“There’s $15 trillion dollars in our economy, recession or no recession. It’s falling like snow. Reach out with your tongue and taste it.” – James Altucher.
I first stumbled upon James Altucher’s book, “How To Be The Luckiest Person Alive” from a blog post he wrote about writing the book. I think that’s what kids call “Meta”? Anyway, I enjoyed the post so much I shelled out a whopping 99 cents for a copy. Three or so months after reading it I still feel compelled to give it a much deserved review.
Initial thoughts after reading:
Both hilarious and insightful. At certain points I found myself laughing out loud while highlighting business advice on the same page. The book is clearly blog posts that have been compiled into a book format. This might be a turn off to regular readers of his blog, but since I was coming in green, I didn’t mind.
Three months after reading it, I’ve come back to highlighted notes several times and still frequently think about it.
What I learned:
James Altucher has lived anything but an ordinary life. Few people ever make as much money as him or lose as much as he has. It’s difficult to experience those big swings without learning many valuable lessons.
The best advice in the book comes regards writing and idea generation. His chapter on 33 ways to become a better writer has influenced my daily writing habits, pushing me to be better and write more consistently. Another important point he makes is about creativity and the “idea muscle.” Like any other type of muscle, if you don’t exercise and stretch it on a regular basis, it atrophies. Good ideas aren’t usually accidents. They come from people who constantly work on new things and new opportunities. Anyone can be creative. It just takes real effort.
Favorite quotes:
“The only way you can ever make money is fi you provide and add value to others.”
“That doesn’t mean abandon those who need you. Quite the opposite. If you are a clean river, then people can drink from you. If you are dirty water, then people will get sick.”
“Get a professional masseuse in every Friday afternoon. Nobody leaves a job where there is a masseuse.”
“Creativity doesn’t come from God. It’s a muscle that you need to learn to build.”
The Verdict: Must Read
It’s short, witty, and full of insight. Plus it’s only 99cents. Buy it and let me know what you think.