Monday, April 28, 2014

Review: Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less

Author:  Greg McKeown

Genre:  Non-fiction (2014)

Descriptive Words:  Learn to set boundaries; discern what is essential; eliminate the trivial; say no, gracefully; live with intent

"If you don't prioritize your life, someone else will."

Rating:  4 1/2 out of 5

Thoughts :  I'm quite selective when it comes to book review requests, accepting only those with topics I'm highly interested in (patting self on back), so another rave review is hardly surprising.



Although I thought this book, listed under Business & Economics, would be aimed more towards those in the corporate world as opposed to me, a homemaker, such was not the case. The author provided a fabulous balance between specific business situations and general everyday situations, so everyone (even homemakers) could benefit from the tips and advice.  Most importantly, not only does the author tell what to do, he tells how.

 My favorite chapter was DARE:  The Power of a Graceful 'No.'  These sentences spoke to me:  "Have you ever felt a tension between what you felt was right and what someone was pressuring you to do?  Have you ever felt the conflict between your internal conviction and an external action?  Have you ever said yes when you meant no simply to avoid conflict or friction? Have you ever felt too scared or timid to turn down an invitation or request from a boss, colleague, friend, neighbor, or family member for fear of disappointing them? If you have, you're not alone."  This chapter alone was reason enough to read the book.

Other favorite chapters:

  • Progress (the power of small wins) 
  • Subtract (removing obstacles) 
  • Limit (setting boundaries) 
  • Flow (the importance of routines)
I reserve 5-star ratings for books I finish in a day or two; i.e. those I can't put down, for which I've yet to find a Personal Success/Self-Help book that qualifies. Other than that, though, I give it 4  1/2 stars and plan to read it again. Highly recommend.  

I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.


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