This multifaceted personality – bodybuilder, actor, governor, and all-around hero of mine – shares insights into achieving success and fulfilment in various aspects of life. Here is my summary of the Seven Tools:
1: Have a Clear Vision
Arnold Schwarzenegger advocates for the power of a clear vision, there is nothing more energising than working towards your own vision. Clarify your vision, set ambitious objectives, and let it guide your actions. Rest is for babies; relaxation is for the retired. Arnold encourages continuous progress. Use your time wisely; dedicate at least one hour daily to work towards your vision, and you’ll witness the difference it makes.
2: Never Think Small
Break free from limitations and dare to dream beyond the ordinary. Expand your goals, push your boundaries, and strive for excellence in every endeavor. Failure is not the end; it’s a stepping stone. Learn from mistakes, stay positive, and optimize performance. Remember Arnold’s iconic phrase, “I’ll be back.” Persevere through failure; quitting guarantees no success.
3: Work Your Ass Off
Arnold emphasizes the importance of intense, focused work. Whether lifting weights, learning to act or governing a state, he practiced for 2.5 hours twice a day, surpassing the efforts of others. Apply the same dedication to your life; sacrifices are necessary for achieving your goals. .
4: Sell, Sell, Sell
Make progress towards your vision, and let the world know about your dreams. Learn the art of selling, not just products but also your ideas and visions. Identify decision-makers, understand your audience, and effectively communicate your dreams. Act as if you’ve already achieved them; remove “will be” from your vocabulary. Be a person of your word, but go beyond.
5: Shift Gears
Arnold advises us to be adaptable. Life is dynamic, and shifting gears is essential. Embrace change, explore new opportunities, and remain agile in your pursuits. Being open to change is a key aspect of achieving long-term success. Being new or unique offers opportunities to do good things. Politicians, in particular, can bridge responses to align with their desired message. Avoid complaining without offering solutions and manage risks consciously.
6: Shut Your Mouth, Open Your Mind
Listen, learn, and be open-minded. Arnold emphasizes the importance of absorbing knowledge like sponge, staying curious, and being receptive to others’ opinions. By doing so, you become a valuable asset to yourself and those around you.
7: Break Your Mirrors
Life is not a zero-sum game; you’re not self-made. Break the mirror and see the people who paved the way. Give back and collaborate to maximize your impact. The joy derived from helping others can become your purpose, creating a more meaningful and content life. Life is about “we” rather than “me.”
In conclusion, Arnold Schwarzenegger’s seven tools for life provide a roadmap to success, emphasizing hard work, resilience, continuous learning, and giving back. Apply these principles, and you might find yourself on the path to a more fulfilling and impactful life.
