For anyone who feels like they'll never live the life they dream of living, let social media sensation and entrepreneur Gabriel Conte be an inspiration to The life you want can be yours. And you can begin to earn it, achieve it, and live it right now . Gabriel Conte has created a life that others dream of--he's married to the love of his life, he's an entrepreneur in multiple fields, he nurtures great relationships with his parents and siblings, and he's sustaining a vibrant relationship with God that's at the heart of everything he does. But it didn't happen overnight. He's worked with intention to get to where he is today. With encouraging and uplifting stories from his personal journey--including the highs, lows, ups, downs, missteps, big decisions, small decisions, breakthroughs, and miracles-- A Mission for Meaning highlights what he's learned about life, love, and being accountable for the consequences of your decisions. As Gabriel recounts the behind-the-scenes secrets of the intentional choices that led him to achieve his success at such a young age, he aims to help you on your own path to a better life by giving you the tools you need Success--however you choose to define it--can be yours, starting today. Let A Mission for Meaning be your guide along the way. Praise for A Mission for Meaning : "There is power in authenticity and vulnerability, and Gabe gifts that to his readers in spades. In sharing his struggles, from walking the valleys of depression to embarking on the journey to embrace failure as opportunity, he doesn't hold back. While Gabe's story is truly one of a kind, the themes are universal and relevant to today's generation in a big way." --Matt James, star of The Bachelor season 25
Extremely corny and poorly written book by an unemployed used to be influencer who can’t find meaning in his life because he’s been spoiled to his core and has no hobbies beyond F1 races and video games. Comes off as paternalistic in his marriage and household and seems to be permanently stuck in 2016, aka the last time he felt relevant/popular and excitement for the future. It’s awfully rich of him to lecture us on how we can find financial success when all he had to do to earn money was post a few dumb 6 second videos on vine at the right time and marry a woman from Instagram who’s fine being the sole breadwinner and doing all the household chores. Gabe hasn’t consistently earned his own income in years and it shows.
Very sorry to say, but this is a poorly written book. It’s mostly platitudes from someone who has been immensely privileged.
Gabe is talented and driven, no doubt, but I really hope he reads broadly before attempting another book. You can tell when someone who isn’t a reader attempts to write. If you want to lean into the biographical style, you need to have read good biographies.
That said, Gabe has mentioned more than once on social media that he finds reading boring. It’s disrespectful as heck to try jump into an art form, and capitalise on it, when you’ve shown said art form no support in the past.
I’m also irked because, when I look at the grammatical errors Gabriel continues to make on social media (begging y’all to remember plurals don’t need an apostrophe 😭), it’s clear he has not taken the writing craft seriously. In return, he cannot ask to be taken wholly seriously. I assume the book was heavily line edited. Both his and Jess’s vocabulary are limited, and that’s okay, but it’s not authorial. I don’t mean that rudely, it’s just an objective fact and they have loads of time to improve on this.
Anyway, back to the book’s contents. Not much more to say, other than the patriarchal undercurrents are weird, too; ultimately, many will hesitate to take life advice from a man who seemingly cannot help his wife with basic house chores and the likes. I’d rather we lean into the basics before focusing on Big Picture.
Next book idea: Christian dude realises he can love Jesus while also learning about intersectional privilege, the dismantling of gender roles, and punctuation (that last one is a bit rude, apologies, I’m a pedant 😭).
We believe in you, Gabriel! There’s so much room to keep growing.
i cannot wait for this! i’ve been a huge fan of their family since they were still doing long distant! seeing them grow and now having a beautiful princess just fills my heart with so much love ! 🤍
i'm a big fan of jess and gabriel, so i was stoked to read gabe's book and hear his story. overall i liked it, but my main gripe is with the writing. it's just all right. i would have preferred gabriel told his parents' stories in his own words instead of using transcriptions. those (assumedly) mark d'agostino-influenced different voices are jarring and annoying (although it did make his dad's comments about his mom never having a cuban boyfriend elite; i laughed out loud). i also hated the added parentheses comments that popped up from time to time, i.e. (more on this topic later in the last chapter!). you don't need to tell me i'll hear about it later; just keep writing and i'll follow along and hear about it when i get there. made me feel like a little kid who needed to be prompted to keep reading. the latter part of the book, though, felt much better, and you could tell it was just gabe writing about his life, and i loved that! all in all, this was a quick and enjoyable read, and i loved getting to hear more of his story. :)
been following Jess and Gabriel since forever so when I found out Gabriel had released a book I knew it would be a success. It inspires, challenges and shows how to live a more meaningful and purpose life.
AMAZING It was so beautiful and impactful. His and his family’s testimony is so incredible and truly shows God’s faithfulness. It was interesting to get a deeper insight into his life as an influencer but most importantly as a Christian. I’ve watched them for so long and I’ve loved their content and what they stand for since day one. I feel like I got to know them better and was greatly inspired by who they are. I loved this, what a blessing.
I’ve followed Jess and Gabriel on YouTube since they were dating. I’ve always appreciated their content, but most importantly how unashamedly they would talk about their faith in Jesus. This book was so good... a glimpse into Gabe’s life... family history. It was a beautiful story and I can’t wait to see where God continues to take them. It was a great reminder that the decisions we make now can and will impact future generations. . . Even if you don’t know who Jess and Gabriel are I think anyone would enjoy this book and be inspired to live life with a mission and intentionality.
I never read self-help books, in fact I typically can’t stand them. But this one was just different. I’m so glad I picked it up. I feel like I have more clarity on life than ever, and Gabriel validated a lot of things I looked strangely at myself for (like being in my early 20s and not partying, bar hopping, etc). I’ve never felt more seen and understood before. Needless to say, I finished this book in one sitting, annotated it, saved pieces for later, reflected. Thank you, Gabriel.
«sometimes you don't realize how selfish you can be until you're forced to look in the mirror.»
an incredibly well written book from one of my favorite profiles on social media. I loved getting more insight into their lives. such a beautiful book, read in one sitting. motivating and inspiring in so many different ways!
«just turning on the news or scrolling through social media is enough to make most young people believe life is over before it's begun.»
«a million things had to go right for you to be born, and a million things had to go right for you to still be alive today.»
A beautifully written book that challenges aspects of the current landscape, while being inclusive, uplifting and truly inspiring. While telling his story, you are challenged to reflect on your own story and purpose. I literally read this in one sitting.
Great start and hopeful ending, good ideas and lessons but was kind of patterned and could have gone more into depth about things. Overall a good and optimistic read. Been a fan since 2016!
Few real men, like Gabriel, truly understand the strength in vulnerability. Thank you, Gabriel, for being an inspiring example—not just for men, but for all of us.
Okay, hear me out. I've been following Gabe and Jess for some years now, I trully believe they are creatives and really good at their social media things. But honestly, Gabe, if you ever come across this review... your book is okay, alright? I found it more interesting because I was curious about your history, the things you didn't share online before, but the lessons may come across repetitive for someone who is already used to consuming Self Help and modern christianity content online.
This book is solid, for a first write as someone young as him.
No, I wouldn't recomend it to anyone unless they already knew Gabe from Youtube.
I hope you continue your work, specially those cinematics, those are soo good 🙏
About what you’d expect from a mid20s social media influencer. Some decent advice and some not so much. A fairly consistent theme that God is waiting to help you accomplish your dreams and make you successful. Read with a fair bit of caution and discernment and you’ll glean some helpful nuggets.
His strongest points were the need for community and friends with whom you can be open and accountable, as well as (ironically) the need to escape the trap of ever-present social media.
I guess this would be most helpful for a young person who could read as advice from an older brother but it would be best to read and discuss it with them.
It was a good book, it teaches you a lot about one perspective of life, of one interpretation of religion. I liked it, but at times it just seemed like he was trying to tie in messages, but the way it came across was too forced, or maybe the message wasn’t as clear as it should’ve been. Overall, the messages are powerful, but the way it came about seemed weird.
I loved learning more about his story and background. But I didn't love how much he talked about God. While I can appreciate that he is passionate about what he believes in but I'm one who was raised super religious but as an adult I have drifted far away from it, so I have a hard time listening to it. But I still enjoyed his story.
I love when a book falls into your lap at the right moment. I’m going to rate this book 5 stars. Not because I think it’s perfect, or because I’d recommend it to others, or because Gabriel has all the answers. But because in this moment, who I am now, I connected with it and I’m so grateful for it. I’m not going to go into more detail about that because it feels personal.
What I can say is I read A Mission for Meaning in less than 48 hours. When I finished it, I wanted to immediately start reading it again. I have been watching Gabriel and Jess since (like most people) their wedding video went viral and was recommended to me on YouTube. They are still, 7 years later, some of my favourites to watch. I don’t think we’d be friends, but I find their vibe relaxing and inspiring. 9 times out of 10 watching their videos leaves me in a better mood, feeling more ready to take on the day and live my life. The best kind of YouTube videos, for me (not for YT lol), are the ones that make you want to stop watching YT, to put down your phone and open your eyes and heart. Gabriel and Jess are intentional, grateful, self-aware and fun. All things I value. They are sort of mentor figures in my life (if that’s not a little over dramatic - parasocial relationships are fascinating!), because when I watch them I re-align with those values. So I was very excited for Gabriel’s book about living intentionally and finding meaning and purpose.
I was touched in 2017 by Gabriel’s “how I became SO SUCCESSFUL” video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmQTy... to the point that I had “success is around you every day. Just open your eyes to find it. So, what is success? Then chase it” printed on my wall for years. So no surprise that I loved the part in the book where Gabriel discusses what success is to him…
“One of the things I’m trying to find success in is being okay with who I am, even when I don’t meet the goals I’ve set or the expectations I’ve placed on myself. If I put all my meaning and purpose in achieving my goals, where does that leave me when I don’t achieve them? Setting goals and expectations for yourself is good unless you make them “god” over everything else. So even now, amid my failures, true success is fully understanding God’s view of me and that God is still so happy and pleased with who I am, even when I fail.”
Choosing the kind of life you want to live. Having a vision, and acting in alignment with that vision and your goals. Not a passenger in your own life, but a driver. That is power, that is freedom. And Gabriel makes clear that though there is so much in our lives we cannot control, it is quite possible to have a life you value, one where you feel purposeful, faithful and loved. I liked the greater insight into Gabriel’s life experiences and viewpoint. And I love the idea that everything that has happened in your past, and your family’s past, has led you to be who you are today. Not in an “it was always destined to be like this” or a “the trauma was worth it” sort of way but practically because it’s true; all the chance meetings, upbringing, hardships endured, lessons learned, media consumed led you to who you are today.
I am not religious. I’m not even agnostic, a proud atheist, who at times feels a strong dislike for organised religion. I’m pro-choice when it comes to abortion, I’m queer and proud of the LGBTQ+ community (and I’m aware J&G could be homophobic), Gabriel and I have different views on marriage, divorce, gender roles and so much more I’m sure. But you can focus on that, on what divides you, or you can take what you take.
I’ve learnt from Gabriel over the years - about money, relationships, intention, morals, principles and upholding, and social confidence. When he spoke about writing their family mission statement I was inspired to write my own personal mission statement, which was a powerful exercise of self-reflection and value setting. But beyond that, the simple act of writing it isn’t enough. Gabriel talks plenty about holding yourself accountable, and having a community which holds you accountable. Actions speak louder than words. I’m a big thinker so that is always a good reminder.
I like the reflection prompts at the end of each chapter and will do some journaling to those at some point. And I genuinely do think I might re-read this book soon. What is my mission? Am I acting in a way that is contributing to the life I want? I loved this book.
Quite honestly for those who are expecting this to be the most wonderfully written book, hold off. I’m not saying this in a way of hate towards the book or Gabe (I LOVE THIS BOOK), but in a way that hopefully someone checking the reviews will see it and go “oh okay makes sense”. Not once throughout this book does Gabe claim to be a professional, or to be perfect. Understand that he is not an author by trade, he is a former athlete, he’s an actor, he’s a content creator, and most importantly he’s a husband and now a father.
This is the story of his life and how he is where he is now. He talks about finances throughout this book but it’s never the focus, he’s just addressing something everyone needs to take into account in the most basic and shortest way possible (Aka having good financial knowledge and how to manage your own money correctly).
He talks about religion throughout this book but as a religious man it would be silly to expect the book to be void of God. Personally as someone who is a Christian I don’t find it to be overwhelmingly full of religious beliefs, I tend to find it tastefully spread throughout the book; but I don’t know how someone who is not religious would see it.
Do not expect this book to be artfully written, there are some things that can be seen in a bit “cringey” way. A thing to know though, is that as someone who has watched Jess and Gabe’s YouTube before they even got married, this book is written the way that Gabe talks and/or thinks from what I can tell. I think that in the future if he writes more books that his writing will evolve, which honestly don’t expect someone’s first ever book to be perfectly written like all of your favorite authors. I have certainly read more painful to make it through books than this considering I flew through 135 pages before I have to put it down to sleep.
I feel as though even the “cringe” statements are ones that most can relate to. There are several lines throughout this book that made me laugh out loud as I related to a few pretty well.
I would 100% recommend this book to people and plan on having my sister and best friend both read it!
I love how gabe included the stories of his parents and their redemption. God’s hand is so clearly over Gabe’s family and him. The impossible was made possible. I loved a line he says in the book “God can take you somewhere you aren’t capable of going yourself”, even if someone says you can’t do it. I respect Gabe so much for writing this book. He is so vulnerable, but is able to be humble about the situations in his life. This book has a perfect balance of his homeschooler humor and the seriousness of his testimony. He has great biblical advice that is practical. He uses examples from his own life which are super helpful. I sympathize with a lot of what he talks about. I love how this book isn’t just about him but he includes testimonies from his family and friends that have impacted him and showed God. It really showcases how our actions and the small conversations we have with others can be used by God and change the faith of others. God works in all the details in our lives. Through the little things in life that we think are burdensome, he is working behind the scenes in amazing ways. This was evident in so many of Gabe’s stories, but especially when he got his wisdom teeth out and ending up messaging Jess. Jess’ comments in the book are so sweet. Their love story is so cute, and I can relate to it. I like how this book has a little bit of everything: testimonies, history, romance, God. It was an easy, fast paced read. All I wanted to do was keep reading. Gabe couldn’t have worded the book better. I can see how his experiences have caused him to learn and gain wisdom. It encouraged me and allowed me to be excited about the future God has in store for me. I may not know what He has for me, but I have faith He is working it all out for my good. Gabe’s gratitude for everything and everyone he has in his life is evident and moving.
I’m an avid reader. (Like Nine whole book cases overflowing with books) and I’ve rn ever had a favourite. I’ve had books I cherish, sure, and I’ve had books from multiple genres that I’d consider better than others. But man, when I say I knew this would be my favourite book before I even PURCHASED this book, I mean it. I’ve followed Gabe since his early vine days, Circa 800 followers. (Maybe 2014? 2013? I can’t remember) BUT I’ve followed this man since then, and I’ve kept up with all of his posts across all platforms simply because of how proud I was to watch him grow. From 6 second clips in his family home/bedroom to welcoming his first baby with the love of his life. Every single second I’ve been lucky enough to view through a screen and now I own his book depicting every moment in full detail. Gabriel, if this ever finds its way to you, I’m so proud of you. Your writing style is amazing, your story is so moving, and I love your dedication and your drive even while battling your silent demons. You’ve given me so many reasons to keep going, and I’m so glad you’ve found some of your own.
10/10 recommend reading this book, even if you don’t know who he is or are a new fan. His humour seeps through every page and the way he covers serious topics (and personal/touchy subjects) is so comforting.
I hope he creates another book in 10 years time, I’ll definitely be among the first to purchase it 💕
Incredible to read the choices that were made for Gabriel to be where he is today. These choices dating right back to his grandparents and beyond. Even when trials arose, it's clear his faith stayed strong and in an industry where being a Christian doesn't seem like an easy lifestyle, both Jess and Gabriel have made it work and are continuing to live for Christ and entertain millions around the world, both Christian and non-Christian, which is a testament that Christianity doesn't have to be shoved down someone's throat.
I don't think I discovered their channels until COVID hit, but even since then to see what they've achieved is inspiring. If I could achieve half of what they have by the time I hit their age would be amazing and they haven't stopped. They're continually reaching new heights but being intentional and ensuring they don't start a project for the sake of starting a project.
One quote stuck out 'We need to be aware that sometimes the people around us can see us more clearly than we see ourselves' (pg 159). I'm pretty independent but it was a good reminder that we can't do this alone. Yes leaning on God is a must, but having a community of like minded people who can hold us accountable to our actions and ensure we stay true to our values is important as well and it's these people that may see something is wrong before we notice it ourselves.