Aspire - Kindle VersionBook Review and Afterthoughts

Aspire: Discovering Your Purpose Through the Power of Words

Author: Kevin Hall

Kevin Hall takes eleven words, explores their origin, and relates their true meaning to leading a life of significance. The words are split between using them to be a better leader and being a better person. Holding it all together is the word in the middle – humility.

It is an interesting book in that we may not know the true meaning of familiar words, and there are new words introduced which drive at the heart of leading a good life. Words get bantered about every day and, over time, they may lose some impact. Knowing real meanings delivers real insights.

Take passion for example.

“Even though it has become popular to define passion as deep or romantic love, the real meaning is being willing to suffer for what you love. When we discover what we are willing to pay a price for, we discover our life’s mission and purpose.”

“Passion in the purest sense, the willingness to suffer for what we love, is often the door that leads us to our path.”

Passion in leadership and life takes a new, deeper perspective with the discussion Kevin Hall facilitates in his book.

What one takes away is truly a better understanding of how to be a better leader and, more importantly, how to be a better person. Exploring eleven words may be a little more esoteric than other approaches. It is a book for thinkers, in a way. Aspire engages the mind and turns the wheels of what actions to take based on what is being absorbed and learned.

If you are looking for the straightforward ten steps to being a better leader or leading a better life, this book may not be for you. If you want to engage and move beyond the shallow surface of a Webster-type definition, this book will be perfect reading for you.

At the end of each chapter, the author does a unique thing. He asks the reader to identify a person in their life who has exemplified that word. Once the person is identified, he challenges us to reach out and let the person know. It is not just this simple step, but taking the time to explain why they embody this word for us.

Although it is mentor-like in approach, it goes a step further. At the end of this process, we have created a Book of Greats – people who have engaged our paths and left us better for what they did, the example or guidance provided.

Bringing these words to life with our actions will deliver inspiration to many, as well as arouse our heart, mind, and soul to be better.

What words have inspired you? Join the conversation.