At the back end of 2013, on a very cold winter’s day, hundreds lined up outside Waterstones in Piccadilly for a book signing event. I was so eager and excited to meet Chris Hadfield, a Canadian Astronaut and Engineer.

The book was a wonderful read, Chris Hadfield is a remarkable man; his achievements speak for themselves. From reading the book, meeting him in person and watching him speak through numerous space documentaries, he comes across being very humble and a down-to-earth guy (heh) – He lets readers know that each space flight is an incredible team effort. Being an astronaut is not mainly about going into space; it is about the process of training, learning, practicing, undergoing grueling difficulties, and helping others. It means taking a back seat to one’s ego and helping other astronauts in their projects and prospects.

Ultimately, leadership is not about glorious crowning acts. It’s about keeping your team focused on a goal and motivated to do their best to achieve it, especially when the stakes are high and the consequences really matter. It is about laying the groundwork for others’ success, and then standing back and letting them shine.

An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth was definitely one of the most compelling memoir of sorts that I’ve read which proffered valuable life lessons. Not sweating the small stuff was very key throughout the book and not caring too much on what other’s think. On Earth, however, Hadfield believes that it is the “small stuff” that makes life more fulfilling and it’s something personally I’ve always believed in.

Life off Earth is in two important respects not at all unworldly: you can choose to focus on the surprises and pleasures, or the frustrations. And you can choose to appreciate the smallest scraps of experience, the everyday moments, or to value only the grandest, most stirring ones.

Reading through Hadfield’s lifelong dedication and commitment to achieve his childhood aspirations is very admirable. There were no shortcuts preferences or instant gratification, but instead an undertaking of a lengthy journey through one’s diligence and dedication. Hadfield empathised this through encapsulating the meaning of a journey before the destination.

I also enjoyed reading about the fascinating insights of becoming an astronaut. From the rigorous training in Russia by understanding how to pilot the Soyuz capsule that takes astronauts to the International Space Station to the vast training areas covered literally everything – from making minor repairs on a spacecraft in zero gravity to managing serious emergencies. We can all imagine how intense training is but the the quarantine period prior to launch took me by surprise, there’s so much to consider!

Even the simplest quotidian activities like eating and drinking, going to the toilet, brushing your teeth, exercising and sleeping needed to be considered carefully. I’ve been particularly fascinated in astronaut food. Around 10 years ago, I purchased “astronaut ice cream” from the Science Museum. It tasted more like marshmallow but the after taste was horrendous. I’m hopeful that astronauts carry better flavouring up in space!

If you’re into audiobooks, you’re in luck because Chris Hadfield has narrated his own. I highly recommend picking this one up.

Link: https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/An-Astronauts-Guide-to-Life-on-Earth-Audiobook/B00G6M53IK

I’ve included some great videos below for your viewing, including the Space Oddity song – who could forget that?