How To Navigate Life by Belle Liang and Tim Klein
I finished this book in October 2026. I recommend this book 3/10.
Why you should read this book:
This book was given to parents as part of my daughter entering Binghamton University, and the authors came to campus to give a presentation during Parents Weekend. The book is meant to help parents understand the landscape their kids are navigating and how to better support them.
Get your copy here.
🚀 The book in three sentences
Your values and human skills matter more than how you did on your last test.
Practice mindfulness and gratitude.
Be the hero your younger self needed, and find inspiration in mentors.
đź“ť My notes and thoughts
P57. At the height of his career, John Wooden coached the UCLA men's basketball team to win a record-breaking ten NCAA championships in a twelve-year span, including seven titles in a row. The secret to his success was how he defined his team's growth game: "Success is peace of mind, which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you made the effort to do your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming." Notice how his definition of success says nothing of outcomes, other competitors, or wins and losses. Instead, it's about being the best versions of themselves. A goal that won't grow old. This coach got upset when his team wasn't playing up to their potential, even if they won the game. Other times he beamed with pride when they had played their hearts out, even if they lost the game! This is prioritizing your growth game, not living to win the fixed game. It's about the full use of the strengths you most delight in. The freedom and joy of working toward your best self.
P134. Practicing Guide. What is something that has made your life better:
In the last year?
In the last month?
In the last twenty-four hours?
In the last ten minutes?
P155. Ayesha Siddiqi said, "Be the person you needed when you were younger."
P166. Affirmation Toolkit.
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