Be Your Best Self

by Thomas S. Monson

One of the great purposes of our existence on earth is to perfect ourselves, to learn to become more like God. The Savior's admonition "Be ye therefore perfect" was not limited in time or scope; it applies to his disciples in every age, including this last dispensation. Be Your Best Self can help in the constant struggle for perfection. Adapted from the powerful discourses of President Thomas S. Monson of the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, this book is divided into three Ask in Faith, Be Thou an Example, and Called to the Work. Pertinent advice and faith-promoting stories in each of these vital areas combine to create a valuable blueprint for self-improvement. "The road back to God is not nearly so steep nor is it so difficult as some would have us believe," says President Monson. "The gentle invitation of Jesus 'Come unto me.'" Be Your Best Self provides encouragement, guidance, and hope for all who would accept the Savior's invitation to become like him.

Genres: Religion, Lds, Church, Nonfiction, Christian, Self Help, Adult

209 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 1979

About the author

Thomas S. Monson served as the 16th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often called the "Mormon Church" or "LDS Church") from 2008 to his death in 2018. Before his time as President, he had served as a Counselor in the First Presidency of the Church since 1985. He was ordained an Apostle and called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in 1963 at the unusually young age of 36.

Monson was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. After serving in the US Navy and earning a bachelor's degree from the University of Utah, he married Frances Johnson and they had three children. Monson worked in the local news publishing industry until church service became a full-time occupation.

Reviews

[Roy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thomas Monson's early Apostle talks seem a little more personal (except for a few of his talks as 2nd counselor to President Benson). That makes me wonder what caused him to change his style, but certainly makes them no less inspired.

[Alisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a ton of deeps thoughts on this one. All my notes are within the text in the Deseret Book app. He had a section on fear that was really interesting (the know how chapter). His remarks on the church welfare system were tender. It was nice to read some of the older addresses of our current prophet. He tells a lot of stories about specific people and I like this because he shows applications of different gospel principles. I can tell his parents were such good people and he was so lucky to have the leaders he did. I loved President Hinckley and I have missed him for so long. I think I finally revere President Monson, and not just respect him because of his sacred calling.

[Adam · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a great book and how can you not love talks by Pres. Monson. But, it's kinda like going to a photo gallery of Pres. Monsoon as an apostle. There isn't really a theme or a purpose other than it is about the gospel and living it. It is the same with any book that is a collection of talks. It just seems to roll along for enjoyment. You can't really look up one certain subject or idea because the titles rarely reflect the content. So for the sake of its lack of real direction I have to give it 4 stars. Fabulous talks, but the presentation takes away from the book as a whole.

[Elizabeth Ricks · Rating 3 out of 5]

I assume that this is a collection of talks that President Monson gave. Because of that, there is quite a bit of redundancy. Redundancy is fine with me when it is teaching the same concept; however, using the exact same quotes in a small book isn't the best idea. This book is, like President Monson, heavy on the cute little poems that he loved. Definitely worthwhile, but perhaps a good editing could cut the overlap. A fun reminder of the style of our beloved prophet.

[M.E. · Rating 3 out of 5]

President Monson, or Elder Monson as he was called when he delivered all of these talks, is full of experience and wisdom. But he is a really bad writer. I think he's gotten better, but these talks are full of cliche, pith, and anecdote. A few talks I'll keep in reserve to reference later, but most are the same as a lot of his other talks.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love reading and listening to President Monson. This book was printed nearly 30 years ago and it was fantastic. Each of the chapters is just a short talk that he probably gave somewhere along the line. Several of the stories I was able to recognize from conference talks. I really like that fact that he can take every day happenings and relate them to gospel topics that apply to each of us.

[Holly Glem · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was published over 30 years ago, but Monson is a very inspiring person. He is a great story teller this his nonfiction is easy to read. I'm amazed by his service. He is a perfect example of his conclusion to this book. He had the know how, the tell how, and the show how down on how to be your best self through loving service. Inspiring!

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I read this book, I learn how to be a better me! Now I just have to practice what I read!!! Pres. Monson tells a story like no other. This book is filled with his amazing stories of life. This book is for anyone who wants to better themselves.

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book full of inspiring stories. I especially loved the story in Chapter 6 about the conversion of Fred Sudbury.

The more I read from this man, the more convinced I become that he is a prophet of God.

[Beth Kirby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely wonderful advice on being the best we can be - being our best selves. This book really spoke to my soul as I strive to draw nearer to God and to His Son, the Savior Jesus Christ. It has helped me improve the way I live my life.

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Classic President Monson. This book is a collection of what I assume are excerpts from various talks given in the 70s and before. He has a knack for telling inspiring stories and is always uplifting. I read this book over the course of a few months and am glad I did.

[Connie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a random collection of sermons probably given upwards of about 40+ years ago. Their connection to the title is not explicitly stated. It was very interesting to read these older sermons. Some of them felt very dated but still contain relevant information and doctrine. I enjoyed it.

[Rob · Rating 3 out of 5]

My Grandma gave this to me probably when I was around 12. I've read it multiple times. It's great.

[Tara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This councel is hard to do and this book helps you know that it is possible.

[LizthePrude · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent book. I feel that I've grown spiritually and emotionally from this book. I definitely feel like I've made some good goals to become a better "me."

[Robert]

The first church book that I read when I was about 12 or 13 years old.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Makes you want to be your best self!

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

His words are written like poetry. His stories everyone can relate to. He motivates you to do better, to be your best self.

[Dorothy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the inspiration this prophet gives me. He is my favorite.

[Alaina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life changing. Stories I've heard but a message I will never tire of.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a great book! President Monson tells many wonderful stories of faith and service from his amazing life of discipleship. Highly recommended.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The only warning about this book - you will choke up. Don't go reading it in public or people will worry about you. :) Love, love, love it.

[Dad · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable book by an excellent example of a good LDS man. It was good to read his second book.

[Harry Burnside · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although this book was published in 1979 good advice, words of wisdom and inspiring stories from a prophet of God do not date.

[Lois · Rating 4 out of 5]

President Monson and his wonderful examples and stories. Encourages one to be better.

[Apzmarshl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great compilation of talks by President Monson given sometime in the 70'S or before. Many I recognize. Others I enjoyed how he would give a short list of things to do or know.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found myself sharing snippets of it with others, or writing notes to myself for later reflection.

[Danni · Rating 5 out of 5]

So inspiring I love this man.

[Amy Halbern · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so glad that I stumbled upon this book on Deseret Book Shelf. I love President Monson and he is always giving us as latter day saints such incredible words of wisdom. In Be your Best Self President Monson gives us stories examples and scriptures to help us improve our lives as Latter Day Saints and Children of our loving Heavenly Father. I felt that as I read this book I took sometime with some deep reflection on my own life and how I can improve as a Latter Day Saint. Through out this book I saved a lot of quotes and took a lot of notes. I know that there are times in each our lives where we don't feel like we are not our best selves, but day by day I feel like we can all improve on certain areas of our lives whether it be spiritual, physical, or finding way to serve and help others in need. I loved how this book help me bring my life back to focus and helped me realize what matters most. I cherish the words of the Prophet, he loves us and wants us along with our loving Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ become our best selves. I highly recommend this book, to all those who want to be their best selves.

"Leadership requires effort, hard work a do or die Philosophy."
~President Monson

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

From our Prophet's own words!

What glorious life truths are spoken in this book from our Prophet Thomas S Monson!
Most of my book is now highlighted with these cherished words by which to live. Any and all Christians shall greatly learn to live more like Jesus Christ after reading this book!