Everything I Never Learned in School about How to Be Successful

by Darin Colucci

A debut self-improvement manual provides illustrations of common wisdom as well as uncommon tips for attaining success.

From this book’s beginning, the aspect that sets it apart from other self-help titles is the bevy of anecdotes that Colucci offers: short narratives that illuminate the points the author wants to make about goal-setting, affirmations, and beliefs. Whether discussing superstars like Michael Jordan or business gurus like the founder of SPANX, the author uses personal narratives to show the reader that moguls, famous athletes, and celebrities are just normal people who decided to take control of their lives and render their visions into reality. Tools are the author’s focus rather than concepts or abstractions. For example, midway through the volume, the author recounts a story about applying for legal jobs after law school. He needed a professional resume but didn’t have the money required. He then decided that because he could no longer bolster his hiring chances with academic pursuits, buying a resume service was the only way to increase his odds of getting interviews. He found a way to amass the funds and make the purchase, resulting in interviews everywhere he sent his resume. The moral of the story, a unique takeaway from the book, is to never skimp on investing in yourself.

The author also suggests that volunteering becomes a self-investment, as it builds connections, knowledge, and skills toward ultimate career goals. But perhaps one of the work’s best features is its emphasis on the value of respect, honesty, and kindness. Colucci supplies several anecdotes about the power of human connection, demonstrating that the way a person interacts with others dictates far more about success than one realizes. From husbands and wives to business partners and clients—fair, honest treatment goes much further than pressure, manipulation, and aggression. In all, the author delivers memorable stories that should help any reader stay on a path to success.

A vivid, useful guide to setting, achieving, and maintaining lifetime goals.