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Built to Finish: How to Go the Distance in Business and in Life
Entrepreneurs, go the distance with an endurance athlete’s formula for the grit to start, the stamina to finish, and the balance to live fully along the way.
Taking a company all the way through scale-up to a successful exit is a grueling, long-haul endeavor, a special kind of endurance sport. Get a competitive advantage by learning the secrets of the masters of sustained endurance athletes.
In Built to Finish, Steven Pivnik takes you on two leading his software and services company, Binary Tree, from inception to successful exit and his quest to compete in the IRONMAN® World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. Steven shares how the insights gained from his adventures in triathlon, mountaineering, and ultramarathons apply to anyone’s pursuit of long-term personal and professional success.
Steven Pivnik is a serial entrepreneur specializing in the information technology market and advises other founders and entrepreneurs looking for corporate growth and a successful company exit. Steven has competed in over twenty triathlons, numerous marathons and ultramarathons, and is on track to scale all “Seven Summits,” the highest peaks on each continent.
Taking a company all the way through scale-up to a successful exit is a grueling, long-haul endeavor, a special kind of endurance sport. Get a competitive advantage by learning the secrets of the masters of sustained endurance athletes.
In Built to Finish, Steven Pivnik takes you on two leading his software and services company, Binary Tree, from inception to successful exit and his quest to compete in the IRONMAN® World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. Steven shares how the insights gained from his adventures in triathlon, mountaineering, and ultramarathons apply to anyone’s pursuit of long-term personal and professional success.
Steven Pivnik is a serial entrepreneur specializing in the information technology market and advises other founders and entrepreneurs looking for corporate growth and a successful company exit. Steven has competed in over twenty triathlons, numerous marathons and ultramarathons, and is on track to scale all “Seven Summits,” the highest peaks on each continent.
231 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
November 19, 2024
Built to Finish is an inspiring journey that blends personal growth, entrepreneurship, and the grit of endurance sports. Steven Pivnik masterfully intertwines his experiences as both a businessman and an athlete, detailing his path from sprint triathlons to the ultimate achievement of participating in the prestigious Kona Ironman World Championships, as well as his hiking summit adventures. His narrative is not just about the physical challenges of racing but about the mental toughness needed to succeed in both business and life.
Pivnik’s writing style is a perfect mix of motivational, informative, and personal, making it not only easy to follow but incredibly relatable. The stories from his business career and athletic endeavors are woven into each chapter, offering key life lessons that apply to anyone, whether you’re in a leadership position, an aspiring entrepreneur, or an athlete. This narrative approach kept me engaged throughout the audiobook, eager to hear what lesson or insight would come next.
The audiobook narration by Mike Reilly is excellent, with a performance that enhances the overall experience. Reilly’s pacing and tone kept me hooked for hours, making it easy to listen during long drives or training sessions. His voice brought energy and clarity to the story, elevating Pivnik's powerful lessons and making the audiobook a truly immersive experience.
One of the highlights of the book for me was Chapter 7, where Pivnik discusses the importance of building a strong foundation—both physically and mentally—and how slow and steady wins the race. He also discusses the Wim Hof Method he uses for breathing, a technique I’m excited to try for myself. As someone training for the 2025 MS Run the US ultra-marathon, this chapter resonated with me on a personal level, providing valuable insights on pacing, endurance, and mental resilience.
Another memorable takeaway comes from Chapter 9, where Pivnik shares his motto, “Not Fast, Not Last.” As someone who shares a similar mindset in races, this was a powerful reminder that consistency and determination are just as important as speed. It’s a simple yet effective philosophy that anyone can apply, regardless of their goals.
Overall, Built to Finish is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, endurance sports, or simply overcoming life’s challenges. The stories, key takeaways at the end of each chapter, and the motivational insights make it a book I’ll revisit time and time again. I’m giving it a well-deserved 5 stars. Pivnik’s lessons are practical, powerful, and, most importantly, relatable—no matter where you are on your own journey.
#netgalley #builttofinish
Pivnik’s writing style is a perfect mix of motivational, informative, and personal, making it not only easy to follow but incredibly relatable. The stories from his business career and athletic endeavors are woven into each chapter, offering key life lessons that apply to anyone, whether you’re in a leadership position, an aspiring entrepreneur, or an athlete. This narrative approach kept me engaged throughout the audiobook, eager to hear what lesson or insight would come next.
The audiobook narration by Mike Reilly is excellent, with a performance that enhances the overall experience. Reilly’s pacing and tone kept me hooked for hours, making it easy to listen during long drives or training sessions. His voice brought energy and clarity to the story, elevating Pivnik's powerful lessons and making the audiobook a truly immersive experience.
One of the highlights of the book for me was Chapter 7, where Pivnik discusses the importance of building a strong foundation—both physically and mentally—and how slow and steady wins the race. He also discusses the Wim Hof Method he uses for breathing, a technique I’m excited to try for myself. As someone training for the 2025 MS Run the US ultra-marathon, this chapter resonated with me on a personal level, providing valuable insights on pacing, endurance, and mental resilience.
Another memorable takeaway comes from Chapter 9, where Pivnik shares his motto, “Not Fast, Not Last.” As someone who shares a similar mindset in races, this was a powerful reminder that consistency and determination are just as important as speed. It’s a simple yet effective philosophy that anyone can apply, regardless of their goals.
Overall, Built to Finish is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, endurance sports, or simply overcoming life’s challenges. The stories, key takeaways at the end of each chapter, and the motivational insights make it a book I’ll revisit time and time again. I’m giving it a well-deserved 5 stars. Pivnik’s lessons are practical, powerful, and, most importantly, relatable—no matter where you are on your own journey.
#netgalley #builttofinish
September 7, 2024
This was an interesting combination of advice/wisdom that is useful for life - entrepreneurial life, athletics, and just overall life. While they aren't new concepts, it was a great reminder mixed with inspirational stories from his career and iron man trainings.
Some ideas to hold onto:
1. Embrace the grind - The grind is tough but perseverance needs to be there to do the stuff other people don't want to do.
2. One mistake doesn't define you, don't define someone else by their one mistake. Allow yourself to mourn, but carry on.
3. Showing up is the big part - success will follow and be ready for the next big opportunity
4. Celebrate small wins - some people only focus on the home runs but enough singles will win you the game too.
5. Pace yourself - create the foundation before you race ahead - monitor and preserve your body and business
6. Use quality shortcuts -never people. It takes longer to recover from a botched shortcut than to do it right the first time.
7. Overtraining syndrome - doing more doesn't always give you more, so don't overextend yourself - balance obtaining information with how extended you are
8. Always be closing your books - keep track of details along the way so you are disciplined/prepared to take it when an opportunity comes
9. Don't focus on luck/chance, be thoughtful of life partners, focus on the goal, and plan for pitfalls - make your own luck.
10. Be prepared, pick who you surround yourself with, and enjoy the journey
11. What you give power to has power over you if you allow it and will control your destiny. Invite positivity in so you can draw on it when you need to.
12. Envision the finish from day 1 and make it visible so you can't forget what you're working toward. Break down larger goals, visualize each day, execute through small actions.
13. Be elastic - do you allow yourself to stretch and grow and use ? Real adventure begins at the end of your comfort zone
14. Failures are a natural part of trying, of living, how you bounce back is more important. True failure is falling short of your goals and never going after them again.
15. Don’t fear the exit embrace it - you are judged not by what you start but what you finish.
Thanks Netgalley for my ARC audiobook!
Some ideas to hold onto:
1. Embrace the grind - The grind is tough but perseverance needs to be there to do the stuff other people don't want to do.
2. One mistake doesn't define you, don't define someone else by their one mistake. Allow yourself to mourn, but carry on.
3. Showing up is the big part - success will follow and be ready for the next big opportunity
4. Celebrate small wins - some people only focus on the home runs but enough singles will win you the game too.
5. Pace yourself - create the foundation before you race ahead - monitor and preserve your body and business
6. Use quality shortcuts -never people. It takes longer to recover from a botched shortcut than to do it right the first time.
7. Overtraining syndrome - doing more doesn't always give you more, so don't overextend yourself - balance obtaining information with how extended you are
8. Always be closing your books - keep track of details along the way so you are disciplined/prepared to take it when an opportunity comes
9. Don't focus on luck/chance, be thoughtful of life partners, focus on the goal, and plan for pitfalls - make your own luck.
10. Be prepared, pick who you surround yourself with, and enjoy the journey
11. What you give power to has power over you if you allow it and will control your destiny. Invite positivity in so you can draw on it when you need to.
12. Envision the finish from day 1 and make it visible so you can't forget what you're working toward. Break down larger goals, visualize each day, execute through small actions.
13. Be elastic - do you allow yourself to stretch and grow and use ? Real adventure begins at the end of your comfort zone
14. Failures are a natural part of trying, of living, how you bounce back is more important. True failure is falling short of your goals and never going after them again.
15. Don’t fear the exit embrace it - you are judged not by what you start but what you finish.
Thanks Netgalley for my ARC audiobook!
February 4, 2024
I love reading business books that give me practical guidance. By reading Steven Pivnik's book "Built to Finish", I learned great tips about business. The author has given various anecdotes in this book to explain his point to the readers. His advice on starting and running the business would surely help the readers.
Stephen's family has played an important role in his life. The way his father trained his kids to communicate in English to prepare them for America was amazing. I loved to know about the part where he has mentioned marathons. It excited me to achieve something in life and also take my business to the next level.
Key Takeaways mentioned at the end of each chapter are really helpful. 'The 'Reflect on your Life's journey' section would help us a lot to gain some clarity. The author has achieved post-business exit and loves to give back by helping others in the similar path. Those who aspire to do their own business would get great insights by reading this book.
Stephen's family has played an important role in his life. The way his father trained his kids to communicate in English to prepare them for America was amazing. I loved to know about the part where he has mentioned marathons. It excited me to achieve something in life and also take my business to the next level.
Key Takeaways mentioned at the end of each chapter are really helpful. 'The 'Reflect on your Life's journey' section would help us a lot to gain some clarity. The author has achieved post-business exit and loves to give back by helping others in the similar path. Those who aspire to do their own business would get great insights by reading this book.
February 5, 2024
"Built to Finish: How to Go the Distance in Business and in Life" written by the author Steven Pivnik is a must read. In this book, the author has shared his journey and how his family endured the grind on their journey to America.
Steven has learned a lot about grind from his family. He believes that we learn the grind by watching the grind. The author's journey would help us to achieve mastery in personal and professional life. Steven learned a few things from his failing company and took the much needed action at the right time. The author has mentioned how the grind never ended even at the time when success was coming.
Those who love reading non-fiction books should get their hands on this book. This is a thought provoking read. Readers would find themselves pondering after reading this book. The writing style of the author is nice and the title is suitable.
Go ahead with this without any second thoughts.
Steven has learned a lot about grind from his family. He believes that we learn the grind by watching the grind. The author's journey would help us to achieve mastery in personal and professional life. Steven learned a few things from his failing company and took the much needed action at the right time. The author has mentioned how the grind never ended even at the time when success was coming.
Those who love reading non-fiction books should get their hands on this book. This is a thought provoking read. Readers would find themselves pondering after reading this book. The writing style of the author is nice and the title is suitable.
Go ahead with this without any second thoughts.
February 6, 2024
I have read many books on business. This is my first non-fiction of the year and I am glad to get my hands on this book. In this book, the author has shared amazing insights that would help readers to go the distance in business and life. In this book, the author has shared various ideas through his own journey.
The author has shared various lessons from his own experiences of navigating the business world. The key takeaways that the author has shared would help us to be successful if we implement them in our own business and life. One should have the grit to start and stamina to finish to be successful.
I strongly recommend this book to my fellow readers. This book inspired me to do more in my business and life. I am grateful to the author for sharing his own journey with us. I would keep this book as a guide on my entrepreneurship journey. Great work done by the author in this book.
The author has shared various lessons from his own experiences of navigating the business world. The key takeaways that the author has shared would help us to be successful if we implement them in our own business and life. One should have the grit to start and stamina to finish to be successful.
I strongly recommend this book to my fellow readers. This book inspired me to do more in my business and life. I am grateful to the author for sharing his own journey with us. I would keep this book as a guide on my entrepreneurship journey. Great work done by the author in this book.
August 16, 2024
Let me be honest with you. I’m not a fan of business or motivational books. That’s why I was so surprised when the very first book I picked up on NetGalley was Built to Finish. I don’t know if it was the cover or the title, but something caught my attention. And I’m so glad it did.
This book is full of great insights. I really enjoyed the connections built between life, business and sports. After each chapter, Steven shared some key takeaways, which was very helpful.. Whether it was about perseverance and accepting your mistakes, embracing the journey rather than the destination, etc., I was inspired by his rational and structured approach even during the most difficult times.
After finishing the book, I tried to formulate my own takeaway. And here it goes. Yes, your journey won’t be easy. Yes, probably you’ll make some mistakes and face some challenges in life. But everything you want to achieve and dream about is still out there for you as long as you keep moving forward.
This book is full of great insights. I really enjoyed the connections built between life, business and sports. After each chapter, Steven shared some key takeaways, which was very helpful.. Whether it was about perseverance and accepting your mistakes, embracing the journey rather than the destination, etc., I was inspired by his rational and structured approach even during the most difficult times.
After finishing the book, I tried to formulate my own takeaway. And here it goes. Yes, your journey won’t be easy. Yes, probably you’ll make some mistakes and face some challenges in life. But everything you want to achieve and dream about is still out there for you as long as you keep moving forward.
March 5, 2024
Built to finish by Steven Pivnik is a valuable book for entrepreneurs seeking to build and sustain successful business while maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life as Steve shares how the insights gained from his adventures in triathlon, mountaineering and ultramarathons apply to his pursuit of personal and professional success. He provides a personal tale to inspire others to dream bigger and reach their goals.
The story is-well crafted to keep you interested from the very beginning. The author's ability to shape his life is very impressive, he talks about leadership, adventure seeking, planning, personal growth and what not! There are many lessons contained in the book that inspire you to go the distance, enjoying the journey and cross the finish line. Overall, this insightful book is a valueable guides for those seeking to sustain success in every aspect of their life.
The story is-well crafted to keep you interested from the very beginning. The author's ability to shape his life is very impressive, he talks about leadership, adventure seeking, planning, personal growth and what not! There are many lessons contained in the book that inspire you to go the distance, enjoying the journey and cross the finish line. Overall, this insightful book is a valueable guides for those seeking to sustain success in every aspect of their life.
March 27, 2024
Fantastic read . . . Life and Business lessons.
Many great insights on how to be successful professionally and personally. If you are a runner, mountaineer, biker, or swimmer . . . Many of these life/business comparisons will resonate with you. As someone who enjoys running I was able to relate to the scenarios personally and professionally. One of my favorite exerpts was “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t—you’re right.” We are only capable of doing or not doing what we thing we are capable of. But imagine if we created goals that we then broke into manageable pieces (microsteps) and then emitted positive thoughts and vibes . . . Can you see our successes. Steven Pivnik shares some valuable advice, was a faced paced relatable read.
Many great insights on how to be successful professionally and personally. If you are a runner, mountaineer, biker, or swimmer . . . Many of these life/business comparisons will resonate with you. As someone who enjoys running I was able to relate to the scenarios personally and professionally. One of my favorite exerpts was “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t—you’re right.” We are only capable of doing or not doing what we thing we are capable of. But imagine if we created goals that we then broke into manageable pieces (microsteps) and then emitted positive thoughts and vibes . . . Can you see our successes. Steven Pivnik shares some valuable advice, was a faced paced relatable read.
March 7, 2024
s a seasoned entrepreneur in the tech sector, @steven.pivnik draws on his extensive experience and success, leading Binary Tree to a successful exit and navigating the challenging terrain of the Ironman World Championship. Both are incredible feats: running a startup to success and challenging yourself physically through an Ironman. This book isn’t just about business; it’s a masterclass in resilience, strategy, and achieving long-term excellence. Gain valuable insights from Pivnik’s journey in scaling companies and conquering extreme athletic challenges. Elevate your approach to corporate growth and success with the wisdom shared in this insightful read. 📈🏆
April 30, 2024
Looking for a game-changer in your journey to success? Look no further than 'Built To Finish'! This book is like a compass guiding you through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship with relatable stories that hit home. What's remarkable is how the author shares his humble beginnings, making you realize that greatness can truly come from anywhere. Whether you're just starting out or already on your way, 'Built To Finish' will inspire you to keep pushing forward and never give up on your dreams. Get ready to embark on a journey of empowerment and achievement!
May 10, 2025
إن كان الأمر بين هذا وغوغينز فكتابات غوغينز أقوى...!
لطيف كقراءة خفيفة بعيدًا عن القراءات المتعبة والمحمّلة بأثقال التأملات الفكرية ... لا تستهويني رياضات التحمّل والكتاب جلّه عن الترايثلون "السباق الثلاثي" وكيف يلتقط الكاتب تأمّلاته ونقاط التشابه بين هذه الرياضة وعالم الأعمال ... عمومًا الكتاب يتمحور على عملية "صقل المهارات وشحذها المستمر والمتواصل" لا يحتاج المرء لسباق ثلاثي ليعلم ذلك ... ولكن على رأي غوغينز "ثمّة ما يمكن قوله عن عيش الشّيء بدلًا من دراسته"...!
لطيف كقراءة خفيفة بعيدًا عن القراءات المتعبة والمحمّلة بأثقال التأملات الفكرية ... لا تستهويني رياضات التحمّل والكتاب جلّه عن الترايثلون "السباق الثلاثي" وكيف يلتقط الكاتب تأمّلاته ونقاط التشابه بين هذه الرياضة وعالم الأعمال ... عمومًا الكتاب يتمحور على عملية "صقل المهارات وشحذها المستمر والمتواصل" لا يحتاج المرء لسباق ثلاثي ليعلم ذلك ... ولكن على رأي غوغينز "ثمّة ما يمكن قوله عن عيش الشّيء بدلًا من دراسته"...!
July 30, 2024
Similar to "Delivering Happinness" the story of Zappos founder, the author is telling personal stories and his train of thought, with much less partying. More of a memoir than a business book, imo. Valuable lesson: appreciate the grind, because that is where you grow.
The author shares life lessons learnt through his experiences.
Thanks to netgalley for this copy of the book.
The author shares life lessons learnt through his experiences.
Thanks to netgalley for this copy of the book.
May 4, 2024
I've known Steven for decades and was aware of some of these stories, but it was fun to read the fill details. He does a masterful job blending personal history, business acumen, and personal growth into a colorful story.
March 18, 2025
alright read sorta motivating
I won the kindle version from the goodreads giveaways. Thank you for the chance to read this book. It’s a ok read with a few good points I highlighted. Much better read if you run triathlons
I won the kindle version from the goodreads giveaways. Thank you for the chance to read this book. It’s a ok read with a few good points I highlighted. Much better read if you run triathlons
February 5, 2024
I felt like giving up on my entrepreneurial dreams, but I’m reinspired and ready to go at it again!
April 10, 2024
If you want to understand business better, this is the book for you.
November 10, 2024
A unique look into the many feats and achievements human beings can make
January 28, 2024
The best self help/ business advice / life advice / motivational book you can get! Not only do you learn on ways to improve and drive yourself but to improve and embrace the company around you. Built to Finish encompasses everything you need to have a finisher mindset to achieve any goal you set. 10/10 recommend to anyone at any stage in life
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews