ReWork: Change the Way You Work Forever by Jason Fried & David Heinemeier Hansson

ReWork is the game-changing manifesto that challenges conventional business wisdom and shows you there’s a better way to succeed. Written by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, the masterminds behind Basecamp, this book strips away the corporate jargon and gets straight to what actually works. Forget the 60-hour work weeks, endless meetings, and outdated strategies. ReWork gives you practical, actionable insights that help you work smarter, launch faster, and build a business or career that doesn’t drain your soul. Whether you’re an entrepreneur launching your first startup or a professional tired of the traditional grind, this book will completely reshape how you think about productivity, growth, and success.

From the Back Cover

“The old rules of work are broken. Here’s how to fix them—and thrive while doing it.”

About the Author

Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson are the co-founders of Basecamp (formerly 37signals), one of the most influential software companies in the world. With decades of experience building a profitable, sustainable business without venture capital or unnecessary growth, they’ve become thought leaders in modern work culture. David is also the creator of Ruby on Rails, a revolutionary web development framework. Together, they’ve proven that you don’t need to follow the herd to win—you just need to think differently.

Who Is This Book For?

This book is perfect for entrepreneurs, startup founders, freelancers, creative professionals, and anyone tired of outdated workplace rules. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by traditional business advice or wondered if there’s a simpler path to success, ReWork is your answer. It’s also ideal for managers and team leaders looking to create healthier, more productive work environments. Whether you’re building something from scratch or reimagining your current career, this book gives you permission to break the rules and find what truly works for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What makes ReWork different from other business books?
ReWork challenges traditional business advice with refreshingly honest, no-fluff guidance from founders who’ve built a successful company without following the usual rules. It’s short, actionable, and written for real people, not MBA students.

Q: Is ReWork only for entrepreneurs and startup founders?
Not at all. While entrepreneurs love this book, it’s equally valuable for freelancers, remote workers, creatives, and anyone who wants to work more efficiently and take control of their professional life without burning out.

Q: How long does it take to read ReWork?
ReWork is designed to be consumed quickly. Most readers finish it in 2–4 hours. Each chapter is concise and gets straight to the point, making it perfect for busy professionals who want maximum value in minimum time.

Q: Can ReWork help me if I’m stuck in a traditional corporate job?
Absolutely. The principles in ReWork apply to any work environment. You’ll learn how to be more productive, communicate better, prioritize effectively, and bring innovative thinking to your current role—even within corporate structures.

Q: Do I need business experience to understand ReWork?
No prior business knowledge required. Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson write in plain English and avoid jargon. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in business for years, you’ll find valuable insights that make immediate sense.