What do you think?
Rate this book
A Survival Guide for Life: How to Achieve Your Goals, Thrive in Adversity, and Grow in Character
An indispensable survival guide to some of life's toughest situations, from New York Times bestselling author Bear Grylls. The world-famous survival expert and reality television star teaches you how to make everyday an unforgettable adventure Life in the outdoors teaches us invaluable lessons. Encountering the wild forces us to plan and execute goals, face danger, push our “limits,” and sharpen our instincts. But our most important adventures don’t always happen in nature’s extremes. Living a purpose-driven, meaningful life can often be an even greater challenge. . . .
In A Survival Guide for Life, Bear Grylls, globally renowned adventurer and television host, shares the hard-earned wisdom he’s gained in the harshest environments on earth, from the summit of Mt. Everest to the boot camps of the British Special Forces.
Filled with exclusive, never-before-told tales from Bear’s globe-trekking expeditions, A Survival Guide for Life teaches every reader—no matter your age or experience—that we’re all capable of living life more boldly, of achieving our most daring dreams, and of having more fun along the way. Here’s to your own great adventure!
In A Survival Guide for Life, Bear Grylls, globally renowned adventurer and television host, shares the hard-earned wisdom he’s gained in the harshest environments on earth, from the summit of Mt. Everest to the boot camps of the British Special Forces.
Filled with exclusive, never-before-told tales from Bear’s globe-trekking expeditions, A Survival Guide for Life teaches every reader—no matter your age or experience—that we’re all capable of living life more boldly, of achieving our most daring dreams, and of having more fun along the way. Here’s to your own great adventure!
288 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2012
195 people are currently reading
1889 people want to read
About the author
Bear Grylls
316 books970 followersBear Grylls has become known around the world as one of the most recognized faces of survival and outdoor adventure. His journey to this acclaim started in the UK on the Isle of Wight, where his late father taught him to climb and sail. Trained from a young age in martial arts, Bear went on to spend three years as a soldier in the British Special Forces, serving with 21 SAS. It was here that he perfected many of the skills that his fans all over the world enjoy watching him pit against mother-nature. Despite a free-fall parachuting accident in Africa, where he broke his back in three places, and after enduring months in military rehabilitation, Bear went on to become one of the youngest ever climbers to reach the summit of Mount Everest. Bear went on to star in Discovery Channel's Emmy nominated Man Vs Wild and Born Survivor TV series, which has become one of the most watched shows on the planet. Off screen, Bear has lead record-breaking expeditions, from Antarctica to the Arctic, which in turn have raised over £2.5million for children around the world. In recognition of his expertise and service, Bear was appointed as the youngest ever Chief Scout to 28 million Scouts worldwide, awarded an honorary commission as a Lieutenant-Commander in the Royal Navy, and has authored 10 books, including To My Sons.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 217 reviews
January 11, 2019
Honestly I want to start by saying how much I respect Bear Grylls, the man is absolutely incredible and seriously inspiring. It got to the point where i wasn’t just reading to help myself but to really take in what he was saying and what he’s been through and where he is now. It’s incredible
I know some people say it’s not what they were expecting but it was for me. He managed to talk about surviving in life and in business and well as in adventure.
Some also said that his quotes were “corny” or “cheesy” and I respect that’s their opinion for I didn’t feel that way at all, I felt that those quotes will stick with me as well.
I look forward to reading his other work and this book will definitely stay with me at all times.
I know some people say it’s not what they were expecting but it was for me. He managed to talk about surviving in life and in business and well as in adventure.
Some also said that his quotes were “corny” or “cheesy” and I respect that’s their opinion for I didn’t feel that way at all, I felt that those quotes will stick with me as well.
I look forward to reading his other work and this book will definitely stay with me at all times.
Read
February 11, 2021Bu kitabı okudum çünkü kitabın gerçekten bir tür, zor koşullarda hayatta kalmak için temel ve pratik bilgiler taşıdığını zannediyordum. Örneğin radyasyondan nasıl korunuruz gibi. Bunlara karşı kişisel bir merakım var. Bear Grylls'in televizyon programı yaptığını biliyordum fakat eşim de ben de televizyonsuz yaşadığımız için sanırım dünyadan fazlasıyla kopuğuz. Programının tek bir bölümünü dahi izlemişliğim yok.
Kitap elbette sandığım gibi çıkmadı. Kişisel gelişim kitabı olarak yazılmış. Kişisel gelişim tercih ettiğim bir tür değil. Az Seçilen Yol gibi beğendiğim (onun da sadece bir kısmı, yorumuma bkz.) istisnai kişisel gelişim kitapları olduysa da bu türü pek faydalı bulmuyorum. Bu kitabı da elbette bu yüzden hayal kırıklığı ile okudum.
Kitabın içinde bir defa geçen bir enerji içeceği markası bile beni rahatsız etmeye yetti. Bu tarz şeyler için reklam anlaşmaları yapıldığını biliyorum bazı kitaplarda. Sıklıkla karşıma çıkan İncil alıntıları ve inançlı olmakla ilgili vurguları bana biraz klişe misyonerlik çabası gibi geldi. Bunun dışında kitapta akılda kalıcı ve güzel sözler de var. Mesela bir yerde geçen "almak için önce vermelisin" temalı bir hikaye vardı. Hoşuma gitti bu, ileride sıklıkla atıf yapacağım hayatımda. Dedikoduyu lanetleyen yanı da ayrıca hoşuma gitti.
Yazarın ileride başka kitaplarını okumayı düşünmüyorum. Bu nedenle tavsiye edeceğim bir kitap değil bu. Sargun hocanın Nereden Geliyorsun? Kuzeyden kitabı beni bundan daha çok motive etmişti (ve elbette onun bir zamanlar Bilim ve Teknik dergisinde yazdığı harika yazıları da).
Bayram gününü bu okumalarla bitirmiş oldum.
Herkese bol gülümsemeli bir bayram tatili dilerim!
M.B.
Mersin
Kitap elbette sandığım gibi çıkmadı. Kişisel gelişim kitabı olarak yazılmış. Kişisel gelişim tercih ettiğim bir tür değil. Az Seçilen Yol gibi beğendiğim (onun da sadece bir kısmı, yorumuma bkz.) istisnai kişisel gelişim kitapları olduysa da bu türü pek faydalı bulmuyorum. Bu kitabı da elbette bu yüzden hayal kırıklığı ile okudum.
Kitabın içinde bir defa geçen bir enerji içeceği markası bile beni rahatsız etmeye yetti. Bu tarz şeyler için reklam anlaşmaları yapıldığını biliyorum bazı kitaplarda. Sıklıkla karşıma çıkan İncil alıntıları ve inançlı olmakla ilgili vurguları bana biraz klişe misyonerlik çabası gibi geldi. Bunun dışında kitapta akılda kalıcı ve güzel sözler de var. Mesela bir yerde geçen "almak için önce vermelisin" temalı bir hikaye vardı. Hoşuma gitti bu, ileride sıklıkla atıf yapacağım hayatımda. Dedikoduyu lanetleyen yanı da ayrıca hoşuma gitti.
Yazarın ileride başka kitaplarını okumayı düşünmüyorum. Bu nedenle tavsiye edeceğim bir kitap değil bu. Sargun hocanın Nereden Geliyorsun? Kuzeyden kitabı beni bundan daha çok motive etmişti (ve elbette onun bir zamanlar Bilim ve Teknik dergisinde yazdığı harika yazıları da).
Bayram gününü bu okumalarla bitirmiş oldum.
Herkese bol gülümsemeli bir bayram tatili dilerim!
M.B.
Mersin
November 23, 2023
Ако си мислите, че тази книга има нещо общо с оцеляването на Беър Грилс сред природата и по някакъв начин прилага наученото там в живота, значи си мислите точно това, което рекламните специалисти, стигнали до идеята за книгата са искали да си мислите. Което ще ви накара да я купите и евентуално прочетете и което, разбира се, няма нищо общо с истината.
Заглавието на всяка глава представлява някаква банална "мъдрост" от рода на "преследвай целта, а не парите", "кажи ДА", "опознай себе си" и други подобни, а текстът са плитките, елементарни раздъждения на автора в тази посока.
Заглавието на всяка глава представлява някаква банална "мъдрост" от рода на "преследвай целта, а не парите", "кажи ДА", "опознай себе си" и други подобни, а текстът са плитките, елементарни раздъждения на автора в тази посока.
March 26, 2015
“Struggles develop strength and storms make you stronger…”
Life’s journey and path is full of ups and downs, yet a strong heart pushes forth for success in reaping those rewards. Extreme hardships, tough battles and dangers can be fought and overcome - - when we choose to seize the moment, face our fears head on and rely on instinct!
Living a purpose-driven, impactful life can be challenging and sometimes we need a guide…Bear Grylls inspirational, empowering almanac incorporates personal life lessons of indispensable worth and unforgettable value.
“It might be dusty and hidden away, but it is there somewhere inside you: the heart of a survivor.
Courage.
Tenacity.
Strength.
So don’t shy away from the hard times, they are your chance to shine.”
This truly motivational read will help you to strive forth with renewed energy and zeal for life.
It is not about perfection or presenting you with a list of things you must do in order to find fulfilment and happiness, but rather it is a book to highlight those errors that we can make which hinder our progress and cloud our vision.
Having recently been through serious illness and incredibly dark, challenging times I was struck by how with such acuteness and poignancy each statement/ quote and connotation “hit home”. I now feel as a consequence of reading this more focused, positive, optimistic and reassured and strongly believe that I have grown in character through my own personal experiences in life.
Life is short. It is precious. Make the most of it; live your dreams.
Seek out adventure. Love life; nature, people, places, culture and intelligence.
Work hard and accept the rewards. Climb the highest mountains and never look back!
Life’s journey and path is full of ups and downs, yet a strong heart pushes forth for success in reaping those rewards. Extreme hardships, tough battles and dangers can be fought and overcome - - when we choose to seize the moment, face our fears head on and rely on instinct!
Living a purpose-driven, impactful life can be challenging and sometimes we need a guide…Bear Grylls inspirational, empowering almanac incorporates personal life lessons of indispensable worth and unforgettable value.
“It might be dusty and hidden away, but it is there somewhere inside you: the heart of a survivor.
Courage.
Tenacity.
Strength.
So don’t shy away from the hard times, they are your chance to shine.”
This truly motivational read will help you to strive forth with renewed energy and zeal for life.
It is not about perfection or presenting you with a list of things you must do in order to find fulfilment and happiness, but rather it is a book to highlight those errors that we can make which hinder our progress and cloud our vision.
Having recently been through serious illness and incredibly dark, challenging times I was struck by how with such acuteness and poignancy each statement/ quote and connotation “hit home”. I now feel as a consequence of reading this more focused, positive, optimistic and reassured and strongly believe that I have grown in character through my own personal experiences in life.
Life is short. It is precious. Make the most of it; live your dreams.
Seek out adventure. Love life; nature, people, places, culture and intelligence.
Work hard and accept the rewards. Climb the highest mountains and never look back!
March 28, 2019
Сборник от съвети за живота от типа на "бъди ентусиазиран", "никога не се предавай" и подобни мъдрости, които виреят добре във фейсбука на фона на снимки с висящи от простора котенца, като всеки от съветите е развит в кратка глава от по страничка-две. На места размислите са подправени обилно с библейски цитати и поощрения да се довериш на Христос, защото той знае най-добре... Глупаво.
June 4, 2014
Great motivational book.
Quick and fun to read.
Here are some of the ideias I like the most:
* Take the first step
* Enthusiasm adds the extra 5% sparkle to everything we do
* Success almost always follows great attitude
* Ask “Why not?” instead of “Why?”
* Success requires sacrifice. Get used to it.
* Pain is transitory; pride endures forever
* Fail, fail, and fail again, Colonel Sanders (KFC) was rejected 1,009 times
* To receive, you must give
* Money is also like a river, and rivers need to flow or they die
* If you risk nothing, you gain nothing
* A bad decision is better than no decision
* The best quality – kindness
* Change the way you use your time, and you change your life
* You have two ears and one mouth; use them in that proportion
* Seek the good in people
I've prepared a presentation (in portuguese) about the book: http://pt.slideshare.net/andrefaria/b...
Quick and fun to read.
Here are some of the ideias I like the most:
* Take the first step
* Enthusiasm adds the extra 5% sparkle to everything we do
* Success almost always follows great attitude
* Ask “Why not?” instead of “Why?”
* Success requires sacrifice. Get used to it.
* Pain is transitory; pride endures forever
* Fail, fail, and fail again, Colonel Sanders (KFC) was rejected 1,009 times
* To receive, you must give
* Money is also like a river, and rivers need to flow or they die
* If you risk nothing, you gain nothing
* A bad decision is better than no decision
* The best quality – kindness
* Change the way you use your time, and you change your life
* You have two ears and one mouth; use them in that proportion
* Seek the good in people
I've prepared a presentation (in portuguese) about the book: http://pt.slideshare.net/andrefaria/b...
December 11, 2015
Okay, I will say that this was a little cheesy and he quoted a lot of cliches, but with that being said, I liked this book. I picked this up because my boys love Bear Grylls and it turned out to be a pleasant read. This is filled with the kind of stuff that I find myself saying to my own children. As a parent, the role of cheerleader is one I often slip into. It is full of reminders that you would want your children to live and apply. I also liked that he quoted from the bible to make points. So I bought 5 copies to give to my children for Christmas. I always give them at least one book and this one will be serving a purpose long after I'm gone.
February 7, 2017
Изключително приятно ме изненада тази книга!
Имаше много съвети, които си записах, или си казах просто, че е хубаво да започна да правя нещо.
Лека, приятна, мотивираща и вдъхновяваща!
Имаше много съвети, които си записах, или си казах просто, че е хубаво да започна да правя нещо.
Лека, приятна, мотивираща и вдъхновяваща!
July 10, 2016
Dreadful disappointment:
"A stitch in time saves nine" , "If life gives you lemons..." like this book!
I wanted to read about his life stories not a self help ^%^$%$#
"A stitch in time saves nine" , "If life gives you lemons..." like this book!
I wanted to read about his life stories not a self help ^%^$%$#
June 17, 2013
I received a free copy of this book and I will check to see if my public library wants it, since I don't have any reason to keep it. So my review: First, the title is a misnomer; the words “Survival Guide” were definitely misleading to me, given what this man does for a living. I didn't realize the book would read like salesman training material. "Put a picture of your dream on the wall." "Always be enthusiastic." Etc. Second, the publishers decided to have the text alternate back and forth between huge 48 point font that looks like magazine headlines or graphic novels, and quite small (maybe 9 or 10 pt font). Therefore, after only six pages of reading I was getting an eye strain headache from the fonts dramatically changing two or three times on every page. Please, make sure you see a sample of this book that will help you decide if your eyes can handle this uncomfortable duality. Hint: If it looks like a comic strip, it's not going to serve any function except to entertain. Conclusion: if you just want to read a book by a guy who's on a tv show, enjoy yourself.
February 18, 2021
Great book. I’ve not had the pleasure of watching Bear Grylls in action on his tv show, with the exception of one episode; but this book simply reinforced the vague impression from that episode that he is a down-to-earth, humble man.
Through this book, he offered sage wisdom and examples of how to go through life. The chapters were short and easy to read, but I will most likely reread this book more slowly to fully appreciate the advice and wisdom.
I appreciated that he had no problem including his faith as part of his roadmap to a fulfilling life. People often forget that whether one is religious or not, the Bible has oodles of wisdom for all circumstances. From giving our burdens and cares to God, to being humble, or being generous, Biblical principles are so important.
Through this book, he offered sage wisdom and examples of how to go through life. The chapters were short and easy to read, but I will most likely reread this book more slowly to fully appreciate the advice and wisdom.
I appreciated that he had no problem including his faith as part of his roadmap to a fulfilling life. People often forget that whether one is religious or not, the Bible has oodles of wisdom for all circumstances. From giving our burdens and cares to God, to being humble, or being generous, Biblical principles are so important.
June 22, 2016
One of the best motivational books ever! Short and easy to read. Full of inspirational stories, words of courage and wisdom.
August 21, 2021
Randomly got this book from the library and it ended up being a great read. Bear Grylls is known for his survival shows and putting himself in dangerous situations and teaching people about how to survive with minimal supplies.
This book was a big set of pep talks by Bear about facing adversity and following your dreams. There were a lot of obvious and simple bits of advice, but there were also genuinely moving chapters that focused on empathy, hard-work, compassion, determination, character, honor, and humanity. Definitely makes me want to read more of his books about his life and actual life or death survival manuals.
This book was a big set of pep talks by Bear about facing adversity and following your dreams. There were a lot of obvious and simple bits of advice, but there were also genuinely moving chapters that focused on empathy, hard-work, compassion, determination, character, honor, and humanity. Definitely makes me want to read more of his books about his life and actual life or death survival manuals.
August 20, 2014
Inspiring and engaging! I learned a lot and was encouraged to do greater things. It was definitely not preachy, but felt friendly.
December 29, 2018
Simple. Wise. Inspiring.
July 2, 2024
I really liked this collection of advice, life lessons and practical wisdom by Bear Grylls. Yes, it's advice that you may have heard elsewhere before. Yes, it's more of a motivational, self-help type of book than a 'survival guide' that teaches you how to find water in the desert or how to avoid getting killed in the jungle.
But Grylls shows that the advice in this book applies to every moment and situation in life. Just like his Catholic faith inspires his life choices, the moral mindset he demonstrates in this book inspires the way he does his work as a survival expert.
And, as Grylls explains, it is a good thing to read motivational books from time to time, even if you forget to apply the lessons learned after a while. After all, we also eat, breathe and wash ourselves regularly.
A lot of his advice reflects his own enthusiasm, work ethics and the values of his faith. Maybe that is why the book works: Grylls lives what he teaches. Recommended.
But Grylls shows that the advice in this book applies to every moment and situation in life. Just like his Catholic faith inspires his life choices, the moral mindset he demonstrates in this book inspires the way he does his work as a survival expert.
And, as Grylls explains, it is a good thing to read motivational books from time to time, even if you forget to apply the lessons learned after a while. After all, we also eat, breathe and wash ourselves regularly.
A lot of his advice reflects his own enthusiasm, work ethics and the values of his faith. Maybe that is why the book works: Grylls lives what he teaches. Recommended.
June 26, 2019
Not terribly deep and just reaffirming everyone else's life mantras but the delivery was good. It was a very quick read and had some good takeaways. Just like part about needing motivation/goals every day just like brushing your teeth reading this was my tooth brushing without having to reread something already on the shelf.
July 7, 2020
This self help book is not for everyone. It's geared towards a younger demographic and those of a Christian faith. But a great deal of the advice I believe can generalise to any walk of life. Be kind, be grateful, don't give up. Bear really makes you believe in these mottos which is why I loved this book
January 13, 2021
Simple, easy to read and full of golden nuggets!
January 26, 2026
Very motivating, a bit repetitive and sometimes on the nose, but the biggest takeaway is to keep calm in the chaos and to not shy away from difficulties.
September 17, 2024
Easy read and very motivational in nature. Some solid advice throughout from Bear. Definitely worth a read.
August 28, 2020
Read it multiple times. Worth reading once a year!
March 20, 2022
It’s a well- writen and useful book ☺️
January 23, 2022
Super quick read just a couple hours. My dad gave me this book and I quickly skimmed it and thought wow this is a really stupid book lol. Giant text and a cumulation of basic life mantras but the delivery with his stories added a more interesting touch. I started reading it and actually ended up having some important takeaways from it. Out of the 75 different chapters/ quotes, the five that I found impacted me the most were 1. Be the most enthusiastic person you know. On trail Everyone knew me as that guy that brought the energy but I have had difficulty implementing it into the real world. 2. Seek out motivation. Motivation is fleeting and it's easy to get unmotivated and often "self help" books get lots of hate but it's important to keep fueling the motivation and reaffirming principles. 3. How you speak about others speaks loudest about yourself. This is so simple and everyone has heard it a million times but it is surprisingly so hard. Gossip has become so common in society that it's really easy to not even realize what you are saying and the ramifications of it. 4. Let others shine. No one likes the one upper who immediately tells a story after someone finishes telling theirs. I work on this whenever someone tells me a hiking story. 5. No plan survives first contact with the enemy. " But when it all goes wrong and life feels like a battle, it is then that we can see what sort of people we have around us. it is only through the hardships that our character becomes forged." Definitely need to work on how I am able to express myself and handle other peoples reactions when they aren't how I had planned for. This list was more so just for myself to look back on. I definitely wouldn't recommend spending any money on this book but if you go to the library and see it then it is definitely worth giving a skim.
January 31, 2018
“Struggles develop strength and storms make you stronger…”
Life’s journey and path is full of ups and downs, yet a strong heart pushes forth for success in reaping those rewards. Extreme hardships, tough battles and dangers can be fought and overcome - - when we choose to seize the moment, face our fears head on and rely on instinct!
Living a purpose-driven, impactful life can be challenging and sometimes we need a guide…Bear Grylls inspirational, empowering almanac incorporates personal life lessons of indispensable worth and unforgettable value.
“It might be dusty and hidden away, but it is there somewhere inside you: the heart of a survivor.
Courage.
Tenacity.
Strength.
So don’t shy away from the hard times, they are your chance to shine.”
This truly motivational read will help you to strive forth with renewed energy and zeal for life.
It is not about perfection or presenting you with a list of things you must do in order to find fulfilment and happiness, but rather it is a book to highlight those errors that we can make which hinder our progress and cloud our vision.
Having recently been through serious illness and incredibly dark, challenging times I was struck by how with such acuteness and poignancy each statement/ quote and connotation “hit home”. I now feel as a consequence of reading this more focused, positive, optimistic and reassured and strongly believe that I have grown in character through my own personal experiences in life.
Life is short. It is precious. Make the most of it; live your dreams.
Seek out adventure. Love life; nature, people, places, culture and intelligence.
Work hard and accept the rewards. Climb the highest mountains and never look back!
Life’s journey and path is full of ups and downs, yet a strong heart pushes forth for success in reaping those rewards. Extreme hardships, tough battles and dangers can be fought and overcome - - when we choose to seize the moment, face our fears head on and rely on instinct!
Living a purpose-driven, impactful life can be challenging and sometimes we need a guide…Bear Grylls inspirational, empowering almanac incorporates personal life lessons of indispensable worth and unforgettable value.
“It might be dusty and hidden away, but it is there somewhere inside you: the heart of a survivor.
Courage.
Tenacity.
Strength.
So don’t shy away from the hard times, they are your chance to shine.”
This truly motivational read will help you to strive forth with renewed energy and zeal for life.
It is not about perfection or presenting you with a list of things you must do in order to find fulfilment and happiness, but rather it is a book to highlight those errors that we can make which hinder our progress and cloud our vision.
Having recently been through serious illness and incredibly dark, challenging times I was struck by how with such acuteness and poignancy each statement/ quote and connotation “hit home”. I now feel as a consequence of reading this more focused, positive, optimistic and reassured and strongly believe that I have grown in character through my own personal experiences in life.
Life is short. It is precious. Make the most of it; live your dreams.
Seek out adventure. Love life; nature, people, places, culture and intelligence.
Work hard and accept the rewards. Climb the highest mountains and never look back!
August 5, 2013
A survival guide for life by Bear Grylls
5 stars
This book fits into the 'book written in the last three years' category on the bingo board as it was published in 2012.
This book is a great guide for learning " how to achieve goals, thrive in adversity and grow in character". It is a book written to help people learn to be successful in life or whatever dream they may have. Grylls shares secrets and different ways that helped him become an adventurer. In the book he talks about many different topics, failure, modesty, perseverance and many other qualities that i have learned are very important to achieve your dream.
I really enjoyed the book as it helped me to learn a lot more about striving to meet my goals and dreams. My dream is to become a professional footballer and during my time playing football i have endured many failures and successes. This book taught me that "failure isn't failure" and that '" failure is a stepping stone to success. I have also so learn to never give up and keep going when the times get tough. I like this book as i think it can apply to all people no matter what dream they have. There are a lot of great quotes in the book that i found interesting and inspiring. Also in this book bears tells stories about his failures and successes . These stories are also very interesting and inspiring as they show that everyone makes mistakes and undergoes failures. Overall i loved this book and would recommend it to many people especially people who are having a tough time chasing their dreams and getting hit by a lot of failures.
By jimmy banks 9GIB
5 stars
This book fits into the 'book written in the last three years' category on the bingo board as it was published in 2012.
This book is a great guide for learning " how to achieve goals, thrive in adversity and grow in character". It is a book written to help people learn to be successful in life or whatever dream they may have. Grylls shares secrets and different ways that helped him become an adventurer. In the book he talks about many different topics, failure, modesty, perseverance and many other qualities that i have learned are very important to achieve your dream.
I really enjoyed the book as it helped me to learn a lot more about striving to meet my goals and dreams. My dream is to become a professional footballer and during my time playing football i have endured many failures and successes. This book taught me that "failure isn't failure" and that '" failure is a stepping stone to success. I have also so learn to never give up and keep going when the times get tough. I like this book as i think it can apply to all people no matter what dream they have. There are a lot of great quotes in the book that i found interesting and inspiring. Also in this book bears tells stories about his failures and successes . These stories are also very interesting and inspiring as they show that everyone makes mistakes and undergoes failures. Overall i loved this book and would recommend it to many people especially people who are having a tough time chasing their dreams and getting hit by a lot of failures.
By jimmy banks 9GIB
May 11, 2019
So, this wasn't what I was expecting. I thought the advice was going to be more physical than mental (e.g. how to handle yourself in certain scenarios). Instead, this is more of a mental/attitude guide for life. See all that stuff you were taught in school but you ignored because it felt so 'uncool' at the time? That's what this book is. Basically - be kind, generous, put others first, don't give up, be positive, make the most out of bad situations, 'crisitunity', eat well... To use a second Simpsons reference - be like do-gooder Flanders with a twist of SAS.
All of the ideas (and quotes) have been done to death - I didn't find anything new here. There's also very few stories about Bear himself, so if you are hoping for that you will be disappointed.
If someone (particularly a white British male Christian) is looking for an easy to read self help book, this is it. Whether they'll put what they read into practice is another matter.
All of the ideas (and quotes) have been done to death - I didn't find anything new here. There's also very few stories about Bear himself, so if you are hoping for that you will be disappointed.
If someone (particularly a white British male Christian) is looking for an easy to read self help book, this is it. Whether they'll put what they read into practice is another matter.
January 10, 2022
I have been looking for a good book that’s an easy read to give as a gift to the new graduates in my life. I wanted to have something with good principles and examples that I could send nieces and nephews and younger cousins that will help them along the way. After reading it this year that this is that book for me in this season.
Bear’s faith and cheerful optimism in the face of adversity as well as stories of overcoming challenges, making lemons into lemonade, and keeping an attitude of humble gratitude all contribute to an enlightened encouraging read! One of my favorites for 2021!
Bear’s faith and cheerful optimism in the face of adversity as well as stories of overcoming challenges, making lemons into lemonade, and keeping an attitude of humble gratitude all contribute to an enlightened encouraging read! One of my favorites for 2021!
March 4, 2013
Wow! Recommended by a friend who was not a reader but loved this book. Every page full of good sense, good stories, good values and good words. Small bite sized chapters with a simple message in each.
not wordy, definitely not complex. It got me so interested I went back and bought another of Bear's books. Too many good messages to quote but my fav is simply. " when in hell, just keep going."
not wordy, definitely not complex. It got me so interested I went back and bought another of Bear's books. Too many good messages to quote but my fav is simply. " when in hell, just keep going."
October 28, 2017
"And if you find yourself (as we all do occasionally) being too impressed by the hollow masters such as status, power, fame or money, take a trip to the wild with some friends, and remind yourself that the most precious things in life cost the least" - Bear Grylls
This book is very inspirational read. Bear draws the invaluable lessons from harsh wilderness to our day to day life that help us to keep going when everything (or everyone) stands against us. We face them all the time. But life goes on. Some of the key points from the book:
We are afraid to fail. Society and family teaches us to be 100% correct. Unless you're a robot that's quite unrealistic. Fail and fail. Colonel Sanders (KFC) was rejected 1,000+ times. There are millions of people out there who succeeded after embracing failure.
Always take the first step. The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. Each baby step makes bigger step overtime and brings us closer to our desire.
Pain makes us stronger. We all feel it at some point. It is transitory. Our pride endures forever.
If we want to gain something, we have to take risk. There's no quick fix.
Sometimes we are afraid to make decision. But it's better to make bad decision than no decision.
Enthusiasm adds the extra 5% sparkle to our effort.
'It might be dusty and
hidden away, but it
is there somewhere
inside you: the heart
of a survivor. Courage.
Tenacity. Strength.
So don't shy away from
the hard times, they are
your chance to shine.
Struggle develops
strength and storms
make you stronger.'
Highly recommended.
This book is very inspirational read. Bear draws the invaluable lessons from harsh wilderness to our day to day life that help us to keep going when everything (or everyone) stands against us. We face them all the time. But life goes on. Some of the key points from the book:
We are afraid to fail. Society and family teaches us to be 100% correct. Unless you're a robot that's quite unrealistic. Fail and fail. Colonel Sanders (KFC) was rejected 1,000+ times. There are millions of people out there who succeeded after embracing failure.
Always take the first step. The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. Each baby step makes bigger step overtime and brings us closer to our desire.
Pain makes us stronger. We all feel it at some point. It is transitory. Our pride endures forever.
If we want to gain something, we have to take risk. There's no quick fix.
Sometimes we are afraid to make decision. But it's better to make bad decision than no decision.
Enthusiasm adds the extra 5% sparkle to our effort.
'It might be dusty and
hidden away, but it
is there somewhere
inside you: the heart
of a survivor. Courage.
Tenacity. Strength.
So don't shy away from
the hard times, they are
your chance to shine.
Struggle develops
strength and storms
make you stronger.'
Highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 217 reviews