Leaving Microsoft to Change the World: Summary Review

This is a summary review of Leaving Microsoft to Change the World containing key details about the book.

What is Leaving Microsoft to Change the World About?

Leaving Microsoft to Change the World is a memoir by John Wood, the founder of Room to Read, that recounts his journey from successful corporate executive to philanthropist, and the lessons he learned about leadership, purpose, and impact along the way.

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Leaving Microsoft to Change the World chronicles John Wood's struggle to find a meaningful outlet for his managerial talents and entrepreneurial zeal. For every high-achiever who has ever wondered what life might be like giving back, Wood offers a vivid, emotional, and absorbing tale of how to take the lessons learned at a hard-charging company like Microsoft and apply them to one of the world's most pressing problems: the lack of basic literacy.

Summary Points & Takeaways from Leaving Microsoft to Change the World

Some key summary points and takeaways from the book include:

* The book details the journey of author, John Wood, as he left his successful career at Microsoft to start Room to Read, a nonprofit organization focused on promoting education and literacy in developing countries.

* Wood was inspired to make a change in the world after a trek to Nepal where he saw the extreme poverty and lack of access to education first hand.

* The book emphasizes the importance of following one's passions and using one's skills and resources to make a positive impact in the world.

* Wood's story highlights the challenges and rewards of starting a nonprofit, including fundraising, building a team, and navigating cultural differences.

* Wood shares lessons learned about leadership, including the importance of setting a clear vision, being adaptable, and maintaining a strong work-life balance.

* The book inspires readers to think about their own purpose and how they can make a difference in the world.

* Wood emphasizes the power of collective action and how small individual efforts can add up to make a significant impact.

* The book encourages readers to take risks, step out of their comfort zones, and make a difference in the world.

Who is the author of Leaving Microsoft to Change the World?

John J. Wood is the Founder of two global education charities: Room to Read and U-Go. Wood started Room to Read in 2000 after quitting his executive position as Microsoft's Director of Business Development for the Greater China Region.

Book Details

  • Print length: 272 pages
  • Genre: Nonfiction, Memoir, Education

What is a good quote from Leaving Microsoft to Change the World?

Top Quote: "The world has too many people who are happy to discuss why something might not work, and too few who will cheer you and say, "I'm there for you." (Meaning) - Leaving Microsoft to Change the World Quotes, John Wood

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What do critics say?

Here's what one of the prominent reviewers had to say about the book: “In this captivating memoir....Wood provides recipes for how to succeed at operating nonprofit firms globally, regardless of local cultures.” — Library Journal

* The editor of this summary review made every effort to maintain information accuracy, including any published quotes, chapters, or takeaways. If you want to enhance your personal growth, I recommend checking out my list of favorite personal growth books. These books have played a significant role in my life, and each one includes a summary and takeaways to help you apply the concepts.

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Chief Editor

Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.

 
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