"Be useful" is Arnold Schwarzenegger's motto in his recently released new book Be Useful: Seven Tools for Life which brings us into the life of one of the most interesting men in Hollywood, and one of my heroes. And yeah, it’s kind of a self-help book too.

 Be Useful takes us from Arny’s humble upbringing in post-World War 2 Austria to dreams of success and a meaningful purpose-driven life in America. He became the biggest bodybuilder and action star on the planet, a husband, father, and a man who made and owned his choices. Arnold has dedicated his life not only to his health but also to shaping his life in a way that allows him to share his devotion with others around the world. He dreamed of making bodybuilding and weightlifting serious sports, strived to spread the Special Olympics and athletic programs for disabled and neurodivergent children across the nation, and during the Covid-19 Pandemic, his connections were vital to handling the crisis and gathering the needed supplies for the people of California. His efforts in ecological conservation and perseverance toward renewable resources for energy consumption set him apart from his political peers, but he doesn’t care; he always wants what is best for the people.

 Arnold's vision is for us to learn from his life experience, see ourselves in a new light of confidence, and take the knowledge bestowed upon us into our own lives as tools. His seven tools to incorporate into our lives are: Have a Clear Vision, Never Think Small, Work Your Ass Off, Sell – Sell – Sell, Shift Gears, Shut Your Mouth – Open Your Mind, and Break Your Mirrors. Each chapter introduces a new tool and details the circumstances that forged and tempered these tools, enabling us to build the life we envision. From his teenage years, building a vision and dream of becoming the premier bodybuilder in America, to later rising in stardom to become the biggest and highest-paid action star and a compassionate politician, these tools have laid a structural foundation to realize the life he aspired to live. I can already see these tools improving how I navigate my own life.

 Ultimately, I really enjoyed reading Arnold's book. It was both easy to read and concise, making it appealing to casual readers. Arnold's non-polarizing persona, both as a politician and person, also adds to its universal appeal. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is a fan of Arnold's films or bodybuilding career, for anyone grappling with finding the purpose and meaning of their own work, and it serves as an inspiring read for those in search of a role model or mentor to look up to.