How to Become Indispensable in 2011?

Critics say that Linchpin is Seth Godin’s most passionate book and I definitely have to agree. First, he reveals that “there are no longer any great jobs where someone else tells you precisely what to do.” Linchpins who hold great jobs don’t just follow orders, they add creativity, innovation and value and thus, create art.

Seth tells how to free people around us so they can become artists, which means creators of unique, compelling and substantial value. It does not matter what these individuals do for living, it is the attitude that matters. Linchpin’s drive and passion make it possible to create art every day.

If people can become artists, “they will rise to a level you can’t even imagine. When people realize that they are not a cog in a machine, an easily replaceable commodity, they take the challenge and grow. They produce more than you pay them to, because you are paying them with something worth more than money …” People crave connection and respect.

As an individual, “You can’t become a linchpin merely because you are different. The only way to become indispensable is to be different,” says Godin. “That’s because if you’re the same, so are plenty of other people.”

Linchpin is a most unusual, thought-provoking and concise book about becoming indispensable, whether you work for someone else at any level or are self-employed. Godin’s principles can be applied to other aspects of life. Linchpins can be better spouses, friends and community members.

Godin says that if you want customers to flock to you, it’s tempting to race to the bottom of the price chart. There’s plenty of room there, but the only way to win is to race to the top. If you are more human, remarkable, faster, and connect with customers in 2011, you will win.

Are you indispensable? Do you create art?