Are you a person who craves to learn, achieve and overcome? John C. Maxwell has written countless books on the powerful subjects of leadership, mentorship, critical thinking, and achieving your potential. He is a world renowned speaker, pastor, and writer. And, his newest book, How Successful People Grow: 15 Ways to Get Ahead in Life does not disappoint.

I will say right now that I am personally fairly well versed in the world of John Maxwell teachings, having attended at least a half dozen of his live events, and own several of his books and CD’s. I have come to recognize a real Maxwell-ian writing style, and this book was right on point as far as that goes.

However, I do feel that there was quite a bit that was a bit too familiar to me. There were certain catchy lines that I have heard several times in other writings or speaking engagements. You could look at it with the perspective that he is driving important ideas home, but I was hoping for a bit more consistent fresh material.

That being said, this book holds invaluable wisdom and practical teachings on exactly what the title announces: getting ahead in life. Each chapter offers a series of reflection prompts to be followed up with action, and Maxwell recommends tackling each chapter one month at a time to really sink your teeth into the meat of the issue. To really form new habits before moving on to the next principle in the book. While I obviously have not had the privilege of perusing this book at that speed, the questions offered up are tremendously thoughtful and potentially very valuable when given the time to reflect and implement your answers.

One very cool added value to this book as a tool to achieve growth, is the downloadable companion app that not only allows you to interact with the book more effectively, but helps you track your personal goals that you will set after reading this book.

John Maxwell’s materials are always a pleasure to consume, and How Successful People Grow is no exception to that. I definitely recommend this book to anyone thirsty for practical ways to improve yourself, or those who want to lead teams of people to greater success. And if you wouldn’t yet call yourself a leader, learning what John C. Maxwell has to say on the subject is an excellent place to start the journey.

I received my copy of this book from Net Galley for review purposes.