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There's No Plan B for Your A-Game: Be the Best in the World at What You Do
This program is read by the author.
Do you want to change the course of your life?
Do you want to be the best?
The best manager, the best athlete, the best artist, the best speaker, the best parent?
In There’s No Plan B for Your A-Game, former pro athlete, playwright, and acclaimed leadership coach Bo Eason shows you exactly what it takes to be the best. His proven tools and training have worked for Olympic medalists, military leaders, best-selling authors, professional athletes, and business executives and their teams.
There’s No Plan B for Your A-Game explains how to develop the character, integrity, and commitment it takes to become the best. Bo Eason focuses on a winning four-step process that helps you attain the skill, maintain the effort, and persist through
What do you want to achieve? How can you make it happen? Where will you find the stamina to reach your goal? Why do you take others with you? With inspiring, specific, real-word guidance, There’s No Plan B for Your A-Game teaches the best practices that lead to the best results, in every walk of life.
PLEASE When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.
Do you want to change the course of your life?
Do you want to be the best?
The best manager, the best athlete, the best artist, the best speaker, the best parent?
In There’s No Plan B for Your A-Game, former pro athlete, playwright, and acclaimed leadership coach Bo Eason shows you exactly what it takes to be the best. His proven tools and training have worked for Olympic medalists, military leaders, best-selling authors, professional athletes, and business executives and their teams.
There’s No Plan B for Your A-Game explains how to develop the character, integrity, and commitment it takes to become the best. Bo Eason focuses on a winning four-step process that helps you attain the skill, maintain the effort, and persist through
What do you want to achieve? How can you make it happen? Where will you find the stamina to reach your goal? Why do you take others with you? With inspiring, specific, real-word guidance, There’s No Plan B for Your A-Game teaches the best practices that lead to the best results, in every walk of life.
PLEASE When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.
Audible Audio
Published September 3, 2019
171 people are currently reading
1408 people want to read
About the author
Bo Eason
5 books9 followersBo Eason is a former professional American football player who played safety for four seasons for the Houston Oilers. He is currently an actor and playwright. His show "Runt of the Litter" is now being performed in multiple cities.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
January 21, 2022
Read about a guy who's been moderately good at a couple of things tell you how to be the best in the world at something. Some decent stuff about work ethic and tenacity, but mostly tired sports references and typical self-help drivel.
August 15, 2019
“We fail all the time. That’s what becoming the best is all about. We hold the intent. We hold the dream. And when we mess up, we stand back up, and we recommit to the intent and to the dream. There’s nothing shameful about failing. There’s only shame in not getting back up...The only way to improve is to fail, to be off course...You should attempt to fail more than everybody else, because that means you’re trying harder than anyone else. And eventually you get so good at it that you’re the best.”*
THERE’S NO PLAN B FOR YOUR A-GAME outlines Bo Easton’s game plan for making one’s dreams a reality. Eason, pro-football player, actor, playwright, and motivational speaker, became all those things because he focuses on his dreams by creating 20-year declarations. Declarations that most would have considered impossible. Not only does Eason think big, he plays the long game and wins.
Eason doesn’t believe in having a plan B, because approaching a declaration with anything less than his whole heart and soul means quitting and regret. Each of his declarations involve being the best at something, for example, being the best football safety. The story a person tells themselves plays a huge factor in whether they succeed or not. He states that “...action plus story equals expertise.”* Eason encourages a “player” mindset rather than one of a fan, by considering role models to be peers.
Eason provides plenty of guidance on creating the groundwork for success in the short term such as creating a positive environment, surrounding one’s self with the right teammates, setting up sixty-six day themes (aka short term goals), and eliminating distractions. Each chapter ends with action steps to aid in implementation of his method. He uses examples of others, athletes and entrepreneurs alike, who embraced his philosophy to obtain success.
I found Eason’s all-in approach inspiring. His teaching style includes much repetition both of anecdotes and concepts, which may put off some readers. His recap of key concepts in the final chapter and his action steps, however, provide excellent implementation tools. This book made me dream bigger and modify my approach to working on completing my goals.
Thanks to Amazon and St. Martin’s Press for providing an advance reader copy for review purposes.
*Please note that my review is based on uncorrected text.
THERE’S NO PLAN B FOR YOUR A-GAME outlines Bo Easton’s game plan for making one’s dreams a reality. Eason, pro-football player, actor, playwright, and motivational speaker, became all those things because he focuses on his dreams by creating 20-year declarations. Declarations that most would have considered impossible. Not only does Eason think big, he plays the long game and wins.
Eason doesn’t believe in having a plan B, because approaching a declaration with anything less than his whole heart and soul means quitting and regret. Each of his declarations involve being the best at something, for example, being the best football safety. The story a person tells themselves plays a huge factor in whether they succeed or not. He states that “...action plus story equals expertise.”* Eason encourages a “player” mindset rather than one of a fan, by considering role models to be peers.
Eason provides plenty of guidance on creating the groundwork for success in the short term such as creating a positive environment, surrounding one’s self with the right teammates, setting up sixty-six day themes (aka short term goals), and eliminating distractions. Each chapter ends with action steps to aid in implementation of his method. He uses examples of others, athletes and entrepreneurs alike, who embraced his philosophy to obtain success.
I found Eason’s all-in approach inspiring. His teaching style includes much repetition both of anecdotes and concepts, which may put off some readers. His recap of key concepts in the final chapter and his action steps, however, provide excellent implementation tools. This book made me dream bigger and modify my approach to working on completing my goals.
Thanks to Amazon and St. Martin’s Press for providing an advance reader copy for review purposes.
*Please note that my review is based on uncorrected text.
July 31, 2019
Your Personal Story is the Gateway to Your Greatness
Are you true to your nature? Are you living an authentic life? Do you show up as who you really are? Have you given yourself full permission to be who you really are?
Bo Eason did something brilliant when he transitioned out of his professional football career into the field of stage acting. He sought out the best stage actor of that time and asked him for the formula, how to become the best stage actor. That actor happened to be Al Pacino. As truly great people do, Al Pacino generously shared the details of his journey and provided his roadmap to becoming a great stage actor. Bo took that roadmap, implemented it and became a great stage actor.
Through this book, Bo Eason does for the reader the same thing that Al Pacino did for him. Bo delivers his personal roadmap on how to become the best — on any field of play. His use of the personal story concept makes his teachings on being THE BEST universal. The roadmap is there for the taking. The only thing left is for us to IMPLEMENT.
A word of warning. The road that Bo Eason takes you on is not for the weak or for the part time player. For those willing to put forth the work (and courage), this book will pay you dividends that go well beyond the cost of the book.
Read it. Do it.
Are you true to your nature? Are you living an authentic life? Do you show up as who you really are? Have you given yourself full permission to be who you really are?
Bo Eason did something brilliant when he transitioned out of his professional football career into the field of stage acting. He sought out the best stage actor of that time and asked him for the formula, how to become the best stage actor. That actor happened to be Al Pacino. As truly great people do, Al Pacino generously shared the details of his journey and provided his roadmap to becoming a great stage actor. Bo took that roadmap, implemented it and became a great stage actor.
Through this book, Bo Eason does for the reader the same thing that Al Pacino did for him. Bo delivers his personal roadmap on how to become the best — on any field of play. His use of the personal story concept makes his teachings on being THE BEST universal. The roadmap is there for the taking. The only thing left is for us to IMPLEMENT.
A word of warning. The road that Bo Eason takes you on is not for the weak or for the part time player. For those willing to put forth the work (and courage), this book will pay you dividends that go well beyond the cost of the book.
Read it. Do it.
March 27, 2022
This isn't the book for you if you're an underachiever or if you're is willing to settle in life! Bo tells you in a no BS way how to set up your life & your mindset to achieve your biggest goal/dream, the one that scares you but excites you the most! Great book to get inspired & kick your ass to get into actions!
September 25, 2019
Possibly one of the most motivating and energizing self-help books I've ever read!
October 22, 2021
This book was a very inspirational book to me. The quote that stuck out to me the most that Eason wrote on page 4 was “You were born the best. Do you remember the day of your conception? If you don’t, let me remind you of what happened on that day. On the day you were conceived, three hundred million sperm were released. The sperm that would help you was one of those. Three hundred million sperm backed by millions of years of evolution, designed to accomplish one thing-penetrate an egg. All three hundred hundred million have one job. And one of those sperm got the job done.” I rated this book a 3 out of 5 stars mainly because I really liked the book and the books I normally read I don’t like. On one hand he has a positive mental attitude towards everything in his life story even throughout the struggles. On the other hand he never talks about the struggles from the years in between his plan from 5 years old straight to high school. Another positive thing that stood out to me was bringing other successful people’s perspectives and life stories to get whoever is reading the book inspired to go and be the best in whatever they do. Although they talk about being the best in whatever they do it was never mentioned in the book that they were never the worst at anything even with the hard work they put in. The best thing throughout the book to me though was the determination he had. As a 5 year old he wrote a plan with a crayon that he was going to get into the NFL. His determination to keep being the best and working hard to get into the NFL took him a good amount of time but to have the dedication for that many amount of years showed how dedicated he was to everything he did.
March 13, 2022
I'm not the world's biggest note-taker, usually only marking a few points in books like this that I want to note down so that I can remember/incorporate them into my life. However, upon finishing this book I can barely close it thanks to all of the colourful magnetic bookmarkers that are clipped to pages that I need to revisit before I move on to my next read.
Most of these markers are for action points that I want to act upon, but a lot of others were little nuggets of wisdom and quotes that were moments in the book that really caught my attention.
One of these nicely sums up one of the key things about this book that sets it apart from a lot of other motivational/self-help books I have read; a focus on committing to long term action. This isn't a book that offers quick results, but instead, one that focuses on getting you to understand that true success takes time, so if you are going to get started on it, you need to be prepared to truly commit with no reservations. The following example of why this is a beneficial mindset comes in answer to a question about who actually holds power within prisons.
This was one of those paradigm-shifting moments for me because upon reading it, I immediately started thinking of all the dreams I have pursued over the years, but never achieved completely because I didn't close that cell door and fully commit to a course of action. There was always that out that I could take when things got hard/inconvenient. It was an interesting concept and one that I think nicely summarises the core message in this book, but it is hardly the only nugget of wisdom here.
Another is in reframing your goals and belief in yourself. The author hypothesises that the common wisdom of making only achievable goals is in error because there are no unachievable goals. He thinks it is better to make a declaration to achieve an enormous goal and expect to spend upwards of twenty years working towards it. It's not enough to tell yourself you want to be a professional footballer/writer/actor etc, you should work towards being the very best who ever lived at that thing and commit to that dream completely.
Part of me is terrified of that concept as the prevailing/common wisdom of most people is that I am just setting myself up for failure. However, another part of me recognises that fear for what it is and also recognises that there are people in this world who have achieved such heights, so why not me with enough dedication and commitment.
Ultimately there is a lot in this book that might be quite polarising for some people, especially those not comfortable with risk and commitment, but if you're anything like me then this book will give you a lot to think about. At the least, it got me to re-analyse my life from a perspective of what I want to achieve long term, and even if nothing comes from that, I think it is a worthwhile exercise that provides some clarity.
One of the elements I was not so positive about in this book were some of the examples, especially the longer anecdotes/life stories from other people. I personally found that these felt more like padding that hindered rather than helped an argument. Often keeping things short and to the point is more powerful than long stories that provide far too much time for distraction, and create obscurity rather than clarity.
However, this wasn't enough for me to knock a star from this review. This is one of the better books I have read in a long time and one of those few that I recommend that most people read. You might not get much from it, but it is worthwhile to read because at the least, it might make you consider your life from a new perspective.
Most of these markers are for action points that I want to act upon, but a lot of others were little nuggets of wisdom and quotes that were moments in the book that really caught my attention.
One of these nicely sums up one of the key things about this book that sets it apart from a lot of other motivational/self-help books I have read; a focus on committing to long term action. This isn't a book that offers quick results, but instead, one that focuses on getting you to understand that true success takes time, so if you are going to get started on it, you need to be prepared to truly commit with no reservations. The following example of why this is a beneficial mindset comes in answer to a question about who actually holds power within prisons.
No, the warden doesn't have any power, and the guards don't have any power. All the power in a prison belongs to the lifers. Because they have that lifetime sentence. They've heard the cell doors close. They know they're never leaving. So they put down stakes. They decorate their cell. They move in, and they take over. The temporary prisoners don't put down roots because they're counting the days until they get out. So they hold no power. Only the lifers do. And you can get really creative, use all your power, and make all your dreams come true because you are starting from a point of never leaving.
This was one of those paradigm-shifting moments for me because upon reading it, I immediately started thinking of all the dreams I have pursued over the years, but never achieved completely because I didn't close that cell door and fully commit to a course of action. There was always that out that I could take when things got hard/inconvenient. It was an interesting concept and one that I think nicely summarises the core message in this book, but it is hardly the only nugget of wisdom here.
Another is in reframing your goals and belief in yourself. The author hypothesises that the common wisdom of making only achievable goals is in error because there are no unachievable goals. He thinks it is better to make a declaration to achieve an enormous goal and expect to spend upwards of twenty years working towards it. It's not enough to tell yourself you want to be a professional footballer/writer/actor etc, you should work towards being the very best who ever lived at that thing and commit to that dream completely.
Part of me is terrified of that concept as the prevailing/common wisdom of most people is that I am just setting myself up for failure. However, another part of me recognises that fear for what it is and also recognises that there are people in this world who have achieved such heights, so why not me with enough dedication and commitment.
Ultimately there is a lot in this book that might be quite polarising for some people, especially those not comfortable with risk and commitment, but if you're anything like me then this book will give you a lot to think about. At the least, it got me to re-analyse my life from a perspective of what I want to achieve long term, and even if nothing comes from that, I think it is a worthwhile exercise that provides some clarity.
One of the elements I was not so positive about in this book were some of the examples, especially the longer anecdotes/life stories from other people. I personally found that these felt more like padding that hindered rather than helped an argument. Often keeping things short and to the point is more powerful than long stories that provide far too much time for distraction, and create obscurity rather than clarity.
However, this wasn't enough for me to knock a star from this review. This is one of the better books I have read in a long time and one of those few that I recommend that most people read. You might not get much from it, but it is worthwhile to read because at the least, it might make you consider your life from a new perspective.
September 9, 2019
If you want to take the island, burn the boats!
In 'There's NO Plan B For Your A-Game', Bo Eason reminds us that if you are fully committed to becoming the BEST in the World at a thing, then leave no outs, no other options or when the going gets tough... you'll take them.
There are plenty of books written by intellectuals who haven't done the work.
This isn't one of those books. Bo has done the work. He has run the miles and we get to learn from his wisdom after refining the process of what it takes to become The Best!
Bo is a master at being the BEST. From becoming a PRO athlete in the NFL to an accomplished playwright and actor, a top speaker and trainer. Bo Eason is the real deal. I can say that from experience as I have been blessed and honored to work with and train directly with Bo Eason for over 2 years now.
What you hold in your hands (this book) is the distillation of the process he teaches to his high-end clients and students.
In his pure Authentic, Honest and no hand-holding style, 'There's No Plan B For Your A-Game' is a manifesto for becoming a master in your chosen area .”
Play Big or Go home!
John Wooden said, “Success comes from knowing that you did your best to become the best you are capable of becoming"
Thank you, Bo, for going through the painstaking process to put into 3d words what it takes to become The BEST in the World (at whatever you want).
I've already bought 15 copies and mailed them to friends, clients, and colleagues.
In 'There's NO Plan B For Your A-Game', Bo Eason reminds us that if you are fully committed to becoming the BEST in the World at a thing, then leave no outs, no other options or when the going gets tough... you'll take them.
There are plenty of books written by intellectuals who haven't done the work.
This isn't one of those books. Bo has done the work. He has run the miles and we get to learn from his wisdom after refining the process of what it takes to become The Best!
Bo is a master at being the BEST. From becoming a PRO athlete in the NFL to an accomplished playwright and actor, a top speaker and trainer. Bo Eason is the real deal. I can say that from experience as I have been blessed and honored to work with and train directly with Bo Eason for over 2 years now.
What you hold in your hands (this book) is the distillation of the process he teaches to his high-end clients and students.
In his pure Authentic, Honest and no hand-holding style, 'There's No Plan B For Your A-Game' is a manifesto for becoming a master in your chosen area .”
Play Big or Go home!
John Wooden said, “Success comes from knowing that you did your best to become the best you are capable of becoming"
Thank you, Bo, for going through the painstaking process to put into 3d words what it takes to become The BEST in the World (at whatever you want).
I've already bought 15 copies and mailed them to friends, clients, and colleagues.
September 6, 2019
"Players only do what works!"
Bo is a player and his Book "There's No Plan B for Your A-Game: Be the Best in the World at What You Do" is a guideline to help anyone regardless their field, talent or starting point acquire the knowledge and tools needed to become the best version of yourself. Bo only tells you what works, and he tells you exactly what he has done in his life to achieve success.
I have worked with Bo personally during the last year and have been pleasantly surprised to find that Bo does everything he teaches. I have been looking for a mentor for the last 15 years but constantly find that most mentors look good on stage or paper with their next best seller but their personal lives don’t reflect what they teach. I have been in Bo’s home and seen how he raises his children and treats his wife; I can honestly tell you he strives to be the best in everything in his life. If you are looking for someone, to be honest with you and push you farther than you thought possible then Bo Eason is your man! His book lays out the blueprint that you need to become the best. This book should be required literature for anyone looking to excel in any aspect of their life.
Bo is a player and his Book "There's No Plan B for Your A-Game: Be the Best in the World at What You Do" is a guideline to help anyone regardless their field, talent or starting point acquire the knowledge and tools needed to become the best version of yourself. Bo only tells you what works, and he tells you exactly what he has done in his life to achieve success.
I have worked with Bo personally during the last year and have been pleasantly surprised to find that Bo does everything he teaches. I have been looking for a mentor for the last 15 years but constantly find that most mentors look good on stage or paper with their next best seller but their personal lives don’t reflect what they teach. I have been in Bo’s home and seen how he raises his children and treats his wife; I can honestly tell you he strives to be the best in everything in his life. If you are looking for someone, to be honest with you and push you farther than you thought possible then Bo Eason is your man! His book lays out the blueprint that you need to become the best. This book should be required literature for anyone looking to excel in any aspect of their life.
September 9, 2019
I've had the incredible privilege of working with Bo Eason for nearly four years as my coach. I'm so grateful he's put it ALL in this book available to YOU and the rest of the world! His approach, in his words, is Simple, not easy. But each chapter in the book ends with Action Steps. DO THEM! They will change your life.
I began my career as a CPA, and like Bo shares in the book, shifting to the next 20 yr plan is possible using the principles he outlines. His success from NFL to playwright to actor, speaker, coach, author is living proof. Bo's training drives you to the core of discovering your greatest purpose and instills confidence that the path WILL result in you living your BEST, most fulfilling life; that one you thought was only possible in your dreams!
I began my career as a CPA, and like Bo shares in the book, shifting to the next 20 yr plan is possible using the principles he outlines. His success from NFL to playwright to actor, speaker, coach, author is living proof. Bo's training drives you to the core of discovering your greatest purpose and instills confidence that the path WILL result in you living your BEST, most fulfilling life; that one you thought was only possible in your dreams!
September 19, 2024
I love a book that fires me up to be more disciplined, and this one had its moments. It had plenty of less helpful moments too, so I didn't rate it super highly. I loved his stories of grit and determination from sports and other walks of life, but it was only a nice solid 3* for me.
May 14, 2020
This is a must read! Al I can say is buy this book. It will change your life. I listened ok Audible and it is narrated by Bo himself. He does a fantastic job and sharing his story and actually explaining what set him a part in his life, and how exactly to acheive the same kind of success in your own.
June 3, 2020
This is one of the newest books on self-development that I have read recently. And the first time in my life I truly understood the high importance of sports mentality. Bo Eason is an amazing and inspiring writer, actor, ex NFL pro player. I love his mindset about how there is NO PLAN B, how to make a STATEMENT, and how to go for a long run because there are no shortcuts in life. DETERMINATION and becoming THE BEST of yourself is truly inspiring. I loved everything about this book, consumed it in audiobook format which was great. Huge and honest THANK YOU for the author. This book is brilliant!
December 19, 2019
Your Declaration=Outline of Your Life.
It’s that simple. It’s that powerful. Bo understands Darwinism and survival of the fittest. I doubt he’s watched Idiocracy but for those of us who have, this book makes a similar social commentary. I despise the apathy trend and victimization trend in our current culture… kudos to Bo for calling it out and inspiring us to rise above it!
“We’re Going to Struggle.”
I don’t know if I’ve cried so much during any other book. He constantly reminds you and reinforces you’re the best… it’s hard to not fall in love with his message, passion, and belief in you. If nothing else, you know there’s ONE PERSON rooting for you—Bo. “Being mediocre is hard”… 3 million sperm competed, and YOU won. Why waste such a precious victory!?!
I find it ironic we disregard being the best just because of struggle. Life is full of struggle—the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Tutu explain this in The Book of Joy. Why not get something out of Purposeful Struggle and make a difference in the world!?!
My husband and I thrive on being the opposite of culture and trends. We talk through and relive our struggles often, as well as the resulting success. We process faster this way and get back to “the next step” fast.
“No Drama, Just Action.”
A motto I’ve relished for years. When you eliminate drama, you free up mental, emotional, and physical energy to be the best version of you.
Players don’t have time to complain and gossip—only time to practice, because the game goes on regardless of the weather. Working in a greenhouse/nursery instilled this lesson in me; plants need water, weeding, trimming, moving, and selling, regardless of snow, frigid temps, freezing rain, or heat. I’ve spent 95+ degree days on black weed fabric, weeding trees and plants. I’ll never forget how important it is to “suck it up, buttercup,” as my manager trained me. Life needs you in the game at all times. Stop being a snowflake… snowflakes melt and we never see them again.
“Don’t Let an Amateur Question Your Declaration Because They Can’t Believe Like You Do.”
Like Lauren Holiday, my best friend also said, “just because you’re doing this doesn’t mean you can ignore me.” We haven’t spoken in the 2 years since… she couldn’t accept my husband and I moving to another state to build a successful life, despite our fears and potential failure. Yeah, success can be lonely at times; it requires you elevating your level of friends and releasing amateurs. But it’s always worth the sacrifice to play with professionals.
“Don’t Ask How… Ask Who.”
What a great way to reframe and let go. And there are no checklists, no goals… just Declarations and visual focus instead… Bo’s techniques are great for left-brained creatives, who hate getting caught up in the day-to-day monotony of checklists. It’s also a great way to stop wasting time in creating all those checklists and spreadsheets. (Corporate America training was strong with this one… I can waste hours obsessing over useless spreadsheets instead of ACTING on them!)
I’ve practiced Creative Visualization (CV) since 2004 and know visualizing your future works… having mental clarity on your goal and not focusing on the “how” is the most powerful tool for sustained success. I’ve been building the skills for my Declaration since starting my CV practice; this book tied it all up in a neat little “Bo” for me. ;) I stopped asking how, when I started practicing CV and never regretted letting the Divine handle the stress of How. Your job is to trust and act.
Bo gives you the path from Now to the Vision, giving you the markers along the way. Metaphors, analogies, stories (that’s Bo!), workbooks—everyone will connect, understand, and relate to some story he shares. He makes it hard to say “no” to your Declaration, despite your fears; for some of us, it’s impossible to say no.
As a classically trained vocalist with a Bachelor’s in Theatre, I KNOW success/pay is based on the 10% performance and 90% practice rule. The practice creates the journey. Accountability? Check. “What’s the best decision [for my future self]?” The ultimate method for accountability. It’s akin to the Hawthorne Effect—there’s always someone watching!
Predator Self? Domination?
I wish you could see all the scribbles in his book, and the hearts with my husband’s name on them. I married a wild predator and have a new understanding of the power of this quality; I used to say he “had more testosterone, but with a feminine soft-side.” Now, I understand that silent, primal instinct of his that attracted me to him 16 years ago, is our innate nature. This wild nature of his scares many people, but I’ve noticed it makes those around him grow. He has always made me feel safe, even when I’ve been on the opposite side of it. As you’ll read in the book, it’s probably what makes him an amazing lead guitarist!
It’s that simple. It’s that powerful. Bo understands Darwinism and survival of the fittest. I doubt he’s watched Idiocracy but for those of us who have, this book makes a similar social commentary. I despise the apathy trend and victimization trend in our current culture… kudos to Bo for calling it out and inspiring us to rise above it!
“We’re Going to Struggle.”
I don’t know if I’ve cried so much during any other book. He constantly reminds you and reinforces you’re the best… it’s hard to not fall in love with his message, passion, and belief in you. If nothing else, you know there’s ONE PERSON rooting for you—Bo. “Being mediocre is hard”… 3 million sperm competed, and YOU won. Why waste such a precious victory!?!
I find it ironic we disregard being the best just because of struggle. Life is full of struggle—the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Tutu explain this in The Book of Joy. Why not get something out of Purposeful Struggle and make a difference in the world!?!
My husband and I thrive on being the opposite of culture and trends. We talk through and relive our struggles often, as well as the resulting success. We process faster this way and get back to “the next step” fast.
“No Drama, Just Action.”
A motto I’ve relished for years. When you eliminate drama, you free up mental, emotional, and physical energy to be the best version of you.
Players don’t have time to complain and gossip—only time to practice, because the game goes on regardless of the weather. Working in a greenhouse/nursery instilled this lesson in me; plants need water, weeding, trimming, moving, and selling, regardless of snow, frigid temps, freezing rain, or heat. I’ve spent 95+ degree days on black weed fabric, weeding trees and plants. I’ll never forget how important it is to “suck it up, buttercup,” as my manager trained me. Life needs you in the game at all times. Stop being a snowflake… snowflakes melt and we never see them again.
“Don’t Let an Amateur Question Your Declaration Because They Can’t Believe Like You Do.”
Like Lauren Holiday, my best friend also said, “just because you’re doing this doesn’t mean you can ignore me.” We haven’t spoken in the 2 years since… she couldn’t accept my husband and I moving to another state to build a successful life, despite our fears and potential failure. Yeah, success can be lonely at times; it requires you elevating your level of friends and releasing amateurs. But it’s always worth the sacrifice to play with professionals.
“Don’t Ask How… Ask Who.”
What a great way to reframe and let go. And there are no checklists, no goals… just Declarations and visual focus instead… Bo’s techniques are great for left-brained creatives, who hate getting caught up in the day-to-day monotony of checklists. It’s also a great way to stop wasting time in creating all those checklists and spreadsheets. (Corporate America training was strong with this one… I can waste hours obsessing over useless spreadsheets instead of ACTING on them!)
I’ve practiced Creative Visualization (CV) since 2004 and know visualizing your future works… having mental clarity on your goal and not focusing on the “how” is the most powerful tool for sustained success. I’ve been building the skills for my Declaration since starting my CV practice; this book tied it all up in a neat little “Bo” for me. ;) I stopped asking how, when I started practicing CV and never regretted letting the Divine handle the stress of How. Your job is to trust and act.
Bo gives you the path from Now to the Vision, giving you the markers along the way. Metaphors, analogies, stories (that’s Bo!), workbooks—everyone will connect, understand, and relate to some story he shares. He makes it hard to say “no” to your Declaration, despite your fears; for some of us, it’s impossible to say no.
As a classically trained vocalist with a Bachelor’s in Theatre, I KNOW success/pay is based on the 10% performance and 90% practice rule. The practice creates the journey. Accountability? Check. “What’s the best decision [for my future self]?” The ultimate method for accountability. It’s akin to the Hawthorne Effect—there’s always someone watching!
Predator Self? Domination?
I wish you could see all the scribbles in his book, and the hearts with my husband’s name on them. I married a wild predator and have a new understanding of the power of this quality; I used to say he “had more testosterone, but with a feminine soft-side.” Now, I understand that silent, primal instinct of his that attracted me to him 16 years ago, is our innate nature. This wild nature of his scares many people, but I’ve noticed it makes those around him grow. He has always made me feel safe, even when I’ve been on the opposite side of it. As you’ll read in the book, it’s probably what makes him an amazing lead guitarist!
December 2, 2019
I really loved that Bo took "goals" and drew them out in order to make one declaration for a longer period of time and uses action steps (what we would think of as goals) in order to move toward the one long term declaration.
What I did not like was that the long period of time is 20 years. I don't see that working for everyone. He also kinda assumes everyone would wanna be "the best" in their field...not everyone is interested in competing so hard that they limit their lives to one, very long range declaration and everything that does not support that one thing is put to the side.
Not everyone is as privileged as Mr. Eason, which makes the notion that everyone can be the best in their field, even viable. Not everyone has the tools, the support, or even the desire to reach epic declarations. At 7 years old, I wanted to be the President of the United States. At almost 47, there is no way in Hell I want to be the POTUS. (I like my non-gray hair...lol.)
Because I did really like some of what he said, I am going to modify it a bit. I am going to use 15-20 goal setting categories, research and come up with 2-3 goals per category and then choose 1 goal per category which complements each other, and put a 10 year plan together which will encompass the completion of 15-20 goals in the 10 year period.
Because I am interested in retiring from the Federal Government in 10 years, many of the category goals will enhance this main goal. I am currently debt free and intend to remain so; however, the home I currently live in needs some fairly significant modifications/upgrades, which can be completed in 10 years. After retirement, I would like to work with non-profit companies and adjunct teach at the local colleges. I will need to narrow my scope for working with the non-profits; however, with my current level of education and possible licensures, I don't need to reinvent the wheel, I will just need to practice networking and taking on some additional responsibilities. This is quite exciting but for me, a 20 year plan is just too long. I know I will want to have another 10 year plan at the end of that 10 year period.
Bottom Line: There were some really great information in this book, which I do think people can gain...just know thyself and adjust as necessary. Good Luck!
What I did not like was that the long period of time is 20 years. I don't see that working for everyone. He also kinda assumes everyone would wanna be "the best" in their field...not everyone is interested in competing so hard that they limit their lives to one, very long range declaration and everything that does not support that one thing is put to the side.
Not everyone is as privileged as Mr. Eason, which makes the notion that everyone can be the best in their field, even viable. Not everyone has the tools, the support, or even the desire to reach epic declarations. At 7 years old, I wanted to be the President of the United States. At almost 47, there is no way in Hell I want to be the POTUS. (I like my non-gray hair...lol.)
Because I did really like some of what he said, I am going to modify it a bit. I am going to use 15-20 goal setting categories, research and come up with 2-3 goals per category and then choose 1 goal per category which complements each other, and put a 10 year plan together which will encompass the completion of 15-20 goals in the 10 year period.
Because I am interested in retiring from the Federal Government in 10 years, many of the category goals will enhance this main goal. I am currently debt free and intend to remain so; however, the home I currently live in needs some fairly significant modifications/upgrades, which can be completed in 10 years. After retirement, I would like to work with non-profit companies and adjunct teach at the local colleges. I will need to narrow my scope for working with the non-profits; however, with my current level of education and possible licensures, I don't need to reinvent the wheel, I will just need to practice networking and taking on some additional responsibilities. This is quite exciting but for me, a 20 year plan is just too long. I know I will want to have another 10 year plan at the end of that 10 year period.
Bottom Line: There were some really great information in this book, which I do think people can gain...just know thyself and adjust as necessary. Good Luck!
March 10, 2021
train outside of the capacity
decelerate at a pace slower than the rest of the field
need recovery and rest period - or you run out of steam
magnetism is trainable
create boundaries, delay gratification
live beyond your capacity
boredom and monotony are the new norm
don't train for ease and luxury - train for adversity
development is more important than winning
increase stakes for success and failure
put the world on your side
bring more emotion to your work
shame is the death of all dreams
schedule your championship and measure progress
show me your schedule and I can predict your future
kids need to grow competitively - competition is noble and innate
failure makes you better
put yourself in uncomfortable situations - stay wild
there's honor in failing
see the team behind the person
stay wild - get out of comfort - tap into animal nature
be a player, not a fan; fans drink beer and cheer; players play
you are your environment
you can't do it on your own - remember who is behind the scenes
don't let the ball touch the ground
don't sacrifice development for winning
most people's behavior is as it was the day before, start a routine/system
people don't see what successful people have had to sacrifice - what they left behind on the way to the top
pain in the discipline over the pain in regret
flip your struggle, flip your story
never do again list
let your story of struggle be your rocket fuel
our culture is a fan culture, not a player culture
false summits - get there and then go onto the next one
will power doesn't work
the difference between disappointment and rejection is who is in control, who has the power
the brain needs new things to thrive
do it, don't fantasize about it
players don't critique or have commentary, they play
embrace high stress and high recovery
attack the problem
plot your course so you have something to go back to when you get off track
decelerate at a pace slower than the rest of the field
need recovery and rest period - or you run out of steam
magnetism is trainable
create boundaries, delay gratification
live beyond your capacity
boredom and monotony are the new norm
don't train for ease and luxury - train for adversity
development is more important than winning
increase stakes for success and failure
put the world on your side
bring more emotion to your work
shame is the death of all dreams
schedule your championship and measure progress
show me your schedule and I can predict your future
kids need to grow competitively - competition is noble and innate
failure makes you better
put yourself in uncomfortable situations - stay wild
there's honor in failing
see the team behind the person
stay wild - get out of comfort - tap into animal nature
be a player, not a fan; fans drink beer and cheer; players play
you are your environment
you can't do it on your own - remember who is behind the scenes
don't let the ball touch the ground
don't sacrifice development for winning
most people's behavior is as it was the day before, start a routine/system
people don't see what successful people have had to sacrifice - what they left behind on the way to the top
pain in the discipline over the pain in regret
flip your struggle, flip your story
never do again list
let your story of struggle be your rocket fuel
our culture is a fan culture, not a player culture
false summits - get there and then go onto the next one
will power doesn't work
the difference between disappointment and rejection is who is in control, who has the power
the brain needs new things to thrive
do it, don't fantasize about it
players don't critique or have commentary, they play
embrace high stress and high recovery
attack the problem
plot your course so you have something to go back to when you get off track
October 8, 2021
This book was an unexpected surprise. It was phenomenal. I listened to it on audiobook, and the author read his book so well. He really explained how to truly become exceptional at something. He doesn't beat around the bush and is not afraid to tell his readers (or listeners) that becoming the best will take hours of daily practice for decades. He encourages his listeners to create "20-year plans." He stresses the importance of ignoring the "naysayers" that surround us and the necessity of giving up "anything that does not push us towards our goal." He tells us to ask ourselves to decide what we want to be the best in the world at and to think about how that person would act, what they would eat, what they say, etc. In addition, there were many amazing stories of people who beat unsurmountable odds to enjoy unbelievable accomplishments. Overall, it was a well-written, well-read, highly engaging, and highly motivating book.
March 5, 2020
I appreciated Bo’s rawness in this book. He tells you over and over again that it isn’t easy, but the reward of having no regrets and being the best at what you do is worth the hard. I also appreciated how he mentions you won’t always be perfect at it, you may have a bad hour or a bad day, but as you remember your declaration, you will get back on track, and you will get faster at getting back on track.
You are the best! If you declare it, focus on it, and remember the long game (20 years) the things that don’t help you reach your declaration, will fall out of your life. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it!
Overall really enjoyed this book, the advice, and the message, even is it was a bit overwhelming and nerve racking to think about it. Definitely made me rethink a lot of things I am doing.
You are the best! If you declare it, focus on it, and remember the long game (20 years) the things that don’t help you reach your declaration, will fall out of your life. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it!
Overall really enjoyed this book, the advice, and the message, even is it was a bit overwhelming and nerve racking to think about it. Definitely made me rethink a lot of things I am doing.
Read
November 11, 2019A group of friends were reading this, and I honestly did not think it was my type of book, but I thought wrong. I could not put the book down, and I am having my husband and two oldest boys read it immediately. Why? Because it challenged me as to how we allow our lives to go by and don't make any declarations about what that life is going to look like. We just react to the life that happens to us, rather than set out to change things about our lives.
I love that he doesn't have any short cuts to making your A game happen. It truly is just hard work, and a 15-20 year plan. You read that right! 15-20 years!
Bo's story is one of a kind, and is worth the read just because of that!
I love that he doesn't have any short cuts to making your A game happen. It truly is just hard work, and a 15-20 year plan. You read that right! 15-20 years!
Bo's story is one of a kind, and is worth the read just because of that!
March 18, 2021
For EVERYONE in the family to become the BEST Version of themselves
I read this book because a friend recommended it. I’ve been knee deep in personal development for over 7 years and didn’t expect to be wowed.
I was 100% wrong.
I now have this book on kindle, audible and hard copy. I listen every morning with my kids (6,8,10) and whenever we’re in the car. My 8 year just finished her 20 year plan drawing (not prompted by me, all on her own). I wake my babies up everyday reminding them they’re the best and God made them to do something GREAT. They all tell me back their “I am going to be the best at” statements.
I can’t express enough gratitude and praise for this book. Bo has changed our family trajectory!
I read this book because a friend recommended it. I’ve been knee deep in personal development for over 7 years and didn’t expect to be wowed.
I was 100% wrong.
I now have this book on kindle, audible and hard copy. I listen every morning with my kids (6,8,10) and whenever we’re in the car. My 8 year just finished her 20 year plan drawing (not prompted by me, all on her own). I wake my babies up everyday reminding them they’re the best and God made them to do something GREAT. They all tell me back their “I am going to be the best at” statements.
I can’t express enough gratitude and praise for this book. Bo has changed our family trajectory!
August 26, 2020
Not science-based, not backed by research, no psychology concepts what so ever.
A typical motivational writing from someone who has the charisma to do so. Only.
It will not add much to your knowledge, there is nothing new or educating in there, but because the same concepts are repeated over and over again, maybe, this way these concepts get stuck in there and you would feel you are strongly moved by this book.
If you are looking for a typical motivational book, maybe to lift you up, this could do. But if you are looking for something deeper that better interacts with your mind, then this is not the book for you.
A typical motivational writing from someone who has the charisma to do so. Only.
It will not add much to your knowledge, there is nothing new or educating in there, but because the same concepts are repeated over and over again, maybe, this way these concepts get stuck in there and you would feel you are strongly moved by this book.
If you are looking for a typical motivational book, maybe to lift you up, this could do. But if you are looking for something deeper that better interacts with your mind, then this is not the book for you.
March 28, 2020
The lesson is good, but he re-states it without adding much substance. Very lacking in data and any kind of rigor. Replacing data-based arguments with anecdotes is not a sufficient substitute. He likes to quote random chunks from books/authors he brings up with no introduction, and expects us to take the thesis at face value with no justification.
The take home message and its corresponding outline are on point, but there's so much padding here. Couldn't sell a book and tour otherwise though...
The take home message and its corresponding outline are on point, but there's so much padding here. Couldn't sell a book and tour otherwise though...
March 19, 2023
Great message although I REALLY could’ve done without the promotion of the author’s son. That part seemed a little like parent living vicariously through a child. That is his son’s story to tell, and if he doesn’t accomplish the things he hopes, his father sure has made a case for performance-based parenting. Gross.
The author’s achievements are praiseworthy and the overall theme is sound. There is zero reason he should have mentioned his children. Zero.
The author’s achievements are praiseworthy and the overall theme is sound. There is zero reason he should have mentioned his children. Zero.
August 5, 2023
it's necessary to read the whole book to truly "get it." I understood his desire to "be the best" at his heart's desire, but I wasn't all that gungho about his idea ... until he started talking about those who gather around to help the one going all out ... team is important ... and making long-term plans ARE good (to help you stay true to YOUR course) ... but the greatest importance is what I've always felt -- ALWAYS be the best I can be!
November 27, 2024
While the author did manage to make me think about my greatest version of myself and the possible future potential, i found there to be too many hidden subtle contradictions that made me realize this book is about getting new clients to coaching sessions for the author :) Which is not bad, but… a bit dishonest. Only a bit :D But again, there are not too many books that make You dream about Your greatest potential so the book is definitely not wasted on You.
September 9, 2019
Can’t wait to read this a second and third time
Bo gives so much in this book. There are a ton of insights and he spells out how to take action with them. So much value in here that I just finished reading it and plan to immediately go back to read it a second and third time right away.
Bo gives so much in this book. There are a ton of insights and he spells out how to take action with them. So much value in here that I just finished reading it and plan to immediately go back to read it a second and third time right away.
October 19, 2019
This book started out in an interesting manner and became a bit flat at the end. Follows a "self help" format. I wish someone would review all the self help management books out there and gather together the similar features of each into a book. So many seem to be redundant. Does that mean that the options for design are limited and the possible responses fixed?
December 5, 2019
If you like half researched history, a super shaky understanding of biology, no understanding of psychology, way too many sports metaphors, and a ton of cliches, this is the book for you.
Admittedly there are parts that are inspiring but overall it is just a bunch of fluff disguised as self help.
Admittedly there are parts that are inspiring but overall it is just a bunch of fluff disguised as self help.
March 16, 2023
Rated 3.75 Stars. Great motivational book with a new perspective on self improvement. I like that it promotes not having shame for being “The Best” at what you do. Some areas I felt were repetitive, and although I think it is admirable to hear about his son, I was tired of about hearing about his son by the end of the book.
April 16, 2024
Good book had some good life stories and I enjoyed the action steps at the end of each chapter. I like how the book really pushes for the best version of yourself and a plan for the future. But a plan for more than 20 years. The author wants you to make a long term plan at least five years i would say but enjoyable book great lessons and you are the best.
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