Turning Obstacles Into Opportunities

Be Your Own Hero

by Schwartzen Precil

About The Book

Be Your Own Hero: Turning Obstacles into Opportunities by Schwartzen Precil is a compelling memoir and self-help guide that chronicles the author's journey from a traumatic childhood to personal empowerment. Born into the foster care system in New York City, Precil faced numerous challenges, including encounters with the criminal justice system as a teenager. Despite these hardships, he transformed adversity into opportunity, using basketball as a means to develop leadership skills and earn a college scholarship. His story exemplifies resilience and the power of taking responsibility for one's own narrative.
In this book, Precil shares how he overcame identity crises and emotional instability, emphasizing the importance of self-empowerment. He reflects on the significance of mentorship, particularly the influence both positive and negative and the impact of his mother's naming choice. Through his experiences, he encourages readers to view obstacles as stepping stones to personal growth and to embrace their inner strength.
The book has been praised for its transparency and motivational message, resonating with readers who appreciate authentic storytelling and practical insights. It serves as an inspiring resource for individuals seeking to overcome their own challenges and become the heroes of their own lives.

Schwartzen "Shway" Precil

Author of the Year Finalist 2025

The highlight of all of Schwartzen's books capture powerful moments as readers are invited to identify a personal adversity and reframe it as a catalyst for personal growth and development. With a theme of transforming painful moments into purposeful meaning, Schwartzen's vulnerable storytelling inspires readers to see themselves not as victims of circumstance, but as authors of their own resilience. These books conclude with readers committing to continuous acts of honesty, empathy, resiliency and ownership, creating a shared atmosphere of courage and accountability.

More Books by Schwartzen "Shway" Precil

Empower The Hero Within

How to Thrive as a Student Leader in a Post Pandemic World

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Cursed By Sin, Cured By Him

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Kingdom Men Discipleship

by Schwartzen Precil

Kingdom Men Discipleship is a transformational guide designed to raise up men who are grounded in faith, disciplined in character, and committed to walking out their God-given purpose. This project represents years of lived experience, ministry work, mentorship, and the relentless pursuit of what it means for a man to truly follow Christ in today’s culture.

Fallen Man Fantasies

Book 1: Emotionless Love

by Schwartzen Precil