YOUR UNIQUE EDGE

Entrepreneur Muller offers a self-empowerment guide that aims to unlock one’s ability to pursue one’s goals.

After an introduction and brief autobiography, the author begins this motivational work with a counterintuitive call for “soul rest”—quiet time for distraction-free reflection that one may use to recalibrate, reassess, and mull over one’s intentions. He believes focusing on the why instead of the what or how of one’s actions is crucial to understanding the purpose behind them. Instead of achievements, Muller advocates for basing one’s identity on the concept of inner peace. The author asserts that every person “has a purpose and meaning, ordained by a higher power” as well as an “inner ledger” that effectively tracks one’s progress toward goals. Completing various tasks strengthens the “commitment muscle,” he writes, and staying cool under pressure strengthens the “crisis muscle.” According to Muller, every person is a “masterpiece,” and practicing self-love can help people recognize their own “wow” factor. Generosity toward others, he goes on, can also facilitate feelings of joy, fulfillment, and connection. Muller also introduces the concept of “embedded coding,” which refers to the unique, innate capabilities of each person. The book concludes with an insistence on the importance of “acknowledging and cherishing the exceptional creation that you are.” Some readers may find Muller’s uplifting sentiments to be inspiring, such as “The truth remains that within each of us lies something unique, miraculous, and capable of making a significant impact on the world.” He also offers valuable reflections, such as “Silence is the canvas upon which wisdom paints its guidance and insights.” He effectively illustrates some concepts with examples from his own life, such as how his infant daughter’s medical emergency helped him develop his own ability to handle crises. However, much of the book’s advice feels somewhat vague, such as, “Our capabilities can be developed and improved with dedication and passion.” Also, avid readers of the self-help genre will already be very familiar with several suggested exercises, such as imagining one’s own funeral or replacing negative thoughts with positive affirmations.

A theoretical approach to self-improvement that offers little groundbreaking advice.