The Diary of a CEO: Lessons on Leadership, Success, and Self-Worth | A Library

 

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Introduction

What does it really take to be successful? Is it just about hard work, or is there something deeper? The Diary of a CEO by Steven Bartlett isn’t just another business book—it’s a raw, introspective look at the mindset, struggles, and truths behind success.

I picked up this book because, like many entrepreneurs, I wanted to understand what sets high achievers apart. As someone who juggles multiple projects—WriteAWord, Positive Life Indonesia, Femme Indonesia, speaX Indonesia, and more—I’m always searching for insights that can help me grow not just as an entrepreneur but as a person. And let me tell you, this book delivers some serious truth bombs.

Summary (No Spoilers)

Unlike traditional business books, The Diary of a CEO isn’t about fancy strategies or corporate jargon. Instead, Bartlett shares 33 unconventional lessons from his journey—starting as a dropout with no connections to becoming a millionaire entrepreneur, investor, and podcast host.

The book challenges common success myths and forces readers to redefine their goals, leadership, and self-worth. Topics range from the cost of ambition, the loneliness of leadership, mental resilience, and the hidden struggles of building something great.

Key Takeaways & Lessons

• Success is never just about money. True success is about fulfillment, impact, and personal growth.
• Your mindset is your biggest asset. If you believe you can’t, you’re right. If you believe you can, you’ll find a way.
• Most people fail not because they lack talent but because they give up too soon. Resilience matters more than intelligence.
• Loneliness is the price of leadership. The higher you climb, the fewer people truly understand your struggles.
• Happiness isn’t found in achievement—it’s built in the process. Enjoying the journey is just as important as the end goal.

One of my favorite quotes:
"You don’t attract what you want. You attract what you are."

Reflection / Personal Perspective

As someone who wears multiple hats—emcee, entrepreneur, educator, writer, mentor—this book hit home. I’ve always believed that building something meaningful requires resilience, clarity, and a deep understanding of yourself, and Bartlett reinforces this with brutally honest lessons.

One of the biggest takeaways for me was about redefining success. I used to think that success meant having it all—thriving businesses, influence, and impact. But this book made me reflect: Am I building for external validation, or am I truly creating something that aligns with my purpose?

That’s why I’m so intentional about my platforms. WriteAWord isn’t just a portfolio—it’s a space to document my writing journey. Femme Indonesia isn’t just another women’s blog—it’s a movement to talk about topics no one else is discussing. speaX Indonesia isn’t just a communication platform—it’s a mission to help people find confidence in their voice. This book reminded me that success isn’t just about doing more—it’s about doing what truly matters.

Who Should Read This Book?

• Entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone building something from scratch.
• People who feel stuck or struggle with self-doubt.
• Those who want real, unfiltered lessons on success, leadership, and mindset.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

The Diary of a CEO isn’t about quick hacks or surface-level motivation. It’s about the inner work required to build something great. If you’re looking for a book that challenges your thinking and forces you to reflect, this is it. But if you want a traditional business guide with step-by-step strategies, you might find it lacking.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Have you read The Diary of a CEO? What’s one lesson from your own journey that shaped the way you see success?