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A High-Performing Mind : A Proven System of Simple Steps for a Better and Happier Life -
Are you interested in learning how to increase resilience, overcome adversity, consistently perform at your best, achieve your goals, and build lasting success?
A High-Performing Mind seamlessly weaves powerful life lessons and mental tools through entertaining short stories to show you how to empower your mind and develop the foundational skills, mindsets, habits, and understanding to achieve your goals and live your best life.
Andrew D Thompson, former professional athlete, hospitality industry executive, and high-performance coach, shares the 12 attributes of high performers, in this inspiring step-by-step self-development guide, so you can develop your own high performing mind and perform at your best, get the results you want, and find greater success in your life.
A High-Performing Mind shares invaluable insights and mental tools to give you the capabilities you’ll need to overcome any obstacle, setback, or failure, find better and more creative responses to life’s daily challenges, and build a happy and more fulfilling life—no matter your circumstances.
This easy-to-read and motivating book will show you how to:
► Increase your mental strength and resilience so you can overcome any challenge.
► Respond in better and more creative ways in your daily life and accelerate your progress.
► Find clarity and the discipline you’ll need to achieve your goals.
► Develop the skills you need to master your craft and excel in your pursuits.
► Use positive actions to break out of negativity, failures, and setbacks.
► Overcome the fear and the barriers that block your success.
► Access your best, so you achieve better results and greater success when it matters most.
If you’ve ever struggled in your life, had something important not work out the way you hoped, failed to achieve your goals, performed below expectations, had challenges with your health or your relationships, been stopped by fear, blocked by nerves, pulled down by negativity, or sidelined by unexpected life-altering setbacks and not succeeded the way you hoped, then you’re in the right place.
A High-Performing Mind will show you how to create the life you want by providing you with the insight, understanding, and tools to stay focused, find the improvements you need, and make the most out of your circumstances—whether you’re aiming for the top, struggling to get through challenging times, or looking to find simple ways to live a more meaningful and rewarding life.
A High-Performing Mind seamlessly weaves powerful life lessons and mental tools through entertaining short stories to show you how to empower your mind and develop the foundational skills, mindsets, habits, and understanding to achieve your goals and live your best life.
Andrew D Thompson, former professional athlete, hospitality industry executive, and high-performance coach, shares the 12 attributes of high performers, in this inspiring step-by-step self-development guide, so you can develop your own high performing mind and perform at your best, get the results you want, and find greater success in your life.
A High-Performing Mind shares invaluable insights and mental tools to give you the capabilities you’ll need to overcome any obstacle, setback, or failure, find better and more creative responses to life’s daily challenges, and build a happy and more fulfilling life—no matter your circumstances.
This easy-to-read and motivating book will show you how to:
► Increase your mental strength and resilience so you can overcome any challenge.
► Respond in better and more creative ways in your daily life and accelerate your progress.
► Find clarity and the discipline you’ll need to achieve your goals.
► Develop the skills you need to master your craft and excel in your pursuits.
► Use positive actions to break out of negativity, failures, and setbacks.
► Overcome the fear and the barriers that block your success.
► Access your best, so you achieve better results and greater success when it matters most.
If you’ve ever struggled in your life, had something important not work out the way you hoped, failed to achieve your goals, performed below expectations, had challenges with your health or your relationships, been stopped by fear, blocked by nerves, pulled down by negativity, or sidelined by unexpected life-altering setbacks and not succeeded the way you hoped, then you’re in the right place.
A High-Performing Mind will show you how to create the life you want by providing you with the insight, understanding, and tools to stay focused, find the improvements you need, and make the most out of your circumstances—whether you’re aiming for the top, struggling to get through challenging times, or looking to find simple ways to live a more meaningful and rewarding life.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 25, 2024
392 people are currently reading
4754 people want to read
About the author
Andrew D. Thompson
2 books26 followersAndrew D. Thompson is a former professional athlete, hospitality industry executive, and high-performance coach who survived a debilitating and life-threatening illness in 2016 that left him bedridden for months and took years to overcome.
His unique life experiences helped him to identify and develop the 12 key attributes of high performers, which he not only draws on to elevate the performance of elite athletes, business leaders, and anyone looking to improve their circumstances, but were also critical for him making it through and eventually recovering from the mystery disease that ravaged his life.
A High-Performing Mind is his award winning inspiring and motivating personal-development book that shows you how to develop your own high performing mind so that you can expand your capabilities, overcome any adversity, perform at your best when it counts, and live a more enjoyable life with greater success— no matter who you are.
Andrew has been coaching and helping people of all ages and all walks of life including elite athletes, high performers, and business leaders over the last 25+ years learn how to improve focus, clarity and resilience, get past their setbacks and failures, and perform at their best so they can overcome the barriers that block them from living their best and most fulfilling lives.
Popular Quotes from A High-Performing Mind by Andrew D Thompson include:
“You’re the same person 10 minutes after you fail, only wiser.”
“Accept What’s Going Wrong, Stay Focused on What You Want.”
“What you learn in your Hardest Moment is the foundation for your best results.”
“Adversity is almost certain to come along on the way to achieving our goals. By preparing for it and knowing how we will respond positively if it does, we're mentally stronger, more resilient, and able to keep going until we succeed.”
Andrew D Thompson, author of A High-Performing mind, self improvement book, best inspirational book
His unique life experiences helped him to identify and develop the 12 key attributes of high performers, which he not only draws on to elevate the performance of elite athletes, business leaders, and anyone looking to improve their circumstances, but were also critical for him making it through and eventually recovering from the mystery disease that ravaged his life.
A High-Performing Mind is his award winning inspiring and motivating personal-development book that shows you how to develop your own high performing mind so that you can expand your capabilities, overcome any adversity, perform at your best when it counts, and live a more enjoyable life with greater success— no matter who you are.
Andrew has been coaching and helping people of all ages and all walks of life including elite athletes, high performers, and business leaders over the last 25+ years learn how to improve focus, clarity and resilience, get past their setbacks and failures, and perform at their best so they can overcome the barriers that block them from living their best and most fulfilling lives.
Popular Quotes from A High-Performing Mind by Andrew D Thompson include:
“You’re the same person 10 minutes after you fail, only wiser.”
“Accept What’s Going Wrong, Stay Focused on What You Want.”
“What you learn in your Hardest Moment is the foundation for your best results.”
“Adversity is almost certain to come along on the way to achieving our goals. By preparing for it and knowing how we will respond positively if it does, we're mentally stronger, more resilient, and able to keep going until we succeed.”
Andrew D Thompson, author of A High-Performing mind, self improvement book, best inspirational book
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
June 22, 2025
His backstory gives him all the cred I needed to know about him. He has earned his position as an expert in this field by the school of hard knocks. Frankly, I would much rather take advice from someone who has gone through hell and survived it than from someone who thinks they are smart because their trust fund paid for a Phd.
His advice comes in the form of taking one step at a time so that anyone can build the warrior inside themselves.
We’ve heard it before, it is the momentum of daily habits.
“Dirty Discipline” is a concept with an intriguing name, but when you read what it means it makes sense.
At the end of the book is a sort of summary that I printed and put on my wall. The 12 Attributes of a High-Performing Mind. It is a template for success!
His advice comes in the form of taking one step at a time so that anyone can build the warrior inside themselves.
We’ve heard it before, it is the momentum of daily habits.
“Dirty Discipline” is a concept with an intriguing name, but when you read what it means it makes sense.
At the end of the book is a sort of summary that I printed and put on my wall. The 12 Attributes of a High-Performing Mind. It is a template for success!
October 11, 2025
4 – 4.5 Stars
A High-Performing Mind: An Inspirational Guide of Proven Steps to Find Purpose, Improve Focus, Discipline, and Resilience, Overcome Your Nerves and Fears, Perform at Your Best, and Achieve Your Goals by Andrew D. Thompson is a practical guide designed to help readers develop resilience for better mental health. Andrew speaks honestly and from personal experience, sharing his own raw story, which makes the book even more compelling.
As someone who has suffered from PTSD and served as a Mental Health First Aid Officer for many years, I find that books like this help refresh my perspective and maintain emotional strength, resilience, and mental health.
If you want to feel empowered, discover strategies that resonate with you, and regain the resilience you once had, this book provides all the tools you need. It motivates you to take control of your healing process or simply rejuvenate aspects of your life that you may have let slide.
I highly recommend this book as a guide to set you on the path toward motivation and a renewed sense of well-being, no matter where you are in life.
A High-Performing Mind: An Inspirational Guide of Proven Steps to Find Purpose, Improve Focus, Discipline, and Resilience, Overcome Your Nerves and Fears, Perform at Your Best, and Achieve Your Goals by Andrew D. Thompson is a practical guide designed to help readers develop resilience for better mental health. Andrew speaks honestly and from personal experience, sharing his own raw story, which makes the book even more compelling.
As someone who has suffered from PTSD and served as a Mental Health First Aid Officer for many years, I find that books like this help refresh my perspective and maintain emotional strength, resilience, and mental health.
If you want to feel empowered, discover strategies that resonate with you, and regain the resilience you once had, this book provides all the tools you need. It motivates you to take control of your healing process or simply rejuvenate aspects of your life that you may have let slide.
I highly recommend this book as a guide to set you on the path toward motivation and a renewed sense of well-being, no matter where you are in life.
Read
October 4, 2025In "A High-Performing Mind: Strengthen Your Mind and Live Your Best Life", Andrew D. Thompson explores what it means to develop a mind that consistently works in your favor rather than against you. Many people know the importance of discipline, hard work, and persistence, but without mental clarity and resilience, those qualities can be easily undermined by self-doubt, procrastination, and fear. Thompson argues that just as the body benefits from training and conditioning, the mind requires its own structured approach if it is to operate at its highest level. A strong mental framework allows people to navigate challenges with confidence, maintain focus in the face of distraction, and bounce back from setbacks with renewed determination. The book provides practical methods and shifts in perspective designed to help readers build that framework and step into a version of themselves that is calm, courageous, and consistently engaged with life.
Thompson emphasizes that life does not only test us during major crises. Rather, it throws up smaller, daily obstacles that shape how we respond to larger challenges later on. Whether it is dragging yourself out of bed for an early workout, handling a rough day at the office, or moving through the emotional turmoil of a breakup, these experiences add up to form your mental baseline. Every time you face discomfort and keep moving, you strengthen the part of yourself that believes you can handle difficulty. Over time, resilience becomes second nature. It is not about denying pain or pretending things are easy, but about recognizing that you have faced hard moments before and survived them. That recognition builds a quiet but unshakable confidence. For Thompson, resilience is a kind of muscle, developed through repeated practice with discomfort. Each challenge that once seemed insurmountable becomes less daunting the next time it appears.
The author notes, however, that resilience is not the absence of struggle. Even high performers falter, experience fear, and suffer disappointment. The difference is in what they do afterward. Instead of becoming stuck in the frustration of why life is difficult, resilient individuals focus their energy on what to do next. They do not deny the pain, but they refuse to let it paralyze them. This ability to reset and re-engage is what defines mental strength. Falling is inevitable, but staying down is optional. By making the choice to get up quickly and reorient toward solutions, individuals prove to themselves that they are not defined by a single setback but by the way they move forward from it.
A major theme of the book is that consistent effort matters more than sporadic brilliance. Thompson challenges the common mindset of saving one’s best for big moments like exams, presentations, or interviews. Instead, he argues that true high performers bring their best effort to every situation, no matter how small. This does not mean chasing perfection but rather being fully engaged in whatever task is at hand. When you consistently prepare and give full effort, you build self-trust. You walk into important situations knowing that you have done everything you could, which creates confidence that cannot be faked. This consistency also prevents the sting of regret. Even if outcomes are not favorable, the knowledge that you gave everything allows you to move forward without the weight of 'what if.'
Thompson also explains how consistent effort influences both personal identity and external perception. Internally, the habit of going all in reshapes how you see yourself. Halfhearted attempts lead to an identity built around mediocrity, while full engagement fosters a self-image of capability and reliability. Externally, effort is visible and contagious. Colleagues, friends, and partners notice when someone shows up with commitment, and they are more likely to offer opportunities or trust to those who demonstrate consistent dedication. Thus, effort is not only a tool for personal growth but also a way to attract support and collaboration from others.
While effort sets the tone, clarity of goals ensures that energy is channeled effectively. According to Thompson, vague goals like 'being happier' or 'getting fitter' fail because they do not provide the brain with specific instructions. Goals must be clear, measurable, and stated in positive terms to act as reliable compasses. Writing down these aims and keeping them visible ensures they remain front of mind. Positive framing shifts attention away from fear and toward constructive action, while specificity allows progress to be tracked and celebrated. Most importantly, goals must be backed by consistent steps forward. Even the smallest actions create momentum, and momentum is what transforms intention into reality. With this system, individuals stop waiting for life to change and instead actively steer it in the direction they want.
Another core lesson in the book is the role of fear. Thompson acknowledges that fear is universal - it arrives before job interviews, difficult conversations, public speaking, and countless other moments. While many people view fear as a sign that they are unprepared or weak, Thompson reframes it as a form of energy that can be harnessed. By acknowledging fear rather than denying it, individuals reduce its power. Fear does not need to disappear before you act; it simply needs to be accepted as a companion on the journey. Rather than handing fear the wheel, you can treat it as background noise and still move forward. In fact, fear’s physiological effects, such as heightened alertness and adrenaline, can be channeled into sharper performance. In this sense, fear becomes fuel rather than a roadblock. The goal is not to become fearless but to become braver, willing to act in spite of fear.
Setbacks, like fear, are inevitable. Thompson insists that failure should be reframed as feedback rather than finality. When a plan falls apart or an opportunity is missed, the most productive response is to revisit the original goal, examine the negative thoughts that emerge, and then take one small positive action. This cycle - refocusing, naming negativity, and acting - creates momentum that pulls individuals out of spirals and back into purposeful motion. Each time a person recovers from a setback in this way, they reinforce their resilience and prove to themselves that they can adapt. Over time, setbacks shift from being humiliating defeats to valuable signals pointing toward better strategies and stronger approaches.
All of these lessons come together to paint a picture of what it means to cultivate a high-performing mind. It is not about perfection or achieving superhuman composure. Instead, it is about consistently practicing the habits that strengthen mental resilience, encourage engagement, clarify goals, reframe fear, and transform setbacks into growth. When these practices are woven into daily life, the result is a mind that not only survives challenges but thrives in them.
In conclusion, "A High-Performing Mind: Strengthen Your Mind and Live Your Best Life" offers a practical and inspiring guide for anyone seeking to build mental resilience and clarity. Andrew D. Thompson shows that high performers are not born with extraordinary talent or unshakable calm - they develop their strength through consistent effort, purposeful goals, constructive use of fear, and adaptive responses to setbacks. By training the mind in these ways, anyone can learn to move through life with greater confidence, adaptability, and focus. The book’s message is clear: the quality of your mind shapes the quality of your life, and by cultivating a high-performing mind, you give yourself the power not just to cope with what comes your way, but to grow, lead, and live fully.
Thompson emphasizes that life does not only test us during major crises. Rather, it throws up smaller, daily obstacles that shape how we respond to larger challenges later on. Whether it is dragging yourself out of bed for an early workout, handling a rough day at the office, or moving through the emotional turmoil of a breakup, these experiences add up to form your mental baseline. Every time you face discomfort and keep moving, you strengthen the part of yourself that believes you can handle difficulty. Over time, resilience becomes second nature. It is not about denying pain or pretending things are easy, but about recognizing that you have faced hard moments before and survived them. That recognition builds a quiet but unshakable confidence. For Thompson, resilience is a kind of muscle, developed through repeated practice with discomfort. Each challenge that once seemed insurmountable becomes less daunting the next time it appears.
The author notes, however, that resilience is not the absence of struggle. Even high performers falter, experience fear, and suffer disappointment. The difference is in what they do afterward. Instead of becoming stuck in the frustration of why life is difficult, resilient individuals focus their energy on what to do next. They do not deny the pain, but they refuse to let it paralyze them. This ability to reset and re-engage is what defines mental strength. Falling is inevitable, but staying down is optional. By making the choice to get up quickly and reorient toward solutions, individuals prove to themselves that they are not defined by a single setback but by the way they move forward from it.
A major theme of the book is that consistent effort matters more than sporadic brilliance. Thompson challenges the common mindset of saving one’s best for big moments like exams, presentations, or interviews. Instead, he argues that true high performers bring their best effort to every situation, no matter how small. This does not mean chasing perfection but rather being fully engaged in whatever task is at hand. When you consistently prepare and give full effort, you build self-trust. You walk into important situations knowing that you have done everything you could, which creates confidence that cannot be faked. This consistency also prevents the sting of regret. Even if outcomes are not favorable, the knowledge that you gave everything allows you to move forward without the weight of 'what if.'
Thompson also explains how consistent effort influences both personal identity and external perception. Internally, the habit of going all in reshapes how you see yourself. Halfhearted attempts lead to an identity built around mediocrity, while full engagement fosters a self-image of capability and reliability. Externally, effort is visible and contagious. Colleagues, friends, and partners notice when someone shows up with commitment, and they are more likely to offer opportunities or trust to those who demonstrate consistent dedication. Thus, effort is not only a tool for personal growth but also a way to attract support and collaboration from others.
While effort sets the tone, clarity of goals ensures that energy is channeled effectively. According to Thompson, vague goals like 'being happier' or 'getting fitter' fail because they do not provide the brain with specific instructions. Goals must be clear, measurable, and stated in positive terms to act as reliable compasses. Writing down these aims and keeping them visible ensures they remain front of mind. Positive framing shifts attention away from fear and toward constructive action, while specificity allows progress to be tracked and celebrated. Most importantly, goals must be backed by consistent steps forward. Even the smallest actions create momentum, and momentum is what transforms intention into reality. With this system, individuals stop waiting for life to change and instead actively steer it in the direction they want.
Another core lesson in the book is the role of fear. Thompson acknowledges that fear is universal - it arrives before job interviews, difficult conversations, public speaking, and countless other moments. While many people view fear as a sign that they are unprepared or weak, Thompson reframes it as a form of energy that can be harnessed. By acknowledging fear rather than denying it, individuals reduce its power. Fear does not need to disappear before you act; it simply needs to be accepted as a companion on the journey. Rather than handing fear the wheel, you can treat it as background noise and still move forward. In fact, fear’s physiological effects, such as heightened alertness and adrenaline, can be channeled into sharper performance. In this sense, fear becomes fuel rather than a roadblock. The goal is not to become fearless but to become braver, willing to act in spite of fear.
Setbacks, like fear, are inevitable. Thompson insists that failure should be reframed as feedback rather than finality. When a plan falls apart or an opportunity is missed, the most productive response is to revisit the original goal, examine the negative thoughts that emerge, and then take one small positive action. This cycle - refocusing, naming negativity, and acting - creates momentum that pulls individuals out of spirals and back into purposeful motion. Each time a person recovers from a setback in this way, they reinforce their resilience and prove to themselves that they can adapt. Over time, setbacks shift from being humiliating defeats to valuable signals pointing toward better strategies and stronger approaches.
All of these lessons come together to paint a picture of what it means to cultivate a high-performing mind. It is not about perfection or achieving superhuman composure. Instead, it is about consistently practicing the habits that strengthen mental resilience, encourage engagement, clarify goals, reframe fear, and transform setbacks into growth. When these practices are woven into daily life, the result is a mind that not only survives challenges but thrives in them.
In conclusion, "A High-Performing Mind: Strengthen Your Mind and Live Your Best Life" offers a practical and inspiring guide for anyone seeking to build mental resilience and clarity. Andrew D. Thompson shows that high performers are not born with extraordinary talent or unshakable calm - they develop their strength through consistent effort, purposeful goals, constructive use of fear, and adaptive responses to setbacks. By training the mind in these ways, anyone can learn to move through life with greater confidence, adaptability, and focus. The book’s message is clear: the quality of your mind shapes the quality of your life, and by cultivating a high-performing mind, you give yourself the power not just to cope with what comes your way, but to grow, lead, and live fully.
May 15, 2025
Keep calm and grip the paddle
This is a very fun and motivational book about achieving possibly your highest potential. It is written in a very friendly tone, the chapters ranging from lighter topics to more difficult ones.
Much of the book contains anecdotes that the author has lived first-hand, sometimes as the main character, sometimes as a supporting character, so to speak. Even though this is not fiction, I don't want to spoil too much for potential readers, I would just like to say that the topics are varied and complex and I learned new things along the way. I loved that many of the chapters were using advice and mindsets often relevant in sports either as a metaphor or a general truth, easier digestible through the lens of sports. My favourite anecdotes were those about the french instructor, Star Wars and of course, Thomas and friends.
Another great thing is that this is also a handbook with useful sections at the end of each chapter. These sections contain questions and prompts that help the reader have more clarity not only on their goals, but also on setting realistic actionable steps for moving forward and learning more about themselves. I was sadly not in the position to try them onto myself, but I sincerely believe that these sections (as well as the rest of the book) can be very helpful for anyone needing more clarity, feeling demotivated or simply curious about how far they could go with a bit of insight and discipline. Even those who might not feel they "qualify" to read this book will still find enjoyment in all the anecdotes.
I have received this book through the kindness of the author via Booktasters, in exchange for my honest opinion on it.
This is a very fun and motivational book about achieving possibly your highest potential. It is written in a very friendly tone, the chapters ranging from lighter topics to more difficult ones.
Much of the book contains anecdotes that the author has lived first-hand, sometimes as the main character, sometimes as a supporting character, so to speak. Even though this is not fiction, I don't want to spoil too much for potential readers, I would just like to say that the topics are varied and complex and I learned new things along the way. I loved that many of the chapters were using advice and mindsets often relevant in sports either as a metaphor or a general truth, easier digestible through the lens of sports. My favourite anecdotes were those about the french instructor, Star Wars and of course, Thomas and friends.
Another great thing is that this is also a handbook with useful sections at the end of each chapter. These sections contain questions and prompts that help the reader have more clarity not only on their goals, but also on setting realistic actionable steps for moving forward and learning more about themselves. I was sadly not in the position to try them onto myself, but I sincerely believe that these sections (as well as the rest of the book) can be very helpful for anyone needing more clarity, feeling demotivated or simply curious about how far they could go with a bit of insight and discipline. Even those who might not feel they "qualify" to read this book will still find enjoyment in all the anecdotes.
I have received this book through the kindness of the author via Booktasters, in exchange for my honest opinion on it.
March 10, 2025
My word for 2025 is "brave". I am sixty-one years old, and I've yet to accomplish all the things I want to in life. I want to travel more, and I want to go on a mission trip. Now I have both of these things planned, and I am ready to move forward. As I read through this book, I kept thinking that I wish I had this when I was teaching middle school. We would have went through this book in my advisory class, chapter by chapter. This book is for athletes, students, and regular everyday people, like me. The author gives some personal stories, and stories that he has heard for examples of how his tips have helped. It is a book that is filled with great advice on how to be successful. I am not going to say that every single chapter applied to my current needs, but I could definitely see how it would be beneficial to someone else. I especially liked the questions at the end of each chapter to help with focusing and setting up next steps to help me move forward. My first mission trip is in June, and I cannot wait to go!
July 11, 2025
I don’t expect much from most self-help books, but ended up being genuinely impressed with A High-Performing Mind. Right from the beginning, the author shares a really intense personal story about dealing with a serious health issue. Honestly, this part grabbed me right away—it’s very real and relatable, and immediately made me want to hear more about how he overcame such a difficult challenge.
What I liked best is how practical and useful the advice is. He talks about concepts like "Dirty Discipline" (which basically means being disciplined but not beating yourself up if you're not perfect), understanding your desires clearly, and building what he calls a "Warrior Mentality." All these ideas feel very doable. You don’t need to be an athlete or a business executive to use these methods; they’re pretty straightforward and can easily apply to everyday life goals, like improving your health, career, or personal relationships.
One thing that stood out was how he explains the importance of habits, especially starting small and building momentum slowly. It’s nice to read something realistic instead of expecting immediate, drastic changes overnight.
The writing itself was easy-going and felt supportive, almost like talking with a friend who's giving you really solid advice. There were a few parts where the author spent a lot of time talking about his own experiences, which might not interest everyone equally, but personally, I found these stories motivating.
Overall, I’d say this book is definitely worth your time if you’re looking for ways to get stronger mentally and emotionally, handle tough times better, or just improve your overall life. It’s practical, inspirational, and honestly enjoyable to read. Highly recommend it!
What I liked best is how practical and useful the advice is. He talks about concepts like "Dirty Discipline" (which basically means being disciplined but not beating yourself up if you're not perfect), understanding your desires clearly, and building what he calls a "Warrior Mentality." All these ideas feel very doable. You don’t need to be an athlete or a business executive to use these methods; they’re pretty straightforward and can easily apply to everyday life goals, like improving your health, career, or personal relationships.
One thing that stood out was how he explains the importance of habits, especially starting small and building momentum slowly. It’s nice to read something realistic instead of expecting immediate, drastic changes overnight.
The writing itself was easy-going and felt supportive, almost like talking with a friend who's giving you really solid advice. There were a few parts where the author spent a lot of time talking about his own experiences, which might not interest everyone equally, but personally, I found these stories motivating.
Overall, I’d say this book is definitely worth your time if you’re looking for ways to get stronger mentally and emotionally, handle tough times better, or just improve your overall life. It’s practical, inspirational, and honestly enjoyable to read. Highly recommend it!
December 6, 2025
Attributes (12) For a High Preforming Mind
While I am not often a fan of “self-help” type books, I found that A High-Preforming Mind had advise and stratagies that are actually helpful. each chapter talked about differnt mental tools and mindsets and how to apply them to situations and life.
I liked that there were real world examples spead throughout the book. I was always able to relate to examples given which helped to see the advise and actions to take in a real perspective, not just theoretical.
One of the things I liked the most about this book is that at the end of each chapter there was a small area of self reflection questions. Usually, when mindset and mentality books have something like this, they are asking for long and extensive journaling; something I am not a fan of. But this helps to really focus in on goals and bullet point things you can do to make it happen.
While I am not often a fan of “self-help” type books, I found that A High-Preforming Mind had advise and stratagies that are actually helpful. each chapter talked about differnt mental tools and mindsets and how to apply them to situations and life.
I liked that there were real world examples spead throughout the book. I was always able to relate to examples given which helped to see the advise and actions to take in a real perspective, not just theoretical.
One of the things I liked the most about this book is that at the end of each chapter there was a small area of self reflection questions. Usually, when mindset and mentality books have something like this, they are asking for long and extensive journaling; something I am not a fan of. But this helps to really focus in on goals and bullet point things you can do to make it happen.
November 4, 2025
Thompson starts with a compelling life experience, which leads into the reason this book came together. Many of these professional development-type books have a moment that brings their passion for helping others to the forefront. Thompson takes a stance of simple steps to aim for your highest potential in your daily tasks, maximizing the quality of your life. If you are seeking ways to make improvements and adjustments in your own life to work with functions in your most significant potential, give this book a try! Areas of focus are discipline, confidence, focus, etc. Another aspect of this book that I enjoyed is that these areas apply to a variety of individuals across many fields.
November 4, 2025
Really makes you think deeply about a lot of important things!
This book would work for any stage of your life, it is a great process on finding that important thing to focus on. Even if you need more time in between figuring it out, the next steps are there for when you ARE ready.
I like how the Author incorporated their personal story in with the chapters and goal setting. Not just straight to the tips, it gives that personal touch through out the whole book. The Author is incredibly inspiring and gives you the hope you need to get through the guide.
I can see myself finding my way back to this guide over the years to come.
This book would work for any stage of your life, it is a great process on finding that important thing to focus on. Even if you need more time in between figuring it out, the next steps are there for when you ARE ready.
I like how the Author incorporated their personal story in with the chapters and goal setting. Not just straight to the tips, it gives that personal touch through out the whole book. The Author is incredibly inspiring and gives you the hope you need to get through the guide.
I can see myself finding my way back to this guide over the years to come.
October 28, 2025
This book is a one to own when taking the journey to a better life and a better healthier mind.
I have been on a path of enlightenment, self help, positivity, strength. Changing the path I was on and making the complications into something manageable and useful. Turning it into building material, for the life and the world I want to see.
This book is going the Must Have stack. The read is one you can read many times over and I know I will. I have about 6 to 8 books I consider Must Haves and I give them out to literally Everyone I know, as well as strangers whose conversations led me to believe that they could use those books and lessons.
This book is now the newest addition to that stack that will be shared and given out as well. Thank you.
I have been on a path of enlightenment, self help, positivity, strength. Changing the path I was on and making the complications into something manageable and useful. Turning it into building material, for the life and the world I want to see.
This book is going the Must Have stack. The read is one you can read many times over and I know I will. I have about 6 to 8 books I consider Must Haves and I give them out to literally Everyone I know, as well as strangers whose conversations led me to believe that they could use those books and lessons.
This book is now the newest addition to that stack that will be shared and given out as well. Thank you.
November 4, 2025
A High-Performing Mind by Andrew D. Thompson has opened my eyes to forming good habits and changing mindsets. I really enjoyed how he articulated his ideas and made it possible for me to follow. I will definitely continue to use this method to help improve my daily life.
October 30, 2025
A very powerful and inspiring book.
November 29, 2025
HIGH PERFORMING LIFE
An excellent read on attaining to a high performing lifestyle that is connected to your purpose. Highly recommend for high achievers
An excellent read on attaining to a high performing lifestyle that is connected to your purpose. Highly recommend for high achievers
May 27, 2025
Absolutely loved this one! Not even 24 hours finishing the book and already feel inspired to live my fullest potential. Thank you for giving me life!!
January 16, 2025
Book Review: "A High-Performing Mind" by Andrew D. Thompson
This book is a well-crafted, insightful guide for anyone striving to unlock their full potential. The author provides a practical roadmap to cultivate mental resilience, focus, and clarity in both personal and professional life.
The book’s structure is simple yet effective, with each chapter focusing on key traits of high performers. What sets it apart is its actionable advice. This book doesn’t just have chapetrs to focusing on ket traits but also has tools and exercises to implement these strategies immediately.
The genre of the book is motivational but not overbearing, making it accessible to readers from all walks of life. Whether you’re a student, professional, or entrepreneur, the lessons are relevant and adaptable. This book has real life examples, which makes this book the book relatable.
This is a must read book for someone seeking to develop a winning mindset and achieve personal growth.
This book is a well-crafted, insightful guide for anyone striving to unlock their full potential. The author provides a practical roadmap to cultivate mental resilience, focus, and clarity in both personal and professional life.
The book’s structure is simple yet effective, with each chapter focusing on key traits of high performers. What sets it apart is its actionable advice. This book doesn’t just have chapetrs to focusing on ket traits but also has tools and exercises to implement these strategies immediately.
The genre of the book is motivational but not overbearing, making it accessible to readers from all walks of life. Whether you’re a student, professional, or entrepreneur, the lessons are relevant and adaptable. This book has real life examples, which makes this book the book relatable.
This is a must read book for someone seeking to develop a winning mindset and achieve personal growth.
December 12, 2024
A High Performing Mind is a really great resource for anyone who is looking for actionable ways to meet their goals. For me, the most helpful parts of AHPM are when Andrew describes how to overcome the common ways that we self-sabotage on the path to success. The book includes stories from Andrew’s personal and professional experience that show how his strategies have worked IRL and also make the book a really fun read.
I’ve read quite a few business and self-help books and AHPM sets itself apart because its guidance is easy to understand and apply in your own life. I’d recommend reading this book and think it would make a great gift for anyone in your life, especially new grads, athletes, entrepreneurs… 5 stars and excited for Andrew Thompson’s next book!
I’ve read quite a few business and self-help books and AHPM sets itself apart because its guidance is easy to understand and apply in your own life. I’d recommend reading this book and think it would make a great gift for anyone in your life, especially new grads, athletes, entrepreneurs… 5 stars and excited for Andrew Thompson’s next book!
February 23, 2025
This book is all about making your brain strong and healthy! It teaches you how to think better, stay focused, and feel happy. The book gives easy tips to help you stay calm, solve problems, and make good choices every day.
The words are simple to understand, and the ideas can help anyone who wants to do their best in life. It talks about eating healthy, getting enough sleep, and even ways to relax when you feel stressed.
One of the best parts is that it gives real examples of how small changes can make a big difference. If you want to feel smarter, happier, and ready to take on new challenges, this book is a great choice.
I think this book is helpful for anyone who wants to train their brain and live a better life. It’s fun and easy to read!
The words are simple to understand, and the ideas can help anyone who wants to do their best in life. It talks about eating healthy, getting enough sleep, and even ways to relax when you feel stressed.
One of the best parts is that it gives real examples of how small changes can make a big difference. If you want to feel smarter, happier, and ready to take on new challenges, this book is a great choice.
I think this book is helpful for anyone who wants to train their brain and live a better life. It’s fun and easy to read!
February 26, 2025
If you're looking to whip your brain into shape, this book is a fantastic pick. It's packed with practical advice on how to stay focused, manage stress, and make healthier choices. The simplicity of the language makes it accessible to everyone, and the real-life examples are truly inspiring. Plus, it offers some great tips on diet, sleep, and relaxation techniques. Whether you're aiming to boost your mental game or just need a motivational boost, this book delivers. Highly recommend it for anyone looking to level up their life!
March 22, 2025
A High Performing Mind is a fantastic resource for those looking to level up in any area of their life. Unlike other books in this genre, A High Performing Mind gets straight to the point with easy to understand and actionable tools for achieving your goals. The chapter summaries and follow up questions reinforce the concepts/tools while the personal stories paint an entertaining picture of how these tools can be applied in real life. I highly recommend a High Performing Mind to anyone interested in building their skills to achieve their goals!
April 12, 2025
Andrew D. Thompson's A High-Performing Mind is a compelling guide that seamlessly blends actionable strategies with heartfelt personal narratives. Thompson introduces 12 attributes of high performers, each accompanied by practical exercises and real-life examples, providing readers with a clear roadmap for personal growth. His candid sharing of personal challenges adds depth and relatability, making the concepts resonate on a profound level. This combination of structured guidance and authentic storytelling makes the book not only informative but also genuinely inspiring.
March 15, 2025
This book is extremely motivating! I love the author's approach to tackling one's struggle to not only reach for their goals and believing they can achieve those goals. The 12 attributes of high performers are game-changers! I feel there are a lot of people who struggle with overcoming the fear of emotional barriers that block their success, and this well-written book helps them break through and live the life they want.
March 2, 2025
The book offers practical advice on building mental resilience and achieving personal goals, all presented through engaging short stories that make the concepts easy to grasp. Thompson's approach is both relatable and motivating, making it a quick and enjoyable read. If you're looking for straightforward strategies to enhance your mindset and live your best life, this book is worth checking out.
October 19, 2025
A High-Performing Mind: An inspirational guide of proven methods to find your purpose, improve discipline, overcome your fears, achieve your goals, and live your best life by Andrew D Thompson. Such a long title that states a lot about the book. I have read so many self-help books that say they are going to give you a lot and most just state the same concepts as all the others. What I love about this book is that right away the author tells you about his hard ships and what is a very personal and tense situation. This helped me relate to him right away. Also, I like that he is not asking you to be perfect, but to grow and be better. I love the “Dirty Discipline” and then growing or building to “Warrior Mentality”. This book has helped me start getting the momentum to be better, to move more and to not expect the changes to be big and drastic overnight. I have read the book, but I can’t say I am done with it or put it back on my shelf. I keep going back and reading parts again to help me and remind me that sometimes it takes some time and small changes are ok. Love this book and I am recommending it to friends and family.
October 26, 2025
The High-Performing Mind by Andrew D. Thompson is an empowering and practical guide for anyone looking to build mental resilience, sharpen focus, and unlock their full potential. Drawing from his diverse background as a professional athlete, executive, and high-performance coach, Thompson delivers a motivational blend of storytelling and actionable strategies designed to help readers overcome setbacks and elevate their daily performance. The book outlines twelve key attributes of high performers and presents them through engaging short stories, making complex psychological concepts relatable and easy to absorb. Whether you’re striving to master your craft, conquer fear, or bounce back from failure, Thompson provides the mindset tools and clarity needed to achieve sustainable success and fulfillment. Inspiring and highly readable, A High-Performing Mind is a must-read for anyone seeking to transform adversity into achievement and live life with greater purpose and discipline. I was highly impressed by how practical and useful the advice Thompson provides is in the real world.
July 8, 2025
This book felt like therapy in paperback form.
I didn’t expect to connect with it so deeply, but here I am, sitting quietly after the last page, just letting it all sink in. Each short story felt personal, like the author had been watching my life and somehow knew exactly what I needed to hear.
The tone is warm, honest, and comforting like a good friend pulling up a chair and saying, “Here’s what helped me. Maybe it’ll help you too.” I highlighted so many lines that I lost count. It’s not just inspirational fluff it’s real, raw, and refreshingly grounded in truth.
Some pieces made me pause and reflect; others made me tear up. And by the end, I genuinely felt lighter, more focused, and more hopeful about where I am in my journey.
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just need a little perspective and peace, I can’t recommend this enough. It’s one of those books I’ll definitely come back to again.
I didn’t expect to connect with it so deeply, but here I am, sitting quietly after the last page, just letting it all sink in. Each short story felt personal, like the author had been watching my life and somehow knew exactly what I needed to hear.
The tone is warm, honest, and comforting like a good friend pulling up a chair and saying, “Here’s what helped me. Maybe it’ll help you too.” I highlighted so many lines that I lost count. It’s not just inspirational fluff it’s real, raw, and refreshingly grounded in truth.
Some pieces made me pause and reflect; others made me tear up. And by the end, I genuinely felt lighter, more focused, and more hopeful about where I am in my journey.
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just need a little perspective and peace, I can’t recommend this enough. It’s one of those books I’ll definitely come back to again.
July 21, 2025
This excellent guide outlines the necessary steps to live your best life and maximize your potential. Often, we have high hopes and expectations but can fall into negative thinking and make excuses that hinder our progress toward achieving our goals.
The book provides insightful strategies and tools for cultivating habits and attitudes that foster gradual yet steady improvement. The author shares compelling stories of how he and others have overcome significant challenges to pursue their heartfelt purposes and goals. The strategies encourage resilience and help shift your perspective on failure, viewing it as a learning experience. Additionally, it teaches you to see your fears as challenges you can overcome to become stronger.
The book provides insightful strategies and tools for cultivating habits and attitudes that foster gradual yet steady improvement. The author shares compelling stories of how he and others have overcome significant challenges to pursue their heartfelt purposes and goals. The strategies encourage resilience and help shift your perspective on failure, viewing it as a learning experience. Additionally, it teaches you to see your fears as challenges you can overcome to become stronger.
July 4, 2025
This book is a game-changer. A High-Performing Mind isn’t just about motivation — it’s a real, thoughtful guide to upgrading your mindset, building mental discipline, and taking control of your personal growth. Andrew D. Thompson writes in a way that’s both powerful and easy to follow. I found myself underlining so many lines. Whether you're feeling stuck or already on a self-development path, this book gives you practical tools and inspiration. Highly recommended!
July 8, 2025
Andrew D. Thompson turns lived adversity into sharp mental tools. His near-death experience fuels 12 mindset attributes built for clarity, focus, and emotional balance. The premise: failure teaches, fear stalls, discipline delivers. Through gritty mantras like “Fail your way to excellence,” he sketches a practical model where setbacks sharpen performance. Key takeaways?
Mental clarity = forward momentum
Discipline beats doubt
Warrior mindset resists chaos
Emotion can be trained, not tamed
The tone is direct, grounded, no fluff — a blend of story and technique for people who want growth with edge. It's not theoretical; it's lived, tested, and built for high-stakes moments.
Well laid out book packed with a clear and positive message: you have the power to control your choices through hard work and adherence to several principles.
Mental clarity = forward momentum
Discipline beats doubt
Warrior mindset resists chaos
Emotion can be trained, not tamed
The tone is direct, grounded, no fluff — a blend of story and technique for people who want growth with edge. It's not theoretical; it's lived, tested, and built for high-stakes moments.
Well laid out book packed with a clear and positive message: you have the power to control your choices through hard work and adherence to several principles.
December 11, 2025
Great read to remember when the going gets tough you got tougher and the HOW is given in this book!
Great read to remember when the going gets tough you got tougher and the HOW is given in this book!
Great read to remember when the going gets tough you got tougher and the HOW is given in this book!
August 28, 2025
A great book!
This was a very informative and helpful book. It basically was similar or like cognitive and behavioral therapies. The book was a roadmap to get your thoughts, emotions and body under control in stressful or challenging areas of your life. The author talks about empowering your will, resilence to overcome adversity, personal growth and improvement etc. And he talks of numerous other ways of improving your mind to work for you, instead of impeding your progress or lifelong goals in life. It was a well written book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this practical guide to mental and emotional fitness in your life. A great read!
This was a very informative and helpful book. It basically was similar or like cognitive and behavioral therapies. The book was a roadmap to get your thoughts, emotions and body under control in stressful or challenging areas of your life. The author talks about empowering your will, resilence to overcome adversity, personal growth and improvement etc. And he talks of numerous other ways of improving your mind to work for you, instead of impeding your progress or lifelong goals in life. It was a well written book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this practical guide to mental and emotional fitness in your life. A great read!
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