June Book Reviews

For the year 2023, I'm reading or re-reading 52 books (1/week). I did this a few years back after hearing what was most likely a false statement, "The average CEO reads 52 books per year". That year, my life improved immensely which is exactly what I'm hoping to recreate. So, if you're an avid non-fiction, business, or self help reader, come back each month to see which books may be up your alley. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

Greenlights
​By Matthew McConaughey

May 28th - Jun. 3rd

I was recommended this book many times before I finally read it and I can honestly say that it was one of the best books I've ever read. Well, I actually listened to it because having Matthew McConaughey read his book to me sounded pretty cool... which it was.

Matthew is a wise person and it shows throughout the stories in Greenlights. This book is filled with stories that will make you laugh, cry, and sit on the edge of your chair waiting to hear the end. I learned a lot about myself while reading this because... that's kind of the whole point of the book. Matthew explains through stories how he continues to find himself through experiences and the process of elimination.

The way Matthew says "greenlight" throughout this book really brings you back "home". It reminds you what the point of reading this book is, unless you're just there for the stories. It's quite poetic, if you ask me. For a day or so after reading this book, when I learned something, I would say "greenlight" in my head then smile.

No matter your age or outlook on life, I think you could benefit from the teachings in this book. You will find joy, peace, and hopefully another path for growth. I sure did. I think this will be on my yearly read-list from now on.

Think Like A Monk
​By Jay Shetty

Jun. 4th - 10th

Train your mind for peace and purpose every day! Jay Shetty skipped his college graduation ceremony and became a monk, in India, defying his parents' expectations of becoming a doctor or lawyer. He did this for years until deciding to teach his practices to the rest of the world. And, man, I'm glad he did.

From deciphering yourself from your thoughts, controlling fear, and understanding the negative results from comparison, this book offers an array of skills and tools that can positively impact anyone's life. I wish everyone I knew would read this. I think we would all be happier. Sure it takes work, everyday, but there are solutions to your shortcomings. It's not like you can read a book and everything will change but this can fill your skills toolbox that in time can ultimately change things for the better.

Our identity is wrapped up in what others think of us or, more accurately, what we think others think of us. - Jay Shetty

His thought process is deep which is what's needed for understanding yourself and in turn growth. I gained a lot from this book and will go back to it from time to time to refresh. If you're looking for more tools to add to the toolbox, this is the book for you.

The Fifth Vital
​By Mike Majlak

Jun. 11th - 17th

A friend of mine called this a "celebrity book" which, to us, means that the book isn't that good and instead only gets sales due to it's author. However, I couldn't disagree more. I didn't know who Mike Majlak was before reading it and found it to be a great read. It's a story of tragedy to triumph... a lot like I consider my own life. I found it relatable, interesting, and written well.

​​If you do know who Mike is, you may be surprised by the stories in this book. He's been through some pretty rough situations and most of them were self caused. Regardless, he pulled himself out of the negative place he was in to become a major success. It's inspirational. I felt ready to improve my life after reading and the stories in this book have surfaced my brain many times since.

I don't want to give the content of this book away but it has a lot to do with addiction. If you or anyone you know has had issues in this area then maybe this book could help you better understand the disease. My mother was an addict and this helped me better understand, relate, and respect her. Check it out!

Living With A SEAL
​By Jesse Itzler

Jun. 18th - 24th

Jesse Itzler might be one of the coolest people out there. He's a successful entrepreneur, former rapper, adventure seeker, author, and so much more. His personality can't help but pour out through this book. It's a New York Times best seller and now one of my favorites. I even bought a copy for a friend.

Jesse invites the famous David Goggins (former SEAL) into his home, with his family, for personal growth purposes and what happens is uplifting and hilarious. If you don't know who David Goggins is, you should look him up immediately. He once set the 24 hour pull-up record which was 4,030 of them. He runs 100+ mile races. He is widely known as the toughest man on the planet and for good reason. Imagine him moving into your home then putting you through his daily routine while you also try to keep up with yours. If you can't, you're not alone. What was Jesse thinking? The only way to find out is by reading this.

Jesse's stories will not only make you laugh but motivate you and open up your mind to new thinking. There's a hilarious section about home security that even inspired me increase mine after reading. This book is full of gems. As Jesse would say "Step out of your comfort zone" and give this a read. Highly recommended!

Total Recall
​By Arnold Schwarzenegger

Jun. 25th - Jul. 1st

I'll be back! How many times have you said that in your life. The answer for me is approximately one million times. We all know who Arnold is but do we really? This book goes beyond acting and bodybuilding and into the mind and life of Arnold Schwarzenegger.

I've never been one of those people who idolizes a public figure and that goes for Arnold as well. However, I do love learning from people wo have accomplished incredible feats in multiple genres. There's a lot to learn from in this book as well as enjoyment gained. Arnold doesn't hold back the details which really allow you to understand his thought process and in turn decision making.

I personally recommend listening to this on audible because it's a long book. I cranked the speed up to 1.2 on this one and flew through it in a week. There's a lot of history and familiar names that will help keep you intrigued. I'll definitely be reading this one again. Well done!