After reading an interview with DHH where he mentioned this book, and to assuage a latent interest in stoicism, I decided to check out “The Obstacle is the Way”. I found it an invigorating read. It is in the usual self-help style with stories supporting the ideas and approaches proposed.

Here are my notes on the book:

Be tough, strong and resilient rather than entitled or precious.
Do not give in to adversity, this is true strength.

Observe without judgement or reaction. Maintain sang froid. Be intentional. There is always an action you can take to make it better or worse.

Break it down. Go step by step. Just do the next thing right now. Do it well and with enthusiasm.

An obstacle or set back is a chance to practice a skill, to learn or to get stronger. The obstacle is the path.
Every crisis is an opportunity to do something you couldn’t before.

Accept and acquiesce to what cannot be changed. It is so. Once you’ve done your best, it is up to fate/God. But remember you can still achieve your goals like water always finds its way downhill.

Love your fate. From hard times, there is always a benefit – learn, rebuild better, build character, etc. Maintain an unfailing cheerfulness.

Think: If it happened, it was meant to happen, and I’m glad that it happened when it did. I am meant to make the best of it.

Perseverance in key to grind down obstacles. Churchill’s acronym KBO: keep buggering on!

Even if your can’t help yourself, think how you can help others in a difficult situation. 

After each obstacle is another obstacle. The more you accomplish, the more things will stand in your way. Each one in a new opportunity to develop strength, wisdom and perspective. Be eager for the next round.