The Price of Becoming: The Compounding Practices of High Performance

The acclaimed host of The Learning Leader Show delivers the bracing message that growth comes at a cost and equips readers with a rigorous, practical roadmap for paying that price and achieving lasting excellence in work and life.

Ambitious people know what they want to do and where they want to go, but they aren’t sure how to get there. Abstract advice feels good but ultimately changes nothing. Only concrete action can change habits, which in turn changes lives.

The Price of Becoming is a clear guide with instructions for overcoming complacency, mastering communication, and making better decisions under pressure. Ryan Hawk draws from over 700 interviews with some of the world’s leading experts, leaders, thinkers, and doers, including Jim Collins, Simon Sinek, Adam Grant, Tony Robbins, James Clear, Jocko Willink, Susan Cain, Seth Godin, and General Stanley McChrystal, to answer one powerful question: “What can I do today to build a better me?”

Ryan distills their numerous insights, data, and direct personal experiences into a practical, actionable framework he divides into three sections:

• Learn—Fuel Your Intake Engine • Work—Take Action • Lead—Teach Others

Personal growth is about pushing your edges. Going beyond your current zone of comfort and competency. Clear, practical, and timeless, The Price of Becoming is an empowering and informative handbook designed to help you sustain excellence and build the life and career you envision through intentional, continuous learning, and growth.

© 2026 Harper Business (Audiobook): 9780063483934

Release date

Audiobook: July 21, 2026