Empty Your Backpack: Unpack Your Beliefs, Take Consistent Action, and Create a Life of Meaning

by Sam Demma, Rachel Small (Editor)

In Empty Your Backpack, Sam Demma demonstrates that your dreams are in reach, and it's the beliefs you carry and the actions you take that determine whether you will achieve them.

Demma provides a guide on how to move closer to your dreams faster than you ever imagined. He shows that by cultivating empowering beliefs while committing to consistent actions that fuel your creativity and growth, you can make things happen in your life the way you envision. 

Are you weighed down by people dismissing your dreams as unrealistic? You have big dreams. There are things you want to accomplish, but maybe they feel out of reach-especially when people tell you they're impossible. That heavy feeling of doubt is your backpack. It's full of limiting beliefs and dreams crushed by the opinions of others. It's time to empty your backpack and release that weight from your shoulders. 

Demma's guide offers actionable ideas to help young people keep faith in their dreams even when those around them lose theirs. He reveals pathways that can help bring dreams to life and empower you to be the best version of yourself.

Empty Your Backpack is an easy-to-follow guide filled with tried-and-tested principles and inspiring stories from Demma's remarkable life that will help you optimize your beliefs and actions to get you where you want to be.

Genres: Nonfiction

156 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 18, 2022

About the author

Sam Demma is the author of Empty Your Backpack, Be Someone's Taco and Return on Goodwill (forthcoming). He delivers 100+ keynote performances annually around the globe. In his spare time, you can find Sam reading books, dancing the bachata, or travelling with his giant red backpack.

Reviews

[Jennifer H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A friend told me about this book and I immediately downloaded it and started listening to it. Yes, a lot of this could be aimed towards a younger crowd (I’m 50), but it also absolutely applied to me as well! As a person who stays comfortable and doesn’t feel she should go for her dreams, this was the book I needed to read!! I hope to see a lot more from Sam!

[Ashley Rieple · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️ rounded up. All pretty basic stuff but he’s such a likable guy that he’s easy to take advice from. What he says really makes sense & the guy seems to have a heart of gold. I started following him on social media and I always like to see the nice guys succeed.

[Christall Beaudry · Rating 3 out of 5]

This a good book for young adults still trying to figure stuff out.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

So lets taco-bout this book (you'll understand that reference after you read it). First of all, I'd like to say I had never heard of Sam Demma or this book; this was a recommendation from Goodreads based on other books I had read recently. Secondly, after reading for a bit I found myself thinking "how old is this kid?!" He references his high school / teenage years and gives examples of life experiences that have motivated him to not only write this book, but launch an entire speaking career. So I found myself looking him up on social media, found an Instagram page, started following, then that led me to his website where I see that he's been on speaking tours since 2023, which is awesome! There's no better testament to the legitimacy of a self-help book than an author who is following through with what they're writing about, and he's doing just that! Overall, this book is full of insightful and compelling thoughts and actions of a young man who demonstrates more maturity and self-awareness than I have seen from / experienced with adults twice his age (coming from a middle-aged woman, myself). I sent a DM to his Instagram account while reading the book (he tells you to!), and had a back and forth conversation for a bit. I asked him if it was actually him in these messages or a social media manager - just because I was curious...and you know what he replied with? A voice message telling me that he does indeed respond personally do all of his messages. I think that's just really cool and mature of him! Sam, when are you coming to the Detroit area?!

[Chidimma · Rating 3 out of 5]

really 3.5
Usually, I take a hard opposing stance to motivational speakers, but I actually found this guy's book quite engaging. There were a lot of good messages in this book and I especially liked his specificity---where there was a lot of room for his words to be misinterpreted, he made sure to clarify and say exactly what he meant.

However, there were quite a few grammatical errors and spelling mistakes, which I can usually ignore in fictional works, but in non-fiction, I feel like it is important for establishing the ethos of an author. I also felt that some of his stories kind of hindered his point at times. Like, he'd say, "don't take no as an answer and here's an example of me doing that. Except, my desired outcome didn't come from that but also I was better off." So I felt as if that kind of made me like 👀 like it didn't work for you so why should I bother? But maybe that's just my pessimistic nature. It was obvious that it was written by a white middle-class guy, but I think his messages were general enough to apply to a vast group of people.

The writing was simple, easy to understand, which I think is good for non fiction books. Very easy to grasp. But it's very motivational speaker-y so if you're not into that, you might not be into this either

[Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book deserves to be required reading in every school. Sam is a remarkable speaker, and his stories of everyday encounters reveal how powerful even the smallest actions can be impactful and helpful to a person. These consistent gestures offer a practical way to truly understanding people.

During my time in law enforcement, I reminded myself that we often meet individuals on their worst days, and judging them solely in those moments would be unfair. Accountability is important, and being aware of the danger involved course, but recognising this perspective helped me de-escalate situations that could have otherwise turned out much worse.

I believe this book would teach high school students as well as adults those same lessons—how empathy and persistence can shape their interactions and inspire them to pursue their dreams. Sam, you are an inspiration. It feels like fate that I came across your work, and I’m deeply grateful.

[Elbers Piñero · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is more than a traditional motivational book. Empty your back is a guide that helps you to reconnect with your essence and your dreams. There is a roller-coaster of emotions that allows you to reconnect with the child inside you, lives the present, and dreams again about the future. This book reconnects you with your purpose in life, or at least shows you that this purpose does not have to be something bigger like save the world, but every consistent action approaches you to that. Also, with life experience, show you how kindness opens doors that you never imagined. Once you start reading it, you can't stop. Go, buy and read the book, and I am sure, if you are open to learn and listen, this book will give you a new perspective about kindness, work, your dreams, and goals. A new perspective about life itself. doesn't matter how old or young you are. Empty your backpack is open to everyone who wants to bring kindness to the world and reconnect with yourself. I will end this review with this question... What small consistent actions are you doing to reach your goals or bring kindness to the world? Enjoy it

[Mark Brislin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be careful - Sam Demma and his book may just change your life. I hope that it becomes part of a school curriculum because what Sam teaches is exactly what this world needs. I can’t wait to read it again to my 14 year old.
Sam’s positive and selfless, growth mindset are such an amazing lesson for anyone who is struggling with their self worth or just trying to find your way in this life. I saw Sam in a random video and now I’m hooked. His social media is a must for all kids to learn positivity, selflessness and kindness. Like I said - don’t be surprise if you close that book and immediately do something small but meaningful for someone else - and that random act of kindness will keep spreading!

[Kevin Rheinecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overall, Empty Out Your Backpack is a meaningful and uplifting read. It’s especially valuable for anyone feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or in need of a fresh start. This book is inspiring and gives a sense of hope, it reminded me that lightening up their load can lead to greater peace, freedom, and clarity in life. What I appreciated most about this book is how gentle and understanding it is. It doesn’t make the reader feel guilty for having emotional baggage. Instead, it reminds us that everyone carries something, and that letting go is a journey, not something that happens all at once. The author’s words felt encouraging and reassuring, especially during moments when self-reflection can feel uncomfortable.

[Jenifer Weiland · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌮 Beyond expectations 🌮

🌮🌮🌮 be someone's taco, that's this book, the book is my tacos 🌮 🌮🌮

I've read more than just a few books, but this one I'd put at the top of my list to read again.

So much encouragement, and many moments to make you stop and "smell the leather" as Dan Pena says to do. This book encourages the stop moment.

Or maybe not a full stop, more a pause and inhale. With tips to exhale and go forward.

I'd recommend it to anyone starting life's journey, or for someone who is having a life moment.

Very much liked this book, will put in my "read once a year stack"

Stacking tacos 🌮 🌮🌮🌮

[Shayla Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started following Sam on IG and instantly loved his reels and message, the more he talked about his book the more I wanted to read it and I am so glad I did. I like at the end of each chapter how he reviews the key take always. As a teacher I would love to order his book in bulk and have all my students read it. While I am a little older now a lot of the message is still things that can resonate with me and would definitely recommend to younger teens and adults with big dreams. I actually listened to it on Spotify and thought it was awesome he was the narrator. Great book. Great speaker and love his material and messages.

[Steve Fedock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Empty Your Backpack is a motivational and relatable book that encourages readers to let go of fear, self-doubt, and past mistakes, the “weight” we carry around mentally. Sam Demma shares personal stories and practical lessons that remind us we don’t have to be defined by our challenges. Instead, we can choose purpose, gratitude, and belief in ourselves.

It’s a quick, inspiring read, perfect for students, young adults, or anyone looking for a mindset reset.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sam Demma did a fantastic job explaining how we allow others thoughts and opinions effect our own goals, habits, and dreams! I believe the target audience is much younger than myself but I was able to relate to much of what was written. It was a great read with good things to remember. I especially liked how at the end of each chapter there was a list of items Sam hoped you were able to take away from that chapter. This book definitely helped put things in perspective and provides motivation.

[Jill Rocha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have so many great takeaways from this book! I have shared it with multiple people already!! I had also bought a few copies of “Be Somebody’s Taco” Sam’s children’s book and I have shared that with others also!! Go read it and make sure to have a notebook and little tabs to mark your favorite pages!!

[AARON S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just completed your book, Empty Your Backpack, this morning. It has been quite inspiring. I am within 6 months of being eligible to retire after being in law enforcement for 25 years. As I look at the opportunity to ride off into the sunset and consider what's next, your book has provided me with the courage to find a new path to occupy my time and pursue new opportunities.

[Dennis A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sam has the craft of speaking to youth. He is inspiring and encouraging. He may be the next Stephen Covey. We are using his literature with Behavioral Health patients to help motivate and encourage them to hone their coping skills and change their automatic negative thoughts into intentional behaviors. We need more teachers like Sam

[Dawn Billings · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good job Sammy! This book is real! I think it will be very helpful to those who are trying to figure “life out”. It helps to give direction. It also gives you hope! Hopefully one day I’ll hear you speak live!

[Barbara · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn't finish because this book is aimed at a different age range.

The main takeaway was be yourself and don't pay attention to what other people say. What they say isn't about you, it's about them.

[Tracie Sievers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Listened to this as an audiobook, and while Sam is young and has written this to ignite and educate other young people, this book is filled with inspiring stories and tools to get the best from our lives.

[Noah Curry · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is very impactful for readers of all ages. I feel like the messaging and the behaviors you can learn can truly make your life better. Thanks for the great read Sam. I'm off to enjoy some tacos!

[Allison Brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

This self-help book is succinct, sincere and packed with stories and examples which I appreciate. It comes across as a bit idealistic and they aren't all original concepts. But I do think that he is going places and appeals to his demographic.

[Trish N · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good reminder of how simple, daily actions and affirmations can boost your level of confidence, reduce stressors, and build a better, healthier outlook on your life and goals you may (want/need to) set as you move forward!!
Start small, enjoy the wins and envelope the progress.

[Darian Sanders · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a world that often glorifies perfection and success, "Empty Your Backpack" stands out as a beacon of authenticity and relatability. It’s a guide for anyone looking to lighten their emotional load, embrace their true selves, and forge a path toward a more fulfilling life.

[Levi Stanford · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy to digest and is a great starting book for youth interested in the personal development world.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sam is an impressive speaker. This book helps young people set realistic goals and gives strategies that help motivate and encourage.

[Malorie Apolon · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite books!

[Dee Tighe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Energetic young man. Interesting.

[Kaylee Daulton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was very motivating and he had a lot of good ideas about breaking through societal standards and stereotypes while also pointing out the importance of serving others.

[Niki Kropf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sam has a true talent for making life changing feedback accessible. This is a book that is easy to digest but contains a lot of valuable wisdom. I will pass this book on to my students.

[Kevin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book "Easy" to read. It touches numerous emotions and real-life experiences for all ages.