Book Review: Be Useful by Arnold Schwarzenegger

I highly recommend Schwarzenegger's new book, Be Useful, Seven Tools for Life.

This book was a lot of fun, and very inspiring. Arnold talks about his keys to success from being the world's best bodybuilder to America's number one action hero to the Governor of California to now motivational speaker/writer.

He breaks down his advice in very easy to digest pieces: clear vision, big thinking, hard work, direct communication, resilient problem solving, open minded curiosity, and having a commitment of giving back.

Arnold advises on giving yourself space and time to work on those things that are most important to you. His messages of self-awareness, never thinking small, going all in really resonated with me. He has a German saying that he talks about Wenn Schon, Denn Schon - which basically translates to Go All Out!

The Governator advises against having a plan B. It's dangerous to your big dreams. People had a natural tendency then to follow that plan because it is the path of least resistance.

A few other helpful nuggets of inspiration are: when you reach mountaintops, it gives you a brand new perspective - you see new challenges that were out of sight before, and you see old challenges in different ways. Be ready to perform when the spotlight is on, when opportunity knocks. Nothing builds character like resilience. No complaining unless you're prepared to do something to make it better. You work to make a dream come true, you don't whine it into existence.

Another favorite story of mine was when he talks about reps, reps, reps, and how many failed attempts it usually takes to achieve your goals. He mentions the WD-40 product which we have all used at some time in our lives. It stands for Water Displacement 40th Attempt.

Lastly, let the world be your classroom and give back. Be curious, it's magnetic. Put your knowledge to good use. Flex your mind like a muscle. Everyone benefits when we give back. Helping others requires awareness, willingness and effort. Giving back results in a "helper's high."

Great Book Ahnold!! Loved It!