Mark Sanborn, author of acclaimed business/motivational book The Fred Factor, has a new book out: The Encore Effect. Read on to learn more and to find out how you can win a copy.

Everyone wants to make a difference in the world, but most have no idea how to maximize their impact. In The Encore Effect, best-selling author and leadership expert Mark Sanborn provides the answer. He leads readers in six practices that will move them beyond excellence to distinction and from mundane to memorable. These principles guide readers to draw on their passion and devote themselves to preparation, practice, presentation, polishing, and finally, avoiding pitfalls. When readers follow these principles they will find that people are attracted to them. More importantly, they’ll find that they now have an influence over others that can impact lives for eternity.

By following the six principles of The Encore Effect, readers can:

• Deliver a remarkable performance in everything they do
• Elevate the performance of the people they lead and influence
• Extend and deepen the impact they have on others—even for eternity

This special edition, distributed by Water Brook Press, includes unique content specifically for Christian readers, such as supporting Scripture verses, biblical illustrations, and discussion questions.

My thoughts: I have to confess that since I was sick all last week, I was not able to finish this book. (In fact, I was supposed to do this giveaway last week and completely forgot. That’s what foggy-headed stuffiness will do to you.) However, I did read the first several chapters, so I have a few thoughts to share.

First, this is a short, very readable book. Packed with anecdotes, sprinkled with practical bullet points, it gives you clear and easily remembered take-aways as you go along.

Second, though this book does seem to be targeted at (and of particular use to) those wanting to improve their performance and impact in the business world, the principles are broad and timeless, applying just as easily to stay-at-home moms. It wasn’t a stretch for me to see that my “performance” as a wife and mother would definitely be improved if I were to deliberately cultivate my passion and purpose in those areas and discipline my self to do the daily actions that really matter. I’m guilty of often “just doing my job” around here, rather than attempting to do a remarkable job as I support and love my family. The author encourages all readers to pursue excellence.

If you’d like to win a copy of this book — either for yourself, or to give as a gift to someone else — just leave a comment on this post. I’ll close comments Wednesday evening and announce the winner Thursday, along with my regular weekly book giveaway. Please be sure your comment includes an easy way for me to contact you. U.S. & Canada mailing addresses only. Thanks!