Outlive
Outlive was the first audiobook I’ve listened to from start to finish (on 2x speed). It’s not a groundbreaking book that unveils brand-new scientific studies, but it’s a thoughtful reminder to live with balance. Instead of obsessing over the “perfect” diet or exercise regimen, the focus is on whole foods and movement that build flexibility and strength. If you feel like you could use that reminder, I’d say it’s worth a listen.
The Millionaire Fastlane
The Millionaire Fastlane is more of a mindset shift than a practical how-to. It can get repetitive, and the author has a somewhat mocking tone toward those on the “sidewalk” or “slow lane,” saving diligently for retirement. However, if you can look past that, there are some interesting takeaways. I read it in German, simply because I had the rare chance to borrow it from a U.S. library. Perhaps New York is different, but in LA it wasn’t easy to find literature in German. I have yet to physically visit a New York library… so far, I’ve solely relied on Libby and repeatedly renewing my temporary NY library card.
A few quotes from the book (which I translated from German):
“There is a process, a history full of experiments, risks, hard work and sacrifices behind every ‘became successful’ event”
“The three elemental Fs are: Family (Relationships), Fitness (Health), and Freedom (Choice)”
“Wealth means to have an impact. Wealth means community and to have a positive influence on the lives of others.”
“People on the fast lane are frugal with their time while people on the slow lane are frugal with their money”
That last quote made me reflect on how often I used to trade time for money. I would have gladly taken a 12-hour flight over a 6-hour one just to save $300. These days, I don’t want to willingly make that exchange anymore. Especially in our teens and early twenties, it feels like we have endless time, so we often treat money as being worth more than our own time.
Letters from a Stoic
Letters from a Stoic by Seneca was a thought-provoking read. Much of what he writes echoes in today’s self-help books, which makes sense, as many modern ideas trace back to these older works. That’s why so many recommend reading classics alongside contemporary books. There are still gems in newer literature, but sometimes it feels like the focus is more on monetization, making some books feel a bit redundant.
A few of my favorite quotes:
Associate with people who are likely to improve you. Welcome those whom you are capable of improving. The process is a mutual one: men learn as they teach.
If you wish to be loved, love.
If you really want to escape the things that harass you, what you’re needing is not to be in a different place but to be a different person
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All in all, July was another good month of reading. But I am craving a good fantasy book now!