Published in October of 2015, this was Jocko’s first book in the realm of translating his experience as a Navy Seal into business and life in general.
Extreme Ownership
My Thoughts
I read this back before I started this blog and enjoyed it just as much this time around. If you are looking for some motivation, order, disapline, or just need a good old fashion kick-in-the-butt. This is the book for you.
Recommendation
A little too military for some but I imagine it landed just right for others based on the book sales.
Published in March of 2021, “Beyond Order: 12 More Rules for Life” is the sequel to Jordan Peterson’s bestselling book, 12 Rules for Life. In this book, Peterson offers twelve new principles for navigating the complexities of life and finding meaning in a rapidly changing world. Drawing on a wide range of sources, including psychology, philosophy, and religion, Peterson explores topics such as the importance of responsibility, the dangers of ideologues, and the role of creativity in human flourishing. He also delves into personal experiences, including his struggles with addiction and his journey to recovery. Throughout the book, Peterson emphasizes the importance of individual agency and the need to take responsibility for one’s own life, while also acknowledging the challenges and limitations that we all face.
Beyond Order
My Thoughts
I really enjoyed this book and, in particular, the reasons for fidelity in marriage and the defense of existing institutions. Dr. Peterson gives such a great argument for following these rules that it becomes hard to argue the point.
Published back in 2010, “The Happiness Advantage: The Seven Principles of Positive Psychology That Fuel Success and Performance at Work” is a self-help book by Shawn Achor. The book argues that happiness is not just a byproduct of success, but rather a precursor to it. Achor presents seven principles that he believes can help individuals cultivate a positive mindset and improve their performance in various areas of life, including work, relationships, and health. These principles include focusing on strengths rather than weaknesses, cultivating optimism and gratitude, and building strong social connections. Achor draws on research from the fields of positive psychology and neuroscience to support his ideas, and includes practical exercises and strategies for readers to apply in their own lives.
The Happiness Advantage
My Thoughts
I believe I read this some time ago and I’ve read a dozen others like it in the time since. However, they all have a few things in common. 1) They all agree it is better to be happy than to be otherwise and 2) you can be happy no matter what is going on in your life. The key is really being thankful for what you have and in being of service to others.
However, this book was one of the first that studied happiness from a psychological perspective. They tried the science of what being in a good mood can do for your memory, cognitive abilities, creativity, and so on. In short, it helps.
Published in September of 2016, The Book of Joy is a record of discussions had between Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu of South Africa.
The Book of Joy
My Thoughts
This was a very interesting book given the context of different spiritual leaders from very different systems of beliefs. However, I felt they did a great job of keeping things positive and working to better humanity.
Recommendation
The book is an engaging read and was a great reminder of all the reasons to remain positive.
From Michael Schur the producer of “The Good Place” came “How to Be Perfect” which was published in January of 2022. This book goes over some of the philosophical research Mr. Schur did for “The Good Place” and dips its toe in most philosophical studies.
How to Be Perfect
My Thoughts
The author does a good job in keeping you engaged with jokes and so on. However, there was a few too many jokes which made it feel like a sitcom. (I guess that shouldn’t have been a surprise.)
Published in 2020, “Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art” is a non-fiction book written by journalist James Nestor that explores the science and history of breathing. The book examines the many ways in which breathing impacts our physical and mental health, from regulating our heart rate and blood pressure to reducing stress and anxiety. Nestor draws on insights from ancient breathing practices, such as pranayama, as well as cutting-edge scientific research to provide practical tips and exercises for improving our breathing habits. He also delves into the many factors that can affect our breathing, from pollution and stress to posture and diet.
Breath
My Thoughts
So, I really liked this book. I even shaved off my beard so I could tape my mouth shut and I haven’t used the CPAP ever since. Truly life changing.
Published in 1986, “The Leadership Style of Jesus” is a non-fiction book written by historian and theologian Dr. Michael Youssef that explores the leadership principles demonstrated by Jesus Christ during his time on earth. The book draws on the teachings of the Bible and the example of Jesus to provide practical insights into effective leadership, emphasizing the importance of servant leadership, humility, and a deep commitment to the well-being of others. Through a combination of biblical analysis and real-world examples, the book offers valuable guidance for anyone seeking to become a more effective leader, whether in business, politics, or any other area of life.
The Leadership Style of Jesus
My Thoughts
Honestly, I didn’t like this book. The concepts are fine but I feel like the author goes well beyond the mark to make points. There were a few places where it was obvious he hadn’t done his research and was just speaking out of religious prejudice.
Recommendation
There were a few gems but I was disappointed in the read.
The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work was published in 1999 by Dr. John Gottman who was the main name in marriage counseling before it got all touchy feely.
The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work
My Thoughts
This book was a joy to re-read. Mostly to freshen up on a bunch of things I don’t do well. This book needs to be on the shelves of every married man.
Originally published in 1989 and since republished several times in many different languages. This book has become the de facto standard in self help in the business sphere.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
My Thoughts
This is an outstanding book and I’ve read it several times. It isn’t meant to be read through at one sitting but is better used as a reference. However, I find it is inspiring to listen to and I get more out it each time.
Originally published in 1994, Why Marriages Succeed or Fail is a book from Dr. John Gottman about warning signs and what to do if your marriage is in trouble. The book has tests and guides for the individual to help tailor their treatment to their needs.
Why Marriages Succeed of Fail
My Thoughts
A great book full of useful information. You can’t help but be nicer to your spouse while reading the book.
It is from the 90’s though so it was interesting to read through some the statements that likely wouldn’t play well today. (E.g. Gender norms and so on.) I believe we have swung pretty far out there and I believe Dr. Gottman’s book to be closer to my belief system.
