Fred 2.0

About the Author

Mark Sanborn is a renowned leadership speaker, bestselling author, and the president of Sanborn and Associates, Inc., an idea studio dedicated to developing leaders in business and life. Known for his insightful books on leadership, customer service, and extraordinary performance, Sanborn has influenced countless individuals and organizations to strive for excellence. His notable works include "The Fred Factor," which introduced readers to the concept of transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary through dedicated service and personal commitment. With "Fred 2.0," Sanborn continues to inspire readers to elevate their lives and work by embodying the principles of passion, creativity, and exceptional service.

Main Idea

"Fred 2.0: New Ideas on How to Keep Delivering Extraordinary Results" by Mark Sanborn delves into the principles that drive individuals to achieve extraordinary results in their personal and professional lives. Inspired by the real-life story of Fred Shea, an exceptional mailman, Sanborn explores how anyone can turn ordinary tasks into extraordinary opportunities through passion, creativity, and a commitment to service. The book emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility, authentic relationships, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Why Be Normal?
• It's Always About Service
• Start with Commitment
• Work with Passion
• Cultivate Your Creativity
• Develop Your Difference
• Build Better Relationships
• Elevate the Experience
• Renew Your Resolve
• What If You're a Head Fred?
• Build a Team Fred
• Raise a Fred Jr.
• Create a Community of Freds
• Best Always

Why Be Normal?

Sanborn begins by challenging the notion of normalcy. He posits that aiming for normal is akin to settling for mediocrity. Instead, he encourages readers to recalibrate their expectations and strive for greatness. "If Fred can be extraordinary in what could be a tedious job, then there is no reason why you and I can't reinvent our own work, whatever it may be," Sanborn asserts.

"Normal is easy, familiar. But is that the best we can aim for each day - to be normal? If you want more out of life, go for more. Raise your expectations. Settle up, rather than down." - Mark Sanborn

1. Setting higher goals for personal growth and professional achievements.
2. Continuously learning and adapting to new challenges.
3. Seeking innovative solutions rather than relying on traditional methods.

It's Always About Service

The core of the Fred philosophy is service. Sanborn highlights the timeless values of personal responsibility, authentic relationships, and respect for others. Being a Fred means seizing opportunities to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary through dedicated service. Sanborn explains, "Being a Fred isn't about the job you hold but how you do the job."