3 BOOKS THAT SHAPED MY JOURNEY AS AN ATHLETE, INSTRUCTOR, AND LEADER

I haven’t always loved to read, but I’ve always loved to learn. Over the years, I’ve come across many great books, but these 3 completely changed my mindset. They didn’t just give me ideas—they gave me tools. Tools for discipline, focus, leadership, and living with purpose. Whether on the mats, in my business, or in life, they’ve helped shape the person and leader I strive to be.

1. The Four Agreements

By Don Miguel Ruiz

This book was a game-changer for me, not just as a Jiu-Jitsu competitor but as a human being. The lesson that struck me the hardest was: “Don’t take anything personally.” That one idea alone shifted the way I approached competition, criticism, and setbacks.

As a competitor, it’s easy to get caught up in what others say, how you’re perceived, or how a match went. But understanding that nothing others do is because of you—it’s a reflection of their own world—helped me let go of distractions and focus on what truly matters: performing at my best, for myself.

Another key agreement—“Always do your best”—has helped me lead with confidence. Win or lose, I know that if I gave my best effort, I can be proud. It’s a mindset I carry into every class I teach and every goal I pursue.

The other two agreements, “Be impeccable with your word” and “Don’t make assumptions,” have made me a better communicator and instructor. I’ve learned to speak with integrity, clarity, and purpose—on and off the mats. These principles have helped me build trust with my students, team, and community.

2. Chop Wood, Carry Water

By Joshua Medcalf

This book is a powerful reminder that greatness comes from falling in love with the process, not just the outcome. Chop Wood, Carry Water taught me the value of consistency, humility, and patience.

As a leader, this book reminded me that small actions done daily are what truly build character and success. It’s not the medals, titles, or recognition that define a person—it’s the discipline to show up and do the work even when nobody’s watching.

The story’s message helped me embrace the simplicity of the journey. It reinforced the idea that mastery isn’t about shortcuts—it’s about showing up every day, putting in the work, and finding purpose in the fundamentals. If I’m teaching a class or supporting an athlete before a tournament, this book reminded me to make the most of every moment.

It also reminded me that being a leader isn’t about being flashy or perfect—it’s about service, repetition, and leading by example.

3. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

By Stephen R. Covey

This is the book I return to every year, and every time, I discover something new. It’s the kind of book where you find new nuggets every time you read it—one you’ll want to study and apply to your life again and again.

The 7 Habits are more than productivity tips—they’re timeless principles for living a meaningful, effective life. From being proactive and beginning with the end in mind, to seeking first to understand, then to be understood, every chapter gives me a new lens for how I approach relationships, time management, leadership, and self-growth.

This book has helped me stay aligned with my core values and long-term vision. It reminds me to act with intention and to build habits that reflect the kind of person—and instructor—I want to be.

Listening to it each year is like a personal reset. It gives me the clarity to look at what I’m doing, reflect on how I can improve, and realign with what matters most.

These three books have had a deep and lasting impact on how I live, teach, train, and lead. I recommend them to any athlete, coach, or leader who wants to grow, not just in skill, but in mindset and character.

If you’re looking to improve in every area of your life, start here. These aren’t just books—they’re blueprints for becoming your best self.