So, while in Hawaii, I finished the book by W. Brett Wilson (Redefining Success - Still Making Mistakes) that I talked about last time.  Good book!  His main points (among many) were that he believes that all institutions need to do a better job in teaching three things (no matter what field you go into):  Entrepreneurship, Marketing, & Philanthropy.  I couldn't agree more about the first two things.  And the last item I found really enlightening, as Brett talks about how 1) people need to donate more… what are you going to do with all of your money… you can only acquire so much 'stuff' in a lifetime, and that doesn't really do great things in the world now does it? and 2) people with money can and should look at investing in start up companies that are wanting to do good things in this world… Sure you can make a little 'return on investment'… but you are doing so much more with your money if you are able to help someone else do amazing thing!  Cool concept!  I believe these folks are called 'Angel Investors' and Brett's right, there should be more of them!!

The second book I read was entitled Whale Done - The Power of Positive Relationships by Ken Blanchard.  Now I have to admit that I like all of the books by Ken Blanchard… they are easy to read and presented in a story telling format.  When you get done reading, you realize that the message was sooooo simple.  It could have been given to you in less than one page, but it is the story that make it memorable and gives you ideas for application.  The premise of this book comes from training Whales.  You can't reprimand a Whale and expect him to work for you!  He's too big for that!  So Whale trainers have to use positive reinforcement for everything they do.  The book then goes on to describe how you (or rather how the character in the story) takes those ideas and applies them to management of a team, as well as family, or any other relationship for that matter.  It's a good read, a fast read, and I think it has a good message.