The Rules of Life by Richard Templar: Timeless Lessons Everyone Should Live By
Business and personal development are important tools and resources in entrepreneurship and something that is foundational for personal branding. Whilst I have not written my own book yet I understand the value of using these books to provide practical advice and even motivational words of encouragement during one's business career. In the video below I review The Rules of Life by Richard Templar, an easy to read guide book to some important life lessons and principles to living a great life.
“None of us can ever be perfect. We start with what we’ve got and who we are and then we can only make a choice, each day, to strive for some kind of better. And that’s all they can ask of us – to make that choice. To be awake and aware, to be ready to do the right thing. And accept that some days you aren’t going to make it.” - Richard Templar
Here are some key takeaways from the book that professionals and entrepreneurs can start living by today:
1. Keep It in Perspective
Templar reminds us not to let the small stuff control our mood or mindset. As a business owner or brand builder, setbacks are inevitable. But zooming out and gaining perspective helps you make smarter decisions and maintain emotional resilience. Don’t let a bad day convince you it’s a bad life — or a failed product define your worth.
2. Know What Counts (And What Doesn’t)
In a noisy world full of vanity metrics and highlight reels, it’s easy to chase what looks good instead of what feels right. Templar’s rule is simple but powerful: define success on your own terms. As you work on your personal brand, this is essential to remember. Are you building something aligned with your values or just something that looks impressive on LinkedIn?
3. You Don’t Have to Win Every Battle
One of the most freeing lessons in this book? Learning that not every fight is worth your time. Whether it's a social media debate or internal power struggle, some battles just drain your energy make sure that you choose your focus wisely. Energy is your most valuable resource as a professional protect it like your business depends on it. Because it does.
4. Have a Sense of Purpose
Templar’s take on purpose is subtle but clear: you don’t have to save the world, but you should have a reason for how you show up in it. For entrepreneurs and professionals working on personal branding, this is gold. Purpose drives consistency, clarity, and connection. It’s not just what you do it’s why you do it that sticks with people.
5. Be Kind — Especially When It’s Hard
Business doesn’t have to be cutthroat. Templar encourages kindness not as a weakness, but as a strength. Whether you're building a team, engaging clients, or growing your network, how you treat people matters. Your personal brand is built as much by how you make others feel as it is by what you offer.
Templar’s Rules of Life isn’t just about living well it’s a playbook for leading with integrity, resilience and intention. If you're growing a business or building your personal brand, these principles will keep you grounded, human, and authentic in a world that often tells you to be the opposite.
Looking to align your personal brand with values that last? Let’s talk your message matters and it’s time the world heard it.
