Before I found a formal religion, I sought wisdom in places that weren’t traditionally “faith-based.”

Because if you want to do something sufficiently difficult.. faith isn’t just helpful. It’s required.

Faith in the process.
Faith in your purpose.
Faith that if you show up, even when there’s no proof it’s working, the results will come.

For years, I looked for ways to strengthen that kind of faith... from people who had been through it.

And if you’re not in a formal religion, but you know you need faith to get through the road ahead, put these books on your short list.

Man’s Search for Meaning – Viktor Frankl
Frankl survived the Holocaust by holding onto meaning when there was no reason to hope. He found purpose in suffering itself. If you’ve ever struggled with the dark moments of the journey, this book will rewire how you think about resilience and belief.

The War of Art – Steven Pressfield
Ever feel like you’re fighting an invisible force that’s trying to stop you? You are. Pressfield calls it Resistance... that invisible enemy that keeps you from taking action. The answer? Show up every day, whether you feel like it or not, and trust that the muse will meet you there. That’s faith.

Deep Work – Cal Newport
Delayed gratification is an underlying theme of this book. In a world obsessed with instant gratification, Newport shows that sustained, focused effort compounds into massive success over time. But you have to believe in it long before you see the payoff.

I’ve lived this. Every major breakthrough in my life required faith before results.

And here’s what I know... whether or not you believe in God, the ability to act in faith is a massive level up to your chances of actually doing something consequential.

If you need to strengthen that muscle, start here.

🚀

​James