Half memoir and half self-help book, Jim Rees takes you on an adventure through his Race Across America (RAAM). Doing the race three times at over 3,000 miles of nonstop cycling as a solo rider ought to teach you something plus more about perseverance and strength. As Jim states in his book, RAAM is more about having a strong mindset than it is about being physically in shape, although both are still important. If you love physical endurance racing such as running, cycling, or swimming, then I think you will relate to Jim’s story.

Jim Rees Doesn’t Only Write About Cycling

But the book is not just about Jim’s three-time RAAM. He delves into many of the problems he faced before and after the race, including financial and marital issues. The suggestions he offers are surely helpful for anyone who has the tendency to neglect their family due to their hobbies, work, or other interests. If you’re struggling with any of these issues then his tips will come in very useful or at least open your eyes and help you reflect on your own actions.

To me, the story of his experience with RAAM, the way he described the landscape and the other people he interacted with (his team, and complete strangers) is what made the book worth reading. However, there was a quote in the self-help section of the book that will always stick with me:

‘I came to know that what I wanted was to leave a positive fingerprint with everyone I interacted with. I believe that in every encounter we have with another person there’s an opportunity to leave them in a better space than they were before that interaction. That’s what a positive fingerprint is: an impression that is unique to the person that leaves it.’

Should You Read it?

So if you like stories about people who struggle to achieve great achievements like Jim Rees and along the way learn how to deal with some of your own struggles then it’s highly probable that you’d enjoy reading Vicious Cycle.

Buy Jim’s Book on Amazon:

Recommended Reading:

THISday by Philip Gabbard Book Review

Built to Serve by Evan Carmichael Book Review

Start With Why – Bring Purpose to Your Life

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