Hollywood legend Arnold Schwarzenegger has shared an unusual piece of advice in his new self-help book titled ‘Be Useful: Seven Tools for Life‘. In this play, the actor and former governor of California recommends an experience that has significantly impacted his own life: walking the Camino de Santiago.

The Camino de Santiago is one of the most popular trails in the world and attracts people of all ages and backgrounds. Although its origin is religious, over time, the Camino has evolved into a personal journey in search of inspiration and meaning.

Schwarzenegger, in his book, explores the importance of having a clear vision in life and how taking this journey can be a valuable tool in achieving this goal. He himself has applied this experience in his life and uses the story of an Australian named Jono Lineen as an example.

Lineen, after completing the Camino, came to an important revelation: his job was not making him happy. Schwarzenegger stresses that more than 300,000 people make the pilgrimage to Santiago every year, and most do so for reasons that go beyond the religious. They are looking for inspiration and trying to make significant changes in their lives, and according to the actor, walking is a powerful way to do that.

A career full of ups and downs

Arnold Schwarzenegger is known for his impressive career in film and politics, but his life story is also a testament to perseverance and self-improvement. Born in 1947 in a small village in Austria, he grew up in a post-World War II period. From a very young age, the actor pursued his dream of becoming a renowned bodybuilder.

His journey took him first to Germany and then to the United States, where he won the title of Mister Olympia. Schwarzenegger faced both physical and linguistic challenges in his quest for fame.

After his success in the world of bodybuilding, Arnold made his transition to the movies, where he became one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. Despite the criticism he received for his acting, he managed to star in iconic action films such as ‘Commando’ or ‘Predator’ and become a household name with films such as ‘Terminator’.

However, his story took an unexpected turn when he decided to participate in politics and became governor of California. He served for eight years in this position, which was an impressive achievement in his career.

In 2011, a scandal broke out that shook his life and career. It came to light that he had cheated on his family and had an illegitimate child with one of his assistants. This impacted negatively on his life and career, and he was forced to face the consequences.

The process of reinvention and overcoming that Arnold Schwarzenegger experienced after all this is what inspired him to write his book. In this book, he shares the tools and strategies that helped him overcome obstacles, stay focused on his goals and find a new purpose.

The Camino de Santiago became an important element in this narrative. Arnold has emphasized that, like Lineen, people are looking for inspiration and change in their lives, and making the pilgrimage to Santiago is one of the most effective ways to achieve this. The experience of walking this ancient trail, with its natural beauty and rich history, offers an environment conducive to reflection and the search for answers.