leaders.
• The importance of a leader’s family.
• The importance of taking care of your people.
• The importance of listening to your people.
• To be true to your calling, your “one thing”.
Below are 15 of my favorite quotes from the book:
1. God must destroy our arrogant pride if He is to bless the work of our hands. The Lord loves to bless humility, not smug self-confidence.
2. When you’re an owner, wealth can easily become a curse. When you’re a steward, wealth becomes a tool.
3. God is the owner of all things, and we are simply his stewards.
4. Faith doesn’t mean trusting God only in the easy times. It means trusting God always, no matter the situation, whether in sunshine or storms.
5. We obey God not because of what we will get but because He deserves our obedience.
6. If you want to bless the world through your work, make prayer a priority.
7. Obedience to God may cost you, but some things are more important than profit.
8. No matter what other service you might perform, souls are your true bottom line.
9. A good leader must have both the appropriate gifting and the necessary character.
10. If you want to lead well, you must listen to your people and give them the freedom to challenge you.
11. Listening matters. Hire smart, honest people, and then listen to them. When their ideas make good sense, implement them, give them the credit, and celebrate the resulting success.
12. Never give leaders responsibility without also giving them the authority required to fulfill that responsibility. Responsibility without authority never works.
13. To succeed as a leader, set up a great organization that allows you to focus on your gifting and not get distracted.
14. We are not here to create trends. We never create a trend. Ever. We observe what customers want, and we give it to them.
15. Doing your job wholeheartedly, as to the Lord, is most often the first step to greater responsibility and larger influence.
Hobby Lobby celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2022. In those fifty years, they have gone from less than $150 to $8 billion in sales. They carry more than one hundred thousand items (including seasonal merchandise), employ more than fifty thousand and give away 50 percent of their profits to help fund initiatives for God’s kingdom all over the world. The unconventional principles discussed in this book can apply whether you lead a business, a church, a nonprofit, or are just contemplating the idea of leadership.
The secret sauce ingredients can be organized in three major categories:
• God-centered practices
• People-focused practices
• Commonsense practices
Some of my takeaways about Hobby Lobby’s secret sauce were:
• To see yourself as a steward, not owner, of your business or ministry.
• The importance of prayer in our work.
• The importance of giving.
• The importance of character for leaders.
• The importance of a leader’s family.
• The importance of taking care of your people.
• The importance of listening to your people.
• To be true to your calling, your “one thing”.
Below are 15 of my favorite quotes from the book:
1. God must destroy our arrogant pride if He is to bless the work of our hands. The Lord loves to bless humility, not smug self-confidence.
2. When you’re an owner, wealth can easily become a curse. When you’re a steward, wealth becomes a tool.
3. God is the owner of all things, and we are simply his stewards.
4. Faith doesn’t mean trusting God only in the easy times. It means trusting God always, no matter the situation, whether in sunshine or storms.
5. We obey God not because of what we will get but because He deserves our obedience.
6. If you want to bless the world through your work, make prayer a priority.
7. Obedience to God may cost you, but some things are more important than profit.
8. No matter what other service you might perform, souls are your true bottom line.
9. A good leader must have both the appropriate gifting and the necessary character.
10. If you want to lead well, you must listen to your people and give them the freedom to challenge you.
11. Listening matters. Hire smart, honest people, and then listen to them. When their ideas make good sense, implement them, give them the credit, and celebrate the resulting success.
12. Never give leaders responsibility without also giving them the authority required to fulfill that responsibility. Responsibility without authority never works.
13. To succeed as a leader, set up a great organization that allows you to focus on your gifting and not get distracted.
14. We are not here to create trends. We never create a trend. Ever. We observe what customers want, and we give it to them.
15. Doing your job wholeheartedly, as to the Lord, is most often the first step to greater responsibility and larger influence.
December 30, 2024
I picked up Leadership Not by the Book because I’m a relatively new leader and am always looking for advice to grow and improve. David Green’s unconventional yet faith-driven approach to leadership immediately caught my attention. His willingness to take risks, innovate, and think outside the box is both refreshing and inspiring.
One of the key takeaways for me was the reminder that God owns all things—including our businesses. This concept really resonated with me, especially as someone who has drifted from my faith in the past year and felt the weight of that distance. Green’s perspective encouraged me to reflect on my relationship with God and why it’s so important to realign my life and work with Him at the center.
Green’s emphasis on prioritizing employees was another highlight. It’s clear that he believes in treating people with dignity and respect, which is something I also value deeply. His advice to “get in the weeds” stood out to me because it feels like the opposite of what many leadership books preach. While delegation is essential, staying connected to the day-to-day realities of your organization is just as important for truly effective leadership.
Perhaps the most impactful moment for me was Green’s advice on letting go of perfectionism. This part of the book hit home—I’m a perfectionist, and the pressure I put on myself can be overwhelming. Green’s reminder that chasing that extra 8% of perfection often isn’t worth the toll it takes felt like a weight being lifted. Most people won’t notice if something is 92% perfect, and the energy spent trying to close that small gap could be better used elsewhere.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the book, one thing I wish was different is the balance of content. At times, it felt like there was a heavier focus on the specifics of Hobby Lobby than on leadership principles. While the Hobby Lobby examples are insightful, I would have appreciated deeper exploration into general leadership strategies that could apply across industries.
Overall, Leadership Not by the Book offers practical, faith-based advice for leaders who want to challenge the status quo, prioritize people, and trust God in their decision-making. Despite wishing for more focus on leadership itself, I found it highly applicable to my personal and professional growth.
One of the key takeaways for me was the reminder that God owns all things—including our businesses. This concept really resonated with me, especially as someone who has drifted from my faith in the past year and felt the weight of that distance. Green’s perspective encouraged me to reflect on my relationship with God and why it’s so important to realign my life and work with Him at the center.
Green’s emphasis on prioritizing employees was another highlight. It’s clear that he believes in treating people with dignity and respect, which is something I also value deeply. His advice to “get in the weeds” stood out to me because it feels like the opposite of what many leadership books preach. While delegation is essential, staying connected to the day-to-day realities of your organization is just as important for truly effective leadership.
Perhaps the most impactful moment for me was Green’s advice on letting go of perfectionism. This part of the book hit home—I’m a perfectionist, and the pressure I put on myself can be overwhelming. Green’s reminder that chasing that extra 8% of perfection often isn’t worth the toll it takes felt like a weight being lifted. Most people won’t notice if something is 92% perfect, and the energy spent trying to close that small gap could be better used elsewhere.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the book, one thing I wish was different is the balance of content. At times, it felt like there was a heavier focus on the specifics of Hobby Lobby than on leadership principles. While the Hobby Lobby examples are insightful, I would have appreciated deeper exploration into general leadership strategies that could apply across industries.
Overall, Leadership Not by the Book offers practical, faith-based advice for leaders who want to challenge the status quo, prioritize people, and trust God in their decision-making. Despite wishing for more focus on leadership itself, I found it highly applicable to my personal and professional growth.
December 26, 2022
I thought the book spoke boldly on what the values of the author are. He is a christian and he speaks on the importance of living out those values. There are a lot of things that impress me about Hobby Lobby, and I guess what shocked me the most is that they give away 50% of all their earnings. Hobby Lobby helps a lot of different organizations but 7 organizations get 80% of the money. He also has a heart to transform OKC and has invested in the betterment of it, and invested how to lower crime by increasing prison fellowship presence fourfold. I was encouraged but he book, and the only reason I am not giving it 5 starts is because I reserve those for book that offer me new insights that change my mind which I didn't receive but I was very encouraged by the book.
March 26, 2025
This is quite possibly the best Christian business book I’ve ever read and in regards to leadership, since I’m a marketing guy and prefer those kind of books 1st, this is undoubtedly the best leadership book in any genre
Leadership starts and ends with those people who are closest to you - the ones you have been charged to take care of. I’ve never read a leadership book that focus more on caring for your employees and your family
Very inspiring and certainly something I’ll listen to at least once a year
And if you are looking for a short digestible recap of the book, I found the podcast with 12 four minute, very bite-size episodes that covers the important sections of the book in each episode
I definitely recommend this book
(voice texted so pardon the errors)
Leadership starts and ends with those people who are closest to you - the ones you have been charged to take care of. I’ve never read a leadership book that focus more on caring for your employees and your family
Very inspiring and certainly something I’ll listen to at least once a year
And if you are looking for a short digestible recap of the book, I found the podcast with 12 four minute, very bite-size episodes that covers the important sections of the book in each episode
I definitely recommend this book
(voice texted so pardon the errors)
December 10, 2022
Leadership Not by the Book is an excellent read for anyone looking to become a great leader. It is written in an engaging and accessible style and provides readers with a comprehensive approach to leading a successful team.
The authors’ focus on the importance of building relationships and fostering trust is particularly helpful, and their step-by-step guide to building a successful team is invaluable. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting out, Leadership Not by the Book is an essential resource for any aspiring leader.
Click here For a comprehensive review of the book, Leadership Not by the Book.
The authors’ focus on the importance of building relationships and fostering trust is particularly helpful, and their step-by-step guide to building a successful team is invaluable. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting out, Leadership Not by the Book is an essential resource for any aspiring leader.
Click here For a comprehensive review of the book, Leadership Not by the Book.
January 30, 2023
I picked it up on a whim and was pleasantly surprised. I am not particularly interested in the world of arts and crafts but this business book has some helpful nuggets and some interesting tidbits. The author goes into detail at times with how he runs Hobby Lobby which I appreciated. The principles are hit or miss for me, but the ones I liked I really liked. I particularly identified with what the author was saying about simplicity and also getting into the weeds. I am very happy I picked up this book and I would highly recommend it for those looking for a book on running a business (assuming you aren't too allergic to all of the religious references of an unabashed Christian).
May 13, 2023
Interesting approach to the essence of leading under “God´s supervision” … Whether you are a devoted catholic or not the author brings out a comprehensive analysis of how to understand better the ups and downs of leading. He relates your performance to your faith both in you and in God. He assures that Only God knows your unique potential and what you are destined to become. If you believe in this statement then he advices to follow HIS (God´s) guidelines stated in his teachings and scriptures. Thus guiding you thru the path that will take you closer to finding your purpose, your desired success, your self fulfillment and hence your happiness.
November 30, 2024
1. book written by the founder and CEO of Hobby Lobby
2. the first part of the book was all about how his Christianity and relationship with Jesus is the foundation of how he runs the company
3. the rest of the book was going through how they do things differently at Hobby Lobby and what makes them successful
1. God owns the business - they are stewards
2. treat their people right - people first, not money
3. defer to your people, don't just listen to them
4. focus on your 'one thing' that you are really, really good at
5. get into the weeds
6. choose simplicity, not perfection
7. good, better, best -- aim for "better"
8. give everything you have
2. the first part of the book was all about how his Christianity and relationship with Jesus is the foundation of how he runs the company
3. the rest of the book was going through how they do things differently at Hobby Lobby and what makes them successful
1. God owns the business - they are stewards
2. treat their people right - people first, not money
3. defer to your people, don't just listen to them
4. focus on your 'one thing' that you are really, really good at
5. get into the weeds
6. choose simplicity, not perfection
7. good, better, best -- aim for "better"
8. give everything you have
May 25, 2025
I received this book by mistake from the author, but it was a great read. I don't think I agree with everything in this book, but it gives me things to think about. I think all companies' weather hood or bad intentions are always focused on money, but whikevthats said I choose to see both sides of the topic. I still think this was a book to read that can give you understanding their goals and business missions. this book I recommend but for those who question God in a whole,take this as a starting point to learning what made them succeed. it was their faith...
December 30, 2022
Definitely one of the best leadership books I've ever read. Mr. Green's insights and anecdotes into leadership are both fascinating and practical. I especially appreciate that this leadership book was published post-pandemic so there are reflections on the new world we are all living and working in. Going to have to pick up a copy of this one at my local Hobby Lobby and will for sure be rereading it. Recommended for all leaders.
September 7, 2023
I worked for Mary Kay Ash who also based her company on Christian philosophies as David Green does, and they do work! This book explains many of the business strategies of Hobby Lobby including its commitment to faith, family, its employees, and it’s customers. These are not popular ideas with most companies, but Hobby Lobby’s success is proof that valuing people and giving back to one’s community and charitable organizations bring blessings.
December 18, 2023
This book has no actual advice on managing a business or being a good leader. This is more a spiritual and motivational book. As a Christian I get all that about Trusting God, Putting everything in His hands etc. I was looking for more insight and tangible methods of managing a business. He would say " we made some adjustments" but never explained what the adjustments were that got him out of a bad situation. Not very useful for business.
July 19, 2024
David Green, founder and CEO at Hobby Lobby details out the inside working details of HL
This book provides insight into making a difference with profits and caring for the lives and souls of his 50,000+ team members. His is an eternal perspective and he shows that the profits of Hobby Lobby are from hard work but also from the hand of God due to his company’s commitment to living by biblical principles.
This book provides insight into making a difference with profits and caring for the lives and souls of his 50,000+ team members. His is an eternal perspective and he shows that the profits of Hobby Lobby are from hard work but also from the hand of God due to his company’s commitment to living by biblical principles.
December 24, 2024
No other book mirrors how CEC is run like this book. It is encouraging to read these principles and see them worked out in a company like Hobby Lobby.
David Green is not the owner, he is the Steward and continually looks to God for guidance.
All principles are biblically based. God, family, integrity, character; work to bring glory to God.
Keep a high level view and descend into the details
If it’s not broken, make it better
Keep it simple and Close counts!
David Green is not the owner, he is the Steward and continually looks to God for guidance.
All principles are biblically based. God, family, integrity, character; work to bring glory to God.
Keep a high level view and descend into the details
If it’s not broken, make it better
Keep it simple and Close counts!
December 31, 2024
Change makers in families are needed. Enjoyed reading David’s story in listening to God to lead his business.
In some ways I did feel like the book was sort of repetitive or kept mentioning more on this later… so I was getting a little lost. Nonetheless, I did enjoy David’s journey in making Hobby Lobby into what it is today.
In some ways I did feel like the book was sort of repetitive or kept mentioning more on this later… so I was getting a little lost. Nonetheless, I did enjoy David’s journey in making Hobby Lobby into what it is today.
December 31, 2024
Couldn't make it past chapter 2. After reading that he prayed to win the supreme Court case to deny his employees access to emergency contraceptives and birth control via ACA due to his religious beliefs, I was done with it. Really strange book overall. No real business advice just a motivation christian book littered with scripture. Do not recommend.
September 26, 2025
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this book, but I loved it! It is truly unconventional leadership tactics, but seems like common sense to me. Why don’t we all lead in the way that David Green does? It seems so simple to put our faith, family, and employees above ourselves. Anyways - was a great book and I’d recommend!
January 4, 2023
What a profoundly inspiring book. It's packed with wisdom and sound, biblical advice for doing business. The author was honest and humble when describing his business practices. He didn't always get things right, but always put God first.
January 18, 2023
Leadership Not by the Book is chock full of good advice on business (and life)! As a long-time Hobby Lobby employee I can attest that things are run exactly as he says. He really does give away the secret sauce!
September 4, 2023
Very inspiring easy to read full of stories. Makes me very dedicated to being a Hobby Lobby shopper. The company is even more amazing than I thought and I always believed it was awesome.
If you enjoy Hobby Lobby this is a must read
If you enjoy Hobby Lobby this is a must read
March 14, 2024
I love the bold Christian values the founder has built into the company. Sone great business ideas as well. So glad they challenged the Obama care mandates which conflicted with biblical values. Book was good. I just wish the team secret sauce was used less.
March 22, 2024
Great book. I enjoyed all of the biblical advice he shared and how he used it to glorify God. David Green has a unique story to tell. The advice is also practical and something you put to use right away .
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