Do Epic Shit by Ankur Warikoo

Do Epic Shit by Ankur Warikoo is a short, straightforward, and impactful guide to living a more fulfilling life, drawing on the author’s personal experiences and practical advice. What sets this book apart is its refreshing honesty—the author readily admits upfront that he’s not offering any groundbreaking new insights. Instead, the book serves as a powerful reminder of things we already know but often forget to implement.

Introduction:

The book starts with a candid message from the author: “I’m not introducing anything new.” Warikoo emphasizes that this is not a book about revolutionary ideas but about acting on the wisdom we already have. This introduction sets the tone for the entire book, reminding readers that the real challenge lies in execution, not discovery.

Part 1: Success and Failure

Warikoo reminds readers that “You are what you do, not what you say you do.” This is a key message for anyone stuck in a rut of inaction or empty promises. He emphasizes the importance of taking real steps, not just talking about ambitions. Success, according to Warikoo, comes from action, not intention. This section hit home for me—it’s easy to get caught up in planning and discussing ideas but ultimately, it's the action that defines us.

One practical piece of advice that stood out was about creating opportunities. If you’re in a job you dislike, he suggests sending out 100 cold emails a day. Luck, he argues, is just the product of putting yourself out there. This persistence is something we often overlook but is crucial to creating your own breaks.

Another interesting aspect of this part is the importance of being yourself. Warikoo urges us to stand out by breaking stereotypes, particularly when applying for jobs. Be memorable by embracing who you truly are. Authenticity, rather than conformity, is the key to gaining attention and recognition. But he warns us not to seek external validation—do the work for yourself, not for the praise of others.

One of the most resonant messages for me was “Money buys freedom, not stuff.” Warikoo talks about how we often chase money for material gains, but its true value lies in the freedom it can give us—the freedom to pursue dreams, spend time with loved ones, and explore new opportunities. This was a refreshing take, especially in a world where financial success is often equated with material accumulation.

He also touches on a profound but simple truth: “If you don’t ask, the answer will always be no.” This advice feels so obvious, yet it’s something we forget. The importance of asking for what we want applies to every situation, from personal relationships to career goals.

Part 2: Habits

Warikoo believes that habits outweigh goals. For instance, the habit of being happy each morning is more impactful than setting happiness as a goal. He emphasizes that habits are the small, consistent actions that lead to big results. Personally, I found this idea useful because it aligns with the notion that small, incremental changes over time create lasting results.

A highlight from this section is his advice on calendar management. He suggests putting everything—work, family events, chores—on the calendar. Inviting your spouse to be an editor on this calendar adds a layer of transparency and ensures that nothing falls through the cracks. This system helps remove the burden of remembering and frees up mental space for more important tasks. For me, this was a practical reminder to organize my life better.

Part 3: Awareness

In this section, Warikoo talks about how the way you respond teaches the world how to treat you. The idea that your reactions shape your environment and relationships is simple but profound. It reminds us that we are responsible for setting boundaries and expectations with others.

Part 4: Entrepreneurship

A standout message here is that people would rather work for a competent asshole than an incompetent nice guy. While it’s a harsh reality, Warikoo’s point is clear: competence is key in the workplace. This section pushes readers to take their jobs as seriously as they would if they were running their own business. He encourages innovation, creativity, and a mindset that takes ownership of one’s work.

One of the most empowering messages here is that attitude is greater than experience, which is greater than education. A positive, growth-oriented attitude trumps skills or background every time. This message is a great reminder for anyone looking to improve their career or leadership skills. The idea that skills can be taught, but attitude cannot resonated deeply with me.

Part 5: Money

Warikoo presents a different take on money, reminding us that our salaries aren’t capped, but our spending is. He advises focusing on increasing income rather than merely cutting costs. This is practical advice for anyone looking to improve their financial situation. However, he does caution that spending must still be within reason—wise financial decisions lead to comfort and long-term freedom.

Part 6: Relationships

Finally, Warikoo talks about true friendships, stating that they are defined by those who celebrate your successes, not just those who support you during tough times. This was an eye-opening distinction for me, as we often undervalue the importance of having friends who genuinely cheer us on.

Epilogue

The book concludes with an epilogue that circles back to the author’s initial statement. Warikoo reaffirms that his goal was not to present new information but to remind us of what we already know, using his experiences to bring those reminders to life. The brevity and clarity of the book are its strengths. At no point did I feel overwhelmed by complex theories or unnecessary fluff—Warikoo keeps it simple and actionable.

Final Thoughts

In the end, Do Epic Shit offers practical, actionable insights without overcomplicating things. Warikoo’s message is clear: stop waiting, start doing. Whether it’s about career success, financial freedom, or personal relationships, the book is a guide to taking ownership of your life. I appreciated how the author used real-life examples to reinforce familiar concepts, making them feel fresh and relevant.

What stood out for me is Warikoo’s constant emphasis on execution. The principles are simple, but the challenge lies in making them part of your daily life. His advice on authenticity, habits, and perseverance is a wake-up call to take action, no matter how small, toward the life you want to live.

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