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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Do the Work summary
Gary John Bishop
The Official Unrepentant, Ass-Kicking, No-Kidding, Change-Your-Life Sidekick to Unfu*k Yourself
12 mins
Brief summary
Do the Work by Gary John Bishop is a motivational book that helps readers overcome obstacles and take action towards their goals. It provides practical advice and strategies to push through resistance and achieve success.
Table of Contents
Do the Work
Summary of 4 key ideas
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Key idea 1 of 4
No more excuses
You don’t need a Blink to tell you that internal narratives are a powerful thing. But let’s take a closer look at what’s going on in your head, and consider the ways in which these thoughts might be standing in the way of personal growth.
We all have individual traits or behaviors that we struggle to get rid of. These could be perceived shortcomings in character, specific emotions, or particular habits that others may seem to handle effortlessly. Often, we become acutely aware of these “dark spots” and, instead of addressing them, adjust our lives to avoid the potential disruptions they might cause. In doing so, we erect a fortress of excuses to shield ourselves from confronting these truths.
Interestingly, this behavior isn't just about evasion. It's more like self-toleration: we passively acknowledge and accept our flaws – be they procrastination, a short temper, or over-politeness – and organize our entire lives around these unchallenged truths.
For transformation to happen, this pattern of self-toleration must be disrupted. Imagine the possibilities if, instead of succumbing to the thought I'm a procrastinator, you actively challenged that belief? This aligns with Epictetus's wisdom: Identify who you wish to be, then act accordingly.
To kickstart this introspection, there are a few things to consider.
First, identify any traits you feel are “too much” in you – like I'm too passive.
Second, explore areas where you feel you're lacking. For instance, I'm not confident enough.
Finally, probe the justifications you've made to maintain your status quo.
Reflect on which trait, when conquered, would be your personal victory flag – symbolizing genuine self-growth. Understanding this can shed light on your daily actions and choices. What consistent, new action could reflect this newfound mastery? And, when confronted with your habitual thoughts or behaviors, what alternative steps could you take instead?
To put these ideas into practice, make written promises to yourself. Keep in mind that these promises aren’t set in stone – they can be redefined with changing needs and circumstances. But they should resemble personal contracts, with specific goals, deadlines, and challenges to fuel growth.
So embrace this paradigm shift, and start crafting your commitments.
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What is Do the Work about?
Do the Work (2019) is a guide that urges people to confront and overcome their self-imposed limitations in order to achieve personal transformation. Through actionable insights and transformative exercises, you can take control of your career and get on track for a more purposeful and fulfilling life.
Do the Work Review
Do the Work (2011) by Gary John Bishop is a motivational book that urges us to take action and overcome the obstacles that hold us back. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- It offers practical strategies and tools to break through resistance and get things done, empowering readers to achieve their goals.
- Combining personal stories and insights from successful people, the book provides valuable advice on how to push through challenges and stay focused on the end goal.
- The book's direct and no-nonsense approach keeps readers engaged and motivates them to take immediate action, ensuring that it is anything but boring.
Who should read Do the Work?
- Anyone looking for a nudge forward in life
- People tired of the usual self-help platitudes
- Procrastinators eager for a wake-up call
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Do the Work FAQs
What is the main message of Do the Work?
The main message of Do the Work is to overcome resistance and take action towards achieving your goals.
How long does it take to read Do the Work?
The reading time for Do the Work varies depending on the reader's speed. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Do the Work a good book? Is it worth reading?
Do the Work is worth reading for its practical insights and motivation to take action. It offers valuable advice for overcoming obstacles and achieving success.
Who is the author of Do the Work?
The author of Do the Work is Gary John Bishop.
What to read after Do the Work?
If you're wondering what to read next after Do the Work, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- The 50th Law by 50 Cent and Robert Greene
- It Takes What It Takes by Trevor Moawad with Andy Staples
- You Were Born Rich by Bob Proctor
- Seven and a Half Lessons about the Brain by Lisa Feldman Barrett
- The One Truth by Jon Gordon
- Allen Carr's Easy Way to Quit Emotional Eating by Allen Carr
- Unfu*k Yourself by Gary John Bishop
- The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma
- Mastery by George Leonard
- Get Better at Anything by Scott H. Young