The promise of a pencil : how an ordinary person can create extraordinary change / Adam Braun, with Carlye Adler. [print]

Why be normal -- Get out of your comfort zone -- Know that you have a purpose -- Every pencil holds a promise -- Do the small things that make others feel big -- Tourists see, travelers seek -- Asking for permission is asking for denial -- Embrace the lightning moments -- Big dreams start with small, unreasonable acts -- Practice humility over hubris -- Speak the language of the person you want to become -- Walk with a purpose -- Happiness is found in celebrating others -- Find the impossible ones -- Focus on one person in every room -- Read the signs along the path -- Create separation to build connection -- Never take no from someone who can't say yes -- Stay guided by your values, not your necessities -- You cannot fake authenticity -- There is only one chance at a first impression -- Fess up to your failures -- Learn to close the loop -- Change your words to change your worth -- A goal realized is a goal defined -- Surround yourself with those who make you better -- Vulnerability is vital -- Listen to your echoes -- If your dreams don't scare you, they're not big enough -- Make your life a story worth telling.

This the story of how a young man turned 25 into more than 200 schools around the world and the guiding steps anyone can take to lead a successful and significant life. The author began working summers at hedge funds when he was just sixteen years old, sprinting down the path to a successful Wall Street career. But while traveling he met a young boy begging on the streets of India, who after being asked what he wanted most in the world, simply answered, "A pencil." This small request led to a staggering series of events that took the author backpacking through dozens of countries before eventually leaving one of the world's most prestigious jobs at Bain and Company to found Pencils of Promise, the organization he started with just 25 that has since built more than 200 schools around the world. This book chronicles the author's journey to find his calling, as each chapter explains one clear step that every person can take to turn your biggest ambitions into reality, even if you start with as little as 25. His story takes readers behind the scenes with business moguls and village chiefs, world-famous celebrities and hometown heroes. It is filled with compelling stories and shareable insights. All proceeds from this book support Pencils of Promise.

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