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Uncommon: Finding Your Path to Significance
2009 Retailer's Choice Award winner!
Super Bowl–winning coach and #1 New York Times best selling author Tony Dungy has had an unusual opportunity to reflect on what it takes to achieve significance. He is looked to by many as the epitome of the success and significance that is highly valued in our culture. He also works every day with young men who are trying to achieve significance through football and all that goes with a professional athletic career―such as money, power, and celebrity. Coach Dungy has had all that, but he passionately believes that there is a different path to significance, a path characterized by attitudes, ambitions, and allegiances that are all too rare but uncommonly rewarding. Uncommon reveals lessons on achieving significance that the coach has learned from his remarkable parents, his athletic and coaching career, his mentors, and his journey with God. A particular focus of the what it means to be a man of significance in a culture that is offering young men few positive role models.
Super Bowl–winning coach and #1 New York Times best selling author Tony Dungy has had an unusual opportunity to reflect on what it takes to achieve significance. He is looked to by many as the epitome of the success and significance that is highly valued in our culture. He also works every day with young men who are trying to achieve significance through football and all that goes with a professional athletic career―such as money, power, and celebrity. Coach Dungy has had all that, but he passionately believes that there is a different path to significance, a path characterized by attitudes, ambitions, and allegiances that are all too rare but uncommonly rewarding. Uncommon reveals lessons on achieving significance that the coach has learned from his remarkable parents, his athletic and coaching career, his mentors, and his journey with God. A particular focus of the what it means to be a man of significance in a culture that is offering young men few positive role models.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2009
About the author
Tony Dungy
102 books176 followersTony Dungy is a #1 New York Times bestselling author whose books include Quiet Strength, Uncommon,The Mentor Leader and Uncommon Marriage. He led the Indianapolis Colts to Super Bowl victory on February 4, 2007, the first such win for an African American head coach. Dungy established another NFL first by becoming the first head coach to lead his teams to the playoffs for ten consecutive years.
Dungy joined the Colts in 2002 after serving as the most successful head coach in Tampa Bay Buccaneers' history. He has also held assistant coaching positions with the University of Minnesota, Pittsburgh Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs, and Minnesota Vikings. Before becoming a coach, Dungy played three seasons in the NFL.
Dungy has been involved in a wide variety of charitable organizations, including All Pro Dad, Abe Brown Ministries, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Athletes in Action, Mentors for Life, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Boys & Girls Clubs. He also works with Basket of Hope, Impact for Living, the Black Coaches Association National Convention, Indiana Black Expo, the United Way of Central Indiana, and the American Diabetes Association.
He retired from coaching in 2009 and now serves as a studio analyst for NBC's Football Night in America. He and his wife, Lauren, are the parents of ten children.
Connect with Tony at his website (www.coachdungy.com, his blog,Facebook, and Twitter,
Dungy joined the Colts in 2002 after serving as the most successful head coach in Tampa Bay Buccaneers' history. He has also held assistant coaching positions with the University of Minnesota, Pittsburgh Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs, and Minnesota Vikings. Before becoming a coach, Dungy played three seasons in the NFL.
Dungy has been involved in a wide variety of charitable organizations, including All Pro Dad, Abe Brown Ministries, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Athletes in Action, Mentors for Life, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Boys & Girls Clubs. He also works with Basket of Hope, Impact for Living, the Black Coaches Association National Convention, Indiana Black Expo, the United Way of Central Indiana, and the American Diabetes Association.
He retired from coaching in 2009 and now serves as a studio analyst for NBC's Football Night in America. He and his wife, Lauren, are the parents of ten children.
Connect with Tony at his website (www.coachdungy.com, his blog,Facebook, and Twitter,
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 209 reviews
May 11, 2015
Prior to my switching of genres I was primarily a reader of non fiction books. I still throw them in here and there. A couple weeks ago during the Rose Bowl we had some friends over for the game. Our house bleeds GREEN & YELLOW and one of my favorite players is Marcus Mariota (this year's Heisman trophy winner). I was discussing how I really respect him on and off the field when my friend suggested I read Tony Dungy’s books. I knew who Mr. Dungy is because his son played football for Ducks. Whenever Mr. Dungy attended the games he was always put on the jumbotron. My friend told me if I liked Marcus’s attitude than I would like Mr. Dungy's too because they were similar.
Since I read this one and Quiet Strength: The Principles, Practices & Priorities of a Winning Life back to back I decide to do the same review for both of them. Even though they are different books with related topics they both are a Christian’s perspective on life and football.
Here is a video of Tony Dungy talking about Marcus Mariota:
http://youtu.be/1p4PziSPB6o?t=6m33s
Since I read this one and Quiet Strength: The Principles, Practices & Priorities of a Winning Life back to back I decide to do the same review for both of them. Even though they are different books with related topics they both are a Christian’s perspective on life and football.
Here is a video of Tony Dungy talking about Marcus Mariota:
http://youtu.be/1p4PziSPB6o?t=6m33s
March 8, 2016
it was a rather confusing book. It had a good meaning a life moral to it, but it was hard to follow along with.
May 23, 2014
The best I've read this year! Tony Dungy literates the true meaning of becoming a "leader, man, husband, and friend" in all aspects. Furthermore, I was personally encouraged by his strong foundation in the Word and Scripture where he derives his principles in leading his life and serving others.
July 8, 2024
This was a great read, giving insite on how we can live an uncommon life in a world that expects us to live a certain way we need to live a uncommon way
November 9, 2010
This book Uncommon by Tony Dungy is one of the best books I've read by far. This book is an autobiography. This book teaches you many lessons that you will need in life. It will talk about how to treat women and family and how to have respect. To me this book is written in first person. I think tony wrote this book to tell us that life is not only about playing a sport or trying to be like other but to be an UNCOMMON person in life, to do uncommon things. This is an autobiography because Tony talks about himself, his life and family but it is also a memoir because he also writes about his past memories.This book may seem like only people who are into sports to read but it is not.
Everyone should read this book because you can learn something new. In a certain part of the book Tony talks about how he said no drugs and drinking because he laerned it from his father. I have been in those situations and i have also said no. Tony teaches you that you should treat women like gold, because women are important in life, To him it was his mother. He also tells you to be an uncommon person by doing things you have never done before. i would recommend this book and anyone and everyone because it teaches you life lessons that you will need to use and learn later in life. You will also learn that if you are an athelete, that life isnt about sports, its about what you love doing. Tony would be a person I look up to. He was a football and coach but he stopped coaching because there would be times that he would be away from his family for too long, and to him his family is more important.
Everyone should read this book because you can learn something new. In a certain part of the book Tony talks about how he said no drugs and drinking because he laerned it from his father. I have been in those situations and i have also said no. Tony teaches you that you should treat women like gold, because women are important in life, To him it was his mother. He also tells you to be an uncommon person by doing things you have never done before. i would recommend this book and anyone and everyone because it teaches you life lessons that you will need to use and learn later in life. You will also learn that if you are an athelete, that life isnt about sports, its about what you love doing. Tony would be a person I look up to. He was a football and coach but he stopped coaching because there would be times that he would be away from his family for too long, and to him his family is more important.
October 18, 2013
Tony Dungy does a great job of describing what it looks like to be an uncommon man. This book is a great book to read for young men because it relates to circumstances one will face and how to face them appropriately. Throughout his book Dungy emphasizes how important it is to keep your core values of family and faith in your life. Dungy describes what it looks like to be a man with purpose. Dungy says that even when the circumstances are not the most favorable it is important to remain a positive influence for Christ. Tony Dungy references many situations from his life with his children and family and football team where he has been impacted positively by others or has impacted others positively. This book is a great read that every teenage boy should read.
December 20, 2012
Great guy, great coach, and his perspective is kinda cool. If you don't read The Bible & have never read a book on leadership, this is a 30,000 ft view & a great book to use as a reference on Biblical-based leadership. I'm no master leader but I've read a few books from some of the greats, this book doesn't really reach that level. Overall, the book is a big ol' bowl of 'ok'.
August 21, 2021
I enjoyed this book because I really do find Tony Dungy to be "Uncommon." Learning more about his story/journey was interesting. In a world of professional sports with all different personalities, he has always stood out to me. I admire his quiet confidence and his example of leadership with integrity, honesty, respect and compassion. He admits that he is far from perfect and does not always get it right, he is humble, another thing to respect about him. Through a successful career in the NFL, he seems to have managed to keep his priorities in order and learned a lot on the way that he shares with us in this book. I love that he has continued to use his platform for the good of others.
May 6, 2013
This book is not about football or coaching, its about life. It is about being a good person in every aspect of your life. Throughout the book Tony Dungy talks about being “Uncommon” and taking the uncommon approach to being a human. He breaks down how to do the right thing and have a good mind set. This book talks about many things such as: love life, family, friends, work, responsibility, humility, happiness, and many more. It is a book that gives people advice and insight about being the best person one can be. It is written in the first person by Tony so it seems more personal to the reader. It isn’t a story of someone’s life, but rather a guideline on how to live yours. It talks about everyday issues and problems and how to handle it. This book addresses most of life’s happenings and hardships. It is a big motivator for people who read it. Uncommon is a book that speaks about the core values essential for a successful individual. This book is all about helping someone finding their own path to significance.
I recommend this book to everyone. Anyone can relate to it and it has many good life lessons that everyone should learn and read about. This book discusses how to be a good person and everyone could enjoy that. It mostly would be for young men although anyone can get a lot out of the book. It is written in a first person point of view from Tony himself so males can relate to this book slightly more. I highly recommend this book to all people of all ages. It was a great book that anyone could appreciate.
I give this book five out of five stars. It was an easy read and took little time to finish. Also, the book itself was amazing and kept me interested throughout the entirety. The things Tony talked about in the book hit me in a big way and impacted me. It helped me realize many things that i wouldn’t know unless I had read the book. Uncommon showed me how to be the best version of me that I can ever be. I really connected with his book and I can honestly say it is my favorite book to date.
Diction: “... my best interests and those of my brother and sisters were paramount to my parents.”
Repetition: “Be uncommon.” “Take the uncommon approach.” “The uncommon way.”
Simile: “It was like the weight of the world had been lifted off of my shoulders.”
I recommend this book to everyone. Anyone can relate to it and it has many good life lessons that everyone should learn and read about. This book discusses how to be a good person and everyone could enjoy that. It mostly would be for young men although anyone can get a lot out of the book. It is written in a first person point of view from Tony himself so males can relate to this book slightly more. I highly recommend this book to all people of all ages. It was a great book that anyone could appreciate.
I give this book five out of five stars. It was an easy read and took little time to finish. Also, the book itself was amazing and kept me interested throughout the entirety. The things Tony talked about in the book hit me in a big way and impacted me. It helped me realize many things that i wouldn’t know unless I had read the book. Uncommon showed me how to be the best version of me that I can ever be. I really connected with his book and I can honestly say it is my favorite book to date.
Diction: “... my best interests and those of my brother and sisters were paramount to my parents.”
Repetition: “Be uncommon.” “Take the uncommon approach.” “The uncommon way.”
Simile: “It was like the weight of the world had been lifted off of my shoulders.”
Want to read
October 30, 2013Tony Dungy's nonfiction book explains how to be a true man. His definition of a true man might be different than most though. Being a true man isn't to be a common man and be in the crowd of other "men"; it's to be an uncommon man. He explains how to be exactly this through stories and his own experiences in his book "Uncommon".
In Dungy's book, he has many different categories that include stories of his life or others that tie into either being a man or a bad example of one. Some of the categories include: character, honesty and integrity, how to treat a woman, and friendship. These might now be the type of stories that you would think of though. To be an uncommon man, sometimes the stories told about that man need to be uncommon. Dungy provides great insight about these stories and analyzes them to where lessons can be learned by just reading the book.
How can someone become uncommon if it is so uncommon? Dungy had a hard time realizing this too, but he had some help from one of his college coaches. "Success is uncommon, therefore not to be enjoyed by the common man. I'm looking for uncommon people.", said Dungy's coach Cal Stoll (xix). Dungy explains within his analysis of the stories that he is not looking to have a successful job or football career, but a man who is successful at being a man. Just being a man isn't enough; that man has to take it to the next level.
This book has impacted the thought about my life a lot, and when thinking about doing something that would contradict when Dungy is saying, I try to look into myself and figure out what is correct about being successful in manhood. The quote is the book all comes back to and I get shivers every time I read it because it has so much truth. Dungy wrote this book to provide insight for others to analyze and realize that if everyone tries to pursue being an uncommon man, the men who were once uncommon will be common. The world should to a day where being a common man is a good thing.
This book has and author who has great insight about how to be a true man. Hitting all aspects of life, Dungy explains how to take every situation like a successful man. A reader that is looking for a book with a great outlook on life and being a person, this is the book for you.
In Dungy's book, he has many different categories that include stories of his life or others that tie into either being a man or a bad example of one. Some of the categories include: character, honesty and integrity, how to treat a woman, and friendship. These might now be the type of stories that you would think of though. To be an uncommon man, sometimes the stories told about that man need to be uncommon. Dungy provides great insight about these stories and analyzes them to where lessons can be learned by just reading the book.
How can someone become uncommon if it is so uncommon? Dungy had a hard time realizing this too, but he had some help from one of his college coaches. "Success is uncommon, therefore not to be enjoyed by the common man. I'm looking for uncommon people.", said Dungy's coach Cal Stoll (xix). Dungy explains within his analysis of the stories that he is not looking to have a successful job or football career, but a man who is successful at being a man. Just being a man isn't enough; that man has to take it to the next level.
This book has impacted the thought about my life a lot, and when thinking about doing something that would contradict when Dungy is saying, I try to look into myself and figure out what is correct about being successful in manhood. The quote is the book all comes back to and I get shivers every time I read it because it has so much truth. Dungy wrote this book to provide insight for others to analyze and realize that if everyone tries to pursue being an uncommon man, the men who were once uncommon will be common. The world should to a day where being a common man is a good thing.
This book has and author who has great insight about how to be a true man. Hitting all aspects of life, Dungy explains how to take every situation like a successful man. A reader that is looking for a book with a great outlook on life and being a person, this is the book for you.
Read
December 17, 2014ook Review on Tony Dungy Book Uncommon
Do you know all the traits on how to be a man ? I thought I did until l read Former NFL player Tony Dungy`s great book on how to be a good football player how to treat your wife and all the traits you need to be a man…
Tony is a very wealthy man now that he played in the NFL and retired from it and now is a speaker for ESPN . But Tony didn't have none of that growing up tony was an average kid growing watching his parents struggle , him and his other siblings not having what the other children had going to school; in hammy downs . But Tony never gave up he knew that he was going to make it doing something in life thats when he started playing football in highschool and found a passion for the sport .
Tony played freshman but but right after the year he was moved to varsity as a sophomore quarterback in college in Minnesota , In college Tony broke records , he was a standout on the field and in the classroom being marked student body president , but growing up tony`s parents made education a first priority in his family with his 3 other siblings . Tony decided to further his career in football leading to the NFL.
Tony was then denied to play in the NFL as a quarterback many teams did not think that his throwing arm power wouldn't translate well into the NFL , that's when he found his pride in another position playing safety for the Pittsburgh Steelers he only played in the lead for 3 years going threw 2 teams with then them 3 years the Pittsburgh Steelers and the San Francisco 49ers . But after them 3 years Tony found his pride in something else and it was coaching , Tony had his life set going threw all them good careers .
After coaching tony decided to be a ESPN spokesman , and that carries on to today , The book has a lot of good stuff in it the traits on being a man are well used everyday in life now, but the only reason I really read the book is because my position coach recommended that I did and when I did that it would make me a better man a better brother and even a better Wide Receiver. I would recommend this book to any young man who really needs to define there self as a Man .
Do you know all the traits on how to be a man ? I thought I did until l read Former NFL player Tony Dungy`s great book on how to be a good football player how to treat your wife and all the traits you need to be a man…
Tony is a very wealthy man now that he played in the NFL and retired from it and now is a speaker for ESPN . But Tony didn't have none of that growing up tony was an average kid growing watching his parents struggle , him and his other siblings not having what the other children had going to school; in hammy downs . But Tony never gave up he knew that he was going to make it doing something in life thats when he started playing football in highschool and found a passion for the sport .
Tony played freshman but but right after the year he was moved to varsity as a sophomore quarterback in college in Minnesota , In college Tony broke records , he was a standout on the field and in the classroom being marked student body president , but growing up tony`s parents made education a first priority in his family with his 3 other siblings . Tony decided to further his career in football leading to the NFL.
Tony was then denied to play in the NFL as a quarterback many teams did not think that his throwing arm power wouldn't translate well into the NFL , that's when he found his pride in another position playing safety for the Pittsburgh Steelers he only played in the lead for 3 years going threw 2 teams with then them 3 years the Pittsburgh Steelers and the San Francisco 49ers . But after them 3 years Tony found his pride in something else and it was coaching , Tony had his life set going threw all them good careers .
After coaching tony decided to be a ESPN spokesman , and that carries on to today , The book has a lot of good stuff in it the traits on being a man are well used everyday in life now, but the only reason I really read the book is because my position coach recommended that I did and when I did that it would make me a better man a better brother and even a better Wide Receiver. I would recommend this book to any young man who really needs to define there self as a Man .
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February 11, 2018Recently retired Indianapolis Colts coach Tony Dungy delivers an outstanding follow-up to his bestseller Quiet Strength in his new book, Uncommon. The name of the book is derived from a quote by former University of Minnesota coach Cal Stoll, who said:
"Success is uncommon, therefore not to be enjoyed by the common man. I'm looking for uncommon people."
Dungy first heard these words as a freshman on Stoll's football team almost three decades ago, and they have stayed with him ever since. The only difference is that it is now Dungy summoning men to an uncommon life of significance.
The book does not differ much from Quiet Strength, as it is written in a casual tone similar to most sports figure's memoirs. It is, however, less autobiographical, leaning more toward an advisory manual on how to live life. It is divided into seven parts, each dealing with important issues that men deal with in their lives, such as family, friends, career, and relationship with Christ. It is sprinkled with stories from Dungy's personal life which illustrate the themes of each chapter. Perhaps most refreshing is the coach's tone. He is never condescending or preachy, adamently proclaiming that his way is the best way. Reading this book is almost like talking to a big brother who is handing out advice because he's been there.
For those who are weary of self-help books, have no fear. Dungy's focus is on service to God, family, and fellow man. There are no get-rich quick schemes in this book, or promises of blessings. This is just Tony Dungy trying to instruct men how to be better husbands, fathers, and human beings. He doesn't claim to have all the answers; he's just willing to share what he's been through.
It's a quick, easy read, and there's enough football mixed in to keep most guys interested. There's a Q & A with Tony Dungy in the back, giving his opinion on more direct questions. My only knock on this book is the goofy picture of Dungy on the back cover. But it's definitely worth the money. Tony Dungy scores again.
"Success is uncommon, therefore not to be enjoyed by the common man. I'm looking for uncommon people."
Dungy first heard these words as a freshman on Stoll's football team almost three decades ago, and they have stayed with him ever since. The only difference is that it is now Dungy summoning men to an uncommon life of significance.
The book does not differ much from Quiet Strength, as it is written in a casual tone similar to most sports figure's memoirs. It is, however, less autobiographical, leaning more toward an advisory manual on how to live life. It is divided into seven parts, each dealing with important issues that men deal with in their lives, such as family, friends, career, and relationship with Christ. It is sprinkled with stories from Dungy's personal life which illustrate the themes of each chapter. Perhaps most refreshing is the coach's tone. He is never condescending or preachy, adamently proclaiming that his way is the best way. Reading this book is almost like talking to a big brother who is handing out advice because he's been there.
For those who are weary of self-help books, have no fear. Dungy's focus is on service to God, family, and fellow man. There are no get-rich quick schemes in this book, or promises of blessings. This is just Tony Dungy trying to instruct men how to be better husbands, fathers, and human beings. He doesn't claim to have all the answers; he's just willing to share what he's been through.
It's a quick, easy read, and there's enough football mixed in to keep most guys interested. There's a Q & A with Tony Dungy in the back, giving his opinion on more direct questions. My only knock on this book is the goofy picture of Dungy on the back cover. But it's definitely worth the money. Tony Dungy scores again.
July 22, 2014
I would have rated this book five stars if I was younger and just starting out my marathon. The football coach informs us early that demographic is his target in this book. I found that interesting only because one of his sons committed suicide in his late teen years. So often a "famous" person suffers a loss like that and automatically he/she thinks is qualified to write a book which usually ends up in the library 50 cent please come and take me bin. I am so happy to say UNCOMMON does not go down this pitiful trail.
I read Dungy's first effort, QUIET STRENGTH when it first came out and appreciated the honest candor in the book. The author has a keen knack to communicate the reality of a situation and how it truly affects him. That same style resonates in UNCOMMON.
After a run of inspirational books by women, I decided to look for one from a man's perspective and sorry to say, other than Lucado, and maybe Osteen, the pickings were slim. UNCOMMON was a surprise. As the author relates incidents from his coaching days and from his younger days, one does understand the perspective.
Nowhere in the book does Dungy feel sorry for himself or beg for sympathy. When it comes to the subject of his son, it's apparent that the author has questions and is in pain, but his message obviously transcends and relates. This is one of those books that parents of every twelve year old should read.
Although Dungy does quote the Bible, he doesn't beat you over the head with preaching. This book's purpose is to teach men, young men in particular, what it is to be uncommon and how to achieve it. I found the principle of overcoming social pressures weaved throughout the book. I enjoyed it, I plan on using some of the techniques, and it is definitely worth the investment in time and money.
I read Dungy's first effort, QUIET STRENGTH when it first came out and appreciated the honest candor in the book. The author has a keen knack to communicate the reality of a situation and how it truly affects him. That same style resonates in UNCOMMON.
After a run of inspirational books by women, I decided to look for one from a man's perspective and sorry to say, other than Lucado, and maybe Osteen, the pickings were slim. UNCOMMON was a surprise. As the author relates incidents from his coaching days and from his younger days, one does understand the perspective.
Nowhere in the book does Dungy feel sorry for himself or beg for sympathy. When it comes to the subject of his son, it's apparent that the author has questions and is in pain, but his message obviously transcends and relates. This is one of those books that parents of every twelve year old should read.
Although Dungy does quote the Bible, he doesn't beat you over the head with preaching. This book's purpose is to teach men, young men in particular, what it is to be uncommon and how to achieve it. I found the principle of overcoming social pressures weaved throughout the book. I enjoyed it, I plan on using some of the techniques, and it is definitely worth the investment in time and money.
March 9, 2016
This book is about a man who lived in Georgia. The main character that is talking throughout the book is Tony, he is a motivating reader. Some thing he mentioned in the book were leadership, God, morals, children, and marriage. Tony Dungy was the football coach, he inspired his team to all be team leaders. Something he taught me was to never give up on things in life , even when it gets hard you always try your best. I believe from reading Uncommon, with God all things are possible. Tony is married with three kids who have a lot of faith in God. Tony accomplished many goals with not only with himself but with his team also , He taught them that there isn't an "I" In team , whatever you want in life you go out and go get it, and you shouldn't let anyone ever tell you different. Tony said that you should think about being married first before having children.
Uncommon is one of those books where you it's inspiring to your life and maybe someone else. You learn a lot of new morals and set more higher goals for yourself then you may have thought about before. I think everyone should take the time to read uncommon, there are a lot of things older adults or young adults may be able to relate to. When I first read this book, I really didn't like it but as I kept reading more, it started to get interesting.
If you are close to God and learn about being a good coach this book Uncommon is for you. This book didn't remind me of any other book, it was really my first time every reading a very inspirational book. Readers who are looking for inspiration should read this book , When they maybe are having a hard time or bad day it might left there spirit.
Uncommon is one of those books where you it's inspiring to your life and maybe someone else. You learn a lot of new morals and set more higher goals for yourself then you may have thought about before. I think everyone should take the time to read uncommon, there are a lot of things older adults or young adults may be able to relate to. When I first read this book, I really didn't like it but as I kept reading more, it started to get interesting.
If you are close to God and learn about being a good coach this book Uncommon is for you. This book didn't remind me of any other book, it was really my first time every reading a very inspirational book. Readers who are looking for inspiration should read this book , When they maybe are having a hard time or bad day it might left there spirit.
April 17, 2015
I have recently read Uncommon by Tony Dungy, and I thought that it was a really interesting book. The book is about his life as a coach, father, husband and player. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves sports and is in their teenage years and on, because younger kids just won’t connect with some of the things he talks about. He tells the reader about his life experiences and what he has learned. He has a reoccurring them about being uncommon, I know it’s the cover of the book, but he describes how you should strive to be different not to follow the normal patterns of life. He starts every chapter off with a quote, either from a famous person, history, sometimes the quote has no owner but they all always revolve around what he will talk about in that chapter. Tony Dungy is a spiritual man in my opinion, throughout the book he quotes the bible, references the bible, and talks about the bible. His whole life he centered around god. He thanks god for his great success in life, whether it was as a professional athlete or a professional football coach. My favorite story he tells is when he got fired from his head coaching position at the Buccaneer’s organization. He says he always tries to separate work from family life and if work interferes than it doesn't work out in the end. He played candy land with his kids, and had fun, because he separated work from family.
February 26, 2017
In Tony Dungy's first book, "Quiet Strength", the esteemed NFL Head Coach primarily focused on his journey through life, with personal stories peppered into a basic biography of his football career. Now, don't get me wrong...it was a great read! This second effort, however, feels more like what Dungy perhaps had in mind to begin with...a collection of advice from his years living the Christian life.
Basically, if you are looking for hard-core football stories or X's and O's talk, steer clear of this book at all costs, as instead of taking that approach, Dungy in its place doles out advice about any and all aspects of life, from family to friendship to religion to just plain trying to be a good, respectable person in an often-corrupt world. Though some may argue that the message comes off as preachy, I beg to differ. It is really just Dungy's attempt to share his wisdom with others...one can either take it or leave it (but most of the time you will want to take it!).
Thus, with "Uncommon", Dungy was able to achieve what he likely set out to do in the first place...using his status as an NFL Head Coach to connect with others and help them walk the Christian walk. In that respect, the book truly does live up to its title.
Basically, if you are looking for hard-core football stories or X's and O's talk, steer clear of this book at all costs, as instead of taking that approach, Dungy in its place doles out advice about any and all aspects of life, from family to friendship to religion to just plain trying to be a good, respectable person in an often-corrupt world. Though some may argue that the message comes off as preachy, I beg to differ. It is really just Dungy's attempt to share his wisdom with others...one can either take it or leave it (but most of the time you will want to take it!).
Thus, with "Uncommon", Dungy was able to achieve what he likely set out to do in the first place...using his status as an NFL Head Coach to connect with others and help them walk the Christian walk. In that respect, the book truly does live up to its title.
March 20, 2017
Although the focus of this book is on what it means to be a man, I found many of the principals such as integrity, courage to stand alone, respect for yourself and others, applicable to both boys and girls. The book is written from a Christian man's perspective, and includes Bible verses and Biblical stories to illustrate many of his points. The author also includes stories from his life and his struggles. I really liked that each section of the book ended with a list of key concepts. After watching Coach Dungy for many years, it was interesting for me to read this book and better understand his background and experiences.
July 26, 2009
Coach Dungy wrote this book for men, stating that a true man is one who is "uncommon." There were 12 parts to this book and trusting God was the primary focus to each section. When I bought the book, I didn't read the cover and had no idea it was tailored to men. However, I read the entire book and enjoyed all of it. Dungy shared a few personal stories in each section and advice on how to handle various matters that affect a man and his family in our society today. The last quote in his book is "Life is all about the journey, I believe. We pay so much attention to where we are going or what we have accomplished that we sometimes forget to appreciate where we are and how we've gotten to this point." Obvious, yes. But always a good reminder to take a moment to reflect on our life, past and current, and be thankful for our blessings.
March 4, 2012
Going into the book, Uncommon by Tony Dungy, i was expecting more of a life story. The life story was there but it was intertwined with many other factors. The book held an immense amount of knowledge of life and all there is out there. I feel that this book is a great representation of everything that we truly need in life and everything that we are truly capable of. I would, with no hesitation, recommend this book to anyone and everyone. This is not the style that we may all enjoy but the content within the book encases the insight we all need to remember is already in our lives or the insight we all need to incorporate. I feel that this book is for any type of reader but i also know that many would not enjoy the style. I think that if you are even considering this book, you should take the opportunity because you will not be sorry.
May 9, 2012
I got this from the library, I think from a recommendation from someone as a book on mentoring for a project I'm doing for work. I think I got the wrong book, but this is still a good read. It's filled with pointers and advice on living a life based on integrity and character and many values that are lost in our current culture and world. The author is strong in his religious beliefs, and does quote scripture and use it as support for his points.
I will admit that I skimmed the second half, once realizing I had the wrong book.
I don't think there are a lot of people in this world with this kind of humility, strength of character, and steadfastness in their beliefs. It's kind of inspiring.
I will admit that I skimmed the second half, once realizing I had the wrong book.
I don't think there are a lot of people in this world with this kind of humility, strength of character, and steadfastness in their beliefs. It's kind of inspiring.
October 9, 2012
Former coach for the Indianapolis Colts, and football commentator Tony Dungy has handed down a few good words about living a life of dignity by design.
I am not an avid non-fiction reader. I also never give nods to those with celebrity status simply because they're famous. I am a great admirer of those who carve out a special niche, not from the status they have achieved, but the way they life in the spotlight. Tony is clearly a man of integrity. His message is simply but inspiring. He has led others to greatness and done so with humility and a clear sense of purpose. He mentions prayers and platforms, making good choices, and showing respect for others. We need those reminders in life as well as in sports.
Blessing to you, Tony. You're a man of many talents.
I am not an avid non-fiction reader. I also never give nods to those with celebrity status simply because they're famous. I am a great admirer of those who carve out a special niche, not from the status they have achieved, but the way they life in the spotlight. Tony is clearly a man of integrity. His message is simply but inspiring. He has led others to greatness and done so with humility and a clear sense of purpose. He mentions prayers and platforms, making good choices, and showing respect for others. We need those reminders in life as well as in sports.
Blessing to you, Tony. You're a man of many talents.
October 23, 2013
Every man and any boy aspiring to be a real man should read this book and apply its principles. Okay, so I'm not a man - but as a wife and mother, I thoroughly enjoyed this read. The chapters are short and sweet, the principles clearly laid our and summarized, and it hits on everything from the importance of character to living a life of faith. Although I am not an avid football fan, I didn't get lost in the football jargon or the big names of football - the principles of the book were still easily communicated. Despite being geared towards men/boys (football fans at that), women too can study and learn from this book to know how to encourage our men to step up and be uncommon (as well as apply most of the principles to their own lives as well). I highly recommend this great resource!
April 17, 2009
Having no idea why I was prompted to read this book at the time, I have come away wishing everyone would read it, but especially boys/men to whom it was actually addressed. Tony Dungy, the Colts Coach, is a Christian (which I did not know) and has a very practical, no nonsense approach to becoming "uncommon", and "Finding Your Path To Significance". The Book is salted with scripture and other quotations throughout, but no so heavily as to offend some. There is no one who would not benefit from spending a little time readying this book, if not just as a reminder of who we are and why we are here!
December 29, 2010
A fabulous read for young men and old (and women too) about how to be different in a positive way and to make a difference in your life and in the lives of those you love. Tony Dungy does it again in this book which focuses on self-discovery, which ultimately can only be found when you follow Christ. It's not preachy though. He tackles a lot of issues personal to young men like sex, drugs, women, choices, integrity, character, etc... He also reveals a few interesting anecdotes about how character mattered so much when he was a coach looking for draft picks that they had a category on the application for it! Impressive! A great book for any young man, even if he's not a football fan.
February 24, 2012
Uncommon: Finding Your Path to Significance's hall-of-fame author provides a series of truly uplifting pieces of advice and motivational stories. This book focuses on the important of being uncommon not only as an athlete, but as a human being and in all aspects of life. It is true that this book is geared more towards football fans and moreover men, (Dungy often refers to his days as a football coach for the Indianapolis Colts and his father's teachings of how to be a man)but that fact is almost irrelevant if one reads to book for meaning and not identity. Overall, I truly enjoyed this book and the advice that Tony Dungy gave throughout.
October 26, 2012
I read the book Uncommon, it is a biography on Tony Dungy. He was the Indianapolis Colts Super Bowl winning head coach. Tony Dungy was not the normal coach he taught football players the way of his culture or what he believes in. He taught them respect for other players. He also taught them what peace is meant. He taught his team to be in peace with themselves and there teammates. That year the indianapolis Colts won the Super Bowl. People say he was the best coach who has ever coached football before. I thought this book was ok. It got a little boring at times, but otherwise I thought it was interesting.
August 1, 2009
A friend recommended this book to me. However, it had caught my eye earlier. Tony Dungy is a very quiet man who had done extraordinary things. His faith has been paramount to his success, in his eyes. A devout Christian, he does use Biblical references at times to make a point. But I don't feel he "over does it" and become "preachy". I would highly recommend this book, especially for young men, whether you are an athlete or not. It is a quick read, but you will find yourself reflecting on what dungy has said many times throught the book.
July 8, 2010
As being a father of a 2 year old and 3 year old I found this book to be a big help in my life. I myself have not been what you would call a religious man but after reading the book I have a new outlook on the way I should treat and teach my children on the ways of good living and also how to be a better husband to my wife. The book is well written and easy to follow. He will be missed in the NFL as a coach but I think he was put on this earth to help more people outside of the game than in. Thanks for such a good book....... (show less)
October 7, 2011
Overall, I believe this book is real motivator for men in their late teens to early adults. Although some parts of this books sounds cliche, this books speaks about core values of successful indiviual. Over the course of the time I read this book, I felt like I was beginning to change as an indiviual in my family as well as the community around me. Uncommon is one of the those books that you do not see that often that talks about the values of a significant life. I think this is was a good book to read.
August 4, 2014
A solid read. I put b/w 4 and 4 1/2 stars ( and the absence of 1/2's on this platform leads me to go with '4' )
The book didn't wow me since I've been immersed in the kind of high quality information which Mr. Dungy discussed throughout, however, for someone who had *not* been in this same culture of 3-20% level info, I'd call this a 4 1/2 to 5 , and round up most likely.
The range of topics covered is a great survey that impacts the ground on which we live in the complex reality of our world - yet the principles don't change.
Definitely well worth the read.
The book didn't wow me since I've been immersed in the kind of high quality information which Mr. Dungy discussed throughout, however, for someone who had *not* been in this same culture of 3-20% level info, I'd call this a 4 1/2 to 5 , and round up most likely.
The range of topics covered is a great survey that impacts the ground on which we live in the complex reality of our world - yet the principles don't change.
Definitely well worth the read.
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