One of the things that struck me about Steven’s style is his directness. He doesn’t sugarcoat the struggles or romanticize success. He talks about the sleepless nights, the inner battles, and the moments of doubt, making this book relatable and refreshingly authentic. It’s a must-read if you’re looking for inspiration that’s rooted in real-world experience, not just theories or clichés.

The Law of Consistency: Success Isn’t Glamorous, It’s Boring

Steven emphasizes that true success is often a result of relentless consistency. He talks about how, behind every “overnight success,” there’s a routine, a grind, and a commitment to the process. This was a reminder for me that it’s the daily actions, the habits we build over time, that really shape our path. His candid stories about building Social Chain and the many small, unremarkable actions behind its success were a powerful takeaway.

The Law of Self-Respect: Respect Yourself First, or No One Else Will

One of the chapters that hit home was about the importance of self-respect. Steven talks about setting boundaries and saying no, not because you’re selfish, but because you respect your own time and energy. This was a strong reminder that self-respect is the foundation of any healthy relationship, both personal and professional. It’s about knowing your worth, even if others don’t immediately see it.

The Law of Vulnerability: Embrace Your Scars

Vulnerability isn’t a sign of weakness but a source of strength. Steven’s insights on embracing vulnerability—both with oneself and others—were powerful. He shares his own stories of failure and insecurities, which made me realize that being open about our struggles can actually build stronger connections and foster trust. This lesson is especially valuable in leadership; it’s about showing up as human and letting people know you’re in it with them.

The Law of Purpose: Find Your “Why”

Steven doesn’t shy away from talking about the importance of having a purpose that drives you. He shares his own journey of discovering a purpose beyond profit and building a business that aligns with his values. This chapter prompted me to reflect on my own “why” and reminded me of the need to keep that sense of purpose at the forefront, especially during challenging times.

The Law of Embracing Rejection: Every “No” Brings You Closer to a “Yes”

Steven reframes rejection as a stepping stone rather than a setback. He encourages readers to welcome rejection, learn from it, and let it fuel their growth. His personal anecdotes on dealing with setbacks in his entrepreneurial journey were especially motivating. It made me rethink how I view rejection—not as a failure, but as part of the journey toward something better.

The Law of Self-Belief: You Are Your Greatest Asset

Confidence is essential, and Steven reinforces that believing in yourself is non-negotiable. He talks about overcoming self-doubt and learning to bet on himself, even when others didn’t. This chapter reminded me that our potential is often limited by our own beliefs. Self-belief is foundational, and it has to come from within if we want others to believe in us too.

The Law of Legacy: Create Something That Lasts Beyond You

Finally, Steven encourages readers to think about their legacy. This isn’t just about building a successful business but creating something meaningful that positively impacts others. He challenges readers to reflect on the impact they want to leave behind, which feels especially relevant in a world where success is often measured by short-term gains. It’s about finding fulfillment in something that extends beyond ourselves.

The Diary of a CEO is more than a business book; it’s a guide for navigating life with intention, resilience, and authenticity. Steven’s approach—blending his personal experiences with practical advice—makes it relatable and actionable. Each “law” felt like a mini-lesson, challenging me to reflect on my own journey and aspirations.