Key Takeaways
1. Attitude is a Choice: Win-Win or Lose-Lose
“A person with a positive attitude cannot be stopped. A person with a negative attitude cannot be helped.”
Attitude shapes reality. Our attitude, not our circumstances, dictates our success. A positive attitude is not about ignoring problems, but about focusing on solutions. It's the ability to see opportunities in every challenge, and to persist with determination rather than succumbing to discouragement.
Two natures within. We all have two natures: one that seeks comfort and convenience, and another that guides us towards what is right, even if it's difficult. The battle is to strengthen the good and overcome the vices that pull us down. This internal struggle is constant, and the choice of which nature to feed is ours.
Ant philosophy. The ant serves as a great example of a positive attitude. They are hardworking, purpose-driven, far-sighted, persistent, and maintain a work-life balance. They don't quit when faced with obstacles, and neither should we. Our attitude is a choice, and it's the most powerful tool we have.
2. Life by Design, Not by Default
“Where we will be five years from now will depend on whether we live by design or by default.”
Intentional living. We must actively design our lives rather than passively accepting what comes our way. Living by default means letting external forces dictate our path, leading to regrets and unfulfilled potential. Living by design requires conscious choices, clear goals, and a commitment to making them happen.
Preparation is key. Success is not a miracle or a mystery, but the natural outcome of consistently applying certain principles. It's about being prepared when opportunities arise, rather than blaming luck when we are not. Preparation involves sacrifice, self-discipline, hard work, commitment, integrity, and responsibility.
Meaningful life. A meaningful life is not measured by material possessions, but by our attitude towards life. It's about having a purpose, making a contribution, and living with intention. We must choose to live a life of fulfillment rather than merely existing.
3. Problems are a Sign of Life: Accept, Change, or Know the Difference
“Problems are a sign of life. So long as we are alive, we shall have problems. The day we have no problems, we will be dead.”
Problems are inevitable. Problems are not something to be avoided, but rather a sign that we are alive and engaged with the world. The absence of problems is not a desirable state, but rather a sign of stagnation. We cannot solve all our problems, but we can certainly handle them.
Serenity Prayer. The Serenity Prayer provides a framework for dealing with life's challenges: accept what we cannot change, have the courage to change what we can, and have the wisdom to know the difference. This requires a balance between acceptance and action, and the ability to discern what is within our control.
Fate and free will. Life is a combination of fate (what we cannot control) and free will (how we respond). We cannot choose the cards we are dealt, but we can choose how to play the game. We must accept what we cannot change and focus our energy on what we can.
4. Wisdom is Action: Spirituality is a Way of Life
“Knowledge without action is like ploughing without sowing.”
Action over knowledge. Knowledge is only valuable when it is put into action. Learning without implementation is like ploughing without sowing; it yields no harvest. True wisdom lies in the proper application of knowledge, leading to positive change and growth.
Spirituality defined. Spirituality is not about rituals or dogma, but about living with integrity, responsibility, and respect. It's about adding value to whatever we do and making a positive impact on the world. It's about being honest, ethical, and compassionate in all our interactions.
Spiritual actions. Spirituality is not a strategy, but a way of life. It's about a politician thinking of the next generation, a doctor saving lives, a judge giving fair judgments, and a teacher building character. It's about doing everything with integrity and adding value to life.
5. Mind Your Mind: Thermostat, Not Thermometer
“Our mind is a thought factory generating either positive or negative thoughts.”
Mind as a controller. Our mind is like a thought factory, constantly generating either positive or negative thoughts. We can choose to condition our minds to be like a thermostat, which regulates its environment, rather than a thermometer, which only reacts to external conditions.
Autopilot mode. We should put our minds on autopilot, making positive behavior a reflex action. This means programming our minds to respond positively to challenges and opportunities, regardless of external circumstances. A thermostat mind is always in control.
Power of positive thinking. Our thoughts have a direct impact on our behavior, health, and relationships. Cultivating positive thoughts can lead to better outcomes and a more fulfilling life. We must learn to control and direct our minds to create a positive belief system.
6. Invest in Yourself: Input Determines Output
“If you do not like the output in your life, then you must evaluate the input.”
Input shapes attitude. Where we will be in five years depends on the books we read, the shows we watch, and the company we keep. These are the inputs that shape our attitude, which is the output. We must be mindful of what we allow into our minds.
Mind as a garden. Our mind is like a garden; whatever we plant will grow. We must be careful to plant positive seeds, such as good books, uplifting content, and supportive relationships. We must also weed out the negative influences that can contaminate our minds.
Invest above the neck. We often spend money on material possessions, but we should invest more in our minds. This means reading good books, watching educational content, and surrounding ourselves with positive influences. Investing in our minds is the best investment we can make.
7. Making of a Winner: Self-Esteem, Consistency, Self-Control, Self-Discipline, Passion
“Winners make things happen, losers wait for things to happen.”
Self-esteem is key. Self-esteem is a feeling of self-worth and the foundation of our psyche. It is based on self-acceptance, which means accepting ourselves as we are, while striving to improve. It is about being internally driven, not seeking validation from outside.
Consistency is crucial. Success is not an event, but a process. It's about repeating positive actions daily and avoiding negative ones. Consistency is the key to proficiency, and it shapes our lives. A few positive actions repeated daily result in winning, and a few mistakes repeated every day result in failure.
Self-control and discipline. Self-control is the essence of self-respect, and self-discipline is the foundation of winning. Discipline is the remedy for regret. We must have the self-control to do what is right, even when it is difficult. Desire without discipline is only wishful thinking.
Passion fuels action. Passion is a strong emotion that propels us to commit to ourselves. We must put our hearts into whatever we do. Winners don't do different things, they do things differently, with passion and enthusiasm.
8. Keep It Up: Little and Crucial vs. Petty and Trivial
“The difference between the good and the great is the attention given to details.”
Conditioning the mind. Conditioning the mind is more important than willpower. We must train our minds to do the right thing consistently. Winners overcome their limitations and focus on their strengths, while losers focus on their limitations.
Little and crucial. We must distinguish between little and crucial things, and petty and trivial things. Little things are not little; they make a big difference. It is the small leak that sinks the ship. We must pay attention to the smallest details.
Petty and trivial. We must not major in minor issues. We must learn what to look for and what to overlook. We must not let petty issues bother us. We must keep little things in perspective.
Overcome limitations. Self-imposed limitations bind us down. We must believe in ourselves and set high standards to break past these limitations. The greatest achievers have faced bigger problems than most of us.
9. Values Don't Change: Choose Character
“When character is lost, everything is lost.”
Character is an accomplishment. Character is not a gift, but an accomplishment. It is built bit by bit through hard work. It is based on our value system, which guides our actions. It is easier kept than regained.
Character is learned. Character is not something we are born with, it is a learned behavior. It is based on our value system. It is a composite of qualities such as integrity, honesty, ethics, conscience, loyalty, mental strength, grit, and courage.
Three pillars of character. The three pillars of character are integrity, respect, and responsibility. These are the core values that guide our behavior. They are the foundation from which all behavior emanates, resulting in consequences.
Choose character. We must choose character over convenience. We must choose to live by ethical and moral values. We must choose to do the right thing, even when it is difficult.
10. Integrity: A Way of Life, Not a Strategy
“Integrity involves upholding a personal moral code no matter.”
Integrity is authenticity. Integrity means being uncorrupted and authentic. It means that our actions and words match. It is about doing what is right, not just knowing what is right. It is a way of life, not a strategy.
Values are priceless. Integrity does not change with the amount involved. It is a universal and eternal value. It is more important than valuables. It is the foundation of trust and credibility.
Ethics matter. Ethical behavior is essential for success. Unethical behavior leads to failure and loss of credibility. We must make decisions based on integrity, not expediency.
Integrity and honesty. Integrity is a value system, while honesty is a habit. We can be honest without having integrity, but we cannot have integrity without being honest. We must strive to be both honest and have integrity.
11. Accountability: Ownership and Responsibility
“Every sunrise brings new opportunities and every sunset demands results and accountability.”
Accountability is key. Accountability is the willingness to accept responsibility. It is a prerequisite for success. It is about taking ownership of our actions and their consequences. It is a way of life.
Preparedness is crucial. People who accept accountability take pride in performance. They anticipate what's coming next and prepare in advance. They deliver results, not excuses. They are proactive, not reactive.
Ownership and belonging. When we take ownership, we have a feeling of belonging. We feel connected to the organization and its goals. We take responsibility for our actions and their impact.
Accountability is a culture. Organizations that have a culture of accountability make it a practice to hire and retain employees who accept accountability as a personal value. They hold each other accountable for results.
12. Be Proactive: Make It Happen, Don't Wait
“Achievers think in terms of seconds and minutes, non-achievers think in terms of hours and days.”
Proactive mindset. We must be proactive, not reactive. We must make things happen, rather than waiting for things to happen. We must take charge of our lives and our destinies.
Time is precious. Time is a perishable commodity. We must invest our time wisely, rather than wasting it. We must be mindful of how we spend our time. We must make every moment count.
Overcome procrastination. Procrastination is a major time waster. We must overcome procrastination and take action. We must do what is important, not just what is easy. We must make a habit of doing it now.
Go-givers, not go-getters. We must be go-givers, not go-getters. We must focus on giving value to others, rather than just taking. We must be proactive in making a positive impact on the world.
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FAQ
1. What is "You Can Achieve More" by Shiv Khera about?
- Roadmap for Success: The book is a practical guide to achieving more in life by living intentionally—by design, not by default.
- Universal Principles: It presents timeless, universal principles for personal and professional success, emphasizing attitude, character, and self-discipline.
- Action-Oriented Approach: Shiv Khera provides actionable steps and exercises at the end of each chapter to help readers internalize and implement the concepts.
- Holistic Success: The book defines true success as a balance of health, wealth, and good relationships, and offers strategies to achieve all three.
2. Why should I read "You Can Achieve More" by Shiv Khera?
- Practical Wisdom: The book distills decades of motivational and leadership experience into simple, actionable advice.
- Self-Improvement Focus: It helps readers identify self-limiting beliefs and habits, replacing them with empowering attitudes and behaviors.
- Avoiding Pitfalls: Khera not only teaches how to succeed but also how to avoid common, costly mistakes in life and work.
- Universal Relevance: The principles apply across cultures, professions, and life stages, making it valuable for anyone seeking growth.
3. What are the key takeaways from "You Can Achieve More"?
- Attitude Determines Altitude: A positive, proactive attitude is the foundation of unstoppable success.
- Consistency and Discipline: Small, positive actions repeated daily lead to significant achievements, while repeated errors compound into failure.
- Values and Character: Integrity, responsibility, and respect are non-negotiable for lasting success and fulfillment.
- Action Over Intention: Knowledge and good intentions are not enough—consistent action is what creates results.
4. What is Shiv Khera’s definition of success in "You Can Achieve More"?
- Three Pillars: Success is defined as achieving happiness through health, wealth, and good relationships.
- Not Just Achievement: Success is not just about external accomplishments but also about internal fulfillment and balance.
- Sustained Success: True success is not a one-time event but a sustained state achieved through ongoing application of principles.
- Avoiding Regret: Living by design ensures you reach a destination of your choosing, minimizing regrets at the end of life.
5. How does "You Can Achieve More" by Shiv Khera emphasize the importance of attitude?
- Attitude as a Choice: The book teaches that attitude is a habitual way of thinking and is the most powerful determinant of success.
- Solution-Focused Mindset: Positive attitude means focusing on solutions, not problems, and seeing opportunities in every challenge.
- Ant Philosophy: Khera uses the example of ants to illustrate persistence, hard work, and adaptability as key attitude traits.
- Disease of Negativity: The book warns against pessimism and negativity, likening them to diseases that must be actively managed.
6. What does "living by design, not by default" mean in Shiv Khera’s book?
- Intentional Living: It means making conscious choices about your goals, values, and actions rather than drifting through life.
- Action Plan Creation: The book encourages readers to create specific action plans with clear objectives, methods, and deadlines.
- Avoiding Regret: Living by design helps prevent ending up in places or situations you never intended, reducing future regrets.
- Personal Responsibility: It emphasizes taking ownership of your life and not leaving your future to chance or others’ plans.
7. What role do values and character play in "You Can Achieve More"?
- Foundation of Success: Values like integrity, respect, and responsibility are presented as the bedrock of all achievements.
- Non-Negotiable Standards: The book argues that values are universal and eternal, not subjective or situational.
- Character Over Reputation: Khera distinguishes between reputation (what others think) and character (who you truly are).
- Societal Impact: The decline of values leads to societal decay, while strong character builds trust and lasting relationships.
8. How does Shiv Khera suggest readers overcome self-imposed limitations in "You Can Achieve More"?
- Awareness and Reflection: The book encourages self-examination to identify limiting beliefs and negative conditioning.
- Focus on Strengths: Winners focus on their strengths and work to overcome weaknesses, rather than being defined by them.
- Challenge Comfort Zones: Khera urges readers to break free from self-imposed boundaries and aim higher.
- Consistent Action: Overcoming limitations requires consistent, disciplined effort and a willingness to change.
9. What practical methods does "You Can Achieve More" offer for building self-discipline and consistency?
- Daily Habits: The book stresses the power of small, positive actions repeated daily to build momentum and proficiency.
- Self-Control: Practicing self-control in thoughts, emotions, and actions is highlighted as essential for self-respect and achievement.
- Accountability: Setting clear goals, tracking progress, and holding oneself accountable are recommended strategies.
- Passion and Purpose: Pursuing what you love with commitment makes discipline easier and more sustainable.
10. How does "You Can Achieve More" by Shiv Khera address the importance of time management and overcoming procrastination?
- Life Management: Time management is equated with life management—how you use your time determines your life’s outcome.
- Invest vs. Spend: The book distinguishes between investing time in meaningful activities and merely spending or wasting it.
- Procrastination Dangers: Procrastination is identified as a major time waster that drains energy and leads to regret.
- Action Steps: Khera provides steps to overcome procrastination, including awareness, evaluating costs, committing to change, and starting immediately.
11. What is the significance of accountability, ownership, and proactivity in "You Can Achieve More"?
- 100/0 Principle: The book advocates taking 100% responsibility for outcomes and making zero excuses.
- Ownership Mindset: Taking ownership means acting as if you are the owner, not just an employee or bystander, leading to better problem-solving and decision-making.
- Proactive Living: Being proactive means making things happen rather than waiting for circumstances or others to act.
- Results Orientation: Accountability and ownership are linked to higher performance, trust, and personal growth.
12. What are the most impactful quotes from "You Can Achieve More" and what do they mean?
- “A person with a positive attitude cannot be stopped. A person with a negative attitude cannot be helped.” — Emphasizes the unstoppable power of positivity.
- “Winners don’t do different things, they do things differently.” — Success comes from unique approaches and consistent excellence, not just novel actions.
- “We are free till we make choices. After that, the choice controls us and we have no more choice.” — Highlights the importance of making wise, intentional decisions.
- “It is much easier to do the right thing the first time, every time, than to explain why we didn’t and correct it later.” — Stresses the value of integrity and proactive action.
- “If you want to leave a legacy, then either do something worth writing or write something worth doing.” — Encourages readers to live purposefully and make a lasting impact.
Review Summary
You Can Achieve More receives mostly positive reviews, with readers praising its motivational content and practical approach. Many appreciate the action plans at the end of each chapter, which encourage self-reflection and personal growth. The book covers topics like positive attitude, self-discipline, and character development. Some readers find it preachy or lacking originality, but most consider it a valuable guide for self-improvement. Critics note its Americanized style and occasional lack of practical advice, while supporters appreciate its emphasis on ethics and integrity alongside success principles.
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