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Do You
Since rising out of the New York City streets over twenty-five years ago, Russell Simmons has helped create such groundbreaking ventures as Def Jam Records, Phat Farm, and Def Comedy Jam. Russell might have helped introduce hip-hop to the world, but he credits his success to his belief in a strong set of principles—or laws. In twelve straightforward steps, Russell reveals a path that can be followed by anyone struggling to realize their dreams.Russell’s laws stem from the belief that it’s impossible to receive any sort of lasting success from the world without giving something of lasting value to the world first. Blending business insight, universal spiritual truths, and an inspired sense of purpose, Do You! crosses the lines of age, race, and background, with wisdom that will lift you up and motivate you to pursue your vision.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2007
90 people are currently reading
1218 people want to read
About the author
Russell Simmons
20 books102 followersRussell Wendell Simmons is an American entrepreneur, writer and record executive. He co-founded the hip-hop label Def Jam Recordings, and created the clothing fashion lines Phat Farm, Argyleculture, and Tantris. Simmons' net worth was estimated at $340 million in 2011.
After producing or managing artists such as Kurtis Blow, Run DMC, Whodini, and Jimmy Spicer, Simmons joined forces with producer Rick Rubin to found Def Jam Recordings. Under Simmons' leadership as chairman, Def Jam signed acts including the Beastie Boys, Public Enemy, L.L. Cool J., Jay-Z, DMX, and Kanye West. From 1992 to 1997, he also produced the Def Comedy Jam television program.
Simmons has promoted veganism and a yoga lifestyle. He also published books about healthy lifestyle and entrepreneurship. In 2017, Simmons was publicly accused of sexual assault by multiple women; he denied the allegations. Following these allegations, Simmons stepped down from his various business roles and charities, including his position at Def Jam.
After producing or managing artists such as Kurtis Blow, Run DMC, Whodini, and Jimmy Spicer, Simmons joined forces with producer Rick Rubin to found Def Jam Recordings. Under Simmons' leadership as chairman, Def Jam signed acts including the Beastie Boys, Public Enemy, L.L. Cool J., Jay-Z, DMX, and Kanye West. From 1992 to 1997, he also produced the Def Comedy Jam television program.
Simmons has promoted veganism and a yoga lifestyle. He also published books about healthy lifestyle and entrepreneurship. In 2017, Simmons was publicly accused of sexual assault by multiple women; he denied the allegations. Following these allegations, Simmons stepped down from his various business roles and charities, including his position at Def Jam.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
February 9, 2015
While he does not say anything particularly new or profound, this work is thoughtful and concise. There are books you read that come at just the right time and reaffirm thoughts you already have. This was one for me. I was delightfully surprised the thoughts expressed in this book and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a positive uplifting read.
April 26, 2011
This is actually the first book review i have made by a celebrity or however you call it. After i finished this book i have learned more about Russell Simmons as a person, not some rich guy that wants to make more money for a book. I would have to say this book is real, deep down to earth, and translates it back into reality. Whenever i finish reading a chapter, i have noticed that where ever i left my bookmark, i have learned about 3 to 5 quotes that is true and i would always remember it. So far this is the best book i have ever read because it talks about the truth and that is what i am seeking for. I picked this book out because i wanted to learn more about leadership and so far it has taught me a variety of new things. Things from what has happened in Russell's Life, Achieving things even though it may be hard, and lastly the most important, work hard for anything you do. I learned how this author is very unique. The book starts off with 12 laws that can all be used in your life and in every chapter is like a sub topic that also relates to the chapter. The author creates such a vivid image that i can personally relate to any of the topics he may have spoken about.This author doesn't sugarcoat anything but states the truth which i find unique. His powerful quotes reminds me of the words my dad often preached to me and that is a strong connection. At first it was hard for me to find a book based on leadership but it look like i found the right one and first i was more concerned of the number of pages this book has rather than what i can take out of it. I may repeat myself but i really have learned a lot. I would recommend this book to anyone who would just like to hear the truth. If you first thought this book was about money or how to be rich, this book is definately not for you and for the people who would like to know where will you be if you work hard, things like that. To close this revier, one quote that i can take from this book is this."NO MATTER WHAT SORT OF JOB YOU START OFF WITH, AS LONG AS YOUR HARD WORK SERVES THE PEOPLE YOU'RE WORKING FOR, YOU'RE GOING TO BE SUCCESSFUL.
September 23, 2015
“In the end, the overriding factor in whether or not you realize your dreams is going to be you. Not the world. YOU.”
“I’m just suggesting that when you’re faced with fear and anxiety, don’t medicate. Meditate instead.”
“I knew it was unrealistic to think I could build an institution overnight. But if I took baby steps, eventually it would happen.”
~ Russell Simmons from Do You!
I didn’t know much about Russell Simmons until my friend Robin Sharma (author of The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari and The Greatness Guide) first sent me this book. There’s no way I would have guessed Russell would have such a profoundly spiritual, yet remarkably “real” and unquestionably successful expression of his spirituality in the 21st Century.
The New York Times calls Russell Simmons one of “the most innovative and influential figures in modern American business and culture.”
He’s a hip-hop mogul (affectionately known as the Godfather of hip-hop, in fact), producer, entrepreneur and all around rock star. AND, he’s a yogi, vegan and deeply spiritual guy.
I like that combo. And I love his book. (It kinda makes me imagine Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits written by a hip hop mogul for the 21st century. :)
Do You! is packed with inspiring stories, Russell’s wit and wisdom on everything from getting your mind right, living with authenticity, dreaming big and doing your best. It’s one of those books you read and at the end say to yourself, “That author is a good person!” (which is always a standard by which I measure my favorite books).
Let’s jump into some of the Big Ideas:
1. What’s Your Vision? - Know it. Stick to it.
2. Mantra - Tools of the mind.
3. Breakfast of Champions - A big bowl of gratitude.
4. Rotting Fish - Don’t stink up your soul.
5. Don’t Stall - Get to work.
Here's my video review:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkqx8...
And click here to find 250+ more of my reviews:
http://bit.ly/BrianReviews
Brian
“I’m just suggesting that when you’re faced with fear and anxiety, don’t medicate. Meditate instead.”
“I knew it was unrealistic to think I could build an institution overnight. But if I took baby steps, eventually it would happen.”
~ Russell Simmons from Do You!
I didn’t know much about Russell Simmons until my friend Robin Sharma (author of The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari and The Greatness Guide) first sent me this book. There’s no way I would have guessed Russell would have such a profoundly spiritual, yet remarkably “real” and unquestionably successful expression of his spirituality in the 21st Century.
The New York Times calls Russell Simmons one of “the most innovative and influential figures in modern American business and culture.”
He’s a hip-hop mogul (affectionately known as the Godfather of hip-hop, in fact), producer, entrepreneur and all around rock star. AND, he’s a yogi, vegan and deeply spiritual guy.
I like that combo. And I love his book. (It kinda makes me imagine Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits written by a hip hop mogul for the 21st century. :)
Do You! is packed with inspiring stories, Russell’s wit and wisdom on everything from getting your mind right, living with authenticity, dreaming big and doing your best. It’s one of those books you read and at the end say to yourself, “That author is a good person!” (which is always a standard by which I measure my favorite books).
Let’s jump into some of the Big Ideas:
1. What’s Your Vision? - Know it. Stick to it.
2. Mantra - Tools of the mind.
3. Breakfast of Champions - A big bowl of gratitude.
4. Rotting Fish - Don’t stink up your soul.
5. Don’t Stall - Get to work.
Here's my video review:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkqx8...
And click here to find 250+ more of my reviews:
http://bit.ly/BrianReviews
Brian
February 3, 2011
A great feel-good book and a fantastic ad for the Jivamukti yoga centers in New York and London.
act47-org
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To SEE a WORLD in a Grain of Sand,
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Form is Emptiness; Emptiness is form.
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~ Heart Sutra ~
Like the ocean and its waves,
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The Life and The Path.”
Like a river flowing from its source,
connected and continuous
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Thy kingdom come.
Let the reign of divine
Truth, Life, and Love
be established in me,
and rule out of me all sin;
and may Thy Word
enrich the affections of all mankind
A mighty oak tree standing firm against the storm,
As sunlight scatters the shadows of night
A river nourishing the land it flows through
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~}- - - - - - - - - - - - - -:}|{:- - - - - - - - - - - - - -{~
To SEE a WORLD in a Grain of Sand,
And a HEAVEN in a Wild Flower,
Hold INFINITY in the palm of your hand
And ETERNITY in an Hour"
~ William Blake ~
~}- - - - - - - - - - - - - -:}|{:- - - - - - - - - - - - - -{~
Form is Emptiness; Emptiness is form.
Form is not different than Emptiness;
Emptiness is not different than form
~ Heart Sutra ~
Like the ocean and its waves,
inseparable yet distinct
~}- - - - - - - - - - - - - -:}|{:- - - - - - - - - - - - - -{~
" I and The Father are one,
I am The Truth,
The Life and The Path.”
Like a river flowing from its source,
connected and continuous
~}- - - - - - - - - - - - - -:}|{:- - - - - - - - - - - - - -{~
Thy kingdom come.
Let the reign of divine
Truth, Life, and Love
be established in me,
and rule out of me all sin;
and may Thy Word
enrich the affections of all mankind
A mighty oak tree standing firm against the storm,
As sunlight scatters the shadows of night
A river nourishing the land it flows through
~}- - - - - - - - - - - - - -:}|{:- - - - - - - - - - - - - -{~
~}-:}|{:-:}|{:-:}|{:-:}|{:-:}|{:-:}|{:-:}|{:-:}|{:-:}|{:-:}|{:-{~
May 10, 2020
“Do You!” is a great, simple book on business, spiritual, and personal success. It’s centered around twelve high-level laws on living a good, meaningful life. Though none of said laws are anything totally new, the stories Simmons tells in support of them make them feel like they really are.
He astutely connects each law to trials and tribulations from his past, and he uses the stories of such trials as a chance to draw further conclusions about each of the laws he describes.
My favorite story he told revolved around selling some of his companies. He says that so many of us think that selling our businesses for huge sums will make us happy, yet, in reality, when he sold his own companies, he was actually a bit disappointed, because he realized that running his companies brought him more joy than the money likely ever could.
It’s these sorts of lessons that make the book great; Simmons continually shows the reader the true paths to meaning and fulfillment. And, spoiler alert, those paths aren’t always the ones that society preaches.
In sum, this book definitely helps you realign with and reconnect to your passions / what’s important in life. I recommend this one, as well as the author’s “The Happy Vegan.”
-Brian Sachetta
Author of “Get Out of Your Head”
He astutely connects each law to trials and tribulations from his past, and he uses the stories of such trials as a chance to draw further conclusions about each of the laws he describes.
My favorite story he told revolved around selling some of his companies. He says that so many of us think that selling our businesses for huge sums will make us happy, yet, in reality, when he sold his own companies, he was actually a bit disappointed, because he realized that running his companies brought him more joy than the money likely ever could.
It’s these sorts of lessons that make the book great; Simmons continually shows the reader the true paths to meaning and fulfillment. And, spoiler alert, those paths aren’t always the ones that society preaches.
In sum, this book definitely helps you realign with and reconnect to your passions / what’s important in life. I recommend this one, as well as the author’s “The Happy Vegan.”
-Brian Sachetta
Author of “Get Out of Your Head”
November 20, 2023
First off, yes, I know about the accusations against Simmons, but his other book Super Rich is one of my favorites, and I do my best to separate the art from the artist if I find the “art” helpful. I was about to re-read Super Rich, but in the intro, he mentions this book, and I remembered I never read it, so I grabbed a copy.
Maybe it was the depression, but it’s hard for me to enjoy books like this. There’s great advice in here, but it’s hard to read books on “how to be successful” from successful people. Yes, it’s easy to look back and say “everything I did worked!”, but he references parts of his personal story that normal people couldn’t do. For example, he discusses chasing your passions and dreams like he did with Phat Farm. Then, he discusses how he lost millions screwing up and then figuring out how to run a fashion line. Not many of us can do something like that.
Much like other books, there’s very useful advice in this book about being good to others, getting involved in the voting process, and having a good work ethic. If you can recognize the survivorship bias and take the useful stuff from this book, it’s pretty good.
Maybe it was the depression, but it’s hard for me to enjoy books like this. There’s great advice in here, but it’s hard to read books on “how to be successful” from successful people. Yes, it’s easy to look back and say “everything I did worked!”, but he references parts of his personal story that normal people couldn’t do. For example, he discusses chasing your passions and dreams like he did with Phat Farm. Then, he discusses how he lost millions screwing up and then figuring out how to run a fashion line. Not many of us can do something like that.
Much like other books, there’s very useful advice in this book about being good to others, getting involved in the voting process, and having a good work ethic. If you can recognize the survivorship bias and take the useful stuff from this book, it’s pretty good.
November 10, 2025
A lot of hypocrisy considering what this man has allegedly done over the span of his career. Some good ideas that can be plentifully found in similar self help books with a huge + of recommending Yoga and the yogic teachings.
I am not the fan of capitalists suggesting working for free, especially since it more often than not ends in multiple types of abuse from the unofficial “employer”. Self reliance is a virtue, but no one has the same chances in acquiring that.
Not a lot of downright actual advice on starting your own label or business but more of the “stay true to your vision and people will notice and things will work out on their own” bs, but, if people want reassurance, this book certain gives a lot of it.
I am not the fan of capitalists suggesting working for free, especially since it more often than not ends in multiple types of abuse from the unofficial “employer”. Self reliance is a virtue, but no one has the same chances in acquiring that.
Not a lot of downright actual advice on starting your own label or business but more of the “stay true to your vision and people will notice and things will work out on their own” bs, but, if people want reassurance, this book certain gives a lot of it.
October 11, 2024
I am just happy that super-rich person like Russell Simmons giving a lot of great ideas about future and really caring about people.
I thought this book is about how to hard-earned success but he elaborate about more higher self & subtle principle like honesty, being true to yourself & speak truth, exploit celebrity for a good cause.
I don’t really mind he, in the future, get into trouble of some kind of some of his past behaviors but I really absorb the positive in him throughout this book and by this way I never lose.
I thought this book is about how to hard-earned success but he elaborate about more higher self & subtle principle like honesty, being true to yourself & speak truth, exploit celebrity for a good cause.
I don’t really mind he, in the future, get into trouble of some kind of some of his past behaviors but I really absorb the positive in him throughout this book and by this way I never lose.
October 16, 2020
I rate it between a 3 and 4 stars. Personally I preferred his book called Super Rich, since I didn't see it coming. This one felt a little flat and redundant at times. It was a good read and I don't regret reading it. However I felt its value slightly lower than his other book. Not sure I'll seek another book from Russell just yet.
May 23, 2022
One of the most creative minds to ever come onto the scene, Russell Simmons gives you a roadmap to becoming successful in business and life. From Hip Hop, Def Comedy Jam, and other phenomenal accomplishments in business, this step-by-step process, is a must read for people trying to get ahead.
February 5, 2018
This book is amazing. I recommend it to anyone who wants to be successful! I love it!
September 20, 2018
Easily one of my favorite books. I use to read this book annually as a reminder that I’m in charge. That I control my own self worth and I have to always be myself.
August 20, 2019
Empowering book. Loved it.
March 3, 2020
at first i said it was ok. but i think he didnt tell people anything about investing or anything about acquiring wealth. he just talked about passion.
May 10, 2020
Great bio about the come up of Russ. Amazing to read how things were handled in the 00’s.
January 24, 2023
insightful
I found this book a pleasant read. Not only were there good sound advice. It touched upon a wholistic take on living life for the betterment of all.
I found this book a pleasant read. Not only were there good sound advice. It touched upon a wholistic take on living life for the betterment of all.
April 18, 2014
Uncle Russ is a very positive man. I'd love to kick it with Uncle Russ. He's a man who values hard work, integrity, & above all, love. This is very apparent to anyone reading this book. In fact, the only reason the book lost a star is due to how apparent it is. Surely there's a way this could have been better edited without losing Russell's enthusiastic, honest, & conversational tone. He plays it pretty safe. He doesn't want to upset ANYONE. This is good, it is a positive way of living & fits in with his character. But the lengths he goes to in this book to make it perfectly clear to everyone that he's not dissing anyone, that this is just his opinion on this aspect, that he won't judge you, etc. definitely got wearisome.
Then there are the constant references to his vegetarianism that bordered between entertainingly off-topic & just plain redundant. I respect his choice very much, & definitely wouldn't have minded him giving it a little section in the book (which he did), but it just seems to be some ubiquitous fact throughout the book, & at times it feels like he's trying to remind you as if you might have forgotten.
Those little qualms aside, I found this book full of great ideas & great quotes. Some of it feels pretty basic, but Russell himself will tell you that a lot of it is, in fact, basic. He just wants you to 'Remember to Remember'. Which is a saying I think all the other self-help gurus should steal. When I think about what must be the target audience - struggling African-American youth - I think this book would probably be a 5/5 in that context. A lot of kids don't want to be told what to do (or even given advice), so if they don't think that the book overall is preachy (it isn't), then I think they'd probably not really care about the other two qualms I had with it.
Overall, this is the strangest self-help book I've read. Drenched in a mild Eastern mysticism, (understandable) namedropping, drug references, Hollywood insider information, & general street dialect, I couldn't help but often smile at Russell's voice & attitude as I absorbed the lessons he set out to teach. If you're younger & never thought you'd really read a book like this, this one's probably a pretty good start. If you're already walking down the path of self-growth, a lot of this stuff might seem basic - but if you're a rap fan as well, you can't really go wrong (& Russell's point of view & way of explaining things is indeed unique).
I say hats off to RWS for this book & all his other accomplishments.
Then there are the constant references to his vegetarianism that bordered between entertainingly off-topic & just plain redundant. I respect his choice very much, & definitely wouldn't have minded him giving it a little section in the book (which he did), but it just seems to be some ubiquitous fact throughout the book, & at times it feels like he's trying to remind you as if you might have forgotten.
Those little qualms aside, I found this book full of great ideas & great quotes. Some of it feels pretty basic, but Russell himself will tell you that a lot of it is, in fact, basic. He just wants you to 'Remember to Remember'. Which is a saying I think all the other self-help gurus should steal. When I think about what must be the target audience - struggling African-American youth - I think this book would probably be a 5/5 in that context. A lot of kids don't want to be told what to do (or even given advice), so if they don't think that the book overall is preachy (it isn't), then I think they'd probably not really care about the other two qualms I had with it.
Overall, this is the strangest self-help book I've read. Drenched in a mild Eastern mysticism, (understandable) namedropping, drug references, Hollywood insider information, & general street dialect, I couldn't help but often smile at Russell's voice & attitude as I absorbed the lessons he set out to teach. If you're younger & never thought you'd really read a book like this, this one's probably a pretty good start. If you're already walking down the path of self-growth, a lot of this stuff might seem basic - but if you're a rap fan as well, you can't really go wrong (& Russell's point of view & way of explaining things is indeed unique).
I say hats off to RWS for this book & all his other accomplishments.
Read
February 21, 2017After reading this book, which was great, I learned the importance of meditation. This discipline is something overlooked in the urban communities, but is very much needed. Slow down a minute, realign yourself, and be get there faster. Think clearer with making yourself stop and meditate for a moment.
February 24, 2017
This is one I would definitely listen to again. More importantly, it is one that I would gift to others. I think it is thoughtful and balanced.
May 22, 2012
This was a great book! Very uplifting and full of great advice. All 12 of the laws are common sense, but easier said then done and as he says in the book "Remember to remember". Russel Simmons is the hip-hop mogul and owner of many companies. Some of his ventures are Rush Philanthropic, Rush Card, Phat Farm, Baby Phat, Global Grind, and many, many more. He walks you through the start of his career and how he got to where he is today by "trying" to follow these rules. He mentions several times in the book that sometimes he catches himself breaking his own laws, but growth is needed everywhere. He often talks about spirituality but he clarifies in the introduction this book is not based on religion or any particular sect of religion. You can use his advice and laws in your personal life and in the business world and as he walks you through each chapter he explains how the particular law applies to him in both his business and personal life. He also makes it very clear that the book is not about. It is not about his full life story, it's not a surefire ways to get rich, it's not about industry or personal life gossip and behind the scenes secrets. The book is simply about being or becoming a better you whether in life, business or both. That being said my personal favorite of the laws is number five: Never Less Than Your Best. He explains how and why this law works and how to incorporate it into everyday use. I highly recommend this book, especially to business students, professionals and anyone looking for a change. The laws are common sense, but often forgotten or ignored. Check it out!
June 21, 2017
I like the introduction Donald John Trump wrote.
August 1, 2016
This book is somewhat interesting as far as self-help/business books go, but doesn't uncover any new ground. I learned what a passionate vegan Mr. Simmons is (and why we should all be), how much he loathes KFC, and why politicians should listen to more hip-hop just to name a few of the nuggets I took away from this tome. I also learned about his liberal leanings and how much he relates all truth in life to the hip-hop culture...which was interesting. His methods are uncommon and a few are quite inspiring, like:
- get your mind right (his views on meditation are spot on"
- stop wondering and start working
- to succeed we must "give to get"
He is unique and a powerful business force. So often, though, he makes a stand and then waters it down by throwing in something like, "I'm not saying everyone should believe like me..." which seems to completely contradict his views on not caring what others say and staying true to what you believe even if it's not popular.
This book felt like a anthropological study of the hip-hop culture in the first person.
There's a fair amount of language in this book, so I wouldn't recommend it to those who are sensitive to that stuff.
- get your mind right (his views on meditation are spot on"
- stop wondering and start working
- to succeed we must "give to get"
He is unique and a powerful business force. So often, though, he makes a stand and then waters it down by throwing in something like, "I'm not saying everyone should believe like me..." which seems to completely contradict his views on not caring what others say and staying true to what you believe even if it's not popular.
This book felt like a anthropological study of the hip-hop culture in the first person.
There's a fair amount of language in this book, so I wouldn't recommend it to those who are sensitive to that stuff.
January 24, 2012
He offers some sage advice. I took copious notes in my reading journal. I only gave the book three stars because his cursing and use of the N word was annoying. That is the last thing I want to see in a motivational book.
One thing that resonates with me is when he writes about writing down your vision as soon as you have it. I have often thought of great ideas and then say to myself, I will remember it. My memory is about as long as my finger, so I forget things often.
I liked what he said about your happiness coming from the way you work and not where you work. I have to focus on that one more because I know where I work doesn't begin to make me happy. I get happy when 5pm hits and I can go back to my life.
I needed to hear about setbacks not being failures but obstacles in the way of your goal or destination. I often will let a setback completely throw me off task for long periods of time. Russell said, you are never a failure until you are a quitter and I haven't exactly quit.
One thing that resonates with me is when he writes about writing down your vision as soon as you have it. I have often thought of great ideas and then say to myself, I will remember it. My memory is about as long as my finger, so I forget things often.
I liked what he said about your happiness coming from the way you work and not where you work. I have to focus on that one more because I know where I work doesn't begin to make me happy. I get happy when 5pm hits and I can go back to my life.
I needed to hear about setbacks not being failures but obstacles in the way of your goal or destination. I often will let a setback completely throw me off task for long periods of time. Russell said, you are never a failure until you are a quitter and I haven't exactly quit.
February 20, 2024
An interesting perspective and insightful wisdom from a successful entrepreneur from the hip hop industry and more - utilising some of the best known self help principals. Definitely a worthwhile read and enjoyed book.
To Our Continued Success!
Seemy
Waseem.tv/Blog
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To Our Continued Success!
Seemy
Waseem.tv/Blog
👆🏼 P.S -
If you found this review helpful - I’d like to invite you to discover more on our blog. Where the community share some of our most important insights to level up each others knowledge 💡- from experience in studying books like this, training programs, podcasts and much more - visit the blog link above to find out more.
P.P.S 😅 - You probably noticed from my profile that I’ve reviewed a LOT of books over the years now - if you love seeking knowledge like me I’d love to connect with you further as a like minded person (send me a friend invite! 😀) - Also if you are curious - here is my preferred and recommended resource for seeking timeless wisdom - Check it out via the website invite link below 👇🏼 (You’ll be able to claim some awesome books for free 📚)
https://Waseem.tv/GoodReadsBookInvite
February 9, 2017
Was mainly curious about this book because Simmons is a known vegan, that's about all I knew when I piked this up. More than anything it was an insight into hip hop culture for me, although the lessons Simmons shares are very universal. It was a good refresher on certain life and work related philosophies, but I can't say it was a revelation. Probably a good book for people who are the direct target audience of Russell Simmons - young people who know who he is and love what he does.
February 22, 2011
Usually I wouln't review a self-help or business book on goodreads, but I actually really liked this book. I didn't know too much about Russell Simmons, just that he's been really successful in the music business and seemed to be pretty savvy when I saw him on Oprah. So I kind of picked up this book just based on that and found myself pretty much being like 'yep, can't argue with that' throughout this book. Also an interesting look at the music/TV/clothing/production business. And who knew he was so into spiritual stuff? Anyways, totally was not what I expected and actually seems really useful business advice or things to think about when deciding what you really want to do career-wise etc.
August 2, 2011
This audiobook was half usable advice on success and half a discussion of Simmons's success and his personal values. I normally dislike abridged audiobooks, but I'm glad this one is shortened.
Towards the end of the audiobook the focus is mostly on Simmons's opinions on living a vegan lifestyle and politics, which I didn't find as interesting or applicable to the book's topic as earlier advice. I feel like he got off track and decided to bring up topics that would have made readers put the book down if they weren't already so invested.
I did find the discussion of the "hip hop lifestyle" fascinating. I'll look at that style with a different perspective now, which I appreciate gaining from this audiobook.
Towards the end of the audiobook the focus is mostly on Simmons's opinions on living a vegan lifestyle and politics, which I didn't find as interesting or applicable to the book's topic as earlier advice. I feel like he got off track and decided to bring up topics that would have made readers put the book down if they weren't already so invested.
I did find the discussion of the "hip hop lifestyle" fascinating. I'll look at that style with a different perspective now, which I appreciate gaining from this audiobook.
June 12, 2007
This book is great! I didn't actually read the book but I listened to the audio book version (got it free from iTunes). Since the audio book is an abridged version, I assume that the bulk of the important topics were kept intact. Russell Simmons has some great points, many great anecdotes to illustrate those stories and best of all he keeps it real (as best as I can tell) while adding some humor into the mix. A good number of his thoughts and ideas draw from religious thought and teachings. However, this book is not a religious book and the ideas are not about religion, but are based upon a more universal idea of spirituality and wisdom.
October 9, 2007
A lot of Hip Hop heads go straight for this book to learn about Rush and his tactics and advice on business and how to be a mogul!This is his 2nd book and it is very spiritual.I am agnostic,but it helped me put things into perspective pretty well!Good tips on self discipline and standards to rule yourself by!Doesn't come off preachy at all.Funny and straight forward(self contradiction and all)!I refer back to chapters as I am in the entertainment industry and it gives me many real life examples on how to stay focused,motivated,productive and balanced!Excellent read.MUST READ for any business person
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