QuickRead presents a summary of "The Second Mountain" by David Brooks:

David Brooks defines the four commitments that lead to a life of fulfillment.

New York Times writer David Brooks describes the first stage of adult life, from your 20s to your 40s, as the "First Mountain". This period is characterized by establishing your career, building your professional and private life, and establishing yourself. But what happens once you've done that? What is your direction after that? This is what Brooks calls the "Second Mountain.

For Brooks this period is about service to others. To your friends, to your spouse, and to your community. This period is characterized by commitments, profession and personal, religious and intellectual. Brooks takes the standpoint of a mentor who has passed into this second mountain, more patient and maybe a little wiser, offering his thoughts and advice.