Be Useful

Be Useful is not just a self-help book—it’s a philosophy for living with purpose. Schwarzenegger’s seven tools—vision, bold thinking, hard work, persuasion, adaptability, curiosity, and service—offer a roadmap to success that’s both timeless and practical. His message is clear: greatness is not luck; it’s built through daily habits, clear goals, and a commitment to others.

He proves through his own story that usefulness is the ultimate success metric. Whether lifting weights, making movies, or governing a state, his mission remained the same: to help people realize their potential. His life reminds readers that the highest achievement isn’t fame or wealth—it’s the ability to leave others stronger because you existed.

Arnold Schwarzenegger was born in 1947 in Thal, Austria, and moved to the U.S. in 1968 with a single suitcase and an unshakable dream. He became a seven-time Mr. Olympia champion, an international film star through hits like The Terminator, Predator, and True Lies, and later served as the 38th governor of California.

Beyond fame, he has dedicated his life to philanthropy—founding After-School All-Stars, promoting environmental reform, and supporting the Special Olympics for over four decades. He continues to mentor young leaders and inspire millions worldwide through his newsletter Arnold’s Pump Club and public speaking.

Now in his seventies, Schwarzenegger lives by the same rule that began it all: “Be useful, work hard, stay hungry, and give back.” His life—and this book—prove that anyone, no matter where they start, can build an extraordinary legacy of purpose and impact.