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The Diary of a CEO: The 33 Laws of Business and Life
A galvanizing playbook for success from Steven Bartlett, one of the world’s most exciting entrepreneurs and the host of the No. 1 podcast The Diary of a CEO
"This is a must-read for anyone dreaming of doing something audacious." Jay Shetty
"Valuable lessons about the importance of following a different and unconventional path to power.” Robert Greene
At the very heart of all the success and failure I've been exposed to - both my own entrepreneurial journey and through the thousands of interviews I’ve conducted on my chart-topping podcast - are a set of principles that ensure excellence.
These fundamental laws underpinned my meteoric rise, and they will fuel yours too, whether you want to build something great or become someone great. The laws are rooted in psychology and behavioral science, in my own experiences, and those of the world's most successful entrepreneurs, entertainers, artists, writers, and athletes, who I’ve interviewed on my podcast.
These laws will stand the test of time and will help anyone master their life and unleash their potential, no matter the field.
They are the secret sauce to success.
"This is a must-read for anyone dreaming of doing something audacious." Jay Shetty
"Valuable lessons about the importance of following a different and unconventional path to power.” Robert Greene
At the very heart of all the success and failure I've been exposed to - both my own entrepreneurial journey and through the thousands of interviews I’ve conducted on my chart-topping podcast - are a set of principles that ensure excellence.
These fundamental laws underpinned my meteoric rise, and they will fuel yours too, whether you want to build something great or become someone great. The laws are rooted in psychology and behavioral science, in my own experiences, and those of the world's most successful entrepreneurs, entertainers, artists, writers, and athletes, who I’ve interviewed on my podcast.
These laws will stand the test of time and will help anyone master their life and unleash their potential, no matter the field.
They are the secret sauce to success.
368 pages, Hardcover
Published August 29, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 411 reviews
January 20, 2024
There are too many laws we should know and implement in our business and life.
I will keep and reread this book to remind myself from time to time.
Don't be afraid to be different and challenge the status quo.
What drives you and gives your work meaning?
Surround yourself with talented and like-minded people.
Always be curious and open to new ideas.
Develop the mental strength to bounce back from setbacks.
Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.
Prioritize your health, well-being, and personal development.
Be true to yourself and your values.
Keep chasing your dreams, no matter what.
I will keep and reread this book to remind myself from time to time.
Don't be afraid to be different and challenge the status quo.
What drives you and gives your work meaning?
Surround yourself with talented and like-minded people.
Always be curious and open to new ideas.
Develop the mental strength to bounce back from setbacks.
Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.
Prioritize your health, well-being, and personal development.
Be true to yourself and your values.
Keep chasing your dreams, no matter what.
September 13, 2023
Good if you are in your 20s. Ok if in 30s. Basic if in 40s. Not worth your time if you are in your 50s. Examples shared are powerful but the moment you use probabilities, you know it would not work for you. And, Yes, the author is a wonderful podcaster.
October 22, 2023
Some chapters are oddly named. For example, "create a cult mentality."
I'm sorry... but that's not something I ever want to read. Also, the author has a chapter named "p*ssing people off."
Seriously?
In the book, Steven acknowledged that people would skim some chapters. To me, that implies he already knows that some are way better than others.
Just remove them...
Two stars. Some good points but this book should've been a blog post.
I'm sorry... but that's not something I ever want to read. Also, the author has a chapter named "p*ssing people off."
Seriously?
In the book, Steven acknowledged that people would skim some chapters. To me, that implies he already knows that some are way better than others.
Just remove them...
Two stars. Some good points but this book should've been a blog post.
April 12, 2024
While I did go in with preconceived notions of this that it was going to be complete nonsense and an absolute money grab, having been presented with a copy of this book I decided I’d be open minded and give it a go. Just in case I was wrong, in which case I would’ve happily sat down and given you a review on how great it surprisingly was. However, I can’t do that, because this book was exactly what I knew it would be - a load of waffling rubbish. A book written by a successful man to inspire other men that you can be just like him if you just start doing positive affirmations and being more disciplined in your gym routine or whatever else he was peddling as a key to success. Haha.
My favourite part of this book was actually in the very first pages, when he states that he’s written the book based on five core beliefs - one of them being that most books published nowadays are a lot longer than they need to be and so he has cut out the nonsense in his. Incorrect. If this was true, half of the pages in here wouldn’t be size 35 font generic inspirational throwaway quotes used as filler. It was so unintentionally funny. For someone aiming to condense this insanely motivational drivel to just the core elements and nothing else, he fails repeatedly. He actually just can’t stop talking. It was giving ‘live, laugh, love’ in grey sparkly letters on your moms kitchen wall.
It was honestly pointless as a book, and I’m baffled as to who this was supposed to be written for, and what they were supposed to be taking from it. It didn’t inspire or intrigue me at all, it was really dry and boring. Not a standout from anything in the market right now, and nothing you couldn’t just Google. In fact, there’s probably more inspiring and life changing posts on Reddit than what’s in here. The writing wasn’t the worst I’ll admit, but he had a very flat voice as a narrator. No sense of humour or snappy pacing to be found. And the grammatical and punctuation errors were driving me mad - has nobody around here ever heard of an Oxford comma?!
This is a book written by an egotistical, obnoxious man who wants you to look at him and everything he’s achieved and clap. Bow down to him. It was honestly just so slimy and it reeks of narcissism when every other sentence you need to name drop how many millions you’ve made or how many people work for you or every company you’ve got shares in. It just made my eyes roll. I feel like a very specific audience of people would adore this book, but it was not at all for me. And anyone who does enjoy it is probably also not for me. I’m glad I satisfied my curiosity though and can now hate freely.
I imagine Mr Barlett would tell me I’ve somehow given into some sort of confirmation bias by just confirming what I suspected about the book, but listen, I promise I did try and see the positives. I have very generously given it a two star, because there are some tiny complimentary thoughts I had. I did quite enjoy all of the psychology being discussed as that’s an area I studied in, so that captured my attention and was really interesting. On the other hand, one could argue that he’s filled a book with other people’s ideas and hasn’t actually had anything original to say…
My favourite part of this book was actually in the very first pages, when he states that he’s written the book based on five core beliefs - one of them being that most books published nowadays are a lot longer than they need to be and so he has cut out the nonsense in his. Incorrect. If this was true, half of the pages in here wouldn’t be size 35 font generic inspirational throwaway quotes used as filler. It was so unintentionally funny. For someone aiming to condense this insanely motivational drivel to just the core elements and nothing else, he fails repeatedly. He actually just can’t stop talking. It was giving ‘live, laugh, love’ in grey sparkly letters on your moms kitchen wall.
It was honestly pointless as a book, and I’m baffled as to who this was supposed to be written for, and what they were supposed to be taking from it. It didn’t inspire or intrigue me at all, it was really dry and boring. Not a standout from anything in the market right now, and nothing you couldn’t just Google. In fact, there’s probably more inspiring and life changing posts on Reddit than what’s in here. The writing wasn’t the worst I’ll admit, but he had a very flat voice as a narrator. No sense of humour or snappy pacing to be found. And the grammatical and punctuation errors were driving me mad - has nobody around here ever heard of an Oxford comma?!
This is a book written by an egotistical, obnoxious man who wants you to look at him and everything he’s achieved and clap. Bow down to him. It was honestly just so slimy and it reeks of narcissism when every other sentence you need to name drop how many millions you’ve made or how many people work for you or every company you’ve got shares in. It just made my eyes roll. I feel like a very specific audience of people would adore this book, but it was not at all for me. And anyone who does enjoy it is probably also not for me. I’m glad I satisfied my curiosity though and can now hate freely.
I imagine Mr Barlett would tell me I’ve somehow given into some sort of confirmation bias by just confirming what I suspected about the book, but listen, I promise I did try and see the positives. I have very generously given it a two star, because there are some tiny complimentary thoughts I had. I did quite enjoy all of the psychology being discussed as that’s an area I studied in, so that captured my attention and was really interesting. On the other hand, one could argue that he’s filled a book with other people’s ideas and hasn’t actually had anything original to say…
April 9, 2024
This is an awesome book. Great valuable knowledge and perspectives. The book I'd extremely well researched with quotes from people at the top of their fields, from research, management, leaders, sports, entertainment, and more.
The writing style of the book is also great. It is to the point. No wastage. Also, the book does not come across as preaching but teaching and inspiring. This is the straight of the book it does not seem to be written from or for Steven's ego, but to genuinely help or advise others.
Though the chapters/laws in the book are quite short (yes, some are longer than others), there is a lot of knowledge to download in each. The best way I found to read through it was as soon fell my head getting full. I stopped to reflect and then continued reading a few hours later or the next day.
Also, keep reading to the there is a surprise at the end.
The writing style of the book is also great. It is to the point. No wastage. Also, the book does not come across as preaching but teaching and inspiring. This is the straight of the book it does not seem to be written from or for Steven's ego, but to genuinely help or advise others.
Though the chapters/laws in the book are quite short (yes, some are longer than others), there is a lot of knowledge to download in each. The best way I found to read through it was as soon fell my head getting full. I stopped to reflect and then continued reading a few hours later or the next day.
Also, keep reading to the there is a surprise at the end.
September 15, 2023
I read this new book ( had preordered it) from cover to cover . I wish I had spread it out more so there was more chance of remembering chapters important to me… will back track and re read some. It is well written and I like the chapter starts and ends- which tell you what the ‘law’ is then summarises it and stresses its importance. The meat of each chapter ( each law ) is based on info SB has gleaned from his impressive podcast guests or from his equally impressive business life. I sort of wanted to find him arrogant. But I don’t. He writes well and presents his findings with humility - he gives credit where it is due and openly acknowledges he is failings personally and his learning curves. He is an avid learner, he listens constantly to the advice and he surrounds himself with the best scientific and business understanding . It is impossible not to rate him and therefore rate his book. I especially liked the last chapter!
December 20, 2023
If you see me eat 15 lollipops a day in the future, don't ask questions
October 14, 2023
I love Stephen’s podcast. But I feel like this book could’ve gotten a better structure. The boasting in the beginning is pretty off-putting, and the overwhelming feeling of this book just collecting other people’s advice doesn’t help the matter in any way. It gets better once his advice turns to marketing and things that actually support his statements from the beginning of the book.
October 18, 2023
Thought provoking and interesting. Very easy to read and laid out logically.
April 25, 2024
When I bought this, I generally thought it was going to be Steven Bartletts' personal diary. 🤔 was a bit confused when all it did was talk about marketing the entire time but found out some cool facts and some interesting mind framing tools
March 3, 2024
This is the best business book I've read hands down!
April 30, 2024
Wspaniała książka dla tych, którzy będą potrafili ją docenić. Będzie leżeć na półce, żebym często mógł po nią sięgać.
November 16, 2023
Great stuff. My review and summary here: https://patricksherriff.com/2023/11/1...
October 20, 2023
Very inspirational! Especially the first of the four parts. After a while, the book gets a bit repetitive and even contradictory; first a law states that you should fail more, but in a next law you must ask yourself the question “Why will this fail?” to prevent your idea from collapsing😵💫 Still learned a lot though! Especially when knowing the references to the podcast Diary of a CEO
November 7, 2023
A good entry level book to personal and professional success principals, probably best suited to someone in their 20s. However, anything beyond that this book lacked value and depth as it covers "33 rules". A jack of all trades, but master of none.
April 6, 2024
Ох, като цяло книгата не е толкова зле. Не казва нещо драматично грешно, макар да нагажда информацията, която представя, да служи на историята, която се опитва да ти продаде. Оказа се, че имаме еднакъв вкус за книги, визирайки колко от книгите, които съм чела, ги спомена и използваше за част от законите си. Имаше и неща, които бяха нови за мен, основно, защото идваха от света на спорта. Та, не е лоша книгата, но...
Основният ми проблем е, че е тип podcast, не аудиокнига. Говори толкова бързо на м��ста, че е трудно да следиш мисълта му. Отделно, има значително количество извадки от интервютата, които е правил за podcast-а си със същото име. Аз не харесвам podcasts, защото информацията не е синтезирана, размита и хаотична е като цяло. Аудиокнигите са шанс да получиш всичко в подреден и консолидиран формат. Е, не това получаваш. Все едно поредния епизод на podcast-a си е правил. И, накрая, като стигнеш до последния закон, реално е онлайн адрес, който да посетиш, което ме вбеси. Мразя такива номерца.
Та, книгата е типичната псевдо и фалшива мотивационна простотия, която се среща често из книгите за самопомощ. В случая я е нагласил под формата на бизнес книга, но не бих казала, че би помогнала на някой, освен на неговия джоб. Цялата книга се чувстваше повърхностна и фалшива. Трудно е да се опише, но ме остави с много неприятно усещане.
Основният ми проблем е, че е тип podcast, не аудиокнига. Говори толкова бързо на м��ста, че е трудно да следиш мисълта му. Отделно, има значително количество извадки от интервютата, които е правил за podcast-а си със същото име. Аз не харесвам podcasts, защото информацията не е синтезирана, размита и хаотична е като цяло. Аудиокнигите са шанс да получиш всичко в подреден и консолидиран формат. Е, не това получаваш. Все едно поредния епизод на podcast-a си е правил. И, накрая, като стигнеш до последния закон, реално е онлайн адрес, който да посетиш, което ме вбеси. Мразя такива номерца.
Та, книгата е типичната псевдо и фалшива мотивационна простотия, която се среща често из книгите за самопомощ. В случая я е нагласил под формата на бизнес книга, но не бих казала, че би помогнала на някой, освен на неговия джоб. Цялата книга се чувстваше повърхностна и фалшива. Трудно е да се опише, но ме остави с много неприятно усещане.
December 17, 2023
An interesting book based around four pillars, the self, the story, the philosophy and the team. Is there anything revolutionary in the book? Probably not, although there were one or two tidbits that I will take away. Each chapter is not too long and it’s a nice easy read. Would be good for someone starting their career.
January 31, 2024
Loved everything about this book.
I read hundreds of personal development books, so eventually they become repetitive but this is a gem.
Everyone in their 20-30s should read it.
I cant wait to by the hard-cover as soon as it’s available in Europe because I know I’ll need read it a few more times
I read hundreds of personal development books, so eventually they become repetitive but this is a gem.
Everyone in their 20-30s should read it.
I cant wait to by the hard-cover as soon as it’s available in Europe because I know I’ll need read it a few more times
January 5, 2024
I really like his podcast, this book is a bit of a summary of all the good stuff he heard while interviewing so many successful people!
February 18, 2024
I'll keep rereading and revisiting his book until the day that I die.
I've been a fan of Steven Bartlett for years now, and this book didn't disappoint at all, as it's incredibly well written and well researched. Snippets from his podcast episodes and personal learnings and experiences are used to discuss laws that are applicable to life and business, and will help me grow as a person and a colleague / leader. This clearly hasn't been written to brag, but to inspire and help others - and he has definitely inspired me.
I've been a fan of Steven Bartlett for years now, and this book didn't disappoint at all, as it's incredibly well written and well researched. Snippets from his podcast episodes and personal learnings and experiences are used to discuss laws that are applicable to life and business, and will help me grow as a person and a colleague / leader. This clearly hasn't been written to brag, but to inspire and help others - and he has definitely inspired me.
January 17, 2024
This man has an answer for everything. Great book for some work inspo, but also some great personal takeaways, too. I feel like I’ll be picking this one up again during the year for some key reminders. Would recommend to people a little bit too invested in the hustle, like me!
October 1, 2023
Incredible book about growing as a person and a leader
February 21, 2024
Initially attracted to this book because I enjoy Steven's podcast. Some of the laws I enjoyed and resonated with like the law of disciplines, and continuous learning. Many, however, were targeted towards entrepreneurship + building companies. Great wisdom, but not entirely applicable to myself.
September 6, 2023
This is a must-read book for business leaders. True to its title, is not just for work but also valuable, actionable insights to make the most of life. The audiobook is read by the author and includes snippets from his podcast guests. I intend to buy the physical book as well because there are so many things I want to highlight and for future reference! Great, easy read.
September 14, 2023
Best book I’ve read this year. Highly recommend. Concise, to the point, and applicable to life and business. Reminds me of books such as “The Almanacy of Naval Ravikant” and “The Defining Decade”.
December 24, 2023
Nothing revolutionary but a good read nonetheless. Some helpful reminders and interesting stories shared. Gave me a few things to think about. Would recommend taking notes as you go as the book is brief and covers a lot of different ideas.
January 9, 2024
If you've read Duckworth, Seligman, Sinek etc etc, then there is nothing new in this book. He repackages some of the ideas to give them stupid names, i.e., always prioritise your first foundation = look after yourself; useless absurdity will define you more than useful practicalities = get noticed. Also, some of the laws don't really stand up to thought. Absurdity might get you noticed, but if that's all you're known for, then will you survive in life or business? The book could also be half the length it is without losing any meaning.
September 24, 2023
I am INSPIRED
November 2, 2023
Private Eye described this book as ‘a grisly minestrone of all the management books ever written’ which just about sums it up.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 411 reviews