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Buďte užitoční: Sedem zásad pre život
Zoznámte sa so siedmimi zásadami, ktoré vám pomôžu naplniť skutočný účel vášho života. Arnold Schwarzenegger ich všetky vyvodil z vlastnej životnej cesty plnej neustálej inovácie a mimoriadnych úspechov – dostupné sú však úplne každému. Najslávnejší kulturista na svete. Najlepšie platená filmová hviezda. Líder štátu so šiestou najväčšou ekonomikou na svete. Fakt, že ide o tú istú osobu, znie ako vtip, ale vtip to zďaleka nie je.
Toto všetko je Arnold Schwarzenegger. A nič z toho sa nestalo náhodou. Arnoldov gigantický úspech je výsledkom procesu, ktorého súčasťou bola jasná vízia, ambiciózne myslenie, tvrdá práca, priama komunikácia, flexibilné riešenie problémov, bezhraničná zvedavosť a ochota pomáhať. A to všetko sa
riadilo jednou radou, ktorú Arnoldovi vštepoval jeho otec viac než hocičo iné: „Buď užitočný!“ Arnold si vzal túto radu k srdcu a držal sa jej pri zdolávaní každej oblasti, do ktorej sa pustil. Kniha je napísaná Arnoldovým jedinečne úprimným, priamym a silným hlasom a čitateľa prevedie súborom jeho nástrojov
pre zmysluplný život. Ako hovorí, každý z nás sa musí zachrániť sám, ale dobrá správa je, že nič iné okrem seba na to nepotrebujeme.
Toto všetko je Arnold Schwarzenegger. A nič z toho sa nestalo náhodou. Arnoldov gigantický úspech je výsledkom procesu, ktorého súčasťou bola jasná vízia, ambiciózne myslenie, tvrdá práca, priama komunikácia, flexibilné riešenie problémov, bezhraničná zvedavosť a ochota pomáhať. A to všetko sa
riadilo jednou radou, ktorú Arnoldovi vštepoval jeho otec viac než hocičo iné: „Buď užitočný!“ Arnold si vzal túto radu k srdcu a držal sa jej pri zdolávaní každej oblasti, do ktorej sa pustil. Kniha je napísaná Arnoldovým jedinečne úprimným, priamym a silným hlasom a čitateľa prevedie súborom jeho nástrojov
pre zmysluplný život. Ako hovorí, každý z nás sa musí zachrániť sám, ale dobrá správa je, že nič iné okrem seba na to nepotrebujeme.
250 pages, Hardcover
First published October 10, 2023
3001 people are currently reading
33987 people want to read
About the author
Arnold Schwarzenegger
77 books1,048 followersArnold Alois Schwarzenegger is an Austrian-American bodybuilder, actor, businessman and politician, and served as the 38th Governor of the state of California.
Arnold gained worldwide fame as a Hollywood action film icon. Schwarzenegger was nicknamed "The Austrian Oak" and "The Styrian Oak" in his bodybuilding days, "Arnold Strong" and "Arnie" during his acting career, and more recently "The Governator" (A portmanteau word of Governor and Terminator, one of his film roles).
As a Republican, he was first elected on October 7, 2003, in a special recall election to replace then-Governor Gray Davis. Schwarzenegger was sworn in on November 17, 2003, to serve the remainder of Davis's term. Schwarzenegger was then re-elected on November 7, 2006, in California's 2006 gubernatorial election, to serve a full term as governor, defeating Democrat Phil Angelides, who was California State Treasurer at the time. Schwarzenegger was sworn in for a second term on January 5, 2007. In May 2004 and 2007, he was named as one of the Time 100 people who help shape the world.
Schwarzenegger was married to Maria Shriver and has four children.
Schwarzenegger's autobiography, Total Recall, was released in October 2012. He devotes one chapter called "The Secret" to his extramarital affair. The majority of his book is about his successes in the three major chapters in his life: bodybuilder, actor, and Governor of California.
Arnold gained worldwide fame as a Hollywood action film icon. Schwarzenegger was nicknamed "The Austrian Oak" and "The Styrian Oak" in his bodybuilding days, "Arnold Strong" and "Arnie" during his acting career, and more recently "The Governator" (A portmanteau word of Governor and Terminator, one of his film roles).
As a Republican, he was first elected on October 7, 2003, in a special recall election to replace then-Governor Gray Davis. Schwarzenegger was sworn in on November 17, 2003, to serve the remainder of Davis's term. Schwarzenegger was then re-elected on November 7, 2006, in California's 2006 gubernatorial election, to serve a full term as governor, defeating Democrat Phil Angelides, who was California State Treasurer at the time. Schwarzenegger was sworn in for a second term on January 5, 2007. In May 2004 and 2007, he was named as one of the Time 100 people who help shape the world.
Schwarzenegger was married to Maria Shriver and has four children.
Schwarzenegger's autobiography, Total Recall, was released in October 2012. He devotes one chapter called "The Secret" to his extramarital affair. The majority of his book is about his successes in the three major chapters in his life: bodybuilder, actor, and Governor of California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,236 reviews
November 18, 2023
I picked this one up out of curiosity, and frankly, it's shockingly good - and okay, I might also be biased because Arnold has the audacity to read the audiobook, so more than six ours, with this heavy Austrian accent, while I, as a German who also sounds ... let's say: interesting when I speak a foreign language, cringe when I hear myself on tape - I loved to listen to Schwarzenegger though. The title-giving rules sound simple, but frankly, they do require a lot of dedication and the ability to self-reflect:
1. Have a clear vision
2. Never think small
3. Work hard
4. Sell, meaning: convince others
5. Switch gears
6. Shut your mouth, open your mind
7. Destroy your mirrors
Schwarzenegger conveys his ideas by telling stories from his life, and as he had quite a career, these tales are entertaining and insightful, especially the ones that deal with overcoming odds and facing bad decisions. He puts a strong emphasis on succeeding as a member of a community, so it's not about optimizing singular profit (be it monetary or social), but improving oneself to improve the conditions of others, too. What a fascinating character this man is.
1. Have a clear vision
2. Never think small
3. Work hard
4. Sell, meaning: convince others
5. Switch gears
6. Shut your mouth, open your mind
7. Destroy your mirrors
Schwarzenegger conveys his ideas by telling stories from his life, and as he had quite a career, these tales are entertaining and insightful, especially the ones that deal with overcoming odds and facing bad decisions. He puts a strong emphasis on succeeding as a member of a community, so it's not about optimizing singular profit (be it monetary or social), but improving oneself to improve the conditions of others, too. What a fascinating character this man is.
March 7, 2024
In this book, I gleaned various insights, including WD-40, "I'll be back," 24 Hours, Amor Fati, Haruki Murakami, and more.
The seven useful tools outlined are:
1. Establish a clear vision.
2. Think big.
3. Embrace hard work.
4. Foster effective communication.
5. Cultivate resilience in problem-solving.
6. Remain open-minded and attentive.
7. Commit to social responsibility.
Recall the central message of "Be Useful" by integrating these seven tools into our lives and actively pursuing our dreams.
The seven useful tools outlined are:
1. Establish a clear vision.
2. Think big.
3. Embrace hard work.
4. Foster effective communication.
5. Cultivate resilience in problem-solving.
6. Remain open-minded and attentive.
7. Commit to social responsibility.
Recall the central message of "Be Useful" by integrating these seven tools into our lives and actively pursuing our dreams.
October 17, 2023
The audiobook is a MUST, especially if you love Arnold’s accent. Arnold reads it himself, starting the book out by saying: “I’m recording in my little home studio. If you hear my little pig, Schnelly, going oink oink oink, just bare with me.” I LOL’ed, quite literally.
Arnold amazes me by all that he has accomplished in his lifetime. I first fell in love with what he represented when I went to The Arnold in Columbus, OH in 2019. That led me down a rabbit hole of learning more about his life and his humble beginnings.
I’m part of Arnold’s daily Pump Club newsletter, and I feel like this is an extrapolation of a lot of the tools he teaches us in his daily newsletter. I really enjoyed the opening chapters about setting a vision. He says without a clear vision, how do you know where you’re going? People often float in their lives then wonder how they got to where they are today.
I also loved this opening part in his chapter titled “Work Your Ass Off”:
This would be a 5 star if there wasn’t an element of delusion to the book. Arnold acknowledges that he’s been given advantages by his start in bodybuilding that led to his ability to get into movie making and politics, but he pushes “hard work” throughout the whole book, rarely showing much empathy for individuals with limitations. He himself says that he “has good genetics” and “never gets tired”. At one point, he talks about how we all have 24 hours in a day and we can all give time to our goals - no excuses. He says that people ask him about when is a good time for rest and relaxation, and he says “naps are for babies, relaxing is for the retired”. I love Arnold, but parts like this alienated me from his message.
Overall, it was a motivating read and I walked away with a deeper understanding of “Be Useful” and what that means. I still love Schwarzenegger and all he stands for - an inspiration & a great read when you need a kick in the pants.
Arnold amazes me by all that he has accomplished in his lifetime. I first fell in love with what he represented when I went to The Arnold in Columbus, OH in 2019. That led me down a rabbit hole of learning more about his life and his humble beginnings.
I’m part of Arnold’s daily Pump Club newsletter, and I feel like this is an extrapolation of a lot of the tools he teaches us in his daily newsletter. I really enjoyed the opening chapters about setting a vision. He says without a clear vision, how do you know where you’re going? People often float in their lives then wonder how they got to where they are today.
I also loved this opening part in his chapter titled “Work Your Ass Off”:
I bet you and I have a lot in common. We’re not the strongest, smartest, or richest people we know. We are not the fastest or the most connected. We’re not the best looking or the most talented. We don’t have the best genetics, but what we DO have is something a lot of other people don’t have — the willingness to work. If there’s one unavoidable truth in this world, it’s that there is no substitute for putting in the work.
This would be a 5 star if there wasn’t an element of delusion to the book. Arnold acknowledges that he’s been given advantages by his start in bodybuilding that led to his ability to get into movie making and politics, but he pushes “hard work” throughout the whole book, rarely showing much empathy for individuals with limitations. He himself says that he “has good genetics” and “never gets tired”. At one point, he talks about how we all have 24 hours in a day and we can all give time to our goals - no excuses. He says that people ask him about when is a good time for rest and relaxation, and he says “naps are for babies, relaxing is for the retired”. I love Arnold, but parts like this alienated me from his message.
Overall, it was a motivating read and I walked away with a deeper understanding of “Be Useful” and what that means. I still love Schwarzenegger and all he stands for - an inspiration & a great read when you need a kick in the pants.
September 29, 2025
Growing up with Arnie as the last action hero, this was a book I could not miss. He gives 7 tools to the reader to use in life that changed his life, and though he does not reinvent the wheel with his tips, he gives them to the reader in an easy to read and relatable way. The backbone of this book for me is that you still have to work hard for what you want, and there are no short cuts to success as so many people want to believe. This was a great read for me and while reading I was reading it in Arnie's accent in my mind. The audiobook must be great though.
February 19, 2024
Be Useful by Arnold Schwarzenegger is a quick and fascinating read. From his life’s experiences, Schwarzenegger lays out how he was able to achieve so much while coming from humble beginnings.
Schwarzenegger begins with having a clear vision. If you don’t have it, then start with creating little goals and keep completing them; day by day, week by week, month by month, year by year. The process never ends as life is a continuous journey of growth.
In Austria, Schwarzenegger got inspired by then famous bodybuilder and made it his goal to become the best in the field. So he went from vision to action. He felt passionate about bodybuilding. Thus, he felt like it wasn’t a matter of discipline for him to go to the gym as he loved doing it.
It was interesting to read how refreshing walks are and how many famous people used walks to create their time and space and were creative within that time and space.
Dream big. Ignore naysayers. He used any kind of negativity into motivation. No plan Bs as that would be already setting plan A for failure.
“Fulfilling a dream gives you the power to see further and deeper – further out into the world toward what is possible, and deeper into yourself to what you are capable of.”
“I learned that the only limits that truly exist are in our minds.”
The will to work is important part. You have to be diligent and consistent in your work.
After retiring from bodybuilding, he went into acting, then politics, and now philanthropy as you need to continue setting new goals.
His harsh childhood didn’t break his spirit, it rather helped him to find his passion and purpose. He chose the higher road and became his own creator, rather than taking a negative approach and blaming the system. I find his story and his ethics to make something of himself very inspiring.
My favorite chapter-title is “Shut Your Mouth, Open Your Mind.” In this chapter, he talks about the lesson he received from his first mentor who supported him in his dream of bodybuilding, who told him that he “can’t just be hungry for success and money and fame and muscles. We have to be hungry for knowledge as well… the world was the ultimate classroom, and that we need to be like a sponge, soaking up as much of it as we could…always be curious…it was better to ask good questions than to make smart statements.” Listen, learn, and grow.
I set to write a short review, but Schwarzenegger’s life’s journey is truly fascinating, how he propelled himself up, his high ethics, and the phenomenal drive to achieve unimaginable. This non-fiction is filled with his life’s stories which support what he aspired to do and continues to do.
TRENDING INSPIRATION: Be Useful
https://biopurposeland.blogspot.com/
Schwarzenegger begins with having a clear vision. If you don’t have it, then start with creating little goals and keep completing them; day by day, week by week, month by month, year by year. The process never ends as life is a continuous journey of growth.
In Austria, Schwarzenegger got inspired by then famous bodybuilder and made it his goal to become the best in the field. So he went from vision to action. He felt passionate about bodybuilding. Thus, he felt like it wasn’t a matter of discipline for him to go to the gym as he loved doing it.
It was interesting to read how refreshing walks are and how many famous people used walks to create their time and space and were creative within that time and space.
Dream big. Ignore naysayers. He used any kind of negativity into motivation. No plan Bs as that would be already setting plan A for failure.
“Fulfilling a dream gives you the power to see further and deeper – further out into the world toward what is possible, and deeper into yourself to what you are capable of.”
“I learned that the only limits that truly exist are in our minds.”
The will to work is important part. You have to be diligent and consistent in your work.
After retiring from bodybuilding, he went into acting, then politics, and now philanthropy as you need to continue setting new goals.
His harsh childhood didn’t break his spirit, it rather helped him to find his passion and purpose. He chose the higher road and became his own creator, rather than taking a negative approach and blaming the system. I find his story and his ethics to make something of himself very inspiring.
My favorite chapter-title is “Shut Your Mouth, Open Your Mind.” In this chapter, he talks about the lesson he received from his first mentor who supported him in his dream of bodybuilding, who told him that he “can’t just be hungry for success and money and fame and muscles. We have to be hungry for knowledge as well… the world was the ultimate classroom, and that we need to be like a sponge, soaking up as much of it as we could…always be curious…it was better to ask good questions than to make smart statements.” Listen, learn, and grow.
I set to write a short review, but Schwarzenegger’s life’s journey is truly fascinating, how he propelled himself up, his high ethics, and the phenomenal drive to achieve unimaginable. This non-fiction is filled with his life’s stories which support what he aspired to do and continues to do.
TRENDING INSPIRATION: Be Useful
https://biopurposeland.blogspot.com/
October 11, 2023
Due to the prevalence of online reels/stories, I've become increasingly aware of Arnold's philosophies around work, life and how to succeed. I've often been surprised by how inciteful a few-minute clip could be. I was, therefore, keen to read this book on release.
I got the E-book (for highlighting purposes) and audiobook as he performed it.
The audiobook is excellent, He reads the book but also elaborates on certain points, more than the text of the E-book. It's like listening to him chat rather than reading a book.
The content is split into tools, with each one being backed by his life experiences, sometimes in very direct and unflinching terms.
Many of the tools are straightforward, and common sense but that does not mean they are 'less than'.
The simplicity of the tools is actually a huge benefit. Anyone can implement them, just 'Wenn Schon, Denn Schon'.
(Roughly translated, it means “If you’re going to do something, DO IT. Go all out.”)
This could be a 'one-sitting book' due to its length but don't let that fool you.
I would have finished much quicker if I didn't have to take as many notes, highlight passages and jot down ideas. A prime example is Chapter 3. Do your own '24-Hour Countdown' rather than just reading it. It's eye-opening.
Five stars.
I got the E-book (for highlighting purposes) and audiobook as he performed it.
The audiobook is excellent, He reads the book but also elaborates on certain points, more than the text of the E-book. It's like listening to him chat rather than reading a book.
The content is split into tools, with each one being backed by his life experiences, sometimes in very direct and unflinching terms.
Many of the tools are straightforward, and common sense but that does not mean they are 'less than'.
The simplicity of the tools is actually a huge benefit. Anyone can implement them, just 'Wenn Schon, Denn Schon'.
(Roughly translated, it means “If you’re going to do something, DO IT. Go all out.”)
This could be a 'one-sitting book' due to its length but don't let that fool you.
I would have finished much quicker if I didn't have to take as many notes, highlight passages and jot down ideas. A prime example is Chapter 3. Do your own '24-Hour Countdown' rather than just reading it. It's eye-opening.
Five stars.
October 19, 2023
While I'll admit that I find it very charming to listen to Arnold read this book, unfortunately a lot of it is steeped in "Boomer advice".
Don't play video games, have fun at work, only ever work towards a goal. Rest and restitution is for pussies. Maybe if you have an extremely specific mindset, this book can work for you. Maybe things are different in the US
"Be me, with my dreams, in the time in history I was. Also make sure you don't have fun with anything but your vision."
The absolutely best part of the book is that Arnold himself is reading it to you.
Don't play video games, have fun at work, only ever work towards a goal. Rest and restitution is for pussies. Maybe if you have an extremely specific mindset, this book can work for you. Maybe things are different in the US
"Be me, with my dreams, in the time in history I was. Also make sure you don't have fun with anything but your vision."
The absolutely best part of the book is that Arnold himself is reading it to you.
December 6, 2023
TE VOY A DECIR UNA COSA: HAZLO!
🌸Es más, mira la fotografía de este libro y dime: ¿Por qué este hombre ha triunfado en todo lo que se ha propuesto? ¿Por qué ha conseguido todo lo que ha querido lograr? ¿Puede, acaso, tener algo que nosotr@s no tenemos?
"¿Qué hubiera sucedido si no hubiera encontrado el fisicoculturismo o si lo hubiera practicado como un pasatiempo, en lugar de permitir que se transformara en una vocación?... ¿Cómo sería todo si me hubiera conformado con lo "suficiente?"
🌸Es más de los mases, ¿quién de nosotras hubiera dado un euro por un Terminator que quería hacer películas cómicas o por el actor de "Los gemelos golpean dos veces" que deseaba ser gobernador de California sin ser americano?
🌸Hay una frase que leí hace tiempo y que me impactó mucho: cuando no nos permitimos brillar, lo que estamos haciendo realmente es ser egoístas, pues impedimos que los demás crezcan como nosotros. ¿A cuánta gente crees que ha podido motivar la vida de Arnold? ¿Cuánta gente lo mira y se dice: si él ha podido yo también puedo?
🌸Y, tú, ¿cuánta gente podrías motivar si te atrevieras a brillar?
RECUERDA: HAY LIBROS QUE VIENEN A TI POR UN MOTIVO MUY ESPEICAL, y solo tú puedes abrirles las puertas o dejar que pasen de largo. En ti está la decisión de brillar o no...
🌸Es más, mira la fotografía de este libro y dime: ¿Por qué este hombre ha triunfado en todo lo que se ha propuesto? ¿Por qué ha conseguido todo lo que ha querido lograr? ¿Puede, acaso, tener algo que nosotr@s no tenemos?
"¿Qué hubiera sucedido si no hubiera encontrado el fisicoculturismo o si lo hubiera practicado como un pasatiempo, en lugar de permitir que se transformara en una vocación?... ¿Cómo sería todo si me hubiera conformado con lo "suficiente?"
🌸Es más de los mases, ¿quién de nosotras hubiera dado un euro por un Terminator que quería hacer películas cómicas o por el actor de "Los gemelos golpean dos veces" que deseaba ser gobernador de California sin ser americano?
🌸Hay una frase que leí hace tiempo y que me impactó mucho: cuando no nos permitimos brillar, lo que estamos haciendo realmente es ser egoístas, pues impedimos que los demás crezcan como nosotros. ¿A cuánta gente crees que ha podido motivar la vida de Arnold? ¿Cuánta gente lo mira y se dice: si él ha podido yo también puedo?
🌸Y, tú, ¿cuánta gente podrías motivar si te atrevieras a brillar?
RECUERDA: HAY LIBROS QUE VIENEN A TI POR UN MOTIVO MUY ESPEICAL, y solo tú puedes abrirles las puertas o dejar que pasen de largo. En ti está la decisión de brillar o no...
October 29, 2023
3.5 stars rounded down — I appreciate Schwarzenegger's calm yet driven perspective on life, as well as his servant’s heart. "Be Useful" is a good primer on finding your goals and on how to live a life that is true to yourself. Given the title, I did expect the book to be focused a bit more on finding your purpose vs. just setting a goal. There is a chapter solidly dedicated to encouraging others to find ways to serve others, but overall I came away with more of a "be relentless" theme than "serve yourself by serving others." Schwarzenegger advocates personal responsibility for your own destiny, yet avoids the trap of blind privilege by also being adamantly clear that he did not achieve his success on his own.
The narrative is a little bit scattered at times, such as when he suddenly begins discussing the benefits of taking a walk, in depth, in the middle of a seemingly unrelated chapter. Having read a number of memoirs and self-help books, for me "Be Useful" landed squarely in the middle of the pack, but wasn't without benefit. It's a great book for seeing all the various sides of Schwarzenegger and exposing yourself to a little inspiration on the way.
The narrative is a little bit scattered at times, such as when he suddenly begins discussing the benefits of taking a walk, in depth, in the middle of a seemingly unrelated chapter. Having read a number of memoirs and self-help books, for me "Be Useful" landed squarely in the middle of the pack, but wasn't without benefit. It's a great book for seeing all the various sides of Schwarzenegger and exposing yourself to a little inspiration on the way.
February 23, 2024
This was a buddy read with Simon. We truly enjoyed it. Arnold Schwarzenegger entertained, engaged and inspired us as we listened to his resonant voice reading his own words. Here are the highlights:
From the introduction: "Every color, creed and orientation in a rainbow of humanity."
From Chapter 1: Have a Clear Vision:
"A 2004 study by the researchers at Stanford University showed that walking increased the creative thinking of 100% of the study participants."
"You need to be able to see what you want to achieve before you do it not as you do it."
From Chapter 3: Work Your Ass Off:
Regarding how to be successful in life - "American Country singer and sausage maker Jimmy Dean nailed it, he said, "Do what you say you are going to do and try to do it a little bit better than you said you would." In other words, under promise and over deliver.
From Chapter 5: Shift Gears:
"I have a rule, no complaining about a situation unless you're prepared to do something to make it better."
From Chapter 7: Break Your Mirrors:
My main take away from this chapters was about how reliant we are on others, how we learn and grow because of the various characters we come across. For example, we are all trying to make ourselves better because of the people in our lives, whether they had a positive or negative influence, they motivate us to change. We either learn what we want to become, or what we do not want to become.
Schwarzenegger doesn't like the term 'self-made man' as he believes that "None of us have ever done anything on our own, when you really think about it. We have always had help or guidance."
"Give back, pay it forward. Be useful as often as you can."
From the introduction: "Every color, creed and orientation in a rainbow of humanity."
From Chapter 1: Have a Clear Vision:
"A 2004 study by the researchers at Stanford University showed that walking increased the creative thinking of 100% of the study participants."
"You need to be able to see what you want to achieve before you do it not as you do it."
From Chapter 3: Work Your Ass Off:
Regarding how to be successful in life - "American Country singer and sausage maker Jimmy Dean nailed it, he said, "Do what you say you are going to do and try to do it a little bit better than you said you would." In other words, under promise and over deliver.
From Chapter 5: Shift Gears:
"I have a rule, no complaining about a situation unless you're prepared to do something to make it better."
From Chapter 7: Break Your Mirrors:
My main take away from this chapters was about how reliant we are on others, how we learn and grow because of the various characters we come across. For example, we are all trying to make ourselves better because of the people in our lives, whether they had a positive or negative influence, they motivate us to change. We either learn what we want to become, or what we do not want to become.
Schwarzenegger doesn't like the term 'self-made man' as he believes that "None of us have ever done anything on our own, when you really think about it. We have always had help or guidance."
"Give back, pay it forward. Be useful as often as you can."
October 12, 2025
A great book. I was worried when I got this because I thought Total Recall was a great autobiography, I thought this book would either just be a condensed version of that book or it would be a where is he now book? I am glad to be wrong! Arnold dispels this in the introduction. I was pumped up just reading the introduction and I have to say that the book gets better from there.
Though a lot of the information in this book was in total recall, this book goes into more details on the lessons learned and still learning going on in Arnold's life and journey. Like he said, he is not dead. This is just his fourth phase of life, and he is going to keep going and doing what he, I, and everyone else should.
Though a lot of the information in this book was in total recall, this book goes into more details on the lessons learned and still learning going on in Arnold's life and journey. Like he said, he is not dead. This is just his fourth phase of life, and he is going to keep going and doing what he, I, and everyone else should.
Read
November 14, 2023Arnold ma troszeczkę ego top, ale w sumie ja na jego miejscu też bym miała. Niektóre fragmenty czytane bez kontekstu brzmią trochę absurdalnie, ale totalnie zapadają w pamięć. Z pewnością ciekawsze niż zwykłe poradniki i bardzo pouczające.
October 4, 2023
Very useful.
February 15, 2024
My brother and I now have a booktube called The Brothers Gwynne. Check it out! The Brothers Gwynne
Some great tips from the man himself. I could listen to Arnie talk about anything and I always love hearing more regarding his mindset.
Some great tips from the man himself. I could listen to Arnie talk about anything and I always love hearing more regarding his mindset.
October 28, 2023
This book got a surprisingly good review from The Guardian and as one who likes to read the occasional personal productivity/self-help books, I thought – why not give the Terminator a go? Here’s why not: This is a book that tells you how amazing Arnold Schwarzenegger is. Really amazing. He was the best bodybuilder, ever. The inventor of action film heroes. The most fantastic governor California ever had. And through it all — he was just helping people. Many of the things he says, he says more than once. He flew people around on his personal jet — several times. He’s really good pals with lots of super-famous people and thanks, among others, Nelson Mandela and Mikhail Gorbachev in his acknowledgements. He even thanks his ex-wife for being a great mom to their kids. Yes, he’s a great guy. No, his book isn’t worth buying. Unless you really want to know a lot more about what a great guy he is.
December 1, 2023
No, no, no & no - I had the impression that I was reading Yet Another Self-help Book for bored housewives (no offense, housewives). Uninspired, flat, no captivating stories/thoughts/moments. Fortunately, it's rather short (it took me two running sessions to get through it), so I didn't waste too much time. The funny thing is, I was somehow convinced that I enjoyed his previous book ("Total Recall"), but in fact, I did not (as I've found out from my old interview) - I've enjoyed his documentary - but not Netflix'es "Arnold" but quite ancient "Pumping Iron"! OK, never mind, let's get back to the book ...
I couldn't help the feeling that he wrote this book after his political career collapsed & he suffered a family scandal - he didn't want to be remembered/perceived as someone whose monument has been - maybe not shattered - but seriously scratched. So he has written a book to provide some explanations & explain to the poor reader that there is no grandiosity gone here ;)
2 stars, not more. The only fragment that actually made me smile was:
"Rest is for babies, relaxation is for the retired." - definitely a good punchline ;> (that was already heavily criticized across all the major media)
I couldn't help the feeling that he wrote this book after his political career collapsed & he suffered a family scandal - he didn't want to be remembered/perceived as someone whose monument has been - maybe not shattered - but seriously scratched. So he has written a book to provide some explanations & explain to the poor reader that there is no grandiosity gone here ;)
2 stars, not more. The only fragment that actually made me smile was:
"Rest is for babies, relaxation is for the retired." - definitely a good punchline ;> (that was already heavily criticized across all the major media)
February 26, 2024
Eh…I thought this might be interesting and maybe a different perspective on the usual “self help” book than the millions of ones out there so I took a shot at this.
While on paper things about this book should make sense. Arnold being a very successful body builder, actor and politician you’d think he’d have some amazing insight in what brought him to where he is. But most of what he talks about and has labeled as his 7 rules is just plain common sense like “work hard” or “have a plan in place” just doesn’t seem like great advice to me.
While I really like his attitude and I get the feeling he would be a really good motivational speaker, I just didn’t think the steps were that great and most of it was pretty basic, simple things you don’t need a book to tell you to do.
I’m on the fence on this one. 3 stars
While on paper things about this book should make sense. Arnold being a very successful body builder, actor and politician you’d think he’d have some amazing insight in what brought him to where he is. But most of what he talks about and has labeled as his 7 rules is just plain common sense like “work hard” or “have a plan in place” just doesn’t seem like great advice to me.
While I really like his attitude and I get the feeling he would be a really good motivational speaker, I just didn’t think the steps were that great and most of it was pretty basic, simple things you don’t need a book to tell you to do.
I’m on the fence on this one. 3 stars
March 7, 2025
“We say, ‘I want to do this great, fantastic thing,’ then we get the ball rolling, and we just expect it to keep rolling, simply because we want it to. As if hope and good intentions are worth anything.”
I had hopes that this book would be better. My intentions were to rate it five stars. My hopes and intentions did not do this book any favors.
If you want to know more about Arnold Schwarzenegger and his life, this book is for you. He talks about himself and the life experiences that got him to where he is today. No shame, brag on.
If you are looking for a book that will help you on your self-help journey, maybe not this one. It does deliver on the seven tools it promises, unfortunately those tools bring nothing new to the self-help book game. For example: The mental vision board piece of it is the only one that stuck with me, and it did not stick in a good way. I was like, “Are you kidding me? This is junior high level bullshit. Basic AF. Try again.”
A THING TO NOTE:
Arnold does mention Elon Musk. No thank you. Same thing I said with the last Neil Gaiman book I read (Summer 2024) when Gaiman mentioned Harvey Weinstein. The company that you keep and all that. I hated to hear it when I was a teenager, but hot damn, it proves itself.
Two stars to a book that was not useful.
QUOTES:
“If you can’t find what you’re looking for, at least give it a chance to find you.”
“You need to be all there, all in, every time.”
“And yet so many people are content to depend entirely on plans and systems, or to do the bare minimum asked of them, and then think to themselves, This is all set, I took care of it. No. Don’t be a lazy fuck. Do the work. The only time you are allowed to use the phrase ‘I took care of it’ is when it is done. Completely.”
“This is the kind of headspace people are referring to when they talk about slipping into ‘flow state.’ Time expands and collapses simultaneously. You get into something, you start making progress, then boom, the next thing you know, you look up and it’s the morning.”
“This is something you should think about. What is the value of trying to be someone you’re not? Of hiding from your true story and letting someone else tell it? Where do you think that gets you in the end? I promise you, it’s nowhere good. Embrace who you are! Own your story! Even if you don’t like it. Even if it’s bad, and you’re ashamed. If you run away and hide from your past, if you deny your story and try to sell a different one, even if you mean well, it just makes you seem like a con artist.”
I had hopes that this book would be better. My intentions were to rate it five stars. My hopes and intentions did not do this book any favors.
If you want to know more about Arnold Schwarzenegger and his life, this book is for you. He talks about himself and the life experiences that got him to where he is today. No shame, brag on.
If you are looking for a book that will help you on your self-help journey, maybe not this one. It does deliver on the seven tools it promises, unfortunately those tools bring nothing new to the self-help book game. For example: The mental vision board piece of it is the only one that stuck with me, and it did not stick in a good way. I was like, “Are you kidding me? This is junior high level bullshit. Basic AF. Try again.”
A THING TO NOTE:
Arnold does mention Elon Musk. No thank you. Same thing I said with the last Neil Gaiman book I read (Summer 2024) when Gaiman mentioned Harvey Weinstein. The company that you keep and all that. I hated to hear it when I was a teenager, but hot damn, it proves itself.
Two stars to a book that was not useful.
QUOTES:
“If you can’t find what you’re looking for, at least give it a chance to find you.”
“You need to be all there, all in, every time.”
“And yet so many people are content to depend entirely on plans and systems, or to do the bare minimum asked of them, and then think to themselves, This is all set, I took care of it. No. Don’t be a lazy fuck. Do the work. The only time you are allowed to use the phrase ‘I took care of it’ is when it is done. Completely.”
“This is the kind of headspace people are referring to when they talk about slipping into ‘flow state.’ Time expands and collapses simultaneously. You get into something, you start making progress, then boom, the next thing you know, you look up and it’s the morning.”
“This is something you should think about. What is the value of trying to be someone you’re not? Of hiding from your true story and letting someone else tell it? Where do you think that gets you in the end? I promise you, it’s nowhere good. Embrace who you are! Own your story! Even if you don’t like it. Even if it’s bad, and you’re ashamed. If you run away and hide from your past, if you deny your story and try to sell a different one, even if you mean well, it just makes you seem like a con artist.”
February 10, 2024
I picked this one on a whim and so glad I did. The audiobook is excellent. Loved the straightforwardness of it and the basic ideas. “Own your story” “There is 24 hours in a day, use them.” Take what you need from the book and yes, as another review said it might be coming from a boomer perspective. The idea of working hard to get what you want though I think can be used for any one. Outcomes take input. Anyways, it did include politics but it was used in connection to his ideas.
January 11, 2024
Be useful to the world. Break the mirror and help others and make a difference in someone's life. Help people. Do what you can. We live in a very individualistic society so it's important to remind yourself of that.
I found Arnolds take on failure interesting coming from a body builder, you only succeed in a work out once your muscles fail. So his goal is to fail fail fail. He welcomes it because he knows that that is what brings growth. It's a great metaphor for success in life.
Once Arnold conquered the body building world he went on to becoming a leading man in Hollywood, and then he went on to being the governor of California. Now in this chapter of his life he's trying to help others.
His mom was the best mom and his dad was good but sometimes drank too much and would physically abuse him. But he doesn't hold his dad in ill regard. In fact that's another value about Arnold is that he's always thinking positively, always seeing the good.
Arnold came from Austria and he always dreamed of coming to America as a body builder which at the time was unheard of. Body building was deferent in the States and he brought new things and he learned new things from other body builders in the States.
I found Arnolds take on failure interesting coming from a body builder, you only succeed in a work out once your muscles fail. So his goal is to fail fail fail. He welcomes it because he knows that that is what brings growth. It's a great metaphor for success in life.
Once Arnold conquered the body building world he went on to becoming a leading man in Hollywood, and then he went on to being the governor of California. Now in this chapter of his life he's trying to help others.
His mom was the best mom and his dad was good but sometimes drank too much and would physically abuse him. But he doesn't hold his dad in ill regard. In fact that's another value about Arnold is that he's always thinking positively, always seeing the good.
Arnold came from Austria and he always dreamed of coming to America as a body builder which at the time was unheard of. Body building was deferent in the States and he brought new things and he learned new things from other body builders in the States.
October 29, 2023
Schwarzenegger shares immensely wise words of advise. He shares examples of using these "tools for life", through examples of his life experiences. Totally fascinating read. His words will stay with me forever.
I'd like to thank Random House, the author Arnold Schwarzenegger and Goodreads, for the opportunity to read this advanced reading copy of his book.
I'd like to thank Random House, the author Arnold Schwarzenegger and Goodreads, for the opportunity to read this advanced reading copy of his book.
February 27, 2024
Lieliska grāmata! Ļoti vērtīgas lietas, šķietami zināmas, vet tik labi, ka atgādina un nokiek “priekšā dienaskārtībā”!
Ceru, ka kāda no izdevniecībām šo izdos Latvijā!
Ceru, ka kāda no izdevniecībām šo izdos Latvijā!
January 27, 2024
Audiobook (6 hours) read by Arnold Schwarzenegger
I love how Arnold warns us at the preface of his book that he is recording at home, so please excuse any erroneous noises, like a squeal from his pet pig. The narration and audio, however, is flawless and high quality. He either has a room built with the intention of recording or is fortunate enough to have fantastic sound in the room he chose as it sounds like it was recorded in a studio.
Memoirs are an important part of my reading experience. I, like many, read for a variety of reasons, exploration being one. Exploring the thoughts, ideas, styles, preferences and perceptions of others is important to me. I like to pick up memoirs from people that are interesting to me and/or those who seem to have very different life experiences or perspectives so that I can vicariously participate in different lifestyles. I find people remarkably interesting, so yesterday I spent 6 hours with Arnold, getting to know him.
In one part of his book, Arnold jokes about the time and money he spent with various coaches, including voice and accent coaches to get rid of his accent, and how it was unsuccessful. I would say that his efforts are successful, as although he has a pronounced accent, he speaks clearly and is arguably easier to understand than some individuals born and raised in the 'non-accent states'.
Arnold has an interesting life story, which although he tells it, he spends a lot of time uplifting, appreciating and honoring the reader.
It is abundantly clear that Arnold did not have an easy go at life, however, he never makes it seem like he is even in the ballpark of victim or laments about having it difficult, instead he shows appreciation for those who helped him along the way while articulating his work ethic, with many examples of hard work leading to fulfilling well earned goals. Many times he repeats that his success is not his own, but because of the help from many others along the way. He shares what he found helpful, as well as things that those who he respects and admires found helpful.
I very much enjoyed this memoir. It was better than I anticipated. While I did not know a whole lot about the person behind the name, I did know that Arnold had a reputation of giving freely of himself. I came out of this book feeling that he was speaking directly to me and wanting to reach out and drop him a note! I mean, he did say that he was sitting down and talking to me, but it came off as genuine and believable. He is definitely good at getting his points across!
Recommend and go audio book if you are able too as it does make it a bit more personal hearing his words from himself, as if you were hanging out for the afternoon.
I love how Arnold warns us at the preface of his book that he is recording at home, so please excuse any erroneous noises, like a squeal from his pet pig. The narration and audio, however, is flawless and high quality. He either has a room built with the intention of recording or is fortunate enough to have fantastic sound in the room he chose as it sounds like it was recorded in a studio.
Memoirs are an important part of my reading experience. I, like many, read for a variety of reasons, exploration being one. Exploring the thoughts, ideas, styles, preferences and perceptions of others is important to me. I like to pick up memoirs from people that are interesting to me and/or those who seem to have very different life experiences or perspectives so that I can vicariously participate in different lifestyles. I find people remarkably interesting, so yesterday I spent 6 hours with Arnold, getting to know him.
In one part of his book, Arnold jokes about the time and money he spent with various coaches, including voice and accent coaches to get rid of his accent, and how it was unsuccessful. I would say that his efforts are successful, as although he has a pronounced accent, he speaks clearly and is arguably easier to understand than some individuals born and raised in the 'non-accent states'.
Arnold has an interesting life story, which although he tells it, he spends a lot of time uplifting, appreciating and honoring the reader.
It is abundantly clear that Arnold did not have an easy go at life, however, he never makes it seem like he is even in the ballpark of victim or laments about having it difficult, instead he shows appreciation for those who helped him along the way while articulating his work ethic, with many examples of hard work leading to fulfilling well earned goals. Many times he repeats that his success is not his own, but because of the help from many others along the way. He shares what he found helpful, as well as things that those who he respects and admires found helpful.
I very much enjoyed this memoir. It was better than I anticipated. While I did not know a whole lot about the person behind the name, I did know that Arnold had a reputation of giving freely of himself. I came out of this book feeling that he was speaking directly to me and wanting to reach out and drop him a note! I mean, he did say that he was sitting down and talking to me, but it came off as genuine and believable. He is definitely good at getting his points across!
Recommend and go audio book if you are able too as it does make it a bit more personal hearing his words from himself, as if you were hanging out for the afternoon.
May 9, 2024
I thought this was going to be a self-help book, but is a bit more of an autobiography. I heard the audiobook narrated by the author himself and this made me like the book a bit more. If you have the chance, I recommend this format.
The book is quite funny, there are a lot of dad-jokes that will probably make you laugh, but he also tackles serious issues and the challenges he's faced during his life. This blend makes the book both entertaining and insightful.
I'm not a big Arnold fan, but he seemed to me a very humble big guy and the book offers valuable takeaways. He shares practical advice from his experiences in bodybuilding, acting, and even politics. So, if you wanna pass some hours with Schwarzy, this is a must-listen.
The book is quite funny, there are a lot of dad-jokes that will probably make you laugh, but he also tackles serious issues and the challenges he's faced during his life. This blend makes the book both entertaining and insightful.
I'm not a big Arnold fan, but he seemed to me a very humble big guy and the book offers valuable takeaways. He shares practical advice from his experiences in bodybuilding, acting, and even politics. So, if you wanna pass some hours with Schwarzy, this is a must-listen.
October 29, 2023
Loved hearing Arny's version of the pathway to success. There was nothing really new to his method, but the way he delivers the message is and he made it exciting. He's very motivating.
Some favorite lines: "wenn schon, denn schon"- if you're going to do something, do it, go all out
Work works
Don't do the bare minimum and think this is all set, I took care of it. No. Don't be a lazy fu*k. Do the work. Completely! Follow through
Busyness is Bullsh*t, we all have things to do, make time to work for it.
Rule " no complaining about a situation unless you're prepared to do something to make it better.
Some favorite lines: "wenn schon, denn schon"- if you're going to do something, do it, go all out
Work works
Don't do the bare minimum and think this is all set, I took care of it. No. Don't be a lazy fu*k. Do the work. Completely! Follow through
Busyness is Bullsh*t, we all have things to do, make time to work for it.
Rule " no complaining about a situation unless you're prepared to do something to make it better.
November 3, 2023
Seven Tools for Life...ah yes, this coming from the man who said "screw your freedom". Not the person I want to take advice from.
October 17, 2023
Ich glaube, dieses Buch lässt sich schwer mit anderen "Selbsthilfe-Büchern" vergleichen.
Wer sich ein Ziel im Leben setzen und dieses erreichen möchte, macht mit Arnold Schwarzenegger als Vorbild natürlich alles richtig. Die Disziplin dieses Mannes ist wirklich beeindruckend.
"Be Useful" enthält einerseits viele Tipps und vor allem unglaublich viele Denkanstöße, um ein ähnliches Mindset wie Arnie zu bekommen und seine Ziele zu erreichen.
Andererseits erklärt er alles - manchmal etwas sehr ausschweifend - an Beispielen aus seinem Leben, seinen Werken und von seinen Freunden. Für jeden Arnie-Fan ist das vermutlich sehr interessant (es sei denn, ihr habt bereits seine Biografie gelesen, da wiederholt sich nämlich so einiges!). Für alle anderen könnte es aber eher störend sein, da er erstmal lang und breit von seinem Leben erzählt bevor er auf den Punkt - den Tipp - kommt.
Davon abgesehen ist der Schreibstil etwas gewöhnungsbedürftig. Ich denke aber fast, dass das an der deutschen Übersetzung liegt und im englischen Original wesentlich besser klingt.
Schlussendlich konnte ich persönlich wirklich sehr viele Denkanstöße daraus mitnehmen und bin mit neuer Motivation aus dem Buch hervorgegangen :)
Nichtsdestotrotz denke ich, dass man sich als Leser wenigstens ein bisschen für Schwarzenegger interessieren muss, um das Buch wirklich mögen zu können.
Wer sich ein Ziel im Leben setzen und dieses erreichen möchte, macht mit Arnold Schwarzenegger als Vorbild natürlich alles richtig. Die Disziplin dieses Mannes ist wirklich beeindruckend.
"Be Useful" enthält einerseits viele Tipps und vor allem unglaublich viele Denkanstöße, um ein ähnliches Mindset wie Arnie zu bekommen und seine Ziele zu erreichen.
Andererseits erklärt er alles - manchmal etwas sehr ausschweifend - an Beispielen aus seinem Leben, seinen Werken und von seinen Freunden. Für jeden Arnie-Fan ist das vermutlich sehr interessant (es sei denn, ihr habt bereits seine Biografie gelesen, da wiederholt sich nämlich so einiges!). Für alle anderen könnte es aber eher störend sein, da er erstmal lang und breit von seinem Leben erzählt bevor er auf den Punkt - den Tipp - kommt.
Davon abgesehen ist der Schreibstil etwas gewöhnungsbedürftig. Ich denke aber fast, dass das an der deutschen Übersetzung liegt und im englischen Original wesentlich besser klingt.
Schlussendlich konnte ich persönlich wirklich sehr viele Denkanstöße daraus mitnehmen und bin mit neuer Motivation aus dem Buch hervorgegangen :)
Nichtsdestotrotz denke ich, dass man sich als Leser wenigstens ein bisschen für Schwarzenegger interessieren muss, um das Buch wirklich mögen zu können.
April 27, 2025
I love this guy. Always have. He is a hard-working, intelligent man with a great sense of humor. He achieved a lot and is very proud of it. Why wouldn't he? Yes, this book is on the verge of narcissism, but considering his history, where he came from, and where he ended up, I think that he has every right to be proud and deserves recognition.
All the pieces of advice that he gives in his book are obvious, though slightly naive and simple to say, but to many are actually impossible to stick to. Working hard is certainly admirable, but today it is not a guarantee of a success. When he tells us to be stubborn in chasing our dreams, to never give up, as an example he points at people who eventually succeeded. Yet he never mentioned how their families struggled and many eventually broke. Nor does he say that for every Steve Jobs, Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, etc there are many, many people who didn't give up but still were unsuccessful, who ended up bitter, lonely, bankrupt, or even committed suicide. Besides, every highly successful business is usually where it is because they don´t follow ethical codes.
So Arnie wants to believe in a world full of good people who can be better, do better and would do only great things that would benefit everyone. Well, I suppose it is a noble wish.
All the pieces of advice that he gives in his book are obvious, though slightly naive and simple to say, but to many are actually impossible to stick to. Working hard is certainly admirable, but today it is not a guarantee of a success. When he tells us to be stubborn in chasing our dreams, to never give up, as an example he points at people who eventually succeeded. Yet he never mentioned how their families struggled and many eventually broke. Nor does he say that for every Steve Jobs, Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, etc there are many, many people who didn't give up but still were unsuccessful, who ended up bitter, lonely, bankrupt, or even committed suicide. Besides, every highly successful business is usually where it is because they don´t follow ethical codes.
So Arnie wants to believe in a world full of good people who can be better, do better and would do only great things that would benefit everyone. Well, I suppose it is a noble wish.
July 31, 2024
I enjoyed listening to this audiobook narrated by the author. I do find his story inspiring and honestly believe he is a caring individual who tries to serve his community. The chapters are filled with tips and advice, and he acknowledges help he had along the way to success… but somehow it all comes across as very simple. Keep trying, don’t give up… but also he is a strongly motivated person and not everyone can perform at some of the extreme levels he discusses.
Again, I enjoyed it, but it took me about 2 months to finish listening to this when it rarely takes me a week, and more typically a few days. Some things can be savored over time, but it just didn’t have that strong of appeal to me.
3-1/2 stars
Again, I enjoyed it, but it took me about 2 months to finish listening to this when it rarely takes me a week, and more typically a few days. Some things can be savored over time, but it just didn’t have that strong of appeal to me.
3-1/2 stars
February 17, 2024
From one hand, you won't find anything unusual or profound in this book — it's just old-fashioned life wisdom you've probably heard many times before, but from the other hand, it's coming from a genuinely good dude who worked his ass off his whole life, inspired so many people and accomplished so much. It's especially nice to listen to the audiobook narrated by Arnold himself, it's full of warmth and heart.
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