Can you be irreplaceable even if you aren't a genius? This book argues that with the right attitude, yes, you can. Linchpins are not born they are made and not by following a map or a recipe. There is no defined process of "how to" become indispensable; you have to create your own path.

I agree with Seth's philosophy but honestly I thought the book was lacking. There were no stories of successful people and how they applied themselves to their jobs in new ways. And because there aren't any good stories you could get the same value out of the book by just reading the 200+ chapter headings. Godin almost argues with himself trying to convince the doubters that his movement of thinking differently works. Regardless, the book was fairly motivating and can be summarized in three key points about moving from a white collar button-pushing worker to someone that people talk about and count on.

1. Make art
• Artists create and share art which Godin describes as "anything that's creative, passionate, and personal [that] resonates with the viewer, not only with the creator." Rather than paint on a canvas, art can be the way you negotiate a sale or design a business model. If you aren't reading a script and have a reason to share something new, you are an artist and artists are linchpins.
2. Give gifts
• Real gifts are given with no intent to receive reciprocation. Gifts are usually thoughtful and purposeful and whether that is your talents, wisdom, or something tangible, gifts make others special. Making others feel that emotional pull without obligation is rare, meaningful, and worth remembering. Indispensable people are not those that rack up a IOU list, they are people that are well connected because they honor the skills of others.
3. Ship it
• This book also encourages people to not second guess themselves and to not wait for the perfect moment. The hardest part about creating something new is fighting the urge to take the safe route and wait for someone else to do it first, approve it, or love it before you stick your neck out. Don't let your "lizard brain" fear get the best of you! To be a linchpin you have to not be afraid of mistakes. Pick up the phone, press "send" on that email, stamp the UPS package with your first rev of a product and just do it!