Step Up and Play Big: Unlock Your Potential to Be Exceptional in 8 Simple Steps Paperback – 1 April 2015

As a video producer, I worked with Chris Ruisi on the marketing, promotional and support videos prior to the launch of Step Up and Play Big...so I feel I offer a different perspective than most readers. I first heard of the book when Chris contacted me to produce a book trailer to promote Step Up and Play Big and that was the beginning of a very rewarding year and relationship. During shooting and interviewing Chris for the video, I realized that Chris, along with his book had something really special to offer me, as a business owner and quite honestly, a perfectionist.Fast forward 3 months to the book launch event, where it was exciting and stimulating to see a room full of well-respected people in the community gather to support Chris and his book...again; I realized I was part of something special. While filming various promotional segments, I got little pieces of the puzzle that make up years of Chris' executive and leadership experience, as well as a sneak peek of the actual book itself. I saw firsthand that this is a man who lives by the guidelines and techniques he has established and succeeded with and I started to incorporate his advice and methods which truly triggered a new mindset for me...not only as a means to grow my business, but for me to grow as a person as well.Once I started reading the book; the presentations, promo videos and marketing materials all unfolded into a wealth of information that included real-life experiences and stories, all told with a direct...to the point approach, but also filled with Chris' humor and candor. Each page is a plethora of information, concepts, exercises and "a-ha" moments and he makes you feel like you can accomplish anything you want to, but that you could also sabotage yourself. We are human and most of us have the flaws that Chris brings up, but awareness is part of the solution and Chris makes you very aware of those barriers to your success. I really like the use of sidebars, real life situations and tips that support the content...There's no fluff in this book. If you want a pat on the back and someone telling you, you're wonderful, read a different book. Chris makes you confront your fears and flaws and teaches you how not to become a victim of your own circumstances.Early on in our relationship, there were two key phrases that resonated with me: "You have to become comfortable being uncomfortable" and "walk through life with a quiet confidence". These simple words of wisdom have become my mantras and words I live by every day. I constantly push myself to be better and do things that years ago I would've run away from. I've also learned to acknowledge my accomplishments and self-worth and successes, but not boast or brag about them...they are just apparent in the way I carry myself and as Chris says, people are drawn to and want to work with others who are confident in their abilities. I can honestly say that meeting Chris, working with him and reading Step Up and Play Big, has changed my life and it also won me 3 industry awards for best marketing video I produced for the book trailer.

Full disclosure: I know Chris - "The Coach". We met through business about 10 years ago. He was tough, smart, and spoke from both the mind and the heart - with a good dose of humor and attitude mixed in. He was a character...still is...and a very smart one. And he's taken all of his experience and is sharing it for the price of a couple of Venti Lattes at Starbucks.Step Up and Play Big is that kick in the butt that you're looking for to get from where you are now to where you want to be. It's written in a style that is clear and concise; it's basically The Coach telling you the way it is.This book is a guide to becoming a more effective individual - whether you're a leader or part of a team - with advice that you NEED to hear. Unlike other books in the leadership genre, there are guidelines on "how" to actually get there.The format is scanable with callouts of key points. It can be read all at once, or in parts.It's a book for people who want results. But, as The Coach says, "The stuff won't work, if you don't work the stuff!"So go ahead and challenge yourself to Step Up and Play Big.

Chris Ruisi is a legendary leadership coach. First and foremost, it's what he has done with his clients - and now he shares his years of experience in his book STEP UP AND PLAY BIG. Chris has a simple straight forward approach that motivates people into doing great things in their lives. He teaches by example with consistency, patience, respect, professionalism and dedication. He delivers his successful techniques with a humorous flair, because we can all enjoy these lessons while we play hard, right? He lifts spirits during challenging times and teaches us in this book that anything is possible. Chris' anecdotes remind you that teamwork, attention to detail, social responsibility and authenticity are crucial for stepping up and playing big. As a wife, mother of two (one child with special needs) and an entrepreneur, I often stop and think, "What would Chris do?". I value all of his sage advice and I highly recommend this book as a necessary toolkit for personal and professional growth.- Susan Belfer, President of Belfer Communications

I heard about Chris Ruisi through an online radio interview and had to research further--what a refreshing treat to read a business book that was easy and quick to read and TO THE POINT-- Ruisi's general rule of thumb..The big message is to have a plan--it's not brain surgery to figure that out, but his common sense approach to leadership and the practiced approach to achieving goals is well presented and clear. I felt inspired and compelled to action and I am sharing the book with a friend--and this review with other Amazon customers--to spread the word. To stay focused on the big goals, you need to set them first. Coach Ruisi does a great job of providing the game plan!

Step Up and Play Big is an essential read for anyone looking to move forward in business, leadership, and life. Chris has a brilliant way of making you think he's right in front of you, speaking directly to you, not at you. This book is a great play by play breakdown on how to be a more efficient leader, visionary, and ultimately creator of your own destiny.If you love working 60+ hours a week, brining work home with you, and constant stress, this book is not for you. BUT, if you need direction to make help make business and life more manageable and up to your standards, read away.Easy read with relatable, practice, and easily applicable content. If you're up for the challenge :)