Get Out of Your Own Way

A Skeptic’s Guide to Growth and Fulfillment

by Dave Hollis

4.6(2,660 ratings)

15 min read

Brief overview

This book reveals how deeply held fears and limiting beliefs can undermine our happiness, even when life looks perfect on the surface. Dave Hollis offers honest stories and tangible examples to show how confronting discomfort, embracing failure, and seeking steady growth can transform our relationships and sense of purpose.

A Skeptic's First Step

Many of us dismiss personal growth strategies as things for people in crisis, assuming that self-help is only for those who have reached rock bottom. Yet Dave Hollis admits that he felt restless and unfulfilled, even while holding what most would call a dream job. The disconnect between his outward success and inner frustration ignited a surprising transformation.

In his journey, Dave discovered how normal it is to cling to comfort rather than step into the unfamiliar. We often fear that acknowledging our insecurities means admitting weakness. But, ironically, it is by naming our fears and doubts that we begin to reclaim control over our lives and our potential.

This initial awakening matters because it sets the tone for everything that follows. Once you realize that real change comes from looking inward, you’re able to discard the idea that personal development is only for other people. True growth is an invitation extended to us all—whether life looks perfect from the outside or not.

When Dave attended his first self-help conference, he expected fluffy advice and hollow pep talks. Instead, he found a practical roadmap toward long-term fulfillment. Sometimes, the simplest step is simply learning to be open, ready to admit there might be more to the story than we’ve allowed ourselves to believe.

Acknowledging you want more from life isn’t a weakness. It’s the first step to actual progress.

Resisting Self-Help

We tend to confuse asking for help with being broken. According to Dave, this mindset prevents countless people from reaching their true potential. Therapy, coaching, and conferences aren’t last-resort fixes; they’re gateway tools for anyone who wants a more meaningful, passionate existence.

Early in his career, Dave soldiered on through stress and dissatisfaction, worried that any admission of struggle would invalidate his accomplishments. Over time, he saw that even well-adjusted people can struggle with a sense that something’s “off.” Growth isn’t about mending a defect; it’s about building on what’s already there.

For many of us, the biggest stumbling block to self-improvement is caring too much about how we’ll be perceived by coworkers, in-laws, or even casual acquaintances. Their opinions, real or imagined, can paralyze us. But in truth, most people are too busy with their own challenges to judge or condemn our choices.

In letting go of the fear of what others think, you’ll begin adopting a mindset that sees therapy, books, and introspection as ways to flourish. Instead of chalking up your struggles to flaws, you’ll learn to see them as seeds you can nurture into growth.

Self-help isn’t about curing a defect. It’s about uncovering hidden strengths.

Looking to dive deeper into Get Out of Your Own Way?

Download our app to unlock every key idea and gain full access.

What is Get Out of Your Own Way about?

"Get Out of Your Own Way: A Skeptic’s Guide to Growth and Fulfillment" offers a candid and transformative approach to personal development, challenging preconceived ideas about self-help and personal growth. Dave Hollis shares his introspective journey of overcoming limiting beliefs and fears that have been obstacles to happiness and prosperity. With engaging anecdotes and actionable insights, the book reveals strategies for embracing discomfort and viewing failure as a stepping stone to success. By fostering these ideas, Hollis empowers individuals to cultivate stronger relationships, find a sense of purpose, and ultimately, redefine personal happiness.

The book deconstructs the importance of self-help as a tool for everyone, tackling the misconception that personal growth is only for those who are 'broken'. Through vivid storytelling and practical advice, Hollis encourages readers to scrutinize and replace limiting beliefs, leveraging them as catalysts for personal and professional development. "Get Out of Your Own Way" positions itself as a vital guide for those seeking to navigate the complexities of life with resilience and authenticity, underlining the power of vulnerability as a pathway to fulfillment.

As a former Disney executive turned entrepreneur, Hollis uses his own experiences and shifts in career to exemplify how embracing change can rejuvenate one's sense of purpose. This book not only identifies the emotional and mental barriers that hinder growth but also offers tangible methods to incorporate change, adaptability, and resilience in daily life. With its mix of wit, wisdom, and real-world applications, "Get Out of Your Own Way" is a compelling narrative that encourages readers to take charge of their story, transforming perceived failures into a blueprint for a more meaningful and fulfilled existence.

Review of Get Out of Your Own Way

"Get Out of Your Own Way: A Skeptic’s Guide to Growth and Fulfillment" stands as a compelling narrative on personal development, distinguished by its honest reflection and practical applications. One of the book's notable strengths is its ability to challenge conventional thinking about self-help. Dave Hollis offers a fresh perspective that breaks away from the stereotype that personal growth is reserved only for those in crisis.

A key strength lies in its remarkable relatability and practical insights. Hollis provides tangible takeaways, exploring ways to shift limiting beliefs and use failures as stepping stones toward growth. His storytelling method, complemented by an accessible writing style, makes these concepts actionable for readers at any stage of life. The conversational tone, interspersed with humor and honesty, invites readers into a dialogue about their own lives.

The book's target audience includes individuals navigating career transitions, those seeking stronger personal relationships, professionals interested in leadership development, and anyone eager for self-reflection. It speaks equally to skeptics and enthusiasts of self-help, making the concepts accessible and practical. "Get Out of Your Own Way" is an invaluable resource for those yearning for genuine growth. Whether turning pages for inspiration or an actionable guide to self-improvement, this book resonates, inspiring a proactive stance toward personal growth.

Who should read Get Out of Your Own Way?

Professionals navigating a career transition: The book outlines practical steps to redefine self-worth, independent of job titles, encouraging those in career flux to embrace a growth mindset.
Skeptics of self-help and personal development: Individuals wary of typical self-help books will find this a refreshing guide that connects relatable experiences with actionable insights.
People experiencing mid-life consideration of purpose: Hollis offers clarity and direction for individuals evaluating their life's trajectory and seeking renewal and fulfillment.
Young adults and early-career professionals: Hollis provides guidance on conquering impostor syndrome and instilling confidence in newfound roles.
Individuals interested in improving relationships: Through the lens of personal experiences, the book offers techniques to cultivate authentic connections and understanding.

About the author

Dave Hollis is a former Disney executive and life coach with over 17 years of experience in the entertainment industry. He served as President of Worldwide Theatrical Distribution at The Walt Disney Company until 2018. As a New York Times bestselling author, he has written books such as "Get Out of Your Own Way: A Skeptic’s Guide to Growth and Fulfillment" and "Built Through Courage," sharing his personal journey and insights on personal development and growth. He was also the CEO of The Hollis Company, a media content and event production company.