Mastery by Robert Green

My takeaways from the final book finished in 2020

I set out to finish Master by Robert Green by the end of 2020. Yesterday, I did exactly that.

And as I sat with the book and all of the lessons, I wondered: what would I take with me and what would push me forward?

First of all, I underlined, starred, and bracketed an estimated 125 passages from the book—many of which I shared with you at the bottom of each post. While I was disciplined enough to prune out those quotes, there are many more that I want to give life to and return to in the future.

My copy of Mastery complete with abuse and stains to replace that new book smell.

Keeping Track

I started a Google Doc for keeping track of what called to me so that I can recall it. It’s a tedious act, but doing so reinforces what I just read.

I imagine this would have been easier had I entered the passages daily. However, there’s something about viewing the quotes in the context of a completed book that amplifies their meaning.

I’m unsure if I’ll stick to the same method for this year’s readings, and I’m open to suggestions.

Do you have a system for organizing notes from your readings? If so, please let me know.

Thoughts It Created

One of my favorite experiences of reading this book came in the sparks of an idea. Specifically those which immediately forced me to write in the margin or expand in the blank pages at the back of the book.

In fact, I captured my initial reactions upon finishing the book in the following entry.

End 2:45pm 12/31/20

If there was ever a book to set the scene for a new year, it would be this. To pursue mastery of writing, to learn how to build a book, an audience and cult following from scratch and scraps of remaining projects. To perpetuate my ideas, the really good ones, and push them further into the universe than I ever thought possible. To come back, and reflect here often…when it gets dark and the false self gets loud. This is the way forward to create cool, unforgettable moments in my life and other's.

Other than coming up with a more concrete definition for “cool, unforgettable moments.,” this is a solid first step into the new year.

Happy New Year! I hope 2021 can shine a light on and help you find what you’re searching for.