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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Finding My Virginity summary
The New Autobiography
29 mins
Brief summary
Finding My Virginity by Richard Branson is an autobiography of the entrepreneur that chronicles his adventures in business and life. It's an inspiring tale of chasing dreams, taking risks and having fun while doing it.
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Finding My Virginity
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Virgin Atlantic’s battle with British Airways presents a classic example of Richard Branson’s resourcefulness.
In 1999, Richard Branson wasn’t sure what lay ahead. The trendsetting, billionaire entrepreneur had just wrapped up his latest hot air balloon adventure, attempting to travel all the way around the world only to end up in need of rescue near the Hawaiian Islands.
At this time, Branson’s Virgin Group was on the verge of being the global brand he’d always dreamed of. And while there had been missteps along the way, such as the failed attempts during the 1990s to get into the cola, vodka and cosmetics markets, he was constantly learning and becoming more focused on what exactly made a perfect fit for the Virgin Group.
One of the companies that Branson fought hardest for is Virgin Atlantic, the international airline whose history shows how determined Branson can be to compete.
Virgin Atlantic was founded in the early 1980s, and as with most of Branson’s projects, it was born in an attempt to offer people a better experience. In this case, an alternative to British Airways (BA), which wielded an extremely powerful influence at London’s Heathrow Airport but offered bad food, bad entertainment and bad service.
But BA would not go down without a fight. Ever since Virgin Atlantic started doing business, BA has tried to squeeze it out of the competition, even using “dirty tricks” that involved printing libelous remarks about the company.
Though the libel suit against BA was settled with Branson being awarded damages, he prefers to win simply by being the best airline in the business, not by being in the courtroom.
Branson is also always keen to improve and take a shot at his competition. At one point Virgin Atlantic began offering in-flight massages. Branson advertised this by putting up a sign at Heathrow that read, “BA Don’t Give a Shiatsu.”
And when BA was spending huge amounts sponsoring the London Eye in the 1990s, and running into all kinds of technical problems that left the giant ferris wheel stranded on its side, Branson jumped at the chance to hire a blimp displaying the message, “BA CAN’T GET IT UP.”
Cheekiness and great service; that’s the Virgin way.
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What is Finding My Virginity about?
Finding My Virginity (2017) is the long-awaited sequel to Richard Branson’s first autobiography, Losing My Virginity. It picks up right where the earlier book left off, at the start of a new century with the digital marketplace opening up and an array of new business possibilities presenting themselves, including the opportunity to launch a company to take people into space.
"This is a remarkable book-in-blinks with both insight and inspiration.” – Sophie, Blinkist user, Kenya
Finding My Virginity Review
Finding My Virginity (2017) by Richard Branson is an inspiring memoir that takes readers through the incredible journey of the business magnate and adventurer. Here's why this book is definitely worth reading:
- Branson shares real-life stories and experiences that offer valuable lessons and insights into entrepreneurship and personal growth.
- The book provides a behind-the-scenes look into the development of the Virgin brand, offering a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of building a global empire.
- With his signature adventurous spirit and contagious enthusiasm, Branson's storytelling keeps readers captivated, ensuring the book is far from boring.
Best quote from Finding My Virginity
In 2015, Virgin Active was valued at £1.3 billion.
—Richard Branson
Who should read Finding My Virginity?
- Entrepreneurs
- Activists
- Readers interested in a remarkable life story
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Finding My Virginity FAQs
What is the main message of Finding My Virginity?
The main message of Finding My Virginity is the power of entrepreneurial spirit, adventure, and making a positive impact on the world.
How long does it take to read Finding My Virginity?
The reading time for Finding My Virginity varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Finding My Virginity a good book? Is it worth reading?
Finding My Virginity is a captivating read that offers insights into Richard Branson's extraordinary journey, filled with valuable lessons and inspiration for entrepreneurs and dreamers alike.
Who is the author of Finding My Virginity?
The author of Finding My Virginity is Richard Branson.
What to read after Finding My Virginity?
If you're wondering what to read next after Finding My Virginity, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- The Virgin Way by Richard Branson
- Losing My Virginity by Richard Branson
- The Generous Leader by Joe Davis
- Everyday Millionaires by Chris Hogan
- Mindset by Carol Dweck
- Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
- The Algebra of Wealth by Scott Galloway
- Do Hard Things by Steve Magness
- Talking to Strangers by Malcolm Gladwell
- Stillness Is the Key by Ryan Holiday