What comes to mind when you think of the word shortcut? Is it positive or negative?

Depending on the context, the word can have both positive and negative connotations. If you’re running a marathon and you see someone deviate from the route in an attempt to reach the finish line sooner, you might not be happy. (I know I wouldn’t be.) If you develop a system that saves the company money, you could be recognized by your manager—and possibly get a raise or promotion. Go you!!

Leapfrog: The New Revolution for Women Entrepreneurs, written by Nathalie Molina Niño with Sara Grace, is about taking shortcuts. Or as she calls them, hacks. Simply put, everyone takes shortcuts—and you should too!

Her main objective with this book is to get you, dear reader, comfortable taking said shortcuts.

Why is this important, you ask?

Well…women tend to play fair, not ruffle feathers and follow the rules, and she considers this attitude a part of the problem. Does this sound familiar? I know it does to me.

Throughout the book, Nathalie reminds you that life isn’t fair—and for women of color, starting, funding, and scaling a business can feel like an uphill battle. She recognizes that these systems are made for a privileged few, so she wants you to leapfrog, shortcut, or hack your way to success.

Leapfrog is full of hacks—fifty, to be exact. Each chapter is dedicated to a hack with titles such as “If You Want Friends, Create Controversy” and “Forget Passion, Find Things You Want to Punch.” The chapters are concise but punchy.

Not only do you get a glimpse of her past experiences, but you will also learn from other successful women such as Nina Vaca CEO and Chairman of the Pinnacle Group, and Tanya Mendez, co-founder and CEO of Snowball Wealth.

This book is full of inspiring stories of powerhouse women outsmarting the status quo and pushing boundaries. It will inspire you to be on the lookout for opportunities and ways to use your ingenuity to outwit the rigged system.

Hack #20, “Find Your Dolores Huerta,” was one of my favorites. This hack is about surrounding yourself with the right people, the people who can propel you to success. “I want you to Pinterest your network” is her way of telling you to be aspirational with your connections.

I’ve always considered myself a great networker—it’s one of my superpowers. I can connect with just about anyone, and I pride myself on building and maintaining strong relationships with people. This chapter made me realize that I’m not as intentional and aspirational as I should be with my connections. It definitely got me thinking…

I like Nathalie’s book because she comes right out and says what many already know: If you are not rich, white, or male, the cards are stacked against you. She’s unapologetic, bold, and keeps it real; she’s like that amiga who isn’t afraid to call you out on your BS—and let’s face it, we all need that friend at some point in our lives.

This book was a refreshing read. It’s not every day you read an inspiring business book from someone that just “gets it.” As a daughter of Latin American immigrants, Nathalie knows what it’s like to straddle two worlds. You’ll hear about her stories navigating male-dominated (and white) spheres and some of the mistakes she made along the way. She also shares heart-warming stories about her immigrant family.

This book will not disappoint. I promise! And you don’t have to be an entrepreneur to get something out of this book. These hacks can you help you in many areas of your life. It will challenge the way you think and yes—you will have to leave your comfort zone. It’s all part of the game!

If you’ve read this book, let me know your favorite hack in the comments below. If you haven’t, check it out and come back to share your thoughts and favorite hacks.

Thanks for reading!

http://leapfroghacks.com/