Escape from Cubicle Nation, From Corporate Prisoner to Thriving Entrepreneur by Pamela Slim, will inspire and motivate you to abandon your job as a ‘corporate prisoner’ and become an entrepreneur. However, the author is quick to point out that ‘hating your job is not a business plan.’
The title of the book, with its jailbreak metaphor, aptly describes the authors philosophy regarding earning a living as an employee versus controlling your destiny as an entrepreneur. The bias is evident, yet the book offers a well-balanced presentation of the challenges and reality of the often idealized life of an entrepreneur.
The author begins the book with two compelling segments:
“I have a fancy title, steady paycheck, and good benefits. Why am I so miserable?” and
“If it is so bad, then why am I afraid to leave?”
If either or both of these sentences resonate with you, you will find this book to be a great read.
Escape from Cubicle Nation is very practical and easy to read. Beginning with the many considerations to examine before you leap into the entrepreneurial world and continuing with very specific ‘how to lists’ in later sections. Section two, “The Reality of Entrepreneurship”, describes actual versus glorified aspects of being self-employed.
The author gives the reader an account of her ‘escape’ and the very successful business she has built. But it is much more than just the story of Pamela Slim. She borrows heavily from mentors and colleagues. She liberally quotes and includes excerpts from the works of Guy Kawasaki, Martha Beck, and Tim Berry (author of The Plan as You Go Business Plan) in addition to the worthwhile information she gained from her own successful journey from corporate prisoner to entrepreneur. Slim’s book thoroughly instructs the reader about everything from brand to business plan, from finances to dealing with friends and family when they think you are crazy to quit your job.
The final two sections alone are worth buying the book. “Making the Leap” and “When Is It Time to Leave?” offer excellent points and many lists and tables on topics including:
When family freaks out. Dealing with common concerns of naysayers including spouses, parents, and friends. The book even offers a chart with common concerns and suggested solutions to get them onboard.
Must do’s including legal and financial issues – emphasizing in particular the importance of cash flow (vs profits in the early stages).
What you must have in place to take the plunge including: ” Chest-bursting enthusiasm, a solid business case, an eager market, a money plan, a marketing plan, healthy approach to sales, and a back up plan.”
The book is one of the most practical, interesting, easy to read, and at times humorous discourses about the entrepreneurial-escape decision that I have read. It is not a book to sign out of the library or borrow from a friend. It is a book you will want to buy and keep to refer back to often if you are seriously considering planning your escape.
A final post-script: Many people consider starting their own business when they lose their job. As a coach, I feel personally compelled to point out that getting a pink slip may be a very bad reason to become an entrepreneur. If the only reasons you want to start a business is to create a job for yourself and to earn money, you should think twice or maybe more times before doing so.
On the other hand, if you have always dreamed of a business of your own, and carefully and objectively look at your situation, it may be just the right time to take the opportunity to live your dream. Losing your job is an emotional experience. You may be wise to seek objective advice to help you sort out facts and feelings before you take the leap.
Book Review
By Jean Caton MS,MBA, RD
Leadership, Career, Life Coach, & Speaker
Escape from Cubicle Nation:
From Corporate Prisoner to Thriving Entrepreneur
Pamela Slim
Are You an Entrepreneur? Make Your Escape From Cubicle Nation
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