WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO GET OFF THE X?
One of the major obstacles we face when trying to move forward are internal thought-obstacles -- fear, uncertainty, and intimidation. These insidious traps keep us wedded to the X, not able to progress in productive and meaningful ways.
We’re scared to try, we fear failure, and we imagine the worst possible outcomes.
In addition to thought-obstacles are very real circumstantial obstacles, an endless number of situations that can unexpectedly throw us onto the X: job loss, sickness, divorce, death of a family member, an international COVID lockdown, or a thousand other curveballs.
In Get Off the X, I share stories that will inspire you to challenge the X you’re on, but also methodologies to conquer the tendency to freeze. I demonstrate how to get off the X using my unconventional career as a former intelligence officer, author, speaker and international security consultant to encourage you to do hard things and push past what you think you are capable of.
Nothing impactful ever happens in the comfort zone, so staying there isn’t an option.
I’ve had the privilege of hearing Michele speak at our national symposium, and her insights are as sharp as they come. “Get Off the X” is not just another self-help book. It’s a tactical guide from someone who’s been in the trenches. Michele doesn’t just talk about overcoming obstacles; she’s lived it. Her experiences in the CIA give her a unique perspective on what it really takes to get unstuck and move forward, whether you’re navigating personal challenges or making high-stakes decisions in your career.
This isn’t about fluffy motivation; it’s about actionable strategies that can make a real difference. Michele’s ability to translate her high-pressure experiences into lessons we can all use is nothing short of remarkable. If you’re looking for a book that will push you to face your fears head-on and take decisive action, “Get Off the X” is the one. Trust me, this is a book you’ll want in your toolkit.
Todd Kading
President and Chief Executive Officer, LeafHouse
Michele Rigby Assad’s Get Off the X: CIA Secrets for Conquering Obstacles and Achieving Your Life’s Mission is an inspiring and practical guide for overcoming life’s toughest challenges. Drawing from her experience as a CIA officer, Michele offers actionable advice through a compelling mix of personal stories and strategic insights. After reading Get Off the X, readers will have a clear roadmap for confronting their fears, breaking free from stagnation, and achieving their goals. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to navigate life’s uncertainties—whether in personal growth, career advancement, or spiritual development—with resilience and purpose.
Brittany Butler
Former CIA targeting officer and author of “The Syndicate Spy”
If you need a little motivation–and who doesn’t?–well, here you go. It’s like a pep talk from your smart, thoughtful friend… who just happens to have gained her wisdom as a CIA agent in remarkable circumstances.
Her stories are amazing, and she brings it all to bear for our own good.
Michele Rigby Assad will get you moving.
Brant Hansen
Radio host and author of “Unoffendable”, “The Men We Need” and “Life is Hard, God is Good, Let’s Dance”
I’ve now had the pleasure of reading both of Michele’s books, and Get Off the X is the perfect complement to Breaking Cover. In the latter, Michele proves her bona fides as a true practitioner in the intelligence field. Her new book takes things to the next level, providing the reader with real-world lessons that can be applied anywhere from the classroom to the boardroom to everyday life. An excellent addition to my bookshelf!
Dr. Vince Houghton
Intelligence Historian
Author of “The Nuclear Spies”, “Nuking the Moon”, and “Covert City”
No matter what stage of life you're in, chances are you are stuck in some area. This book not only gives you the encouragement you need to move forward, but methodologies you can apply to your life right now, to get off the X and thrive. Here’s the chance to tap into your secret agent alter ego to plot your next move like a smooth operative and international spy!
