Rule #1 Don't Be #2: You Get What You Work For, Not What You Wish For by Daniel Milstein
RULE #1 is a book of life PRECEPTS. Although targeted at business readers, RULE #1 is really applicable to all of life. The book is not a "how to" guide; rather, it is a series of life lessons learned the hard way by Mr. Milstein.
Even though a Kindle version is available, I recommend you stick with the hardcopy. (The audio version might also be helpful.) This is one of those books you will want to have around and browse through sometimes. I think the actual format and presentation helps tell the story, and drive the points home.
The author explains that he came to the U.S. with pennies in his pocket, then after years of hard work, rocketed to the top of his profession. Each of the 25 chapters covers a life lesson that the author illustrates. For example, Chapter 20 suggests, "There's No Room For Complainers." He notes that "Nobody likes a whiner to a complainer. They are the first cousins of the critic." And,
"Feeling sorry for yourself isn't part of the game plan."
Many of the points emphasize hard work, focus, planning--and most of all, ACTION. You don't need to read the chapters in order, although I did. You can zip through this little book in about an hour, but I think most people will want to keep the book close at hand, and read over the ideas again.
Most of the ideas are not outlandish or amazingly original. I've seen similar ideas in many inspirational and success books. Nevertheless, I found the stories and ideas credible, helpful, and inspiring. Of all the points made, I like this one the best:
"You should have goals so big that you are uncomfortable telling your friends about them."
I love that idea--reach for the stars!
Wait--I think I like this one even more:
"Good luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity. Bad Luck is what happens when lack of preparation meets a challenge."
The above idea is another variant on the theme of personal responsibility. Don't blame bad luck, don't blame others, get to work!
All in all, I found Rule #1 Don't be #2 to be an outstanding read. Do not be fooled by the small size. The ideas are outstanding, and worthy of serious consideration..
Get the hard copy, read through the ideas, then think about them. I did.
Advance Review copy courtesy of the publisher.
