#1 – Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin

If you take one thing away from this book, it is right there in the title, Extreme Ownership. The idea that we are responsible for everything that happens to us was something I needed to hear. We all need to stop being victims and take responsibility for our lives. This book helped me to refocus on my development and changed my attitude about growth through adversity. Thanks, Jocko and Lief.

Check out Jocko’s YouTube Channel Jocko Podcast. My favorite one is “Good.” Make sure you check it out. You won’t be disappointed.

#2 – Mud, Sweat, and Tears by Bear Grylls, Tom Patrick Stephens, et al.

If you have ever enjoyed any of the shows with Bear Grylls, this autobiography is an inspiration. He does not hold back on the story of his life. What I enjoyed most is the life wisdom he shares throughout the book. Here are two of my favorites:

“Yet through it all, a little part of me, deep down, believed that I could do this—that I was capable of passing. It wasn’t a big part of me, but it was an ember. Sometimes an ember is all we need.” The idea of an ember being all you need is to change your life.

“I had learned a while back that whenever I had succeeded, it had always come about because of total commitment. Heart and soul. No holds barred.” Are you totally committed to the important areas of your life? Are you totally committed to your marriage? How about your kids? Your work? Well, it is time to start!

#3 – 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos by Jordan B. Peterson

If more of us followed the rules found in this book, we would all live happier and more interesting lives. Having five kids of my own, I particularly loved Rule 5: Do not let your children do anything that makes you dislike them. His interaction with the young tyrant is quite amusing. It was hard not to make this #1 on my list. If you want to start improving your life, you could start right here.

Follow Dr. Jordan B. Peterson on his YouTube Channel.

He is also on the Daily Wire.

Also consider Beyond Order: 12 More Rules for Life by Jordan B. Peterson. Get it on Amazon

#4 – Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven

I first came across Admiral McRaven from the University of Texas at Austin 2014 Commencement Address. It is one of my favorites. He is one of the inspirations for this site. The idea of changing your world starts with something as simple as making your bed. It all starts with you. His analogy of just having a positive impact on ten people and how that can impact the world. This is the whole point of Sphere of Impact. 

Watch University of Texas at Austin 2014 Commencement Address on YouTube.

You may like his book Sea Stories: My Life in Special Operations. Get it on Amazon

#5 – Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing

The book chronicles the story of Sir Ernest Shackleton and his men’s journey to the South Pole. This incredible story of perseverance, teamwork, and endurance will encourage you. The book is told in a story format and is well written. What Shackleton and his men accomplish is beyond comprehension. They make the rest of us look weak. I hope I am as strong and resilient as these men. They were all heroes of their story.