How to Soak Up Advice and Inspiration from Successful People (Without Getting Overwhelmed)

“So, you don’t have as many property books as I expected,” George said, scanning my bookshelf.

He was right—I had a few property books, but the rest was a mixed bag of autobiographies, mindset techniques, business strategies, and investment wisdom from all kinds of fields. My reading list wasn’t just about property; it was about learning from anyone who’s made it big.

“Have you really read all these?” George asked, picking up Richard Branson’s autobiography.

“Pretty much,” I replied. “But here’s the thing—I don’t have to remember everything. Some books motivate me, others reassure me I’m on the right path, and sometimes, I just get one amazing nugget of wisdom that sticks with me.”

Here’s what I told George—and what I’ve learned over the years—about soaking up wisdom from others:

1. Learn from Successful People—Even Outside Your Industry

You don’t have to limit yourself to your field. Sure, if you’re into tech, read tech founders’ stories, but don’t ignore wisdom from other industries. Successful people, no matter their field, share certain traits—like grit, perseverance, and the ability to overcome failure. These are lessons you can apply anywhere.

Action Item: Pick up a book or listen to a podcast from a successful person outside your field. Notice their habits, routines, and mindset. How can you apply them to your own life?

2. It’s Not Just About Books—Diversify Your Learning

We live in the golden age of learning. TED talks, podcasts, YouTube channels, blogs—the list goes on. For example, I’ve been following this YouTuber with viral content, and from him, I’ve learned how to optimize videos and use the platform to promote my business. It’s not just about what you learn but how you can apply it to your goals.

Action Item: Find a few online resources like podcasts or YouTube channels that align with your goals. Follow them, take notes, and experiment with applying their advice to your own projects.

3. Find a Mentor or Coach—But It Doesn’t Have to Be Formal

George asked if I had a business mentor. I told him I never had one starting out, but I did have a life coach who helped me build the mindset tools I needed to succeed. Sure, I could’ve used a business mentor, but I learned by doing. You don’t always need a formal mentorship—sometimes, the people around you can be your best teachers.

Action Item: Identify someone you admire—whether it’s a colleague, boss, or even a peer—and ask them for advice. Start small, ask for guidance on one challenge you’re facing, and see where the conversation takes you.

4. Think of Your Learning Journey as a Funnel

When George said he felt overwhelmed by the amount of content out there, I told him to think of it like a funnel. At the top, it’s wide, filled with free and easy-to-access resources: podcasts, free eBooks, YouTube tutorials. As you move down the funnel, you start investing more in your learning—whether it’s paid courses, qualifications, or mentorship programs. The deeper you go, the more selective you become.

Action Item: Start at the top of the funnel. Dive into free resources and get a feel for what excites you and aligns with your goals. Once you’ve soaked up enough, consider investing in a book, course, or even a coach to help you refine your skills.

5. Do Your Research Before Investing in Paid Learning

While learning is great, be careful of paying for courses or programs that don’t deliver. In the wealth creation industry, for example, there are lots of flashy programs that charge thousands but offer little substance. Do your homework. Check reviews, ask for recommendations, and be sure you’re putting your money into something worthwhile.

Action Item: Before purchasing a course or program, read reviews, ask people in your network for advice, and ensure the value matches the price.

At the end of our chat, George was still holding Branson’s book. “So, all I need to do is start with the basics?”

“Exactly,” I said. “Dive into the free stuff first. Learn as much as you can. The deeper you go, the more discerning you’ll become.”

And that’s the beauty of it—there’s inspiration everywhere. You just have to be willing to soak it up. Start broad, focus in, and use what you learn to build your own path to success.

Your Next Steps:

1. Pick a book, podcast, or TED talk from a successful person outside your industry.

2. Diversify your learning—find online resources that align with your goals.

3. Identify a mentor (formal or informal) and seek advice.

4. Start at the top of the learning funnel with free resources.

5. Research before investing in paid learning programs.

You’ve got this—now, go soak it all up!

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