Before embarking on the A.I.M. program, I was just an ordinary guy with a problem that many, many others have had at some point in their careers.  I was unhappy.  I was becoming bitter.  I complained about my job a lot. I knew I was in a rut and couldn't figure out what to do about it.  I felt powerless, unfocused and alone. And I didn't see a way I could make things improve. That was my starting point before I began the A.I.M. process.

Today, I run my own firm that helps dozens of nonprofits improve their community impact each year. I work on very interesting and socially relevant projects for an ever-growing roster of clients. I have flown around the world to talk about community building, environmentalism and social marketing. I also teach at an innovative downtown university where the students are a joy to teach and my fellow professors often remark on my enthusiasm for my work and life in general. My friends and family constantly note that I seem happier and more motivated as the years go by.

This did not happen because of some exceptional piece of luck - nor because of some superhuman ability or intelligence on my part ... I was someone who happened upon a method - the A.I.M. method - that helped me determine who I was and what inspired me, and then put me on the path to achieving it. It happened because I put those principles into action with the help and guidance of a coach like Jim Carlisle.

I hope as you read this book that you will appreciate how A.I.M. changed my life - and how it could help you change yours. Jim and I have taken the better part of a year to write this book because we believe in strongly in helping those who need a way out. Every day we see people who would benefit from taking charge of their lives and moving forward to achieve, inspire and make a difference.

If you see a bit of yourself in my story - or in the dozens of stories we will share in this book — read on. I hope your journey is even more productive and rewarding than my own.