I Dare You! by William H. Danforth

by William H. Danforth

American entrepreneur and philanthropist WILLIAM H. DANFORTH (1870-1956) is most famous for founding the Ralston Purina Company, but he also helped launch the American Youth Foundation in 1925 as a resource for spurring kids to becoming the best they can be. The spirit of his can-do philosophy is encapsulated here, in this cheerful and inspiring guide to being a creative, adventurous, magnetic, successful, daring person at any age. For decades, I Dare You!-with its honest, heartfelt advice and entertaining and enlightening anecdotes-has encouraged and motivated children and adults alike to take control of their lives and become the happy, fulfilled people they've always dreamed of being. As relevant and necessary today as it was when it was first published more than 70 years ago, this is a book to treasure and to share.

Genres: Self Help, Nonfiction, Personal Development, Leadership, Business, Inspirational, Psychology

Paperback

First published June 1, 1976

Reviews

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received the I Dare You! Award through 4-H, when I was 18. I wish I had taken the time to read the book then and apply its principles. It is a little dated but still inspiring. Mr Danforth has a wonderful way of expressing how we can make the best better!

[Haydon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I dare you is pretty much a book that teaches you to do the right things like how to sit at a desk or not to bend over your paper work and sit tall. This book has taught me a lot of things about being mannerly and respectful. The thing about this book it is different from all the other books that I have read, the book dares you to do the things as it is teaching you just like the main cover I DARE YOU! Some parts of the book it dares you to sit up straight and not to slouch over your work. When you sit up straight you look like the way you should be but when you slouch over your work you look all sluggish. This book has been read in my family for awhile now, my grandpa read it and actually got an honor role for it and my dad read it and now I am reading it. I have learned great things from this book and if you get the chance to read it I DARE YOU!

Genre:Realistic

[Kiesha Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

My parents handed this book down to me. I have an edition printed in 1965 and I read it once per year.

[Regina Tenorio · Rating 1 out of 5]

Outdated and sexist, I couldn’t even finish it without getting furious. Not a recommendation for sure. Life is much more complicated than just get up and do it. It’s not even worthy of adding it to my 2021 challenge.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

Truth is timeless.

[Sarah January · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this book, William Danforth seeks to change your problem-solving tactics, from the way you stand or sit in a chair to the way you look at the world. Originally published in 1931, this book is still very relevant and powerful.  Danforth as a counselor, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and co-founder of the American Youth Foundation sought to ignite generation after generation with the idea that nothing was impossible until you deemed it as such.  I found this book very refreshing.  It did not put up with the usual excuses we give ourselves when we decide we can't do something or other.

If you don't feel strong, Danforth says, "DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT!"  You feel bad about yourself? DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT!  You don't like your love-life? DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT!  You don’t feel at peace in your soul?  DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT!

Danforth separates our lives into four parts.  According to him, unless you address these four areas you can’t even imagine progress or happiness in your life.

1. Physical 

2. Mental

3. Social

4. Spiritual

When you think, or even say out loud in a joking fashion, “I’m weak.  I’ve never been strong.”  In that moment, instead of doing what you've always done, dare to be the strongest person you know.  Decide then and there to change that belief.  Go to a class, ask a friend for help, read books, find out how to change yourself into the strongest person you know.  It’s that simple.  Decide, and do it.  The truth is the only thing that stops us from doing anything is our belief that we can’t do it.

For example, I doubt myself all the time.  I say to myself, "You'll never finish that project.  You'll never come through.  You won't make it on time.  You can't be depended upon.  No one can trust you because you aren't trustworthy.  You still can't grow up.  You haven't before, what makes this time different?  Yeah right.  You'll never change."  Mean, I know.  But don't you do that sometimes too? Do you think those awful things in the face of adversity?  It's hard to drown out those voices when you don't replace them with something else.  Something that tells you the outcome is inconsequential.  It doesn't matter how well you do.  What matters is you did it.  That's it.  You faced your demons.  You got in the game.  Here's what I'm daring to do:

Physical — I’m daring to give up ice-cream.  I have previously believed I can’t say no to myself.  Well, that stops here.  

Mental — I’m daring to stop doubting myself.  I have always thought that I can’t stop the doubts from stopping me, but the truth is I choose to listen to those voices when they say I can’t. 

Social — I’m daring to be brave and put myself out there.  I have always thought that prince charming either didn’t exist, or he wouldn’t want me, or (when I was in a good mood) he would just show up at my door someday. Lol, right.  This goes for friends too.  I have to think the best of others because that’s how I meet the good people that I now know and love with all my heart.  

Spiritual — I’m daring to believe that I really do matter to a merciful God who has never given up on me even at my worst.  I’m daring to believe that I don’t have to meet any expectation to deserve the love He gave willingly and freely to me.  I’m daring to believe He knows what He’s doing and that I don’t know better. (that last part is the hardest. I’m a bit of a know-it-all if you didn’t notice, lol.)
Here are some things Danforth said I think you should hear in my own interpretation:

!!! SPOILERS, SPOILERS!!!

Easy has already been done.  Quit looking for easy and look for the impossible.  Emulate those that inspire you and you'll learn by osmosis.  Your personality is something you develop, not inherit.  Learn, grow, change.

Don't judge someone as useless or a stick-in-the-mud.  You can still learn something from them.  Even if it's learning what NOT to do.  Keep looking for the good in people.

In addition, learn from everyone you meet.  Whether you spend five minutes or five decades with someone, learn from them.  The world is your classroom.

This one I can't do it justice so I'm simply going to quote Danforth: "Unfortunately, there are many people in the world so constituted that they are always licking the boots of those over them and lording it over those under them.  That's a sure way to destroy personality.  On the other hand, really great men and women are those who are natural, frank and honest with everyone with whom they come into contact."

Here’s one moment where I questioned Danforth.  He quotes an idea that you learn nothing when you win.  “We learn practically nothing from victory.  All our information comes from a defeat.  A winner forgets most of his mistakes.”  It was in an effort to encourage the reader to not give up when they fail, but it seems to be a bit of a lop-sided thought.  We learn nothing from victory?  Really, are you sure?  I’m not.  You learn what you are capable of when you win.  Perhaps, you learn that the process wasn’t what you thought it would be.  But you don’t learn nothing!  However, you do learn a lot when you fail…and when you are stubborn (like me) it’s possible to learn quite a lot.

One of my favorite metaphors by Danforth:  Some people are like the sea of Galilee; it makes beauty of what it is given because it has an outlet.  Other people are like the Dead Sea, it lets everything it is given die because it keeps everything it receives.  No outlet, no life.  You don’t get much out of what you receive unless you give it away.

Danforth says some fun and inspiring things toward the end of the book that makes you want to soar out of your chair, like, “Make a masterpiece of your life.”  Which makes me think of the Jessie J song lol.  I wanted to cry and sign when I read, “Measure your powers, not your problems…Don’t count the multitude. Count the loaves.”  I feel like I have so much to give the world when I read this book.

Another quote.  I can't do better than this: A few men build cities -- the rest live in them.  A few men project subways -- the rest ride in them.  A few men erect skyscrapers and factories -- and the rest toil in them."  Danforth wrote to the few.  He wrote to those who truly want to change the world.  You have to really want it, to be willing to fight, sweat, and bleed for it.  Nothing worth getting is easy to get.  It takes hard work and lots of it.  People admire hard work.  Respect comes from hard work.  Accomplishments come from not giving up.  And the only thing standing in your way...is you.  Say this with me.  "I am one of the few.  I have a leader's opportunity.  I have a shepherd's responsibility.  The rest are dependent upon me.  I Dare You!"


I dare you to make something of yourself.  I dare you to try again.  I dare you to start over.  I dare you to give it your all when you don't feel like it.  I dare you to do the things you've never done.  I dare you to do the things you think you can't do.  I dare you to be the person you've always wanted to be.

What do you say?  Do you dare?

[Danelley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked it a lot. Definitely dated, but important knowledge inside. Similar to what 4-fold goals our LDS youth are setting. It's always good to learn and grow, to be creative and inventive, to show confidence and even have good posture. Danforth is a big name around St Louis and Wash U, where Adam attended law school. This copy belonged to Adam's grandma, Gwen Jensen.

[Justin Rajab · Rating 5 out of 5]

Took me a bit longer to finish but I’m glad it did. This is a book to take in deeply and helped me become more knowledgeable and take more risk I haven’t been willing to do for myself. Will reread this one down the road I loved it. Essential for your bookshelf.

[Brett]

I read this book cause I stole it out of the back of my dad’s dresser while cleaning out his house and wanted to see if it would give me any insight into his psyche. it’s from the 50s and has that kind of like. Inspired Boy Scout evil aura about it. But overall like okay. Yeah. Fair. Maybe it WAS about the journey and not the destination or something? Idk old white guys and shit.

[Logan Krause · Rating 4 out of 5]

Personal Response:
This book appealed to me quite a bit. It was filled with advice on how to find more success in life, and I found it beneficial to have found new ways to have less stress and be happy in everything. One part I didn't like about the book was how it was filled with a lot of true stories of people who have found success with the "I dare you!" goal in mind. It was good to see some and how it can work, but there were too many in a few number of pages that it got kind of boring. Overall, the plot wasn't exciting (there isn't really a story line to follow), but I dare you! was good because of the great guidance it gives.

Summary:
I dare you! doesn't have much of a plot to follow, and it can be hard to get into as a reader. The basic gist of the book is following somewhat the life experiences of the author, William Danforth. It gives examples of how the "I dare you!" challenge changed him, starting with when he was in school and he went from being a scrawny, sickly-looking boy to one of the healthiest and strongest in his class. There are also many other stories, most of which had been personally witnessed by the author. The book gives many tips on how to reduce stress and work to become a better leader, a job most people don't want to do anymore in our time. It is very thorough on how to develop a strict schedule that will help lead a healthier, though sometimes more difficult, lifestyle.

Recommendation:
I would recommend this book to people of either gender, as it doesn't apply more content to one or the other. I would say the reading level would be for children around 7th to 8th grade up to around age 20 or so. The content isn't difficult to understand, and it may seem kind of childish to most people who are older than around 20. It isn't a good book for people who enjoy action-filled plots, but it would well suit people who want to try to live a healthier lifestyle and reduce stress.

[Reagan Faith Waggoner · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I Dare You, young man, you who have come from a home of poverty- I dare you to have the qualities of a Lincoln. I Dare You, heir of wealth and proud ancestry, with your generations of worthy stock, your traditions of leadership- I dare you to achieve something that will make the future point to you with even more pride than the present is pointing to those who have gone before you. I Dare You, young mother, to make your life a masterpiece upon which that little family of yours can build. Strong women bring forth strong men. I Dare You, boys and girls, to make life obey you, not you it. It is only a shallow dare to do the foolish things. I dare you to do the uplifting, courageous things. I Dare You, young executive, to shoulder more responsibility joyously, to launch out into the deep, to build magnificently. I Dare You, young author, to win the Nobel prize. I Dare You, young researcher, to become a Microbe Hunter. I Dare You, young researcher, to become a Microbe Hunter. I Dare You, Grandfather, with your roots deep in the soil and your head above the crowd, catching the rays of the sun, to plan a daring program to crown the years of your life. I Dare You, who think life is humdrum, to become involved. I dare you who are weak to be strong; you who are dull to be sparkling; you who are slaves to be kings. I Dare You, whoever you are, to share with others the fruit of your daring. Catch a passion for helping others and a richer life will come back to you!

[Vivian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow. This book crossed my path just as I was launching myself into a higher gear -- to successfully complete a 90-day-Isagenix-challenge. For me that means getting up 6ish, running (even if it's zero degrees), going to the gym to work out, stretching and sit-ups at home, eating more sensibly, and "cleansing" four days a month. On top of all that it's NaNoWriMo time -- so I tackle the keyboard for the third consecutive year pounding out childhood memories in narrative form. This on top of good habits I've already established that make me a happier person.

The copy I have is a "twentieth edition" printed in 1965. The premise is a "four-fold personal development" program addressing the physical, mental, social, and spiritual aspects of one's self.

It's a "read again and again and again and again" sort of book. My first read-through was to get the gist. The next time I'm going to be solidifying my purpose and creating some goals and establishing a tracking system for myself. He mentions lots of people I want to learn more about. I want to read the books he mentions.

I'm considering purchasing copies to give to my children as gifts.

[Matt Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

I happened across a dusty copy of this book years ago. I picked it up to see what it was about and read the whole thing that night. I read it again every couple of years. Mr. Danforth has a way of inviting you to make the most out of your life that is hard to resist. Want to borrow my copy? Just ask!

[Gillian · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a re-read for me. Written in the 30's, the language/layout out of the book is a little hokey in places. However, the message cannot be argued with. More people the sort of zest for life and faith that this book represents. Not to be sappy, but it really is inspiring!

[Brenden Rosario · Rating 5 out of 5]

I DARE YOU TO READ THIS BOOK!! I base my life on Danforth’s 4 square of life and I have never been more successful in my endeavors. I intend to share this book with as many people as possible. This is a must read for people who truly want to become better versions of themselves.

[George F. Feeman · Rating 5 out of 5]

On Daring

I first read this book in 1946, when I went to Camp Miniwanca, at age 16. It is now 2025 and I am 95 years old. As I look back on my life and what I have done, there is no doubt that I was deeply impacted by this book.

[Fred P. Rollins · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fine challenge.

Wake up. Do it.
Such great and positive motivation from a few decades ago cannot be ignored.
Live big, love big, dream big, act big and care to succeed.

[Don Gubler · Rating 3 out of 5]

You can do it.

[Dan Charnas · Rating 4 out of 5]

"My own self, at my very best, all the time."
This is a motto which Danforth quotes early in the book, and I believe it sums up his purpose for writing it: to encourage all of us to achieve maximum personal success and satisfaction in our lives.
I really liked his very basic, four-sided "square" approach: we need to maintain our physical health, to enhance our mental capacities, to grow our positive societal connections, and always to acknowledge our spiritual nature through prayer, gratitude, and grace.
Danforth dares us to be the best that we can be, and he encourages us to think big, citing examples of people who accomplished great things despite the odds and disregarded the naysayers who told them that they would never succeed. However, at the end of the book he cautions us not to dare ourselves beyond our capacities, that "...the ambitious son of a cart horse never wins in Derby races. Only thoroughbreds dominate there."
It's sound advice, in my opinion. Thus, knowing myself, my stage of life, and my life situations, I can dare myself accordingly to do my best and be at my very best all the time.
Some might be turned off to "I Dare You" because its writing style is rather dated, and it references people and events from many years ago. (They very well might have that opinion about the Bible, too.) Too bad, because they'd be missing out on a lot of valuable learning that would indeed have relevance for them today.

[Brian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Have you ever seen Gurren Lagann? Same energy.

There's two approaches to this book and that will determine your enjoyment, I think. You're either willing to read it graciously, or insistent on reading it skeptically.

This is no autobiography, but the claim-making by the author, a supposed self-made success (The Purina Guy) is always big, and bold, and will coax the feeling of "citation needed" out of anybody capable of critical thought. *But*, there is so much wisdom scattered among the anecdotes and claims, and such an unwavering faith in the possibility laid out before anyone who's willing to try their best, that I found the book's faith and encouragement totally infectious.

I'll keep it near my work desk for when I need inspiration. Really.

It's from another time and its boasting is probably better left unchecked, and its religious themes will require a bit of tolerance for the irreligious, but, all told, I really liked it, and I think you might, too. If you need somebody to fire you up and encourage you to try, and maybe even do, then you could do much worse than this little book.

[John Arnold · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart stirring

I read this book when I was a kid and completely forgotten about it until having a conversation with my daughter recently. So I decided to look it up. It stirred my heart then, and it started my heart now. The bottom line is i walked away inspired to act on great thingS that have been tucked away for too long inside me. Some will dismiss this book because the language is a bit archaic. Or the illustration and stories won’t be as political correct as they would like because it was written in the 30’s. That will be their loss. I hope people will read and take to heart a dare that pushes them to greatness.

[Jack Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredibly motivating. The authors guide to fulfillment in life and a tangible playbook on how to make improvements to yourself for the benefit of making meaning. The writing was incredibly clear and simple, refreshing to read the writings of a businessman who eliminates any unnecessary prose. The book is more interactive than I expected, I benefitted from owning a copy of the book and making annotations for myself and writing responses to questions. Definitely not a night time read, it’s meant for the sunlight and ideally so you can go do something with your day and life after putting it down.

[Gedi௨]

PROS+
+ well structured book around the personal philosophy of "Four-square" personal development
+ inspiring & motivating examples for every 4-square situation
+ easy to read & comprehend


QUOTES:
The only reason you are not the person you should be is you don’t dare to be. Once you dare, once you stop drifting with the crowd and face life courageously, life takes on a new significance. New forces take shape within you. New powers harness themselves for your service.

Energy is such an asset in business. Physical strength is the backbone of success and happiness in every walk of life.

[Sarah Larson]

I got this book when I was an intern in 2019 from one of the woman engineers at the company, and felt I had to give back and actually read the book. It’s…. Interesting 🥴very outdated, a wee bit sexist, and definitely a HIPAA violation of “if you were applying to us for a position in our business, I would first ask the doctor to report on your physical condition.” I’m sure this is a great book if it’s the 60’s-80’s and you’re a young boy in 4H, FFA, or a YMCA summer camp, but not in the 21st century. 🤷🏼‍♀️

[Marion Reinhardt · Rating 5 out of 5]

For me, this approach works!

I did not realize until I read this book that I had used daring to push me on to succeed Going to college I thought I can be a B student and that would be good. Then I started thinking why settle for B's. Let's go for A's. I dare you. Guess what I studied harder, found I really enjoyed learning and I got all A's ! Even in trig and calculus when math was never my forte! I will be using these techniques with my grandson and others!

[Shauna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of the earlier self-help books that stuck to the core values of an individual learning and growing. Danforth broke this values into 4 principles, laid them out, gave examples and then tied them together. This book was based on experience, not just ideas, principles or pop-culture trends. The language and examples are a bit outdated, but the principles are solid. A great read for teens or adults trying to figure things out.

[Logan Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It has actually spurred me to action in 2020, some of which unfortunately have had to take a back seat due to the pandemic. In his book, I learned of another title as well. "The Twelve Tests of Character" by Harry Fosdick. I immediately bought that book as well and am enjoying that as I type.
A fantastic read that really calls the reader to action!

[Melissa Helton · Rating 2 out of 5]

It makes sense that in 1960, the ideas would be presented in sexist and ableist ways. The core of the message is sound (get up and do it), and it's not surprising that speaking to the generation of teenaged baby boomers, the tone would be heavily war like. I can see how it could have sparked motivation in its target audience.

[Heather Clark-Gardner · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely little read that brings a call upon ones self. Its motivating though slightly out of date, the concept is still quite relevant. It's interesting to read how little life experiences from the early 1900's inspired Danforth to write this book, as well as all of the others mentioned throughout the book.

[Kelsey Grissom · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a formative book for me as a teenager so I decided to reread it. I have my grandmother’s copy from when she was a young girl. The book is of course a product of its time in some ways, but it is also offers one of the clearest ways to reflect on and design a well rounded life. I find it inspiring every time I read it.