Last week I offered suggestions on how to kick start an annual review of your life and to plan for 2014. If your plans include starting a business then reach for a copy of Brad Burton’s, Get Off Your Arse! This very funny, inspirational and bare knuckle view of business adventures could be just the missile that is needed to launch you into 2014.

Behind the laugh out loud moments along Brad’s journey to establishing the largest business breakfast network in the UK, he paints a candid picture of the realities of business. He also reveals very clearly who you need to be and what you need to do to accomplish your business dreams.

Some business books spell out theories and philosophies about handling business matters. However, Get Off Your Arse, is a ‘how to’ utility that provides a roadmap that combines common sense sprinkled with unconventionality. The signs along the way spell out, ‘stop looking for perfection and take action.’ Doing something is always better than navel gazing.

To help you nurture your idea from concept to reality, here are some of Brad’s suggestions to, Get Off Your Arse!

· 5 daily cold calls to businesses in your local area. Arrange 10 minute focused meetings so that people can gain a better understanding of your product or service.

· Stop hiding behind the need to gain more qualifications to deliver your business. Tell the world why you can do it.

· Whilst at networking events, sell through the room, instead of selling to the room. Don’t dismiss people who you think are not your type of client. Everyone has value and you never know who they know in their network.

· Don’t get caught up in ‘cuff linking’ which essentially means saying and do things in business environments just to conform to others. Business does not have to be formal or pompous to be effective.

· Start business by selling as a market trader. Basically, sell when you can, what you can and however you can.

· Create a conversation strategy. Think about how you can get people to talk about you or your business.

· Self leadership is the way forward. Don’t let fear hold you back.

You may be aware of business tactics, strategies and pitches from television programmes such as; The Apprentice, Dragons’ Den and Shark Tank. However, Brad Burton’s Book is full of wisdom that can lead you on your journey to success.

Brad Burton is a British businessman. In my next blog post I will review another business book, this time written by an American entrepreneur.

I would love to hear how you get on, so let’s connect via Twitter — @BybreenSamuels.

Happy New Year to you all!