The holidays are the perfect time to think about giving, and the New Year is the time when thoughts naturally turn to self-improvement. If you want a little inspiration to help kick-start you on both, I highly recommend reading Start Something That Matters by Blake Mycoskie, the creator and “Chief Shoe Giver” of TOMS shoes.

Mycoskie, who had no background in footwear or even retail, started TOMS as a way to help provide shoes for children in developing countries. Inspired by a trip to Argentina, he was able to donate 10,000 pairs of shoes to Argentine children within a year. With his “One for One” model, the company has become one of the fastest-growing footwear companies in the world, and is a for-profit company that has built giving into its DNA.

The book is filled with stories, not only about TOMS, but about other companies who are doing things “that matter.” Through their inspiring stories, you learn the importance of having your own story, facing your fears and being resourceful without resources. No one can deny that TOMS shoes has been successful, both as a for-profit company, and as one doing good in the world, so their story is one that many will be inspired to try to duplicate. The book offers a blueprint for channeling enthusiasm and limited resources to create something that can grow.

An inspirational and quick read, this book should be required reading for anyone wants to make a difference in the world. Would you like to win a copy of Start Something That Matters? Visit us on facebook and tell us your story of giving (whether done by you or for you). We will share some of the stories and our facebook fans will vote on which story is the most inspirational. The winner will receive their own copy of Start Something That Matters by Blake Mycoskie.