Texas State University graduate student and U.S. Army veteran Evan Pickett shares his journey of personal growth and resilience in his debut book, Beyond Ordinary: Six Pillars to a Fulfilled Life. This practical guide provides readers with actionable tools to improve their lives while encouraging meaningful conversations about self-improvement and community connection.
Pickett’s journey from military service to civilian life served as inspiration for the book. After facing challenges like mental health struggles, lack of purpose and finding direction, he discovered that small, consistent actions could create lasting change.
“This book is about giving others a clear, manageable framework to take back control and build a life they’re proud of,” Pickett said.
Beyond Ordinary was written with both individual growth and community connection in mind. Pickett found inspiration from San Marcos, where he says his experiences as a Texas State student and local resident shaped his perspective on personal development.
“San Marcos gave me the space to reflect, connect and grow,” Pickett said. “I hope this book helps others do the same, whether they’re students, professionals or anyone seeking clarity.”
The book focuses on six pillars of personal growth: personal development, health, relationships, career, finances and legacy. Each chapter includes clear action steps and practical advice to help readers make steady progress.
The six pillars highlight areas where small changes can lead to big improvements:
• Personal Development: Focus on self-awareness and create one new habit to build growth.
• Health: Prioritize small steps like regular exercise or mindfulness practices.
• Relationships: Strengthen connections by dedicating quality time to loved ones.
• Career: Align daily tasks with long-term goals and find meaning in your work.
• Finances: Simplify your approach by setting manageable financial goals.
• Legacy: Discover fulfillment by giving back to your community.
While the book is designed for a broad audience, Pickett emphasized that it’s deeply personal. “This isn’t just about fixing things,” he said. “It’s about understanding where you are, taking one small step and building momentum from there.”
Through his writing, Pickett hopes to spark conversations about personal growth while connecting readers to resources in their local community. The book encourages readers to look beyond themselves and explore how their actions can uplift those around them.
“Change doesn’t happen in isolation,” Pickett explained. “Whether it’s improving your own life or helping someone else, every action counts.”
He also highlights opportunities for readers in San Marcos, such as joining local fitness groups, attending university workshops or volunteering with local organizations.
“San Marcos has so many ways to engage and grow. This book is about showing how those opportunities tie into a bigger picture of fulfillment,” he said.
Beyond Ordinary: Six Pillars to a Fulfilled Life is available now on Amazon in both paperback and eBook formats.
Evan Pickett is a U.S. Army veteran and graduate student at Texas State University. His personal experiences overcoming challenges have shaped his passion for helping others build meaningful lives. Through Beyond Ordinary, he provides practical tools for growth, with a focus on both individual progress and community connection. Pickett lives in San Marcos, where he continues to write, study and engage with the local community. For more information or to connect contact Evan Pickett at [email protected] or follow Pickett on Instagram @thelifeofevanp.
