Book Summary Preview : The Rebel Rules

1. Getting in touch with your "inner rebel"

• Rebels listen to their own instincts as opposed to other's opinions when determining an important course of action
• Rebels show up in their own dress code at an event.
• Rebels get into activities that make them lose track of time and put them in a state of ecstasy.
• Rebels build a career that is a natural reflection of themselves and follow a natural progression from their most innate childhood skills.
• Rebels are working at jobs that they put on their list of top ten "favorite future jobs" from their childhood or youth.
• Rebels are normally not straight A students, they would have been naïve idealists, non-conformists, or artists in their teenage years
• Rebels are not afraid to fail, quit their jobs, and follow their lifelong passion and true calling.
• Rebels either become leading experts in their chosen fields, millionaires, or end up in prison.
• Rebels do not lose their political and social beliefs as they grow older. Their passion for the causes they support will only grow stronger over time.
• Rebels do not take "No" for an answer. They will always try to find a way or solution.

Rebel Profile

Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Group of Companies

• Started his first business, a magazine called Student, at the age of 16.
• Began Virgin mail-order record business at age 20.
• Built a net worth of $300 million by age 35 with diverse businesses all under the Virgin brand: travel, entertainment, retail, media, financial services, publishing, bridal service, and soft drinks.
• Sold his music company for $1billion at age 41.

His two fundamental rebel principles:

• Position yourself as the underdog and you will find a niche market.
• Create a product line that connects with people on an emotional level through your brand.

Think of your life as a novel.
Recurring themes from your childhood and youth will show you are not a victim of circumstance, but have intentionally steered your own course to where you are today. By re-creating your life story, you'll rediscover the passions upon which you can build a career...