In 'Drop the Ball,' Tiffany Dufu shares her transformative journey of embracing imperfection and redefining success. She challenges the societal expectations placed upon women to be perfect and highlights the power of delegation in both personal and professional realms. With humor and honesty, Dufu encourages readers to let go of unnecessary burdens and focus on what truly matters. This refreshing perspective not only empowers women to take control of their lives but also redefines the traditional narrative of 'having it all.' Dive into this inspiring read and discover how to thrive by dropping the unnecessary!
By Tiffany Dufu
Published: 2018
Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, is an American actress, humanitarian, and author known for her role as Rachel Zane on the television series "Suits." After marrying Prince Harry in 2018, she became a prominent figure in the British royal family and an advocate for social justice and women's rights. In 2021, she published her first children's book, "The Bench," which explores the bond between fathers and sons through a mother's eyes. Markle's literary work reflects her commitment to storytelling and her passion for fostering empathy and understanding. Beyond literature, she co-founded the Archewell Foundation with Prince Harry to promote compassion and well-being globally.
View CollectionIna May Gaskin is a midwife and author renowned for her advocacy of natural childbirth. She is the founder of The Farm Midwifery Center in Tennessee and the author of Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth, which has inspired generations of women to embrace natural birth practices. Gaskin’s work focuses on empowering women with knowledge and confidence during childbirth, advocating for a holistic and less medicalized approach to labor and delivery. Her influence in the field of midwifery has been profound, helping to reshape modern perspectives on childbirth.
View CollectionBlake Lively is an accomplished American actress best known for her role as Serena van der Woodsen in the popular television series "Gossip Girl" (2007-2012). While not primarily recognized for contributions to literature, Lively has significantly impacted the entertainment industry with her versatile acting skills in films such as "The Age of Adaline" (2015) and "A Simple Favor" (2018). She has also been an advocate for various social causes, utilizing her platform to raise awareness about child exploitation and the importance of family dynamics. Lively's influence extends beyond acting, as she has ventured into entrepreneurship with her lifestyle brand, Preserve. Her dedication to both her craft and philanthropic efforts has made her a prominent figure in modern pop culture.
View CollectionAlicia Keys, an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist, has made significant contributions to the music industry with her soulful voice and compelling lyrics. She burst onto the scene with her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," which earned her five Grammy Awards. In addition to her musical achievements, Keys is also a celebrated author; her memoir "More Myself: A Journey" provides an intimate look at her life and career. She has used her platform to advocate for social justice, co-founding the Keep a Child Alive organization to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa. Alicia Keys continues to inspire through her artistry and activism, leaving a lasting impact on both music and literature.
View CollectionAlexis Ohanian is an American entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of Reddit, one of the world’s most popular social news and discussion platforms. Ohanian is also a prominent advocate for open internet and net neutrality, and he has invested in numerous startups through his venture capital firm, Initialized Capital. In addition to his work in tech, Ohanian is involved in philanthropy, supporting causes related to women’s rights, education, and social justice. He is married to tennis star Serena Williams, and together they advocate for gender equality and inclusive leadership. Ohanian’s influence in the tech world and his commitment to social impact have made him a respected figure in both business and activism.
View CollectionAudrey Gelman is an American entrepreneur and writer, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of The Wing, a network of co-working spaces and social clubs designed for women. She has been recognized for her innovative approach to creating supportive environments for professional women, significantly impacting feminist discourse and workplace equality. Gelman has also contributed thought-provoking essays to prominent publications such as The New York Times and The New Yorker, where she discusses gender, politics, and culture. Her leadership at The Wing has been celebrated for fostering community and collaboration among women. Additionally, Gelman's influence extends to the political sphere, having previously worked as a press aide on several high-profile campaigns.
View CollectionRana el Kaliouby is an Egyptian-American computer scientist and entrepreneur, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of Affectiva, a company pioneering Emotion AI technology. Her work focuses on developing AI systems that can understand and respond to human emotions through facial expressions and speech. El Kaliouby is a leading voice in the ethical development of AI and has spoken extensively about the need for AI to be more human-centered. She is also the author of Girl Decoded, a memoir about her journey in the tech world as a woman and advocate for diversity. El Kaliouby’s work has significantly impacted both the AI industry and conversations about emotional intelligence in technology.
View CollectionBarack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View CollectionOprah Winfrey is a globally renowned media mogul, talk show host, and philanthropist. She gained fame through her groundbreaking talk show, "The Oprah Winfrey Show," which ran for 25 years and became one of the highest-rated programs in television history. Winfrey has significantly impacted literature through her influential book club, Oprah's Book Club, which has propelled numerous books to bestseller status and fostered a love of reading across diverse audiences. She is also the author of several books, including her memoir "The Life You Want," and has contributed to numerous inspirational and self-help publications. Beyond her literary contributions, Winfrey has been a powerful advocate for education and empowerment, founding the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa.
View CollectionAnn Handley is a renowned digital marketing pioneer and a Wall Street Journal bestselling author. She is the author of "Everybody Writes," a seminal guide on creating compelling content, and co-author of "Content Rules," which outlines effective content marketing strategies. As the Chief Content Officer at MarketingProfs, she has significantly influenced modern marketing practices. Handley is also a highly sought-after keynote speaker, known for her insights on digital content and marketing trends. Her work has empowered countless marketers to elevate their content creation and strategy efforts.
View CollectionNatalie Portman is an Academy Award-winning actress, director, and activist known for her diverse roles in films such as Black Swan, V for Vendetta, and Jackie. Beyond her successful acting career, Portman is a passionate advocate for women’s rights, animal rights, and environmental causes. She has a degree from Harvard University, where she studied psychology, and is known for her intellect as well as her artistic talent. Natalie has also directed and produced films and is a vocal supporter of the Time’s Up and #MeToo movements, advocating for gender equality in the entertainment industry.
View CollectionDavid Perell is a prominent writer and educator known for his influential work in the field of online education and digital writing. He is the creator of "Write of Passage," an acclaimed online writing course that has helped thousands of students refine their writing skills and build their personal brands. As a prolific blogger, Perell shares insights on topics ranging from technology and culture to productivity and creativity. His thought-provoking essays and articles have garnered a substantial following, establishing him as a thought leader in the digital age. Additionally, Perell hosts the popular "North Star Podcast," where he interviews leading thinkers and creators, further contributing to contemporary intellectual discourse.
View CollectionBill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
View CollectionJulie Zhuo is a product design expert and author, best known for her work as the Vice President of Product Design at Facebook, where she played a key role in shaping the platform's user experience. Zhuo is also the author of the best-selling book The Making of a Manager, which offers insights into leadership and team management, especially for first-time managers. She is passionate about helping people navigate the complexities of leadership and product development. Since leaving Facebook, Zhuo has continued to focus on writing, advising, and mentoring leaders in the tech industry. Her expertise in design and management has made her a respected voice in Silicon Valley.
View CollectionWarren Buffett, known as the “Oracle of Omaha,” is one of the most successful investors of all time and the chairman of Berkshire Hathaway. His investment philosophy, centered on value investing and long-term wealth creation, has made him one of the wealthiest people in the world. Buffett is also known for his philanthropic efforts, having pledged to donate a significant portion of his wealth to charitable causes. His annual letters to shareholders are highly anticipated for their financial wisdom. Buffett remains a revered figure in business and investing circles.
View CollectionJessica Hische is an acclaimed American lettering artist, illustrator, and author, renowned for her distinctive typographic style and contributions to the world of design. She gained widespread recognition for her work on the "Daily Drop Cap" project, which showcased her talent and creativity in lettering. Hische has collaborated with major clients such as Wes Anderson, Penguin Books, and The New York Times, further cementing her status in the design community. Her book, "In Progress," offers valuable insights into her creative process, inspiring countless designers and artists. Additionally, Hische’s advocacy for work-life balance and creative entrepreneurship has made her a respected voice in the industry.
View CollectionEmma Watson is a British actress and activist best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the "Harry Potter" film series, which brought J.K. Rowling's beloved books to life. Beyond her acting career, Watson has made significant contributions to literature by promoting gender equality and women's rights through her work with the United Nations, including the HeForShe campaign. She has also curated and shared book recommendations that highlight feminist literature and diverse voices. Watson graduated from Brown University with a degree in English literature, further emphasizing her dedication to the literary world. Her advocacy and influence have made her a prominent figure in both the entertainment and literary communities.
View CollectionKarlie Kloss is a renowned American fashion model and entrepreneur known for her work with top designers and brands, securing her place as one of the industry's most influential figures. While primarily celebrated for her modeling career, she has also made significant contributions to literature through her advocacy for education and women's empowerment in STEM. Kloss founded Kode With Klossy, a nonprofit organization that offers free coding camps for young women, encouraging a new generation of female tech leaders. Her efforts have been documented in various publications, highlighting her impact beyond the fashion world. Kloss continues to inspire through her multifaceted career and dedication to fostering opportunities for women in technology.
View CollectionMindy Kaling is an American actress, comedian, writer, and producer, best known for her work on The Office, where she played Kelly Kapoor and served as a writer and producer. Kaling has since created and starred in her own shows, including The Mindy Project and Never Have I Ever, earning critical acclaim for her unique voice and humor. She is also the author of several best-selling memoirs, where she shares her insights on Hollywood, identity, and personal growth. Kaling is a trailblazer for women of color in entertainment, using her platform to tell diverse and authentic stories. Her contributions to television and film have made her a significant figure in comedy and media.
View CollectionKeith Rabois is a prominent American entrepreneur, investor, and author known for his significant contributions to the tech industry and startup ecosystem. He played crucial roles in the early success of companies like PayPal, LinkedIn, Square, and Yelp, earning a reputation as a skilled operator and strategic thinker. As a partner at Founders Fund and later at Khosla Ventures, Rabois has invested in and advised numerous successful startups. In addition to his business ventures, he has written insightful articles and essays on technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation, contributing to the broader discourse on these subjects. Rabois continues to influence the tech world with his strategic insights and thought leadership.
View CollectionArianna Huffington is the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, a company focused on wellness and productivity. She is a bestselling author and prominent speaker on the importance of sleep and managing stress. Arianna’s work emphasizes the importance of balance between professional success and personal well-being. Her book The Sleep Revolution has inspired a global movement to prioritize rest. She is considered one of the most influential women in media and business.
View CollectionFrank Chimero is a renowned designer, illustrator, and author best known for his influential book "The Shape of Design," which explores the philosophy and practice of design. His work emphasizes the intersection of creativity and human experience, earning him a respected place in both the design and literary communities. Chimero has contributed essays and lectures that have inspired a new generation of thinkers in the creative industries. He has also been recognized for his ability to distill complex ideas into accessible, thought-provoking content. Beyond his writing, Chimero's design projects and illustrations have been featured in numerous prestigious publications and exhibitions.
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