[cardguy]

Paul Arden was the creative director at a major advertising agency.

He also wrote a couple of books which went on to become bestsellers. They are small books which uses the lessons (and wisdom) Arden has learned from the world of advertising as a way of trying to inspire the reader in whatever creative endeavor they are pursuing.

He uses his talent as a copywriter to write short and compelling sentences.

It is the most unconventional 'inspirational/creativity/self help' book you will ever read.

I think the books are worth a shout-out since a lot of guys on the forum would really enjoy them.



http://www.amazon.com/Its-Not-How-Good-W...paul+arden

http://www.amazon.com/Whatever-You-Think...paul+arden

I have pulled off some pages of the book from Google Images to give you a feel for the book.

Each page of the book is completely self-contained.

[cardguy]

The article above is a good example of Paul Arden at his best.

He really gives you simple concepts to focus on when trying to figure out how you can stand out from others in your field.

Even just doing the exact opposite of everybody else is a good starting point when it comes to looking at things afresh.

I knew I would stand out when I joined this forum (and that it would lead to notoriety and a small dose of popularity) since whenever everyone is saying one thing - it is very easy to get peoples attention by saying the opposite.

I didn't do it deliberately - since I happen to believe everything I say (scary as that may seem!). But it is a small example of how Paul Arden's way of thinking can become a part of how you view the world.

I usually avoid 'self-help' books and inspirational books (which at first glance seem filled with 'filler'). And that is what stopped me from giving Paul Arden the props he deserved when I first came across his books about 11 years ago. But looking back on it - and having read thousands of book in the meanwhile - I actually think the books stand up well and are worth recommending.

[xpatplayer]

Whatever you Think, Think the Opposite is my personal bible. A lot of truth contained within it.

[Sombro]

Looks really interesting. Agree with him totally about the awards thing.

Check out "Confessions of an Advertising Man" by David Ogilvy. A classic.

[RXB]

Great suggestion. Order both of them a couple days ago and they came in this afternoon. I read through each one in about an hour and it was the perfect kick in the pants for me to get on track.