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The Heroic and Exceptional Minority: A Guide to Mythological Self-Awareness and Growth
Many people struggle throughout their lives, unable to identify the source of great inner existential discontent. No matter their material comfort or good fortune, they cannot escape the idea that they do not live the lives they ought to. They are not in environments that support their deepest personal growth and development. They are not the people they feel they are meant to be, and the world never works the way they know it could.
Every day, exceptional minds like these begin to suspect that the way they operate is different than the norm. They realize early on that they have profound capacities for original insight, feeling, action, choice, and meaning. But without mentoring guidance or a sense of social belonging, they feel lost-alone and alienated in their individuality.
What can we do to better understand the hidden parts of ourselves, to prevent our uncommon personal growth and development from becoming bridled by pressures toward the conventional? How can we learn to identify and embody the heroic values that matter most to us? The answer lies in deep personal inquiry about the shared existential strengths and limitations that define us, including how to apply them to our self-improvement in an incompatible world.
The Heroic and Exceptional Minority is an audacious call to self-development for men, women, and teens plagued by mythological doubt, who feel stuck in a mediocre environment and an unheroic era. Its premise is timeless, clear, and The only way to understand oneself, realize our potential, and change the world for the better is to embrace who and what we really are.
Every day, exceptional minds like these begin to suspect that the way they operate is different than the norm. They realize early on that they have profound capacities for original insight, feeling, action, choice, and meaning. But without mentoring guidance or a sense of social belonging, they feel lost-alone and alienated in their individuality.
What can we do to better understand the hidden parts of ourselves, to prevent our uncommon personal growth and development from becoming bridled by pressures toward the conventional? How can we learn to identify and embody the heroic values that matter most to us? The answer lies in deep personal inquiry about the shared existential strengths and limitations that define us, including how to apply them to our self-improvement in an incompatible world.
The Heroic and Exceptional Minority is an audacious call to self-development for men, women, and teens plagued by mythological doubt, who feel stuck in a mediocre environment and an unheroic era. Its premise is timeless, clear, and The only way to understand oneself, realize our potential, and change the world for the better is to embrace who and what we really are.
230 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2021
26 people are currently reading
324 people want to read
About the author
Gregory V. Diehl
13 books146 followersMy personal approach to fairly rating books out of five. Note that these ratings are based entirely on the standard of what the book and its creator promise it will do, not any other arbitrary standard a reader might spontaneously decide the book *should have* adhered to. Personal preferences are always subjective and arbitrary. There is no law of nature requiring any given reader to subjectively enjoy an objectively great book.
One Star: There is virtually nothing of value in the book. It utterly fails at its stated mission. There is no conceivable reason for the type of reader it is advertised to attempt to consume it.
Two Stars: The book contains some value but is so sparse or poorly organized that it's not worth the trouble of trying to filter through the whole of the book to extract it. At best, it's a smattering of decent ingredients and ideas that never quite took on an appropriate form.
Three Stars: The book has reached the equitability threshold. It is now conceivably worth the reader's time to attempt to read the book (or at least skim parts of it) in order to accomplish what its creators promise for them. Still, there is much wasted space, time, and effort in the process of value transferrence from writer to reader.
Four Stars: The book largely does what it promises, albeit in a still sub-optimal manner. The reader overall receives what the author of the book intends to send to them but can't help but notice ways the message could have accomplished its function better. Still, recommendations are in order.
Five Stars: The book is exactly what it promises to be and does what it is meant to do. Nitpicks aside, it is not realistic to envision a way it could have accomplished its stated function better. The reader got exactly what value they were supposed to get in an optimized manner. Read this book to enhance and expand the way you think about something important.
One Star: There is virtually nothing of value in the book. It utterly fails at its stated mission. There is no conceivable reason for the type of reader it is advertised to attempt to consume it.
Two Stars: The book contains some value but is so sparse or poorly organized that it's not worth the trouble of trying to filter through the whole of the book to extract it. At best, it's a smattering of decent ingredients and ideas that never quite took on an appropriate form.
Three Stars: The book has reached the equitability threshold. It is now conceivably worth the reader's time to attempt to read the book (or at least skim parts of it) in order to accomplish what its creators promise for them. Still, there is much wasted space, time, and effort in the process of value transferrence from writer to reader.
Four Stars: The book largely does what it promises, albeit in a still sub-optimal manner. The reader overall receives what the author of the book intends to send to them but can't help but notice ways the message could have accomplished its function better. Still, recommendations are in order.
Five Stars: The book is exactly what it promises to be and does what it is meant to do. Nitpicks aside, it is not realistic to envision a way it could have accomplished its stated function better. The reader got exactly what value they were supposed to get in an optimized manner. Read this book to enhance and expand the way you think about something important.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
April 4, 2022
Profound and thought-provoking, “The Heroic and Exceptional Minority: A Guide to Mythological Self-Awareness and Growth” is a text that requires careful reading and a conscious unpacking of the main concepts.
Any soul seeker wishing for more understanding of human complexities & mythologies will find this philosophical text a worthwhile read.
The short chapters were a great help in allowing this reader to pause and absorb before moving on to the next chapter. At times the tone was peremptory; however, the passion and knowledge that shone through the text added depth and enjoyment.
The quote below resonated with me on a deep, deep level and encapsulates what, to me, is the essential message of the book, namely, if one has been gifted with extraordinary qualities (whatever they may be) that separate one from the prevailing herd mentality, one has an obligation - a painful duty - to take up the challenge and evolve beyond one’s past to one’s highest possible potential.
“Creation requires deletion. You must, in a sense, kill your old self before you can become your new self. So, in every moment, be willing to deconstruct the self-conceptions that prevail in your mind. Follow that thread of inquiry until the unrealized possibilities weigh heavily upon your soul. Then, no matter the cost, press on and embody the parts of yourself for which emergence is painfully overdue.”
Any soul seeker wishing for more understanding of human complexities & mythologies will find this philosophical text a worthwhile read.
The short chapters were a great help in allowing this reader to pause and absorb before moving on to the next chapter. At times the tone was peremptory; however, the passion and knowledge that shone through the text added depth and enjoyment.
The quote below resonated with me on a deep, deep level and encapsulates what, to me, is the essential message of the book, namely, if one has been gifted with extraordinary qualities (whatever they may be) that separate one from the prevailing herd mentality, one has an obligation - a painful duty - to take up the challenge and evolve beyond one’s past to one’s highest possible potential.
“Creation requires deletion. You must, in a sense, kill your old self before you can become your new self. So, in every moment, be willing to deconstruct the self-conceptions that prevail in your mind. Follow that thread of inquiry until the unrealized possibilities weigh heavily upon your soul. Then, no matter the cost, press on and embody the parts of yourself for which emergence is painfully overdue.”
November 1, 2021
There’s a lot of deep insight here presented in many short chapters. Diehl covers 36 aspects of life as what he calls a “heroic and exceptional” person.
What’s interesting and unique about his approach is that he doesn’t tie these principles to real life as much as he talks about them in a broad universal way. I believe this book is meant to be used in a way that the reader can reflect on how each one applies in their own life and to their own journey. It’s not the kind of self-help book that tells you what to do or specific steps to take to improve your life. It merely invites introspection and inquiry, but the way it does so is quite powerful. I don’t imagine many young gifted people coming out of these thinking exactly the same way about their lives as when they went in.
Diehl’s style and content here are comparable to other moral philosophers like Susan Neiman or Jordan Peterson but more direct. Ultimately, it’s a book about embracing the responsibility that comes with being different from others and finding a meaningful way to live that improves the world.
What’s interesting and unique about his approach is that he doesn’t tie these principles to real life as much as he talks about them in a broad universal way. I believe this book is meant to be used in a way that the reader can reflect on how each one applies in their own life and to their own journey. It’s not the kind of self-help book that tells you what to do or specific steps to take to improve your life. It merely invites introspection and inquiry, but the way it does so is quite powerful. I don’t imagine many young gifted people coming out of these thinking exactly the same way about their lives as when they went in.
Diehl’s style and content here are comparable to other moral philosophers like Susan Neiman or Jordan Peterson but more direct. Ultimately, it’s a book about embracing the responsibility that comes with being different from others and finding a meaningful way to live that improves the world.
March 24, 2022
The most impressive part of this book is how in the introduction the author weaves together mythological analysis of The Lion King, Star Wars, Superman, and The Iron Giant. It could have been a naïve and superficial point but, instead, turns out to be a valid realization about how we pass moral lessons about heroism to future generations through our culture. I would read a whole book of just Gregory V. Diehl’s interpretations of the narrative structure and mythic meaning of popular films! 😊
December 31, 2021
Filled with wisdom and reflections on how to be your natural heroic self in a world that may not accept you for who you are.
Each chapter is bite-sized to allow you to reflect and take the time you need to implement the takeaways in your life.
Gregory V Diehl is a superb author. One that you truly should read!
Each chapter is bite-sized to allow you to reflect and take the time you need to implement the takeaways in your life.
Gregory V Diehl is a superb author. One that you truly should read!
December 15, 2021
The title alone of this book spoke to me. Seeing as I have always found myself to feel a little different than those around me. I am always out to find and be the best version of myself. What things can I do help society and give back to others. this book helps you think of things in your life and examine where you are. I found myself having to read things a few times and just let them sit with me for a thought. I love learning and reading about self awareness and personal growth. I really enjoyed this!
January 12, 2022
The author takes a very unique look at the exceptional. Gregory goes into great detail about recognizing and understanding the exceptional. The book is as much instructional as it is discovery and therapeutic for those who have struggled with "being different" and observing the world differently than society at large. A strong and noteworthy theme is the discovery of and accepting our purpose and not running from it. If you are, or know someone who sees the world differently and is challenges to understand themselves and their gifts, then this is the book for you.
January 2, 2023
Gregory Diehl, author of numerous books latest release is The Heroic and Exceptional Minority: A Guide to Mythological Self-Awareness and Growth. A philosophical book where Diehl is expressing his wisdom and what he learnt rather late in life as he puts it. Written for his descendants Diehl generously shares it with the rest of the world. It is particularly interesting for those who are or would embark on a journey of self discovery.
One of the first things that impressed me was how easy I found it to read this book. True it is written in an academic vein yet Diehl has made the effort to write it almost as a story. This makes it easier to absorb the principles Diehl is setting forth. The chapter’s flow easily from one to another. Of course we may not all agree with his principles/thinking. Despite this, most of us will realise that there is a lot of truth in what Diehl proposes.
Diehl suggests that the book is for those who are different from the herd so to speak, the ones who push past the norms of society for a greater good. We’ve all heard of them. History books are full of them though few they may be. They are those that have always felt they are different from society, itching to tear down barriers and cross new boundaries. Consequently, searching for that elusive something. As a believing Christian I couldn’t help but see parallels with the Lords Word(Bible). Diehl’s work differs in that it is one’s own effort as opposed to His Way where one leans on the Lord. Of course an unbeliever is unlikely to understand what I’m saying. A caveat to the newbie believer who may be unaware of the difference. Likewise, with Diehl’s book one might not get what he is suggesting and some may even be offended by what he says.
He does not mean to offend by stating the fact. I gathered that from the tone of the book. Likewise, he is also not suggesting that some are more equal than others. Far from it. He is merely suggesting that while we are all individual and different, some individual’s differences better suit books principles. History demonstrates this to be true. Another important assertion he makes is that this should be only used for good. Ha Diehl is fully aware his powerful message can be abused. Did he garner this wisdom from life’s experiences? May be like me he is aware that history is full of those who were very different from the norm and abused their intelligence and/or charisma to sway whole nations and use their power to bully the rest of society with brutal consequences. Such individuals will rationalise anything. Fortunately, it is the very herd that rose up to quell these dictatorial personas. In the light of this Diehl’s statement to use it for society’s good is provocative and to be remembered constantly when using this self-improvement manual.
Diehl builds his case gradually starting from birth discussing how our role models influenced us. Could that be a problem for us from achieving our heroic ideals? How do we break from the archetypical mould to transcend into our heroic true self? How would we motivate ourselves in this quest? And when we have found our heroic true self how do we keep the flame alive? Do our trials and other emotions like fear have any part to play in this process? Diehl explores all this and more very succinctly. He successfully conveys the premise of his book. I however, can’t help wondering if the younger generation who have careers, family and other equally important responsibilities would be able to find the time to devote to the book’s guiding principles. It comes at a cost and who amongst them would willingly make the sacrifice? Um… the heroic minority comes to mind.
Furthermore, a considerable amount of monitoring is required by anyone who chooses to attempt Diehl’s philosophy. Unfortunately, there is no workbook/diary accompanying the book. The reader I assume, would have to work out their own methodology. Being extensive, it could be confusing.
Cohesively laid out, the narrative style makes it an absorbing read. Is this wisdom a doable? Ultimately it will depend on the individual, if one is the heroic minority. Well I allow the readers to discover this for themselves.
Well done Diehl for an impressive read and thank you for bravely sharing.
One of the first things that impressed me was how easy I found it to read this book. True it is written in an academic vein yet Diehl has made the effort to write it almost as a story. This makes it easier to absorb the principles Diehl is setting forth. The chapter’s flow easily from one to another. Of course we may not all agree with his principles/thinking. Despite this, most of us will realise that there is a lot of truth in what Diehl proposes.
Diehl suggests that the book is for those who are different from the herd so to speak, the ones who push past the norms of society for a greater good. We’ve all heard of them. History books are full of them though few they may be. They are those that have always felt they are different from society, itching to tear down barriers and cross new boundaries. Consequently, searching for that elusive something. As a believing Christian I couldn’t help but see parallels with the Lords Word(Bible). Diehl’s work differs in that it is one’s own effort as opposed to His Way where one leans on the Lord. Of course an unbeliever is unlikely to understand what I’m saying. A caveat to the newbie believer who may be unaware of the difference. Likewise, with Diehl’s book one might not get what he is suggesting and some may even be offended by what he says.
He does not mean to offend by stating the fact. I gathered that from the tone of the book. Likewise, he is also not suggesting that some are more equal than others. Far from it. He is merely suggesting that while we are all individual and different, some individual’s differences better suit books principles. History demonstrates this to be true. Another important assertion he makes is that this should be only used for good. Ha Diehl is fully aware his powerful message can be abused. Did he garner this wisdom from life’s experiences? May be like me he is aware that history is full of those who were very different from the norm and abused their intelligence and/or charisma to sway whole nations and use their power to bully the rest of society with brutal consequences. Such individuals will rationalise anything. Fortunately, it is the very herd that rose up to quell these dictatorial personas. In the light of this Diehl’s statement to use it for society’s good is provocative and to be remembered constantly when using this self-improvement manual.
Diehl builds his case gradually starting from birth discussing how our role models influenced us. Could that be a problem for us from achieving our heroic ideals? How do we break from the archetypical mould to transcend into our heroic true self? How would we motivate ourselves in this quest? And when we have found our heroic true self how do we keep the flame alive? Do our trials and other emotions like fear have any part to play in this process? Diehl explores all this and more very succinctly. He successfully conveys the premise of his book. I however, can’t help wondering if the younger generation who have careers, family and other equally important responsibilities would be able to find the time to devote to the book’s guiding principles. It comes at a cost and who amongst them would willingly make the sacrifice? Um… the heroic minority comes to mind.
Furthermore, a considerable amount of monitoring is required by anyone who chooses to attempt Diehl’s philosophy. Unfortunately, there is no workbook/diary accompanying the book. The reader I assume, would have to work out their own methodology. Being extensive, it could be confusing.
Cohesively laid out, the narrative style makes it an absorbing read. Is this wisdom a doable? Ultimately it will depend on the individual, if one is the heroic minority. Well I allow the readers to discover this for themselves.
Well done Diehl for an impressive read and thank you for bravely sharing.
November 1, 2021
An awaking collection of thoughts to boost your inner self to rail your own thoughts into the world of self-recognition rather than cherish the quasi-comfort zone created by or because of your surrounding world.
Totally recommended!
Totally recommended!
May 15, 2023
Taught me so much!
This book really taught me so much about how to be self-aware and everything you do! I loved it and would recommend it to those who need some self-uplifting! I can’t wait for more books like this from the author! Phenomenal!
This book really taught me so much about how to be self-aware and everything you do! I loved it and would recommend it to those who need some self-uplifting! I can’t wait for more books like this from the author! Phenomenal!
March 31, 2022
Very good book for those that feel like outcasts because they don't want to swim with the stream.
It gives them a new perspective that turns this weakness into a strength.
It gives them a new perspective that turns this weakness into a strength.
November 4, 2021
If you are a fan of Carl Jung or Joseph Campbell, this is the heroism book you have been waiting for. It's full of mythological principles for real people. It's the kind of book where you will be saying to yourself, "Finally, someone articulated what I have been unable to express my whole life!" every few pages at least. You cannot read it without getting the sense that it was written to change lives for some people.
February 7, 2022
In some ways I found this a difficult read and found myself having to re-read many sentences to fully comprehend; however I am glad I persevered thru to the end as the deep, underlying messages presented in the book were very powerful. I did find that a number of the main concepts were repeated in different places throughout the book, just using different sentence/word structures.
February 26, 2022
EXCELLENT RESOURCE BOOK ! And thank you to Hidden Gems for the gift of reading it. Not a thing to be read from cover to cover - although you can - but rather to keep for life-long reference. Very interesting concepts, presented well. I can only imagine the depth of effort the author went to to provide us with this.
March 23, 2025
I don’t normally give one-star reviews, much less write them, but I feel compelled to do both here because I truly could not stand this book.
This book’s publisher, Identity Publications, is a vanity press. It was apparently founded by Diehl, the author of this book. It reads like a self-published tome—assuming you can read it. I take that back. It can be read, but it’s not an easy read; in fact, it reads the same way that books written by AI or authors not writing in their native language do. Maybe the secrets to existence are contained within its lines, but they’re either incomprehensible or they’ve lulled you into such a trance that you’ve forgotten the subject of the paragraph you’re in the middle of.
Here are a few examples of the writing style:
p. 131: “For all his power, whether acquired or endowed, a person is always limited to his own arrangement of comfortable operating borders. At or beyond the perimeter of his parameters, he will undergo light or severe personal trauma.”
p. 133: “You will not lament losing a little part of yourself if its [sic] loss clears the way to so much more of you.”
p. 151: “Without earned and accurate self-confidence in actions taken and paths chosen, the noblest of aims will be, by requisite, misguided.”
p. 201: “In following the natural course of destiny now identified, every step carries weight for us that was absent prior to our attainment of this timeless understanding.”
I suppose a good editor could have hammered this book into better shape. If only Identity Publications had an editing service. But, wait, they do! The editor, though, is Diehl. Sigh.
This book’s publisher, Identity Publications, is a vanity press. It was apparently founded by Diehl, the author of this book. It reads like a self-published tome—assuming you can read it. I take that back. It can be read, but it’s not an easy read; in fact, it reads the same way that books written by AI or authors not writing in their native language do. Maybe the secrets to existence are contained within its lines, but they’re either incomprehensible or they’ve lulled you into such a trance that you’ve forgotten the subject of the paragraph you’re in the middle of.
Here are a few examples of the writing style:
p. 131: “For all his power, whether acquired or endowed, a person is always limited to his own arrangement of comfortable operating borders. At or beyond the perimeter of his parameters, he will undergo light or severe personal trauma.”
p. 133: “You will not lament losing a little part of yourself if its [sic] loss clears the way to so much more of you.”
p. 151: “Without earned and accurate self-confidence in actions taken and paths chosen, the noblest of aims will be, by requisite, misguided.”
p. 201: “In following the natural course of destiny now identified, every step carries weight for us that was absent prior to our attainment of this timeless understanding.”
I suppose a good editor could have hammered this book into better shape. If only Identity Publications had an editing service. But, wait, they do! The editor, though, is Diehl. Sigh.
November 1, 2021
This book offers a very direct and maybe difficult for some people message about finding your place in the world by developing yourself. I think it intentionally goes places that self-help or personal development books meant for broader audiences won't. It knows what kind of person it is meant for. Readers will either find that a strength or a weakness, depending on if they fit into that group. If you self-identify as an exceptional person with aspirations of heroism, you will probably find the brutal honesty and no-nonsense tone of the author to be exactly the kind of kick in the pants you needed to change your philosophy about life and who you are. Well done.
July 2, 2024
Very insightful for people who identify themselves as the people that the author describes, while reading the book taking a trip over the course of your life and remembering everything that may have happened to you and with the authors' guidance finding and solving at least some of the confusion and loopholes, brought a great deal of comfort to me personally, as much as moving me to tears on some parts which I really didn't expect, that's how deep some part got to me.
So for anyone who wants to understand themselves better, highly recommended.
So for anyone who wants to understand themselves better, highly recommended.
July 27, 2022
I don’t believe I can possibly say enough good things about this book. I consider it one of the best books I’ve ever read. I listened to the audible version and later bought the Kindle version, just so I could read it again and be able to highlight sections. There are wonderful insights and bits of knowledge on nearly every page. My only regret is that it was not around for me to have read 40 years ago. It should be required reading for every young person in preparation for their journey through life.
There is so much affirmation in this powerful little book. And so much practical application. It’s just a beautiful book. I wish every child could have someone like Mr. Diehl in their life while they are growing up. What a wonderful difference it would make.
I know I’m not being very detailed in my review of the book, but there is so much good in it that I feel I can’t even begin to touch on the impact it carries. Although I have, over the years, put into practice many of the insights presented in this book, I would have done so much sooner in life had this book been available when I was young.
I don’t know much about Mr. Diehl’s upbringing and/or educational background, but he is very wise for one so young. I highly recommend this book to everyone young and old.
There is so much affirmation in this powerful little book. And so much practical application. It’s just a beautiful book. I wish every child could have someone like Mr. Diehl in their life while they are growing up. What a wonderful difference it would make.
I know I’m not being very detailed in my review of the book, but there is so much good in it that I feel I can’t even begin to touch on the impact it carries. Although I have, over the years, put into practice many of the insights presented in this book, I would have done so much sooner in life had this book been available when I was young.
I don’t know much about Mr. Diehl’s upbringing and/or educational background, but he is very wise for one so young. I highly recommend this book to everyone young and old.
August 27, 2022
This book helped me to understand that I'm not alone. Perhaps there are not so many, but there could be some people who are like me, who think like me and behave like me. Everyone who feels that he is different from others should definitely read this. It will help to accept the fact that is normal when you are not like others.
May 21, 2022
It started out pretty insightful, and I highlighted some. Then it get repetitive and hard to figure exactly what the point of the book is. It feels either written by a narcissist or marketed to them. I think the intent is good, and maybe it's just a strange way of looking at the world. But I read a ton of these books, and I just wasn't getting it. To be fair I quit reading partway through.
January 8, 2024
I enjoyed everything about this book. This is one I'll be highly recommending to my closest people who I know will read, appreciate, and apply it. This book is rich with thought-provoking and introspective concepts. It's like gourmet food for both the mind and the soul.
June 13, 2023
this guy takes himself too seriously
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews