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Message From The Middle Of Nowhere

Message From The Middle Of Nowhere

Icelandic Viking philosophy for conquering the challenges of business and life
by Gunnar Andri Thorisson 2017 238 pages
3.93
100+ ratings
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Key Takeaways

1. Embrace Mistakes: They Pave the Way for Success

“This is alright, this will only make my book even better.”

Mistakes are learning opportunities. The author views mistakes and life-changing events as valuable content for his book, highlighting the importance of seeing setbacks as opportunities for growth. This perspective reframes failures as stepping stones rather than roadblocks.

Turning adversity into advantage. The author's life is filled with examples of turning adversity into advantage. From the volcanic eruption that jumpstarted his sales career to personal losses that fueled his determination, he consistently finds ways to extract value from challenging situations.

  • The eruption in Westman Islands became a sales opportunity.
  • Personal losses inspired him to live life to the fullest.

The power of reframing. By reframing mistakes as learning experiences, the author maintains a positive outlook and fuels his drive to succeed. This mindset allows him to persevere through difficult times and emerge stronger.

2. Location is Key: Seize Opportunities Where You Find Them

“When The Eruption Starts, Location Is Everything”

Strategic positioning. The author emphasizes the importance of being in the right place at the right time, both literally and figuratively. His early success as a paperboy stemmed from securing a prime location outside the national bank, demonstrating the power of strategic positioning.

Adapting to circumstances. The author's ability to adapt to changing circumstances is evident in his various ventures. Whether it's selling newspapers during a volcanic eruption or finding new markets for vacuum cleaners, he consistently identifies and seizes opportunities where he finds them.

  • Selling newspapers during the Westman Islands eruption.
  • Finding new markets for vacuum cleaners in rural Iceland.

The power of observation. By paying attention to his surroundings and identifying unmet needs, the author is able to capitalize on emerging opportunities. This proactive approach allows him to stay ahead of the curve and maintain a competitive edge.

3. Harness the Power of Asking: You'll Never Know Unless You Try

“If you don’t ask the question, the answer will always be no.”

Directness and clarity. The author advocates for directness and clarity in communication, particularly when it comes to asking for what you want. His childhood habit of asking visitors for spare change demonstrates the power of straightforwardness.

Overcoming fear of rejection. The author's willingness to ask for what he wants stems from his ability to overcome the fear of rejection. He understands that the worst-case scenario is simply hearing "no," which leaves him no worse off than before.

  • Asking visitors for spare change as a child.
  • Approaching the "Troll" for reinforcement.

Creating opportunities. By asking questions and seeking out information, the author creates opportunities that would otherwise not exist. This proactive approach allows him to expand his network, gain valuable insights, and ultimately achieve his goals.

4. Cultivate Resilience: Get Back on the Horse

“If you fall from your horse, climb back on it and carry on.”

Embracing failure as a learning experience. The author views failure as an inevitable part of the entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes and moving forward. This mindset allows him to persevere through setbacks and emerge stronger.

The importance of perseverance. The author's life is filled with examples of perseverance in the face of adversity. From his early struggles as a salesman to his financial setbacks in Greece, he consistently demonstrates the ability to bounce back from difficult situations.

  • Continuing to sell newspapers despite threats from "The Newspaper King."
  • Returning to Iceland after his Greek venture failed.

Maintaining a positive attitude. By maintaining a positive attitude and focusing on solutions rather than problems, the author is able to overcome challenges and achieve his goals. This mindset allows him to stay motivated and inspired, even in the face of adversity.

5. Money is Neutral: It's a Tool, Not a Master

“Money is not good or bad. Money is neutral.”

Money as a means to an end. The author emphasizes that money is neither inherently good nor evil, but rather a tool that can be used for positive or negative purposes. This perspective allows him to view money as a resource to be managed wisely rather than an end in itself.

The importance of financial literacy. The author advocates for financial literacy, emphasizing the need to understand how money works and how to manage it effectively. This knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions and achieve financial freedom.

  • Learning the value of hard work and earning money at a young age.
  • Investing in himself through education and travel.

Avoiding negative attitudes towards money. The author cautions against adopting negative attitudes towards money, as these can hinder financial success. By viewing money as a neutral tool, individuals can overcome limiting beliefs and create a more positive relationship with wealth.

6. Face Your Fears: Trolls Can Become Gnomes

“The giant in your path can turn into a gnome if you have a troll on your side.”

Confronting challenges head-on. The author emphasizes the importance of facing fears and challenges head-on, rather than avoiding them. This proactive approach allows him to overcome obstacles and achieve his goals.

Seeking support and reinforcement. The author's story of enlisting the help of a "troll" to overcome the "gnome" demonstrates the power of seeking support and reinforcement when facing challenges. By surrounding himself with capable allies, he is able to overcome obstacles that would otherwise seem insurmountable.

  • Enlisting the help of a "troll" to overcome "The Newspaper King."
  • Seeking advice and guidance from mentors and experts.

Transforming obstacles into opportunities. By reframing challenges as opportunities for growth, the author is able to maintain a positive outlook and fuel his drive to succeed. This mindset allows him to see potential where others see only obstacles.

7. The Power of a Strong "Why": Fueling Your Goals

“Figure out what you want and WHY you want it.”

Purpose-driven action. The author emphasizes the importance of having a strong "why" behind your goals, as this provides the motivation and drive needed to overcome obstacles and achieve success. This sense of purpose fuels his actions and keeps him focused on his objectives.

Connecting goals to values. By connecting his goals to his core values, the author is able to maintain a sense of purpose and meaning in his work. This alignment allows him to stay motivated and inspired, even when facing challenges.

  • His desire to provide for his family motivated him to succeed in sales.
  • His passion for helping others led him to become a sales trainer.

The power of visualization. The author advocates for visualizing your goals and the positive outcomes that will result from achieving them. This mental exercise helps to reinforce your commitment and maintain a positive outlook.

8. Honesty and Integrity: The Foundation of Lasting Success

“Keep your honesty intact, it will return to you many times over.”

Building trust and credibility. The author emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in all aspects of life, particularly in business. By maintaining a reputation for trustworthiness, he is able to build strong relationships and achieve lasting success.

Avoiding shortcuts and unethical behavior. The author cautions against taking shortcuts or engaging in unethical behavior, as these can ultimately undermine your reputation and lead to long-term consequences. He believes that honesty is always the best policy, even when it's difficult.

  • Refusing to engage in bribery in Greece.
  • Maintaining ethical sales practices, even when facing financial pressure.

Long-term perspective. By prioritizing honesty and integrity, the author is able to build a sustainable business and maintain a positive reputation over the long term. This approach allows him to weather storms and emerge stronger.

9. Continuous Self-Improvement: Never Stop Learning

“Always keep investing in yourself, your knowledge and your skills.”

The pursuit of knowledge. The author is a lifelong learner, constantly seeking out new information and skills to improve himself and his business. This commitment to continuous self-improvement allows him to stay ahead of the curve and adapt to changing circumstances.

Embracing new technologies and approaches. The author's willingness to embrace new technologies and approaches is evident in his various ventures. From his early adoption of mobile phones to his embrace of online learning, he consistently seeks out innovative ways to improve his business.

  • Learning Greek through homemade linguaphone tapes.
  • Embracing online learning and building a discount website.

The value of mentorship and guidance. The author recognizes the value of mentorship and guidance, seeking out advice from experts and role models throughout his career. This willingness to learn from others allows him to accelerate his growth and avoid common pitfalls.

10. Gratitude and Perspective: Finding Joy in the Journey

“Our life situation really doesn’t matter, it’s how we respond to it that does.”

Appreciating the present moment. The author emphasizes the importance of appreciating the present moment and finding joy in the journey, rather than constantly striving for future goals. This mindset allows him to maintain a sense of contentment and fulfillment, even in the face of challenges.

Maintaining a positive outlook. The author's ability to maintain a positive outlook, even in difficult times, is a key factor in his success. By focusing on the good things in his life and maintaining a sense of gratitude, he is able to overcome obstacles and achieve his goals.

  • Finding joy in simple things, like playing cards with his grandmother.
  • Maintaining a sense of humor, even when facing financial setbacks.

The power of perspective. By maintaining a broader perspective and recognizing the relative insignificance of his own problems, the author is able to stay grounded and avoid getting bogged down in negativity. This mindset allows him to see the bigger picture and maintain a sense of purpose.

11. The Strength of Icelandic Women: A Legacy of Empowerment

“You might even claim that this is the fundamental reason for the strength of Icelandic women and how much we have achieved regarding gender equality.”

Historical context of Icelandic women's roles. The author highlights the historical strength and resilience of Icelandic women, who traditionally managed households and farms while men were at sea. This historical context has contributed to a culture of gender equality and empowerment.

Vigdís Finnbogadóttir: A symbol of progress. The author proudly mentions Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, the world's first democratically elected female president, as a symbol of Icelandic women's achievements and leadership. Her dedication to language and culture further exemplifies the nation's values.

  • Vigdís Finnbogadóttir's presidency from 1980-1996.
  • The Vigdís Finnbogadóttir Institute of Foreign Languages.

Continuing the legacy. The author expresses his pride in the inner strength of Icelandic women and their ongoing contributions to society. He sees their legacy as a source of inspiration and a testament to the power of gender equality.

Last updated:

FAQ

What's "Message From The Middle Of Nowhere" about?

  • Icelandic Viking Philosophy: The book explores Icelandic Viking philosophy and how it can be applied to conquer challenges in business and life.
  • Personal Experiences: Gunnar Andri Thorisson shares his personal journey from growing up in poverty in Iceland to becoming a renowned salesman and sales trainer.
  • Unique Stories: The narrative intertwines life lessons with stories of trolls, Vikings, and natural disasters, offering a unique perspective on personal and professional growth.
  • Sales and Life Lessons: It provides insights into sales techniques and life strategies, emphasizing resilience, honesty, and the power of storytelling.

Why should I read "Message From The Middle Of Nowhere"?

  • Inspiration and Motivation: The book offers motivational stories and lessons that can inspire readers to overcome their own challenges.
  • Practical Sales Advice: It provides practical advice on sales and communication, useful for anyone looking to improve their business skills.
  • Cultural Insights: Readers gain insights into Icelandic culture and philosophy, which are woven into the author's personal and professional experiences.
  • Unique Perspective: The blend of personal anecdotes with business lessons offers a fresh and engaging approach to self-help and professional development.

What are the key takeaways of "Message From The Middle Of Nowhere"?

  • Resilience and Adaptability: The importance of resilience in the face of adversity and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
  • Honesty and Integrity: The value of honesty in business and personal relationships, and how it leads to long-term success.
  • Continuous Learning: The necessity of lifelong learning and self-improvement to achieve personal and professional goals.
  • Cultural Wisdom: The application of Icelandic cultural wisdom and Viking philosophy to modern business practices.

How does Gunnar Andri Thorisson apply Icelandic Viking philosophy to business?

  • Facing Fears: Emphasizes facing fears head-on, much like the Vikings did, to overcome obstacles in business and life.
  • Strategic Thinking: Uses Viking strategic thinking to plan and execute business strategies effectively.
  • Community and Support: Highlights the importance of community and support, drawing parallels to Viking societal structures.
  • Resilience and Strength: Encourages building resilience and inner strength, akin to the Viking spirit, to navigate challenges.

What are the best quotes from "Message From The Middle Of Nowhere" and what do they mean?

  • "WORK is the magic word." This emphasizes the importance of hard work and effort in achieving success.
  • "If you don’t ask, the answer will always be no." Encourages taking initiative and being proactive in seeking opportunities.
  • "First we make habits and then the habits become us." Highlights the power of habits in shaping our lives and outcomes.
  • "The giant in your path can turn into a gnome if you have a troll on your side." Suggests that challenges can be overcome with the right support and mindset.

What is the significance of the Vegvísir symbol on the cover?

  • Guidance and Direction: The Vegvísir is an Icelandic magical stave intended to help people find their right path, symbolizing guidance and direction.
  • Cultural Heritage: It reflects the book's connection to Icelandic culture and the author's heritage.
  • Metaphorical Meaning: Represents the journey of life and the importance of staying on course despite challenges.
  • Personal Journey: Ties into the author's personal journey of finding his path in life and business.

How does Gunnar Andri Thorisson's personal story enhance the book's message?

  • Authenticity and Relatability: His personal experiences add authenticity and make the lessons relatable to readers.
  • Overcoming Adversity: His journey from poverty to success exemplifies the book's themes of resilience and perseverance.
  • Cultural Context: Provides a cultural context that enriches the narrative and offers unique insights.
  • Inspiration: His story serves as an inspiration for readers to pursue their own goals despite obstacles.

What sales techniques does Gunnar Andri Thorisson recommend?

  • Building Relationships: Emphasizes the importance of building genuine relationships with clients.
  • Listening and Understanding: Advocates for listening to clients' needs and understanding their perspectives.
  • Honesty and Transparency: Stresses the importance of honesty and transparency in sales interactions.
  • Continuous Improvement: Encourages continuous learning and improvement in sales skills and strategies.

How does the book address the concept of failure?

  • Learning from Mistakes: Encourages viewing failures as learning opportunities and stepping stones to success.
  • Resilience: Highlights the importance of resilience in bouncing back from setbacks.
  • Positive Mindset: Promotes maintaining a positive mindset and using failures to fuel future success.
  • Personal Growth: Suggests that failures contribute to personal growth and development.

What role does Icelandic culture play in the book?

  • Cultural Wisdom: Icelandic cultural wisdom and folklore are woven into the narrative, providing unique insights.
  • Philosophical Approach: The book uses Icelandic philosophy to offer a different perspective on business and life challenges.
  • Cultural Stories: Includes stories of trolls, Vikings, and natural disasters to illustrate life lessons.
  • Heritage and Identity: Reflects the author's heritage and identity, enriching the book's message.

How does "Message From The Middle Of Nowhere" blend storytelling with business advice?

  • Engaging Narrative: Uses engaging storytelling to convey business advice and life lessons.
  • Personal Anecdotes: Personal anecdotes are used to illustrate key concepts and make them relatable.
  • Cultural Elements: Incorporates cultural elements to provide a unique perspective on business strategies.
  • Practical Lessons: Blends practical business lessons with entertaining stories for a comprehensive approach.

What is the overall message of "Message From The Middle Of Nowhere"?

  • Resilience and Perseverance: The importance of resilience and perseverance in achieving success.
  • Cultural Wisdom: The value of cultural wisdom and philosophy in navigating life's challenges.
  • Continuous Growth: The necessity of continuous growth and learning for personal and professional development.
  • Honesty and Integrity: The role of honesty and integrity in building lasting relationships and achieving long-term success.

Review Summary

3.93 out of 5
Average of 100+ ratings from Goodreads and Amazon.

Message From The Middle Of Nowhere received mostly positive reviews, with readers praising its inspirational and motivational content. Many appreciated the author's personal journey, from selling newspapers as a child to becoming a successful salesman in Iceland. The book was lauded for its blend of sales advice, life lessons, and Icelandic culture. Readers found the writing style engaging and the lessons applicable to both business and personal growth. Some particularly enjoyed the Viking philosophy and practical sales tips included throughout the book.

Your rating:
4.44
41 ratings

About the Author

Gunnar Andri Thorisson is an Icelandic author and sales expert with over 20 years of experience in personal development and business coaching. Gunnar Andri Thorisson grew up in Iceland, starting his sales career as a young newspaper seller. He overcame poverty and numerous challenges to become one of Iceland's leading salesmen and business figures. Thorisson is known for his ability to blend ancient Viking wisdom with modern sales techniques and life lessons. His experiences include surviving natural disasters, traveling extensively, and working with international business leaders. Thorisson's writing style is described as engaging and relatable, making complex business concepts accessible to a wide audience.

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