There’s no rest for the successful, argues tech innovator Hanna, with Christy Petrosso, in this comprehensive debut. The guide is organized around lessons and analogies drawn from popular media, sports, and philosophy, as Hanna posits that businesses must “pivot” to their next major move rather than focusing solely on product-market fit (a notion he labels as outdated and illusionary). To that end, he details his proprietary model, the Pivoting Life Operating Model (PLOM)—a method that draws from several different frameworks and metrics while viewing “business growth as an ongoing journey,” as opposed to rigid milestones.Pivoting as a Way of Life is easily digestible, even for those in the startup phase. Hanna uses clever metaphors to explain each facet of his PLOM model, such as the “Master and Commander” chapter that sees readers envisioning product strategy and development as akin to sailing, using lay lines and tacking to reach a predetermined destination, much like staying within set boundaries during product development can cut unnecessary inertia and costs. Similarly, Hanna uses the example of television series Schitt’s Creek to illustrate basic steps of pivoting that can, and should, be implemented in business practices, drawing parallels between the Schitt’s Creek storyline—a family forced to adapt to shocking economic problems—and the need for businesses to “adapt to their new circumstances and ultimately find ways to thrive.” Through such vivid examples, Hanna reminds readers that successful professionals start to change direction before they get off course.
Hanna packs his guide with useful and well-designed visual aids, tying up chapters with reflection and summary points to drive home his themes. Though some of the math theory behind his metrics—and the slew of acronyms driving his advice—require careful attention, readers will find Pivoting as a Way of Life an actionable, common-sense approach for real-life business practice.
Takeaway: Engaging paradigm on the need to be adaptable in business.
Comparable Titles: Simon Sinek’s Start With Why, John Doerr’s Measure What Matters.
Production grades
Cover: B+
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A
