Chapter 4

The Five Universal Themes in Business

Todd Sattersten

Editor’s Note

Todd Sattersten is likely one of the most well-read professionals I know. He knows business books and has helped cull the essence of what each can offer in terms of inspiration and practical tools. In this short essay, he shares the most prominent themes that emerge when looking across the most popular and well-respected business books. For managers, this is the micro “CliffsNotes” version of how to be successful.

What happens when you spend 18 months reading the best in business literature? In our case, two things happened—one expected, the other quite unexpected. ...

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