The Saint, the Surfer, and the CEO Book Summary

In "The Saint, The Surfer, and The CEO," author Robin Sharma takes readers on a transformative journey through the eyes of a man at a crossroads in life. Struggling with personal and professional discontent, he encounters three remarkable mentors—a wise saint, a free-spirited surfer, and a driven CEO—each offering profound insights into achieving true fulfillment. As their teachings blend philosophy, spirituality, and practical wisdom, he unravels the secrets to happiness and success beyond material wealth. This captivating narrative challenges readers to reflect on their own lives and question what they truly value. Dive in to discover how the power of purpose can lead to a fulfilling life that resonates with the soul!

By Robin Sharma

Published: 2003

"“Your life is a reflection of your thoughts.”"

Book Review of The Saint, the Surfer, and the CEO

"Release any concerns that you have about this path you’re about to walk on, and just go into it with the curiosity of a child, knowing that you’ll come out on the other side as a new person, or to be more accurate, far more of the person who you truly are and have been created to be." Jack Valentine seemed to have it all. He made good money as an adman, and looked good doing it. He had a hot apartment, cool friends, even a slick car—at least until the hectic Monday morning a truck smashed into it, sending the critically injured Jack to the hospital. Everything happens for a reason, though, and Jack’s reason reveals itself in the silver-haired cancer patient who becomes his roommate one evening. The elderly man, Cal, shares his life story—one not dissimilar to Jack’s—of material wealth masking a gaping hole within. Cal ultimately found salvation through philosophy ("the love of wisdom"), and now offers to help Jack by prepping the younger man for the Final Questions we all must face: Have I lived wisely? Have I loved well? Have I served greatly? Presenting Jack with three plane tickets, each accompanied by a map marked with a red X, Cal sends Jack to meet with three great teachers, each of whom will help Jack answer one of the Final Questions—just as they once helped Cal. First, in Rome, Jack will meet "the Saint." Then a haunted beach in Hawaii introduces him to "the Surfer." And finally the grandeur of New York City sets the stage for his last encounter: with "the CEO." Along the way, Jack will learn to do his interior work, discover that our negative traits offer gateways to higher versions of ourselves, and understand that figuring things out in your head can distract you from the powerful whispers of your heart. Join Jack on his journey and step into the you that you were always meant to be.

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“Your life is a reflection of your thoughts.”

The Saint, the Surfer, and the CEO

By Robin Sharma