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Tip Lib/E: A Simple Strategy to Inspire High Performance and Lasting Success

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TIP is an inspirational story designed to remind people in business, and in any position judged by performance, that the only way to achieve continued value and success is to take accountability for your reputation and your results.


In this entertaining, motivating, and educational story, Brian Davis, an average employee with a young family, is fired without warning for being average. Facing a crossroads in his life, does he take another uninspiring job to pay the bills, or does he challenge himself to take the necessary steps to fulfill his potential by being accountable for his own success? Facing the unfamiliar and unforgiving environment of the restaurant/hospitality industry, he gets the chance to learn the simple and actionable principles of TIP from newfound colleagues and customers. At the end of the book, the reader will be able to have:


Enhanced self-awareness Confident communications Commitment-based actions Fulfillment of a unique value promise As the mentor in the book says to Brian, "TIP to most people stands for 'to insure performance.' But, if the thought of someone holding a dollar over your head is the reason you're going to do a good job, that's external motivation. No one ever succeeded at anything meaningful in this world by being motivated externally. To me, TIP stands for Take it Personally. A TIP is not what you get. It's what you give. Do the work, give everything you've got, and you will be rewarded in return."

Audio CD

Published January 29, 2020

8 people are currently reading
46 people want to read

About the author

Dave Gordon

18 books1 follower

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5 stars
33 (51%)
4 stars
19 (29%)
3 stars
10 (15%)
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1 (1%)
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
2 reviews
September 8, 2020
Not only is this story a thoughtful journey through the highs and lows of Brian's career, and life working in a bar, but an effective guidebook for recognizing where you are at and where you can strive to be. Are you aiming for more than average? You will find real TIPS here. Don't overlook the section on creating an action plan to deliver your Unique Value. You will enjoy TIP and reference it for many years ahead.
75 reviews8 followers
June 30, 2022
Simply the best book I read this year… and I read books like Radical Candor this year

As the author said

“This is a small book and a simple story designed to make you think about yourself and your future in a proactive and empowering way.”

As one Jenny Hutt said
“After reading TIP, you will have no choice but to look at your own career and relationships through a different lens, one that empowers you to never accept being average…”
8 reviews
September 24, 2021
Nice story - easy to follow on the audiobook version.
Contains some valuable lessons told through an extended story with multiple characters.
Not a list of things to do or a guide but very interesting and well-presented.
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41 reviews
February 22, 2022
Not usually a fan of self help/nonfiction books but I did enjoy how this was told as a story. Inspired me to make some changes in my life. Great read for the start of the year.
6 reviews3 followers
February 25, 2023
Take It Personally

The story format is a welcome change of pace from the usual formula of this genre. Overall an easy, solid read with some valuable points.
1 review
April 18, 2020
I’ve read this book twice already because it’s so good! It reminds us of how much power we have within us and that our motivations, contributions and purpose are the secret to avoing mediocrity. I love self help books but I often feel like I am being lectured or talked at. I appreciate how Dave creates an experience through these endearing characters that you can root for, relate to and even laugh with. If you’ve ever felt a little lost or you are seeking a new path in life - read this book. The slight shift for some or big dent for others in perspective, along with Dave's outline, will take you on journey that brings you to a decision. How will you participate in life, work or quite frankly - everything? 😉
Dave, what a “Wow” this is! I can’t wait for your next book!
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews

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