The Ramsey Collection

On this Labor Day, I would like to pass along one of the most rewarding work related experiences in my life. It was spending a week at the Dave Ramsey-led EntreLeadership program. I should reveal it came as a gift for me to attend this several years ago. The Ramsey organization puts on these week long training events both in Nashville and at very nice international conference areas. I got the Nashville experience—which has its own perks.

The week begins with a Sunday night reception and photo opportunity with Dave and his wife, Sharon. It is also a time to meet some of the team involved in this first class program. Of course, you meet other attendees as well.

Throughout the next several days, participants navigate through a workbook that tracks along with various presenters. Dave Ramsey is involved in most of those sessions. Spouses have their own track in which to participate.

The program is designed to help those who are in business, starting a new venture, or who are considering such a major move. It’s tailored to give you a clear path and practical instruction to advance in the fundamentals of good business. I met several people who have taken the course more than once.

There is ample information about this at the website www.entreleadership.com. Incidentally, the next Master Series course is coming up February 18-22, 2018, at the Nashville area location. There are, however, more abbreviated variations on the EntreLeadership menu if this sounds interesting.

Since Labor Day generally marks a time when we re-engage full bore with our business lives, it might also be a good time to advance your personal work skills with a good book. When attending the EntreLeadership Masters Series, you receive a box of books preferred by Dave Ramsey. You might recognize a few of them. But here is some recommended fall reading—just in case.

• The Monk and the Merchant: Twelve Keys to Successful Living, by Terry Felber. 

In writing this parable, Terry was hoping it would transform your life and your business. It had that kind of impact on Dave Ramsey, helping him to “rediscover the marketplace as a mission field” with merchants as ministers. Do you need this readjustment?

• The E Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don’t Work and What to Do About It, by Michael E. Gerber.

Gerber made his mark as a small business consultant. One of his primary objectives is to show readers how to work ON your business and not simply IN your business. Understanding the technical aspects of products and services does not translate info being effective at running a business. Very insightful.

• Rhinoceros Success: The Secret to Charging Full Speed Toward Every Opportunity, by Scott Alexander. 

This one is just 97 pages. Scott wants people to move out of a “cow” mindset, watching life go by, afraid that risk and noise are not for them. Rhinos are hard-charging, snorting, and running full speed ahead. They trample obstacles that stand in their way. Obviously, this book is for those who need a tune up for action.

• The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership: Follow Them and People Will Follow You, by John C. Maxwell.

Some people do not know that before John Maxwell developed his very popular international leadership development organization, he served several years as a pastor. He left the pastorate in 1995 to become a full time speaker and writer. The rest…is history. This is one of John’s very best books, which has sold over a million copies. Read it and learn!

There were several more titles in that box of Dave Ramsey gifts for those pursuing success in life and business by attending EntreLeadership. Perhaps these resources will give you a needed boost. As King Solomon advised, “Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will guard you. Wisdom is supreme—so acquire wisdom, and whatever you acquire, acquire understanding!” (Proverbs 4:6-7, NET)

And here’s a gem of wisdom from Ramsey himself: “Pray like it all depends on God, but work like it all depends on you.”

May you be blessed on this Labor Day!

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Let’s Talk with Mark Elfstrand can be heard weekdays from 4-6 PM Central. To listen outside the Chicago area, tune to www.1160hope.com for live streaming or podcasts, or download the AM1160 app.