It’s Not How Good You Are, It’s How Good You Want to Be

It’s Not How Good You Are, It’s How Good You Want to Be – Paul Arden

It’s Not How Good You Are, It’s How Good You Want to Be: The World’s Best-Selling Book is a small book with a big message. Written by Paul Arden, the legendary British advertising creative who served as executive creative director at Saatchi and Saatchi, it is a pocket-sized handbook of ideas about talent, ambition and creative success.

Arden argues that ambition and determination matter more than natural talent. Everyone, he suggests, can be good if they really want to be, but most people settle for less than they are capable of. Through short, punchy pages, often a single thought illustrated with a striking image, he offers unconventional advice on how to think, work and succeed in the creative industries and beyond.

Among his lessons: aim beyond what you are capable of, do not seek praise but criticism, accept responsibility for everything that happens, do not be afraid of making mistakes, give away everything you know, and recognize that the person who doesn’t make mistakes is unlikely to make anything. He also offers practical tips on presenting ideas, dealing with clients and getting work approved.

Witty, provocative and visually engaging, the book can be read in less than an hour but returned to again and again for inspiration.

It’s Not How Good You Are, It’s How Good You Want to Be has become a cult classic among designers, advertising professionals, artists, students and entrepreneurs, and it makes an excellent gift for anyone starting a creative career or looking for a burst of motivation.