In this podcast episode, the interviewee talks about the importance of doing things that don't scale in a business to distinguish a brand or service, using examples such as Airbnb sending photographers to apartments. The book being discussed is unique with watercolor diagrams that enhance each insight.
The process of writing a book can be mentally and emotionally consuming, but it's important to remind yourself that it's just one aspect of your life's work. Coupled with the dichotomy of pursuing a successful career, it's important to find balance and not succumb to mom guilt.
Author Paulo Coelho believes writing books is about sharing personal experiences and being free to write about important issues without repeating a formula. He advises against overloading books with research as it can lead to boredom for both the writer and reader.
It doesn't matter how much we achieve, our internal drive to do more and fear of not doing enough never disappears. The real work is going inside ourselves to overcome these fears and desires.
Gretchen Rubin talks about how her book "40 Ways to Look at JFK" did not find its audience, but it taught her the value of connecting with readers through tools like blogging and social media, leading to the success of her next book, "The Happiness Project".