There are three distinctions that set the bar for what’s considered good, great, and unstoppable. A cooler is the average person who practices something passively. They are good at what they do but often find themselves using the term good enough. A closer is someone who almost always does a really good job. They can be counted on to get things done. But they do things for the credit or reward. A cleaner is the best of the best. They get things done because they need to be done. Not for the glory or reward but because it’s what is required to win. Which one are you?

The Energy Bus teaches life lessons through telling a simple story about a guy who thinks he is down on his luck and that the world is out to get him.  Throughout the book he realizes the common denominator of all his problems is HIM and that maybe he’s the one that needs some changing.  By practicing small actionable steps, he is not only to turn his life around but also reshape his mentality to become a much happier person.

All of the concepts and strategies outlined in the book are very simple and a lot can even be considered common sense.  The authors even bring to light they are “simple, not easy”.  When I was reading some of the concepts, I thought to myself, these are almost too obvious.  But just because they are simple concepts, does not make them easy to execute on.  It takes both discipline and a want to be an effective leader.  I also think you can’t expect do everything perfect, especially when you just start implementing the concepts outlined in the book.  You’re going to fail, overlook things, and struggle when trying to become the best leader you can be.  This is you need to check your ego, trust in your people (two other concepts covered in the book), and take Extreme Ownership.   

When most people hear the word “rule” they automatically think it's something that has to be followed.  Rules are made to be followed not broken, we are taught this from a very young age.

Rather than think of each the 12 “rules” as stipulations that need to be followed, it is better to think of them as guidelines.  Each guideline offers a different perspective on how to tackle life in ways you either may not have thought of or… know to be true but don’t want to admit.

I believe this is one of the best books to start off with if you are new to working on self-development.  It’s an easy read that also has great information. I’ve done my best to apply the 4 agreements in all areas of my life.  They have helped reduce a lot of stress and anxiety. Even though it has been quite a while since I have read this book, I’m still working on developing these skills as much as I can.