2024 Annual Movie Review: What to Watch this Holiday. My Lens on Life Lessons

Lights, Camera, Action! 

Welcome to my 2024 annual curated list of films and shows!  This year’s selection is deeply informed by my 23 years of service in the Navy and my continued commitment to supporting veterans and military families as a civilian educator/counselor.  

My journey has taken me from the decks of warships to the halls of academia, and through it all, I've discovered the power of storytelling to illuminate the human experience. My wife and I share this passion, often spending our weekends immersed in captivating narratives, dissecting themes and characters late into the night finishing series in one weekend. 

These stories have inspired us, challenged my thinking, and reinforced the values I’ve cultivated throughout my life. Whether you’re an educator like me looking for engaging classroom material, a life skill counselor seeking new ways to connect with clients, or an entrepreneur navigating the complexities of business, I believe these films offer valuable insights and spark meaningful conversations. Here’s how they resonate with my personal and professional experiences, along with IMDb ratings and where you can find them.

1. Shogun (FX on Hulu)

 * My Rating: 10 | IMDb Rating: 8.6

 * Insight:  One of the most powerful scenes in “Shogun” is when Anjin-san, a shipwrecked English sailor, begins to truly embrace the Japanese way of life.  He navigates the complexities of a foreign culture with humility, respect, and a fierce determination to learn.  This resonates deeply with my own experiences in the Navy, where I was constantly interacting with people from diverse backgrounds.  Whether it was collaborating with sailors from allied nations during joint exercises or building relationships with local communities during humanitarian missions, cultural sensitivity and adaptability were crucial to mission success.  In my counseling practice, I often draw upon this experience, emphasizing the importance of understanding different perspectives to foster personal and professional growth. Just as Anjin-san found strength and purpose by adapting to a new world, we too can find opportunities for growth by embracing the unfamiliar.

2. Black Doves (Amazon Prime Video)

 * My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 7.3

 * Insight:  The scene in “Black Doves” where Helen confronts the devastating betrayal by someone she trusted left a lasting impression on me.  The raw intensity of her emotions – the anger, the hurt, the confusion – mirrored the experiences of many veterans I’ve worked with who have faced similar personal setbacks, sometimes related to their service.  It’s a powerful reminder that while betrayal can shake us to our core, it can also be a catalyst for profound self-discovery and growth.  Helen’s journey towards healing and finding strength within herself underscores the importance of emotional resilience, a key principle I emphasize in my counseling practice.  By encouraging self-awareness and providing tools to navigate difficult emotions, we can empower veterans to emerge from adversity stronger and more self-assured.

3. Lioness (Paramount+)

 * My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 7.7

 * Insight:  The camaraderie and unwavering trust between Cruz and Joe in “Lioness,” particularly during their high-stakes missions, brought me right back to my days leading a team of sailors on a mission in the Persian Gulf. We faced a critical engine failure, and the only way to get everyone home safely was to rely on each other’s expertise and unwavering trust. Just like in the show, clear communication and shared purpose were essential. This dynamic is something I also see in successful counseling sessions with veterans. When clients and therapists work together as a team, with open communication and a shared goal of healing and reintegration, that’s when real breakthroughs happen.  For educators, this show can be a great tool to illustrate the power of teamwork and collaboration.  Consider having students analyze a specific scene and identify the key elements that contribute to the team’s success.

4. Sharper (Apple TV+)

 * My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 6.7

 * Insight:  “Sharper” masterfully weaves a tale of deceit and manipulation, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as the intricate plot twists unfold. This film serves as a potent reminder of the importance of discernment in all relationships, both personal and professional.  As a counselor for veterans, I’ve witnessed firsthand how their experiences can sometimes make them vulnerable to those seeking to exploit their trust or manipulate them for personal gain.  This film underscores the need to develop critical thinking skills and trust our intuition.  By helping veterans recognize red flags and empowering them to set healthy boundaries, we can guide them towards building authentic connections based on trust and mutual respect.

5. The Penguin (HBO Max)

 * My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 8.7

 * Insight:  Oswald Cobblepot’s strategic rise to power in “The Penguin” is a fascinating study in ambition, resourcefulness, and the seductive nature of power.  While his journey illustrates how these qualities can drive success, it also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the ethical compromises that can occur along the way.  This resonates with the leadership challenges many veterans face as they transition to civilian careers.  I encourage them to harness their ambition and channel it in a way that aligns with their values and contributes to the greater good.  This film provides a compelling case study for discussing the importance of balancing ambition with social responsibility and ethical leadership.

6. Fallout (Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or Google Play)

 * My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 8.3

 * Insight:  The scene in “Fallout” where survivors of a traumatic event gather to share their experiences and find solace in their shared vulnerability resonated deeply with me.  It reminded me of the powerful healing that can occur in group therapy sessions for veterans, where individuals come together to process their pain, find support, and rebuild their lives.  The power of human connection and shared experience cannot be overstated.  This film beautifully illustrates the importance of community and the transformative potential of vulnerability for those who have served.

7. The Perfect Couple (Netflix)

 * My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 6.5

 * Insight:  “The Perfect Couple” cleverly unravels family secrets and hidden tensions amidst a murder investigation.  This captivating narrative highlights the critical role of communication in maintaining healthy relationships.  As a counselor working with military families, I often see how deployments, relocations, and the unique stresses of military life can strain communication and create tension within families.  This film serves as a valuable reminder that open and honest dialogue is essential for fostering understanding, resolving conflict, and building stronger bonds within families.

8. The Veil (Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or Google Play)

 * My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 6.4

 * Insight:  The moment in “The Veil” when the protagonist finally uncovers the truth behind a long-hidden conspiracy resonated with me on a professional level.  As both an educator and counselor for veterans, I often find myself guiding individuals through periods of uncertainty and confusion as they transition to civilian life.  Whether it’s a veteran struggling to find their place in the civilian workforce or a family grappling with the challenges of reintegration, the journey towards clarity can be challenging.  This film serves as a metaphor for the importance of seeking truth, asking difficult questions, and piecing together the fragments of information to gain a clearer understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

9. Those About to Die (Peacock)

 * My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 6.7

 * Insight:  The intense training sequences in “Those About to Die,” where gladiators prepare for life-or-death combat, showcase the power of discipline and perseverance.  This theme resonates with my experience as a Navy Chief and educator.  The military instills a deep respect for discipline, and I see this same dedication in the veterans I work with as they pursue their educational and career goals.  Whether it’s preparing for a military operation, pursuing academic goals, or overcoming personal challenges, the ability to set goals, dedicate oneself to rigorous training, and maintain focus in the face of adversity is essential for success.  This film can be a powerful tool for inspiring students and clients to embrace discipline and commit to the hard work required to achieve their aspirations.

10. 3 Body Problem (Netflix)

 * My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 7.5

 * Insight:  The moment in “3 Body Problem” when humanity confronts the vastness and mystery of the universe evokes a sense of awe and wonder, but also a profound feeling of insignificance.  This resonates with my experience as a counselor, where I often encounter veterans who are grappling with their place in the world after their military service.  This film serves as a reminder that while we may be small in the grand scheme of things, we each have the power to make choices, forge our own paths, and find meaning in our lives.  By cultivating resilience, resourcefulness, and a sense of curiosity, we can navigate the unpredictable currents of life with courage and purpose.

11. Uglies (Netflix)

 * My Rating: 8 | IMDb Rating: 4.7

 * Insight:  Tally’s struggle against conformity and her fight to preserve her individuality in “Uglies” is a powerful reminder of the importance of authenticity.  In a world that often pressures us to fit in, this film encourages us to embrace our unique qualities and resist the urge to conform to societal expectations.  As a counselor, I often work with veterans who are trying to find their identity outside of their military roles. This film can be a valuable tool for sparking conversations about self-acceptance, self-expression, and the courage to be different.

12. The Deliverance (Shudder)

 * My Rating: 8 | IMDb Rating: 5.1

 * Insight:  “The Deliverance” portrays a family’s harrowing battle against a malevolent force that threatens to tear them apart.  While the film delves into the supernatural, it also highlights the importance of unity and resilience in the face of adversity.  The family’s ability to stand together, despite their fears and vulnerabilities, underscores the power of familial bonds and the strength that can be found in collective resistance.  This theme resonates with my work in family counseling, where I often witness the transformative power of families working together to overcome challenges and heal from trauma, especially for those who have experienced the unique stresses of military life.

13. Mr. Robot (Amazon Prime Video)

 * My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 8.5

 * Insight:  “Mr. Robot” delves into the complexities of identity, mental health, and social rebellion through the eyes of Elliot Alderson, a brilliant but troubled young hacker.  Elliot’s struggles with social anxiety, depression, and a fragmented sense of self mirror the challenges faced by many veterans who are dealing with the invisible wounds of war.  This series offers a nuanced portrayal of mental health and raises important questions about societal norms, conformity, and the search for authenticity.  As a counselor, I appreciate the show’s willingness to tackle these complex issues and its potential to spark meaningful conversations about mental well-being and self-discovery.

14. Russian Doll (Netflix)

 * My Rating: 8 | IMDb Rating: 7.7

 * Insight:  “Russian Doll” takes a unique approach to exploring themes of personal growth and self-awareness through Nadia’s cyclical journey of death and rebirth.  Trapped in a time loop, she is forced to confront her past mistakes and make different choices to break free.  This concept resonates with my work as an educator, where I emphasize the importance of learning from our experiences, both successes and failures.  Each day presents an opportunity for growth and transformation, and this show serves as a creative reminder that we have the power to shape our own destinies through our choices and actions. This is especially relevant for veterans who are transitioning to civilian life and redefining their identities.

15. They/Them (Peacock)

 * My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 4.0

 * Insight:  “They/Them” tackles complex themes of identity, acceptance, and the struggle for self-expression within the LGBTQ+ community.  Set against the backdrop of a conversion therapy camp, the film highlights the trauma and challenges faced by individuals who are forced to suppress their true selves.  This narrative resonates deeply with my work as a counselor, where I strive to create a safe and inclusive space for all clients, including those who have served in the military and identify as LGBTQ+.  This film serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and advocating for the rights of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

16. The Continental (Peacock)

 * My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 7.2

 * Insight:  “The Continental” delves into the intricate world of assassins and organized crime, exploring themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the high-stakes consequences of operating in a morally ambiguous underworld.  My experience in the military, where loyalty and trust are paramount, gives me a unique appreciation for the complexities portrayed in this series.  Whether it’s a team of soldiers relying on each other in combat or a group of assassins navigating a dangerous power struggle, the bonds of loyalty can be both a source of strength and a vulnerability.  This show offers a thought-provoking exploration of these dynamics and the ethical dilemmas that arise when operating in a world where the lines between right and wrong are blurred.

17. Oppenheimer (In Theaters; likely available later on streaming platforms)

 * My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 8.3

 * Insight:  “Oppenheimer” grapples with the moral complexities surrounding the creation of the atomic bomb, raising profound questions about scientific responsibility, ethical leadership, and the consequences of unchecked ambition.  The film’s exploration of J. Robert Oppenheimer’s internal struggles and the weight of his decisions resonates with my work as a counselor and consultant.  I often guide clients through difficult ethical dilemmas, encouraging them to consider the potential consequences of their actions and make choices that align with their values.  This film serves as a powerful reminder that even the most brilliant minds must grapple with the moral implications of their work and the impact it has on the world.

18. Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One (In Theaters; check for availability later)

 * My Rating: 8 | IMDb Rating: 7.7

 * Insight:  Ethan Hunt’s unwavering dedication to his mission, his ability to think on his feet, and his talent for strategic planning in “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One” embody the qualities I admire in successful entrepreneurs.  Whether it’s navigating a complex business landscape, adapting to unexpected challenges, or taking calculated risks, entrepreneurs must be resourceful, decisive, and able to anticipate potential obstacles.  This film provides a thrilling example of how strategic thinking, combined with a willingness to take bold action, can lead to success even in the most perilous situations.

19. Upgrade (Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or Google Play)

 * My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 7.5

 * Insight:  “Upgrade” explores the transformative potential of technology, both its benefits and its potential dangers.  The film’s protagonist, Grey Trace, undergoes a radical procedure that enhances his physical and mental capabilities through advanced technology.  While this grants him incredible abilities, it also raises ethical questions about the blurring lines between man and machine and the potential for technology to control us rather than empower us.  As someone who encourages entrepreneurs to embrace innovation, this film serves as a reminder to approach technological advancements with both excitement and caution, always considering the potential consequences and ethical implications.

20. Carry-On (Netflix)

 * My Rating: 7 | IMDb Rating: 6.7

 * Insight:  “Carry On” is a lighthearted yet suspenseful thriller that showcases the importance of adaptability and remaining calm under pressure.  The protagonist, Ethan Kopek, a TSA agent, finds himself caught in a high-stakes situation when he is blackmailed into smuggling a bomb onto a plane.  His ability to think on his feet, improvise, and maintain his composure in the face of danger highlights the importance of resilience and resourcefulness, qualities that are essential for navigating unexpected challenges, whether in our personal or professional lives.

21. My Old Ass (MUBI)

 * My Rating: 7 | IMDb Rating: 7.0

 * Insight:  “My Old Ass” tackles the often-taboo subject of aging with humor and sensitivity.  The film follows a group of elderly friends as they navigate the challenges and joys of their later years, exploring themes of loneliness, mortality, and the importance of human connection.  As a counselor, I appreciate the film’s honest portrayal of the emotional and physical realities of aging, and its reminder that even in the face of decline, life can still be filled with purpose, laughter, and meaningful relationships.  This film encourages us to embrace all stages of life with grace and find joy in the present moment.

22. Argylle (Apple TV+)

 * My Rating: 7 | IMDb Rating: 5.6

 * Insight:  “Argylle” playfully blurs the lines between fiction and reality, following a world-renowned spy who suffers from amnesia and believes he is a novelist.  As he recovers his memories and his true identity, the film explores the power of storytelling and the ways in which our narratives shape our perceptions and aspirations.  This theme resonates with my work as an educator and counselor, where I often encourage individuals to explore their own stories, reframe their narratives, and tap into the creative power of imagination to envision new possibilities for their lives.

23. Yellowstone (Paramount Network)

 * My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 8.7

 * Insight:  “Yellowstone” is a captivating saga about family, legacy, and the struggle to preserve a way of life in the face of modern challenges.  The Dutton family’s fierce loyalty to their land and their complex internal dynamics resonate with my own experiences in the Navy, where camaraderie and a shared sense of purpose are often tested by internal conflicts and external pressures.  This series offers a compelling exploration of how values, traditions, and personal relationships shape our decisions and influence our destinies.

24. The Exorcist: Believer (Peacock)

 * My Rating: 8 | IMDb Rating: 4.8

 * Insight:  “The Exorcist: Believer” revisits the classic horror franchise, exploring the timeless battle between good and evil through the lens of demonic possession.  While the film’s supernatural elements provide chills and thrills, it also delves into the psychological and spiritual struggles of its characters.  As a counselor, I recognize the parallels between the characters’ battles against inner demons and the real-life challenges faced by individuals struggling with trauma, addiction, or mental health issues.  This film serves as a reminder that confronting our fears and seeking support

25. Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F (Netflix)

 * My Rating: 7 | IMDb Rating: 6.4

 * Insight:  Axel Foley's return to Beverly Hills in "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" brings with it his signature blend of humor, action, and unorthodox problem-solving.  His ability to think outside the box, improvise in chaotic situations, and use his wit to outsmart his adversaries resonates with the entrepreneurial spirit.  In my work with veterans transitioning to civilian careers, I often encourage them to embrace this kind of creative thinking and adaptability.  Whether it's starting a business, navigating a new career path, or simply adjusting to the challenges of civilian life, the ability to think creatively and find innovative solutions is essential for success.

26. Them (Amazon Prime Video)

 * My Rating: 8 | IMDb Rating: 7.5

 * Insight: "Them" is a powerful anthology series that explores the horrors of racism and discrimination throughout American history.  The first season, set in the 1950s, follows a Black family who move to an all-white neighborhood and are terrorized by both their neighbors and supernatural forces.  This series tackles difficult but important themes that are still relevant today.  As a counselor, I believe it's crucial to address issues of race and discrimination in a safe and supportive environment.  This series can be a valuable tool for sparking conversations about these complex issues and promoting understanding and empathy.

27. Atlas (Netflix)

 * My Rating: 7 | IMDb Rating: 5.6

 * Insight:  "Atlas" paints a bleak picture of a future where humanity is on the brink of extinction, forcing a hardened soldier to confront her own past and fight for the survival of her species.  This film explores themes of resilience, hope, and the importance of human connection in the face of overwhelming adversity.  As a counselor working with veterans, I often see how trauma and isolation can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair.  This film serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always the potential for healing, connection, and the strength to fight for a better future.

28. Poor Things (In Theaters; check for availability later)

 * My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 7.8

 * Insight: "Poor Things" is a visually stunning and thought-provoking film that explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and the boundaries of human experience.  The story follows Bella Baxter, a young woman brought back to life with the brain of an infant, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and liberation.  This film's exploration of transformation and the search for meaning resonates with my work as a counselor, where I guide clients to embrace their true selves and reach their full potential.

29. American Nightmare (Peacock)

 * My Rating: 7 | IMDb Rating: 7.5

 * Insight:  The "American Nightmare" franchise utilizes the horror genre to explore social and political anxieties, often reflecting the fears and insecurities that plague our society.  As a counselor, I recognize that these anxieties can manifest as internal struggles, leading to feelings of powerlessness and despair.  By confronting these fears, whether through therapy, creative expression, or simply engaging in open dialogue, we can begin to heal and reclaim our sense of agency.

And finally, the series I'll be following after that second season: 

30. The Diplomat (Season 2 - Netflix)

 * My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 8.1

 * Insight:  The second season of "The Diplomat" continues to deliver a gripping blend of political intrigue, personal drama, and international relations.  As Kate Wyler navigates the complexities of her role as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom, she faces ethical dilemmas, high-stakes negotiations, and the constant pressure to maintain composure in the face of crisis.  Several scenes resonate with my experience as a veteran and counselor:

   * Crisis Management:  The way Kate handles a terrorist attack, demonstrating both strength and empathy, reflects the skills needed in crisis intervention and trauma response.  Counselors, especially those working with veterans, can learn from her ability to remain calm under pressure and provide support to those affected by trauma.

   * Negotiation and Diplomacy:  Kate's skillful navigation of international relations, building alliances and defusing tensions, highlights the importance of communication and understanding in conflict resolution.  These skills are valuable for educators and counselors who work with diverse groups and individuals.

   * Work-Life Balance:  The show also portrays the challenges of maintaining personal relationships while working in a high-pressure environment.  This resonates with many veterans who struggle to balance their personal lives with the demands of their careers or the challenges of reintegrating into civilian life.

Closing Thoughts

As someone dedicated to helping others achieve their best—whether through education, counseling, or entrepreneurship—these stories resonate deeply with the lessons I’ve experienced and shared throughout my journey. They're not merely forms of entertainment; they are reflections of the human experience, allowing us to learn, adapt, and grow through the narratives we explore.

What shows or films have made an impact on you, and why? Let’s connect, share insights, and continue to grow together.

Tony Astro is an educator, counselor, and entrepreneur with over 23 years of experience helping people grow personally and professionally. As the founder of Mvoss Promotional & Consulting and CommerceWise, he blends his expertise in business, marketing, and counseling to guide individuals and businesses toward success. Lazaro believes movies are more than just entertainment—they can be powerful tools for learning, reflection, and personal growth. Through his various social media platforms, tonyastro.com and commercewise.us, he shares fun, insights on how to turn life’s challenges into opportunities for growth, just like the characters we see on screen.

11 Books I Recommend for your Winter Days & What I {L}earned from them this Summer & my Fall

This past summer and fall I have stumbled on 20 books (audio, Kindle & soft/hardbound) on career, culture & commerce (my choice and passion) but only finished reading 11 of them and would like to share them.

There are few reasons why the other ten did not make it to the list – because I did not finish them because I was not excited to read them and I only have 20 days to keep them from Hoopla, Overdrive, RBDigital via my local library.

First of all, if you are already using those book or library apps, congratulations. You are saving hundreds of dollars for Audible subscription and Kindle purchases. (See my separate blog about how you can use this app). Dates indicate I completed or returned the book.

Here is what I Learned and what I have Earned in this 11 books:

 1.       The Four by Scott Galloway (November 5).  Learned how the four powerful companies: Google, Facebook, Apple, and Amazon went through becoming the sustaining company they are today. Google has excellent work ethic and lives to the adage: Don’t Be Evil. Google takes care of their people through many incentives that are hard to match including the 18-month maternity leave policy. Apple is focused on the looks and branding of the iconic logo and media ads to clean and pure, acutely concentrated on the marketing of their products. The book mentioned how Amazon is leading the way in how to diversify and expand their services by being resilient and how Jeff Bezo’s personality affects how the company grows into the multifaceted company. Google started a search engine, and like everyone of this “Four” companies, they started literally in their garage, small and created what people are needing. Although all Four competes with each other in some areas, focusing how to improve themselves against competitors is not their focus like the theme of this next book Zero to One from the founder of Paypal.

• What I learned: As a business owner of promotional and branding company I relate to Steve Jobs focus on simplicity of product and service and Bezo’s resilience diving into territories with courage from the failed Amazon Phone to acquiring Whole Foods, a grocery chain, who’ve seen this coming?

2.      Zero to One by Peter Thiel (October 25). Peter described how he build from nothing to something in his transition as a lawyer to the founder of Paypal as he was supposed to take a very vital job in Court Justice Department as the top student from top law school. Unique insights about how small (zero) can have a significant vision (to one). One curious and unique idea about his book was his contradiction to the notion of competitiveness; he thinks it is unhealthy as proven from Google, instead of competing with other searching engine or Facebook competing against other social media. It does make sense that if you fight and wins, did you win permanently? What happened to the loser who is in the same industry? We need to change the notion of working with our competitors. Also, monopoly is productive as it brings new products that “benefits everybody and sustainable profit to the creator.”

• What I learned: Follow your guts to create something new that the community needs not what is already in existence. Zero to One means we start from ground zero (as he did – he was a lawyer and know the educational background on business or marketing) to something he believes and passionate about.

3.      Innovation You by Jeff Degraff (August). I got hold of this though Hoopla audio under Career section, and so I downloaded and got more than I expected. A useful book on career changes and how to succeed as an entrepreneur and making those decisions. It is not just a book on innovation but how to have an innovative mind and to unlock our unique potential to grow and succeed by providing us easy to follow four step-by-step frameworks based on academic research (not just Degraff’s opinion). 

• What I learned: All innovation starts with an individual (You or me in this case). To wow our client, boss or customers, we must be truly innovative and transformational. To be creative or innovative, I must create, compete, collaborate and control. I must ask myself, what is it that I am holding back that does not serve my goal – get rid of it.   When aiming, set high-quality goals, take multiple shots until I reach my goal and learn from the experience.

4.      Mind Hacking by Sir John Hargrave (November 10). Most of the advice has been heard before in most advice books but not in a fun and modern way as John does who was a computer geek and able to converse in a natural tone & voice as outlined in the following ideas which are a 21 Day program.

• What I learned: I should be aware of what I am thinking like a programmer. Use imagination and remove any constraints on us. Multitasking does not work, it is unproductive so do one thing at a time. Develop a habit by doing something consistent one thing at a time.

5.     The Miracle of Definite Chief Aim by Mitch Horowitz (June 30). Two years ago I had the privilege to a Facebook friend, read and review Mitch’s 5-star book One Simple Idea discussing the key points and history of most “Self-Help” and books with one simple idea: to live positive in life, the law of attraction, rules of living on how to be rich. The Miracle of Definite Chief Aim is much easier read (I finished the audiobook in two workout run), similar concept but different perspective. 

 

• What I learned: to succeed in life we must identify our true aim, improve and act on it and never look back on our setbacks and stay focus (chief aim) on our goal as well as to be passionately decisive, set a target date on our goals (chief aim). He gave us a formula for fine-tuning our health, wealth by asking: “What do I really want in my life?”. The “miracle” happens in unexpected ways so don’t expect to accomplish what we want in how we want it, but it will happen “miraculously” if we have a “definite chief aim”.

6.      Living Forward by Michael Hyatt and Daniel Harkavy (Oct 13). The premise of this book was: We should live every day with a bigger picture, design of my day to day life on how I can achieve that outcome. We must aim to get our full potential by feeling “alive” and know that we deserve to be happy. 

• What I learned: We are not a spectator or just drift like a bird “without wings”. Our main role is to “live forward” and follow our path by exploring our inner talents, and be aware our on “chains” that strangle us like regrets. This is not possible if we do not have a written long-term life plan. It is the only way to live with no regrets. If we missed an opportunity, it has forever gone – look for the next. It forces us to know every day that we have a better future and keeps us balance in different areas of our life.

 7.      Start with Why, How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone by Simon Sinek (May 3). I first stumbled Sinek on his inspirational talk on social media and this book has a lot of idea and lessons on how we can inspire others, excite our employees by knowing “Why we do what we do” and communicate clearly. Tell them why first, before you sell it to them.

• What I learned: People will not buy our idea or products if we do not tell them why they need it.   It is hard to convince someone even if we have all the facts. Once we communicate why we do it, we do not have to worry about convincing someone or selling our ideas – that is the ultimate point, the same thing in convincing or motivating ourselves in accomplishing our goals. This will also free us in many ways how we do our day to day life, just ask why we do it and move on.

8.      Culture Crossing by Michael Landers (April 25). I started digging into the study of culture as it influences business and career when I first hear and met Culture Map author Erin Meyer on how personal culture matters. This book by Landers was much easier read as it has fewer graphs and more variety of different culture based on his actual extensive experience growing up. It has more interesting and instructive stories, insight and self-assessment to evaluate our Cultural Quotient (CQ) which is another book I read. 

• What I learned: I should be aware of all the people’s background why they respond differently than others or myself. I should develop agility and adjust my behavior and expectations as needed so we can communicate better to others.   Understanding culture is the key to success in my personal life (knowing my friend is where they came from) and business (the multicultural background of my colleagues, clients, and employees) to develop empathy and influence to get our message across and sell our ideas to other culture – globally.

9.      Intentional Living, Choosing a Life that Matters by John C. Maxwell (October).  Maxwell was one of the few books I read on the subject of Leadership, 25 years ago and he never stops bringing in new and applicable ideas on the subject. This book is more personal that is applicable in all segments of our life with the goal of creating a lasting legacy to our business, family, and community by doing everything with high good positive “intentions”. There is a lot of anecdotes and experience shared by Maxwell including about his dad – his mentor and most significant influence on him and practices the Intentional Living. 

• What I learned: We can either bring people down or up like an elevator so is others and we can control how we do it. We must intend to bring people up and not down. We attract what we think and say and we should “fill in” our calendars not others to our calendars; this takes discipline. Don’t allow gossip or idle chat to take over our time. Focus on the Rs: What is Required, what is the Reward and what is the best Return on everything that we do. Selfishness is the opposite of significance, so don’t be selfish if we want to be significant. These habits or growth is not automatic, and it gets better when practicing every day. Share this nugget as you practice them to your mentees, children and it will grow on you. 

10. Talk Like Ted, The 9 Public Speaking Secrets of the 21s Century by Carmine Gallo. (September). The author discusses how we can become a better public speaker and she got her tips and ideas by watching and reviewing several TEDTalk series and what the great presenters have in common. They all have nine qualities: Great emotion or passion, something new, memorable, it is conversational, and they tell a story.

• What I learned: to keep it short up to 18-minute maximum and simple. I need to have a personal story and be passionate when I conversationally talk about them. I must find a subject that is unique, and I know very much about and paint a clear mental visual experience with the audience.

11.   The Third Wave by Steve Case (September). I remember reading Alvin Toffler back in college, and this is very similar. I finish listening to Steve Case read his book that describes why AOL failed to be the “Facebook” or “Google” of our time when Time Warner took over his America Online. Moreover, these are some lessons learned and how he sees the future.

• What I learned: The first wave was between 1985-200 which is the AOL, Microsoft, Cisco, we are now in the second wave of the internet which is the building of Apps from Google and services of social media like Facebook. The third wave integrates seamlessly and pervasively all of these in our lives from financial, education, health, career, transportation, etc. These are tools necessary to transform our lives. We should be mindful and embrace these changes – it is inevitable. The next wave will be the era of cooperation, “if you want to go far, we must go together.”

Books I did not finish (limit 20 days) but will re-borrow it to finish it. I highly recommend as well.

12.  E-Myth Mastery by Michael Gerber

13.  Influencer, The Power to Change Anything by Kerry Patterson

14.  Decisive by Chip Heath

15.  Listen by Dale Carnegie Associates (June 20)

Books I purchased and currently reading and would like to discuss and inivite for our next Books, Business, Branding and Beyond:

 16.  Grit by Angela Duckworth

17.  Innovators by Walter Isaacson

18.  Power of the Other, Startling Effect Other People Have on You by Dr. Henry Cloud

19.  The Idea Book by Fredrick Harren

20. Leonardo Da Vinci by Walter Isaacson

The bottom line is I learned & earn something from reading these 11 Career, Commerce & Cultural books which I am passionate about - but doing what I learn is something else, and so I am now holding you accountable that hopefully, you can check up on me on a regular basis if I practice them. I also hope that you use your library benefits and use your tax to borrow these books (I prefer audio, then paper then Kindle) using Hoopla, Overdrive, RBDigital, CloudLibrary, Libby and other similar apps.