Tristan’s 7+1: The Special Five

Hi Brilliant Mind,

I look forward to hearing your book recommendations and the lessons you’ve drawn from them.

Over the past decade, I've had the privilege of making the time to read some fun and profound books, each offering unique insights and lessons. But a select few stand out for their transformative impact on my perspectives. I'd like to share my top 5 with you.

1. "Extreme Ownership" by Jocko Willink: Still my favorite one. This book taught me that the best leaders don't just take responsibility for their own actions, they take responsibility for the actions of their entire team. Leadership is about more than giving orders; it's about understanding, empathy, and yes, ownership. 

2. "Winning" by Tim Grover: just wrapped this one up and I felt like I got my ass kicked; and I loved it. Grover's perspective on the mindset of champions is enlightening. This book illustrated that winning is not an event, but a constant process. It's about pushing your boundaries, maintaining focus, and understanding that victory isn't given, it's earned. 

3. "Built To Last" by Jim Collins: This book has been an exceptional guide on how to build a lasting company. Collins taught me the importance of creating a strong organizational culture and pursuing a purpose beyond profit. Truly successful companies stand the test of time by embracing change while sticking to their core values. I still look back at my notes from this book often. 

4. "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho: I read this with my wife a few years back on my way up to Half Moon Bay and finished it on my way down driving on the Pacific Coast HWY. A classic tale of self-discovery and personal growth, it instilled in me the power of listening to your heart and following your dreams. The protagonist's journey is a reminder that our personal "treasure" often lies where we least expect it, typically within us. 

5. “The Daily Stoic” by Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman: I read this almost daily. I have the leather bound one and I have it highlighted with a lot of notes. Its a collection of 366 meditations on wisdom, perseverance, and the art of living, it introduced me to the practicalities of Stoicism. The daily reflections have allowed me to integrate these philosophies into my everyday life, and it helps keep the right perspective in front of me through the day.

In reflecting on these five books, it becomes clear that our understanding of the world is shaped not only by our experiences but also by the insights we glean from others. Each of these texts has made a significant impact on my life, teaching me valuable lessons about leadership, perseverance, business, personal discovery, and mental fortitude.

Remember, the world belongs to those who read. So, keep reading, keep learning, and keep growing.