Chop Wood, Carry Water
- Marie Knapp
- Sep 25, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 7, 2024
One of the greatest books I've ever read. It's a short and easy read filled with many life lessons. Chop Wood, Carry Water: How to Fall in Love with the Process of Becoming Great by Joshua Medcalf teaches valuable life lessons through the story of John, a young man who dreams of becoming a samurai archer. His journey in this book offers profound insights into personal growth, resilience, and embracing the process. Here are some of the lessons:
1. Focus on the Process, Not the Destination (chop wood, carry water)
The main message of the book is to fall in love with the daily grind. It's the small, repetitive actions (like chopping wood and carrying water) that lead to greatness, not sudden breakthroughs.
2. Mastery is a Long, Continuous Journey
True mastery takes time and effort. There are no shortcuts. You must embrace the idea of slow and steady improvement, one day at a time.
3. Patience and Consistency Are Key
Success doesn’t come overnight. By remaining consistent and patient, you slowly build the habits and skills necessary for greatness.
4. Control What You Can Control
Focus on what’s within your control (your effort, attitude, and actions) rather than external factors like results, opinions of others, or luck.
5. Overcome the Ego
The book highlights the importance of humility and staying grounded. It’s about not letting ego, arrogance, or entitlement get in the way of your progress.
6. Embrace Failure and Learn from It
Failure is a natural part of the process. Instead of fearing or avoiding it, use it as a stepping stone for growth and improvement.
7. Self-Discipline Is Essential
Discipline and commitment to the process—even when it’s hard or boring—are essential for long-term success.
8. Stay Present and Mindful
A big theme is mindfulness—staying present in the moment and giving your best effort in every task, no matter how mundane or repetitive.
9. Gratitude for the Journey
It’s important to appreciate the journey itself rather than constantly chasing the end goal. Each day offers lessons and growth opportunities, even if the progress feels slow.
10. Small Habits Lead to Big Changes
Greatness is built on small, consistent actions. Chopping wood and carrying water may seem insignificant, but over time, these actions add up to create substantial results.
Overall, the book teaches that true success and fulfillment come from embracing the process, practicing patience, and maintaining humility throughout the journey. Take a chance on this phenomenal read. It may bring some enlightenment to your life as well. It is but my opinion that every teenager should read this book. If you are an adult and haven't yet; give it a try. Let me know if it sparks something inside of you.
XO,
Marie
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