How Not to Be a Hot Mess: A Buddhist Survival Guide for Modern Life

by Nico Hase, Devon Hase, Rhonda V. Magee (Foreword)

The dumpster fire of life rages on, but you got this. Practice six rules to keep you grounded, weather the storm, and actually be a decent person.

It may seem like the world is going to hell in a hand basket right now. Whether it's big stuff like politics and climate change, or just the daily spin of paying your bills, getting to work on time, and fending off social media trolls, we can all admit, modern life ain't easy. Here are six really good guiding principles, inspired from the ancient wisdom of Buddhism and mindfulness practice, to keep you anchored and steady amidst the chaos.

Genres: Self Help, Buddhism, Spirituality, Philosophy, Nonfiction

184 pages, Paperback

Published September 12, 2023

Reviews

[Broken Lifeboat · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very accessible introduction to mindfulness and basic Buddhist practices. It's probably best for the 20 something beginner but there's a lot of good in here for everyone as it uses modern language and concepts to guide the reader. I also liked that there was lots of inclusive language in this fast read.

[Monica · Rating 4 out of 5]

How Not to Be a Hot Mess presents six guiding principles to help us navigate daily life. Using humor and stories, the authors urge us to use meditation, kindness, generosity, truthfulness, and to operate with peace and clarity when faced with issues the Buddha could never have imagined —the information age, climate change, rampant consumerism, and more.

Much of this book is common sense —of course, we should all be kinder— but what sets it apart is the use of examples geared at younger readers, just starting to wonder about relationships, their place in the world, and how to deal with the crazy that can sometimes surround us. This book is approachable, easy to read, and written in a relatable style.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher of the ARC.

[Cindy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting book. Authors talk a lot before they get to the point they are trying for but if you stick with it, it does offer some good advice.
Try meditation, don’t lie, and don’t use alcohol or other drugs.
All very good advice for anyone but the authors offer actual personal and statistical studies to back up what they are suggesting.
It is worth a look.
I do recommend. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me this ARC.

[Alicia Bayer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think I need to stop reading self help books. This is a fun sort of light book best suited for young people new to Buddhism and without significant trauma in their backgrounds. My background is like something from true crime shows and Lifetime movies. I personally am just as much a hot mess as I started, but it’s not necessarily the authors’ fault. Just go in knowing it’s a breezy sort of memoir and lighthearted guide.

I read an ARC of this book via netgalley.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is definitely geared towards younger readers, but I enjoyed reading this and found the examples and the exercises helpful and grounding. This book would be ideal for a college student or someone who is still kind of figuring things out, but it can definitely be read by anyone looking for a new perspective or who is looking to re-ground themselves in how to be in a society.

[Alexandria Blaelock · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’ve thought meditation isn’t enough, but aren’t sure what the next step is, this book will help you get there. Don’t be a jerk, give, tell the truth, be in your body, and steer clear of intoxicants.

[Kennedy Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Devon was my meditation teacher at my silent retreat. Really loved her dharma talks during my stay. Picked up this book on my way out. Very accessible introduction to “the basics of Buddhism”. Fun, lighthearted read when you want to get a little reminder without the labor.

[Joni Owens]

I just don’t think this book was meant for someone my age. It felt geared towards younger. Great ideals for young adults though.

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I won this book from a Goodreads giveaway. It was a quick and easy read, but I'd like to read it again to actually practice the meditations listed in the book. I recommend it.

[Victoria · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very practical good advice. Many suggestions are grounded in Buddhist thought. The material is presented informally - much like a casual conversation. Enjoyable reading and I enjoyed the read.

[Alice Nissen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Complex and deep subjects disguised in a simple book. Left a lasting impression. Now to practice regularly…

[Kat Bebie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed some parts of this. Author lost me when he talked about the importance of sobriety but then says he still drinks wine sometimes…

[Katy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really sweet book. It’s transparent, approachable, and not unnecessarily complicated. I liked the way it focuses on daily life, “off the cushion” experience.

[Katherine Reece · Rating 4 out of 5]

Small book, to the point, delightfully written. Full of really good points and ideas. The authors give a compelling argument for meditation and how to do it.