The Entrepreneurial Instinct and over one million other books are available for Amazon Kindle. Learn more



or
Sign in to turn on 1-Click ordering
Sell Us Your Item
For a $2.00 Gift Card
Trade in
More Buying Choices
Have one to sell? Sell yours here
Start reading The Entrepreneurial Instinct on your Kindle in under a minute.

Don't have a Kindle? Get your Kindle here, or download a FREE Kindle Reading App.
Sorry, this item is not available in
Image not available for
Color:
Image not available

To view this video download Flash Player

 

The Entrepreneurial Instinct: How Everyone Has the Innate Ability to Start a Successful Small Business [Hardcover]

Monica Mehta
4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (60 customer reviews)

List Price: $25.00
Price: $15.36 & FREE Shipping on orders over $25. Details
You Save: $9.64 (39%)
o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
In Stock.
Ships from and sold by Amazon.com. Gift-wrap available.
Want it tomorrow, June 20? Choose One-Day Shipping at checkout. Details

Formats

Amazon Price New from Used from
Kindle Edition $13.75  
Hardcover $15.36  
Image
Save on Popular Books This Summer
Browse our Bookshelf Favorites store for big savings on popular fiction, nonfiction, children's books, and more.

Book Description

August 21, 2012
The dropout that makes billions seems to have caught lightning in a bottle-- a triumph relying more on luck than skill and never to be repeated.  In real life, successful entrepreneurs take classes, write business plans, and map out responses to every contingency. But if the story is such a fluke, why do we keep hearing ones like it over and over again?

The Entrepreneurial Instinct looks past the rags to riches stories of self-made entrepreneurs to explore how our mind, behavior, and brain chemistry impact our ability to be enterprising in the absence of formal training.   Interviews with dozens of entrepreneurs reveal the traits and habits that allow them to take rewarding risks, overcome fear and failure, and thrive in the face of ambiguity. Conversations with experts in the fields of neuroscience and behavioral psychology expose the scientific explanation behind their seemingly innate knack and shed light on how the rest of us who may not be naturally gifted entrepreneurs can use brain chemistry to find success.

The book weaves together stories from entrepreneurs, pop culture figures and thought leaders (including the founders of CLIF Bar, Carol's Daughter, Marquis Jet, Skip Hop, Dogfish Head Beer, KIPP Charter School, J Brand Jeans, writers of Grey's Anatomy, rock journalist Neil Strauss, Phoenix Suns forward Grant Hill) to reveal cutting edge insight on using brain chemistry to work in ways to create a cycle of productivity, take risks that pay and tap into our creative mind to realize professional success. 

In a time where millions of Americans are unemployed, underemployed or aspire for better opportunities, The Entrepreneurial Instinct offers much needed techniques for using our innate capabilities to make more with less.

Best Value

Buy From Idea to Success: The Dartmouth Entrepreneurial Network Guide for Start-Ups and get The Entrepreneurial Instinct: How Everyone Has the Innate Ability to Start a Successful Small Business at an additional 5% off Amazon.com's everyday low price.

From Idea to Success: The Dartmouth Entrepreneurial Network Guide for Start-Ups + The Entrepreneurial Instinct: How Everyone Has the Innate Ability to Start a Successful Small Business
Buy together today: $31.40

One of these items ships sooner than the other. Show details



Editorial Reviews

Review

"This book nails it.  It pinpoints the mind, spirit and thought process of an entrepreneur and explains how a guy like me can have ADHD, struggle in school and STILL retire at 49. It's a must read for anyone who wants to create their own luck in life." - Jim Halpin, former CEO Comp USA, former President of Homebase & BJ's Wholesale.

"The Entrepreneurial Instinct is a must read for anyone aspiring to excel by challenging conventional wisdom and rolling with the punches to do what comes naturally."  - Ajay Banga, President & CEO, MasterCard Worldwide

"Illuminating and rich case based insights into the physiology that drives entrepreneurial risk-taking and decision-making."  - Ian MacMillan, Professor of Entrepreneurship, Director of Sol C. Snider Entrepreneurial Research Center, The Wharton School

"I couldn't put this book down.  The author does an outstanding job drilling down to unearth exactly what allows some to risk life and limb to create something of value, a feat that should ignite interest in many. Highly recommended reading." - Robert DiRomualdo, Former Chairman & CEO Borders Group, Former CEO Hickory Farms

"This book gets rid of the last excuse of the would-be entrepreneur: fear. The Entrepreneurial Instinct helps you take smarter risks with less angst. It obliterates a lot of the conventional wisdom around entrepreneurship, and shows what it really takes to succeed." - Kimberly Weisul, Inc Magazine

About the Author

Monica Mehta is an investor, author and sought after expert on small business and finance topics. She brings 15 years of hands-on experience as an operator of multi-million dollar consumer businesses and advisor to hundreds of entrepreneurs.  She is currently a Managing Principal at Seventh Capital, a New York based investment firm.  She also writes a regular small business column for Bloomberg Businessweek and appears on-air as a finance expert for Fox News, Fox Business, ABC News and MSNBC.She is a graduate of the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Product Details

  • Hardcover: 224 pages
  • Publisher: McGraw-Hill; 1 edition (August 21, 2012)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0071797424
  • ISBN-13: 978-0071797429
  • Product Dimensions: 6.4 x 0.9 x 9.2 inches
  • Shipping Weight: 15.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
  • Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (60 customer reviews)
  • Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #303,258 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Monica Mehta is a sought after small business and finance expert with 15 years of hands-on experience as an investor, operator of multi-million dollar consumer businesses and advisor to hundreds of entrepreneurs. Monica is currently a Managing Principal at Seventh Capital, a New York based investment firm, where she is actively involved with the day-to-day operations of portfolio companies. She is a frequent contributor for Bloomberg BusinessWeek, INC Magazine, Fox Business, Fox News, Bloomberg Television, ABC News and MSNBC. She is a graduate of the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Customer Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
(60)
4.8 out of 5 stars
Monica Mehta is spot-on perfect when describing the natural-born instinct in all of us to be entrepreneurs. Todd M Schoenberger  |  28 reviewers made a similar statement
This book has some unique insights and was a very entertaining read. Kalpana Rao  |  17 reviewers made a similar statement
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
9 of 9 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Achieve Your Dream September 3, 2012
By Ash D
Format:Hardcover
Being one of the founders of a business which has grown to become the largest in our industry in the world, we know few things about developing a successful business.
Some of the success traits such as deciding on your dream, will to win, taking calculated risks and never, never, never give up are the same traits which enabled Will Kellogg, Howard Johnson and Warren Bechtel to build world class businesses. Monica articulates these traits brilliantly in her book. Kudos to Monica for giving us the facts, vision and a road map to achieve our dreams.
Comment | 
Was this review helpful to you?
8 of 8 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Simple, easy to read guide to start small business September 3, 2012
By BMK
Format:Hardcover
This book helped me go through the basics of starting up a company, it helped me clear up simple ideas with a few basics questions.
It's diversity of topics and the arrangement of them, make it very simple to follow.
Great book, very happy with it, i'll certainly go back to it as my company goes.
Comment | 
Was this review helpful to you?
7 of 7 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Informative & Inspiring September 2, 2012
By Ted Kim
Format:Hardcover
The author debunks certain myths associated with entrepreneurial activity and provides both inspiring and encouraging insight to starting one's own business. This book is a must read for entrepreneurs as well as those aspiring to become successful business owners.
Comment | 
Was this review helpful to you?
6 of 7 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Hitting all the right notes September 4, 2012
Format:Hardcover
Read some of the chapters on amazon. So far, this book is hitting all the right notes. As an entrepreneur, I know, staying the course makes all the difference. An excellent idea, a winning business case, the gut feeling that you can make it. All winning ingredients. However, without that attitude to just jump in, nothing gets baked. I am waiting to read the rest of the book. Very encouraging & positive. I need this especially when people cite everything from the economy to the politics, as to why this is not the right time to vest in a new business venture, here is a breath of fresh air. Will update the review with more feedback after I complete the book. So far all stars are bright.
Comment | 
Was this review helpful to you?
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Unique, fascinating entrepreneurial tool is a must-read September 13, 2012
Format:Hardcover
The Entrepreneurial Instinct is a fascinating look at neuroscience, economic trends, and real-life experiences that both inspire and instruct. It may seem like conceiving a successful startup is an alchemy of sorts, but as Mehta proves, even those who seemingly built companies completely on instinct follow a key framework as they buck conventional wisdom. Nobody's skimping on planning, rhyme, or reason, and Mehta reveals and simplifies the process so that anyone with a dream can turn their business plan into reality. Mehta's writing is lively, clear, and effective in helping readers follow their bliss, successfully take calculated risks, and generate wealth. Read the secrets behind the founders of Starbucks, Domino's Pizza, and Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, and glean helpful neural tools from psychologists and experts, keys that will drive your ability to take rewarding risks. My favorite part was the "Green Light Science Glossary" and Mehta's study in impulsivity. This is a unique approach to entrepreneurship that will bend your mind and will in ways you never thought they could.
Comment | 
Was this review helpful to you?
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars A Must-Read Roadmap for Entrepreneurial Success September 10, 2012
Format:Hardcover
After reading this well-crafted book about the entrepreneurial instinct, I felt compelled to write this review, especially in light of some of the negative (and in this reviewer's opinion--unfair) remarks posted by others. Ms. Mehta's opening chapter regarding the entrepreneurial success of her parents was inspiration enough to continue this book and further delve into the science and psyche of the entrepreneurial spirit. It helped me to understand what is at the core of an entrepreneur versus other smart people out in the world.

This is a recommended must-read for anyone out there who wants to know what makes today's entrepreneurs tick and to help us figure out if we have that instinct, too!
Comment | 
Was this review helpful to you?
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Turn Vision Into Reality September 9, 2012
Format:Hardcover
Mehta's book inspires us all to stop making excuses, stop over-thinking and just do it! In a world full of naysayers and analysis paralysis, she shows us real-world examples of high achievers that tuned out the noise and realized unimaginable dreams.

The book teaches us practical steps and a mindset that mimics the scientifically proven thought patterns of successful entrepreneurs. Letting go of fear, taking small steps, having faith, staying flexible - the lessons of this book have become my new mantra. As an executive coach, I have shared these techniques with my clients and their progress has been truly astounding. This book is a must-read for anyone ready to turn vision into reality.
Comment | 
Was this review helpful to you?
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Understanding the Entrepreneur Mindset September 7, 2012
Format:Hardcover
In her book, Monica spends a great deal of time discussing the entrepreneurial mindset, shedding light on the personality traits and risk types of these practitioners. Even with the many 'rags to riches' stories entrepreneurs share, a key aspect was their decision to not seek risk adverse opportunities in their lives. From whatever stage in their lives these folks decided to create their own opportunities, they were determined to go back in and try another idea if the current one failed.

The book is refreshing insight into the process, providing both entrepreneurial mindset discussions along with how to advice on developing a start-up. What is interesting in the discussion on start-up development is the acceptance of risk takers in the corporate environment as service providers. Rather than evaluate start-ups on their infrastructure, they are evaluated on their capabilities of providing services.

For those who view entrepreneurs or themselves as lucky or gifted, my view is 'fortune favors the bold' and this characteristic is key to success.

I highly recommend this book for the author's insight into the entrepreneurial mindset and processes. It is a key part of the discussion of the development of a culture of entrepreneurship.
Comment | 
Was this review helpful to you?
Most Recent Customer Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars If I could send this back in time...
I wish I had this book 2 years ago when I got it in my head that my friends and I could start an aquaponics company in Manhattan. Read more
Published 2 months ago by Louis Guberti
5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful and inspiring
A must-read for anyone who wants to start a small business, and really for anyone else as well - especially anyone who has been afraid to follow their dream because the risk was... Read more
Published 2 months ago by David
5.0 out of 5 stars A must-read for anyone ready to dive into the world of...
Coming from a background with no formal training but a desire to start my own business, this book helped me gain the mental fortitude and understanding of what it really means to... Read more
Published 2 months ago by Dane K Olsen
4.0 out of 5 stars I enjoyed the brain science
This isn't just a business book - it's about how psychology and neuroscience impact our decision making. Read more
Published 4 months ago by Zivana
5.0 out of 5 stars An absolute must-read for would be, as well as, seasoned...
Monica Mehta is spot-on perfect when describing the natural-born instinct in all of us to be entrepreneurs. Read more
Published 5 months ago by Todd M Schoenberger
5.0 out of 5 stars If you have ADD or If you are an Entrepreneur Must Read This Book!!!
I have ADD and tried many ways for treatment, I am also a newbie entrepreneur. I struggled all my life with ADD without knowing I have ADD. Read more
Published 5 months ago by Semih Pala
4.0 out of 5 stars The Science Behind Entrepreneurship
As a entrepreneur and small business owner we understand that we see world differently than the rest of the world. Read more
Published 5 months ago by arturoglopez
5.0 out of 5 stars A must read!!!!!
The author has done an amazing job and has shown how any ordinary person can achieve success. This book is an excellent resource if you are looking to become an entrepreneur and... Read more
Published 5 months ago by Geets
4.0 out of 5 stars Very helpful and entertaining
Even if you aren't interested in starting your own business, this book provides great insights into how our minds work and what it takes to succeed in business. Read more
Published 6 months ago by Karianne
5.0 out of 5 stars Terrific Read!
I found this book to be so full of great information, and so reader-friendly, that I immediately bought one for the holiday season for my son-in-law. Read more
Published 6 months ago by Deb Walton
Search Customer Reviews
Only search this product's reviews

Forums

There are no discussions about this product yet.
Be the first to discuss this product with the community.
Start a new discussion
Topic:
First post:
Prompts for sign-in
 


So You'd Like to...