Subtitled “a fable about following your dream,” The Alchemist is included here because imagination, self-determination, and purpose (the stuff of dreams) are often founding components of a start-up business or nonprofit.

Interestingly, my takeaway from my first reading (about 12 years ago as was assigned in my son’s 10th grade English class) was that “when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”

While I believe the above (with limitations of course: fish can’t fly no matter what), Coelho’s message which resonates most this time is that it is the search itself — and being open to whatever happens, including discovery experienced, wisdom gained, and lessons learned — is what matters.

It is often said it is the process (doing) as much as the results (achieving), which provides meaning and fulfillment in our lives. I’ve found this perspective helpful as I’ve created, launched, and continue to evolve my business.