In this book Ray Dalio shares the story of his early career, the founding of Bridge Water Associates and his life and work principles. In his words there are only two ways how to get what you want in life: 1. to have a strong mental map (i.e. knowing what to do and having the courage to do it), 2. having humility and open mindedness (which allow you to get things you want from other people). It is a journey into yourself and into understanding how progress and interactions with other people work. I recommend to read this book as a textbook that can be revisited time and again as you work towards your goal.

​

His main Life principles can be summarized as:

• Dreams + Reality + Determination = A Successful Life

• Be radically open minded and radically transparent

• Evolving is the greatest accomplishment (always keep growing & learning)

• Pain + Reflection = Progress

• Own your outcomes (be responsible for what you do)

​

I really like his 5-step process to getting what you want in life:

1. Have clear goals

2. Identify and don't tolerate problems

3. Diagnose problems to get at their root causes

4. Design a plan

5. Push through to completion

​

What is important in life according to Ray is having meaningful work and meaningful relationships.

​

"Prioritize: While you can have virtually anything you want in life, you can't have everything you want."

​

Further reading and education:

​

Ray Dalio the founder of Bridgewater Associates

​

Principles for success by Ray Dalio

​

Economic principles -  how the economic machine works by Ray Dalio

​