Self Help – Page 9 – Ryan's Book Blog

Your Blue Flame

November 17, 2020 by Ryan

Background

“Your Blue Flame” was published in April of 2020 by Jennifer Fulwiler who has a radio talk show on SiriusXM and is a standup comedian. In this book, she challenges readers to follow their passions and do the things they were meant to do in this life.

My Thoughts

First, I had never heard of Jennifer Fulwiler and had no idea what the book was about. (It was listed under Biography which it sort of is.) As I started into it, I thought, “Oh great! Another you-can-do-it book”. It was just that but, this time, I actually thought of a couple of things I’ve been meaning to do.

This book had my mind turning and I really enjoyed it. I didn’t think I would but I was wrong.

Of course, there are problems with just following your passion and Jennifer did a good job of giving some ideas about it. However, some things just have to be done. For example, someone has to clean the toilet. I’m sure that isn’t their “blue flame” or what they were meant to do. However, I have 3 boys, that toilet needs attention…

Recommendation

A good read. Particularly if you need some motivation.

What Makes a Marriage Last

November 5, 2020 by Ryan

Background

This compilation of marriage advice was published in May of 2020 just as we were settling into our pandemic lockdowns. Marlo Thomas and Phil Donahue interview the famous who somehow managed to avoid divorce throughout their storied careers.

My Thoughts

It took me a few days to get through it. Not because it was hard to read or wasn’t interesting but rather, it caused me to stop and think about things in my own marriage and circumstances for a bit. My poor wife had to endure me giving her bits of advice I had picked up from the book.

This book wasn’t really a deep dive into marital psychology. It was sort of like your great aunt giving you advice on your wedding day. You realize it is likely good to know but until you’ve had some experience, it doesn’t really seem to apply. I’ve spent over 20 years being married so I was listening a bit better this time around.

Recommendation

I liked the book and it was worth the time to read. However, I’d imagine those of you who can name more YouTubers than celebrities likely won’t have any idea who most of the people are (including the authors).

The Leadership Challenge

October 25, 2020 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2017, this book helps the aspiring leader along in their journey. Can leadership be taught or are you born with it? For this book, the answer is it is something you can learn.

My Thoughts

This was a good book that put some science into what I thought of as common sense. It was a good reminder on several fronts and a wake up call on several others. I believe I am a better leader due to reading this book.

Recommendation

It was a good book on the subject of leadership.

Ketotarian

September 23, 2020 by Ryan

Published in 2018, Ketotarian is the name of someone who wants to live the majority of time in a perpetual state of Ketosis. This book expounds on why this might be a good way to go if you are looking for an alternative of the standard American diet.

My Thoughts

This book didn’t have any revelations other than some self-righteous justifications from someone who progressed from vegan to keto. I read the book as I have been trying to follow a keto-friendly diet for the past month or so. I haven’t really drunk the Kool-Aid but I have lost some weight.

Recommendation

It wasn’t bad if you are interested in the subject matter.

Spy Secrets that Can Save Your Life

August 21, 2020 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2015, former CIA operative Jason Hanson shares his thoughts on personal safety and being ready when the unthinkable happens.

My Thoughts

I believe the author was a little over the top on a few things but I was glad to think through some scenarios and I think I need to make a few changes…

Recommendation

Worth the read

Lincoln on Leadership

July 17, 2020 by Ryan

Background

Originally published in 1992, Lincoln on Leadership is a compilation of the leadership styles and theories acted out by Abraham Lincoln.

My Thoughts

Great book full of practical and actionable thoughts and theories. Some of it can be conflicting yet, when taken through the lens of true Christ-like love and compassion it is easy to see what “should” be done.

Recommendation

One of the best books on leadership I’ve read.

The Moment of Lift

June 29, 2020 by Ryan

Background

Melinda Gates published this book in April of 2019. She takes us through her journey in creating the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation and finding how best to help.

My Thoughts

I can’t say I really enjoyed this book although I do believe it was an important read. I felt she addressed some important issues surrounding poverty and gender inequality around the world. She also did a great job addressing the biases inherit in trying to help others while being an American billionaire.

I have tremendous respect for what both Bill and Melinda Gates are doing with their foundation. I didn’t know that Warren Buffet matched their endowment until I read this book so I have a newfound respect for him as well. The fact he was willing to hand over that much money is a testament to the thorough job the Gates Foundation is doing. Sometimes the worst thing someone can do is give another person money. Poverty is a much more complicated problem.

Recommendation

It is a hard book to read due to the unpleasant realities in the book. However, it was well written and left me with a little more hope that someone is taking these issues head on.

7 Habits of Highly Effective People

May 30, 2020 by Ryan

Background

7 Habits of Highly Effective People is likely the best-known book in personal development in the world. Originally published in 1989, it hit all the top seller’s lists and spawned a whole market of spinoffs. The book is meant to be a reference material to be accessed repeatedly rather than a book that is read from cover to cover.

My Thoughts

This is a great book and I have gotten a lot out of it. I get more out of it the more I really sit down and try to apply what it says. This time around, I moved my planning to a weekly basis. I think it is help.

Recommendation

Always a great read and I highly recommend it.

The Year of Less

May 22, 2020 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2018, “The Year of Less” is a memoir written by Cait Flanders that details her journey of self-discovery and intentional living through a year-long shopping ban. Flanders, a recovering alcoholic and shopaholic, decides to confront her issues with consumption and excess by embarking on a 12-month challenge to limit buying material goods, including clothes, shoes, and household items. Along the way, she confronts her past mistakes, gains new insights into herself and her values, and learns to live a simpler, more fulfilling life.

My Thoughts

I had heard about this book from a number of sources and thought it might be something good to read. However, I was wrong. I couldn’t get through it. I’m sure it resonated with many people but I just couldn’t get there. I kept seeing her as just a selfish person without a moral compass. I guess she is progressing but most of her epiphanies were things I would expect my 10-year-old to understand. However, perhaps that says more about me than about her.

Recommendation

I really didn’t find any reason to read it and I resent the time spent with it.

The 5 Love Languages

May 20, 2020 by Ryan

Background

First published in 1992, this book became a best-seller both in English and in several other languages. You’ve likely heard of this book because everyone has heard of this book. The author explains how we all give and accept love differently and it is worth the time and effort to learn your partner’s “love language” if you want them to feel loved.

My Thoughts

I really enjoyed the book and put it to instant use. My sweet wife knew something was up as soon as I started but she seemed happy regardless.

Recommendation

Everyone who is in a long term relationship should read this book!