Five Bullet Friday - October 3, 2025

Dear A, 

We're in the fourth quarter of the year.  Let's get after it!    

Here's what I'm following this week...

ADVICE I'M FOLLOWING...

From Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, the intellectual Roman emperor wrote that in the morning he would often remind himself that "the people I deal with today will be meddling, ungrateful, arrogant, dishonest, jealous, and surly." When you prepare yourself for potential interactions with people who engage in ugly behavior, you build resistance, as well as ensure you don't fall into the trap of responding in kind with ugliness. Basically, heed the advice of Ron Burgundy, "Stay classy."

STUDY I'M READING...

The Curious Connection Between Purpose and Lifespan. According to Science Direct, researchers tracked more than 13,000 adults aged 50 and above for eight years. They found that only 15 percent of people with the highest sense of purpose died during the study period, compared to 36 percent of those with the lowest sense of purpose. That’s more than double the survival rate, independent of health status, income, or depression.

The protective effect was observed across all groups studied, regardless of age, race, or background. And while the benefit was universal, there were some differences by gender: men with the highest purpose had a 20 percent lower risk of death, while women enjoyed a 34 percent lower risk. What's your purpose in life?

YOUTUBE VIDEO I'M WATCHING...

8 Exercises Inspired by Our Ancestors for Insane Strength. You don't need an expensive gym membership, personal trainer, useless supplements, or subscription to an online workout platform to make massive gains in your strength training. Follow these eight time-tested exercises to build muscle and endurance like a Spartan warriors, Roman gladiators, and Nordic Vikings. The exercises include:

1. Box Jumps
2. Bear Hug Walks
3. Pull-Ups
4. Farmers Carries
5. Dead Hangs
6. Burpees
7. Goblet Squats
8. Rucking

HISTORICAL FIGURE I'M LEARNING ABOUT...

General Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben. Baron Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben (1730–1794) was a Prussian military officer whose expertise and discipline were pivotal in shaping the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. Arriving at Valley Forge in 1778, he brought with him the rigor of European military training and introduced standardized drills, organization, and hygiene practices. His Blue Book, formally titled Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States, became the Army’s first official training manual and laid the foundation for modern U.S. military practices.

Despite not speaking fluent English, von Steuben’s ability to instill discipline and professionalism transformed the ragtag colonial militias into a more cohesive and effective fighting force. His work not only contributed to American victories in the latter stages of the Revolution but also left a lasting legacy: he is often regarded as the “Father of the U.S. Army.” After the war, von Steuben settled in New York, where he remained a respected figure until his death.

QUOTE I'M PONDERING...

"Ninety-nine percent of all failures come from people who have a habit of making excuses."

– George Washington Carver

Thank you for your attention. As always, I welcome your thoughts and suggestions.

Stay safe and vigilant,

Luke Bencie