Book Buff: Start Something That Matters

(Courtesy of TOMS Shoes)

One for One is a movement that has allowed children in need to receive shoes, eyewear, meals and immunizations all over the world.

Blake Mycoskie, the founder of this movement, wants to inspire others to do what he has done for people in need. In his new book, “Start Something That Matters,” he shares his experiences and the knowledge he has gained with his company, TOMS.

Many students on campus wear TOMS shoes. The company, founded in 2006, is a for-profit company that started the One for One movement. This movement states that for every pair of TOMS shoes or eyewear sold, TOMS will donate another pair to a child in need from one of 23 countries.

“Start Something That Matters” delves into the history of TOMS and teaches basic entrepreneurial skills. This book serves as an informative and inspirational guide to building a company, creating a movement and designing a product that matters. Throughout the book, Mycoskie shares not only his tender moments and experiences, but also emails, letters and stories from people touched by the TOMS One for One movement.

These stories stimulate want for a personal connection and stir desire to help others around the globe. It isn’t enough to read about business practices — reading example after example of how these business skills are making a difference is what helps the reader see a bigger picture.

In his book, Mycoskie addresses several skills that he believes are crucial to starting your own business, especially for businesses centered on giving. Sections entitled “Give From Your Core,” “Give Early,” “It’s Better To Give Than To Receive,” “Give More Than Money” and others build upon one another to lead the lost entrepreneur in the right direction.

Mycoskie’s book makes you think, not about yourself, but about others, and how one thought can make a difference in someone else’s life. He gives invaluable information that can only help both you and your business grow.

“Start Something That Matters” is an inspirational story about how one idea became a movement. It’s about how everyone has the power to create a difference in the world too.

To learn more about TOMS and the One for One movement please visit www.toms.com.

 Contact CU Independent Staff Writer Crystal Anderson at crystal.anderson@colorado.edu.