The Carpenter: A Story About the Greatest Success Strategies of All

"This is a delightful story about likable characters discovering powerful, simple truths. A memorable read for anyone." —Patrick Lencioni, President, The Table Group; Bestselling Author The Five Dysfunctions of a Team and The Advantage "The Carpenter is just another example of Jon Gordon as a master storyteller—unforgettable characters with inspiring messages—this thought provoking book places me in awe of Jon Gordon as an author, teacher, and leader." —George Raveling, Director of International Basketball, Nike "I love everything Jon Gordon writes but this book takes his message and writing to another level. I was inspired to build a better life, career, and team with the greatest success strategies of all!" —Cori Close, Head Coach, UCLA Women’s Basketball "Jon Gordon weaves a masterful story that will capture your imagination, challenge your convictions, and deepen your faith." —Mark Batterson, Lead Pastor, National Community Church, Bestselling Author, The Circle Maker "When you read The Carpenter you can′t help but become a better person and leader. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to build up people and build better teams." —Mike Smith, Head Coach of The Atlanta Falcons "True success comes from helping others succeed. The Carpenter will inspire you to lead others through servanthood, compassion, and genuine humility." —Carl Liebert, President, USAA Capital Corporation

Foreword by Ken Blanchard ix Acknowledgments xi 1 Collapse 1 2 Rest 5 3 The Carpenter 9 4 Stressed 15 5 Busy 17 6 Design Your Masterpiece 19 7 Be a Craftsman 25 8 You Will Know 29 9 Everybody Loves the Carpenter 33 10 Believe 37 11 Talk to Yourself instead of Listening to Yourself 41 12 Sarah 45 13 Chaos 49 14 The Greatest Success Strategy of All 53 15 Love Is a Commitment 59 16 People > Furniture 63 17 The Second Greatest Success Strategy of All 67 18 The Sandwich 75 19 The Third Greatest Success Strategy of All 77 20 Love, Serve, Care 83 21 Value 85 22 The Heart of Success 87 23 Failing 91 24 Success Takes Time 93 25 The Gift of Failure 95 26 Unfinished Work 99 27 Courage 101 28 A Glimmer of Hope 105 29 Be the Mission 109 30 All for One 113 31 Progress 117 32 Everything Is Spiritual 121 33 Creating the Impossible 125 34 Build 129 35 Success Is Meant to Be Shared 131 Tools for Success 135 Bring the Greatest Success Strategies to Your Team and Organization 137 Other Books by Jon Gordon 139

JON GORDON is the author of numerous bestselling books and his inspirational talks have inspired audiences around the world. His principles have been put to the test by countless Fortune 500 companies, school districts, hospitals, sports teams, and nonprofits. Jon invites you to visit and connect with him at JonGordon.com or on Twitter @JonGordon11.