42 pages • 1 hour read
The Obstacle is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph
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Book Brief
224
Book • Nonfiction
2010s
2014
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday teaches turning trials into triumphs through three key aspects: “Perception,” “Action,” and “Will.” By applying Stoic philosophy and learning from figures like Eisenhower, Earhart, and Gandhi, Holiday argues for calm, strategic thinking and embracing challenges to transform problems into opportunities for growth and success. The book discusses wrongful imprisonment and discrimination.
Inspirational
Challenging
Informative
Hopeful
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
115,384 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Ryan Holiday's The Obstacle is the Way has been praised for its practical application of Stoic philosophy to contemporary life, offering readers relatable anecdotes and actionable advice. However, some critics argue that the repetition of themes can be tiresome and that the historical examples may feel oversimplified. Overall, the book is seen as an inspiring guide for personal growth and resilience.
Who Should Read The Obstacle is the Way?
A reader who enjoys The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday is likely someone interested in personal development, stoicism, and overcoming challenges. This reader would appreciate practical advice and historical anecdotes, much like fans of Marcus Aurelius' Meditations or Stephen R. Covey's The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.
115,384 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
224
Book • Nonfiction
2010s
2014
Adult
18+ years
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