In a previous blog named GRIT Lit, I promised to explore some of my favourite books and poems that capture all things gritty!
So, without further ado, let me introduce you to Steve Kamb. Steve wrote a fantastic book called “Level Up Your Life: How to Unlock Adventure and Happiness by Becoming the Hero of Your Own Story”. I thought I would share this book today because I’m re-reading it as I work toward one of my impossible goals for 2020. I can only imagine the confused expression on some of your faces when you see me referencing a book involving video games! While it’s true that the only video game I have EVER played is Tetris, Steve takes great care in making the steps relatable and conquerable. And even though there’s a bit of video game vocabulary, the book’s content resonated with me completely!
Steve shares his six-phase model for an adventurous and happy life then he challenges you to harness your inner Rebel and join the Rebellion. Simple, right?!? His six phases are:
- The Call to Adventure
- The Hero’s Journey
- Crossing the Threshold – Design Your Own Game
- Leveling Up – Advance in the Game of Life
- Mastering Ordeals – Activate Beast Mode
- The Road Back – Continue? Or Game Over?
As I read through the book the first time and now that I’m reading it again, it’s exciting to see my new friend GRIT hanging out in between the lines and in the margins. To me, the role of GRIT is evident in each of the six phases but it’s most prominent when Steve shares his options for “Leveling Up” and “Mastering Ordeals” in life. Even though GRIT did not make it into the index, you’ll find its close friends – accountability, action, gratitude, hope, personal growth, personal limits, success and willpower – as themes covered in the book.
Without giving away too much more, the most dog-eared section in my copy of the book is the one on “Leveling Up” where Steve provides practical strategies on how to become an unstoppable force of awesomeness and how to persevere in the face of obstacles and ordeals.
While contemplating what the next level of happiness or adventure looks like for you, how can you level up your GRIT along the way?
