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Notes from the Universe: New Perspectives from an Old Friend
What if the Universe were to send you frequent reminders of the absolute power you have over your life? Author Mike Dooley, an interpreter for the Universe, has done exactly that in Notes from the Universe -- a collection of empowering, invaluable truths that can be read front to back or opened at random. This first book in the Notes from the Universe trilogy teaches its readers to live a life far richer than they had previously thought imaginable.
A question, from your friend the Universe:
Just how much time do you spend thinking big?
I mean, really, really BIG?
Good, very good!
Because that's exactly how much of
"It" you're going to get!
What a coincidence.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2003
61 people are currently reading
2288 people want to read
About the author
Mike Dooley
108 books413 followersMike Dooley is a former PriceWaterhouseCoopers international tax consultant, turned entrepreneur, who's founded a philosophical Adventurers Club on the Internet that's now home to over 350,000 members from over 189 countries. His inspirational books have been published in 23 languages and he was one of the featured teachers in the international phenomenon, The Secret. Today Mike is perhaps best known for his Notes from the Universe emailings and his New York Times bestseller Infinite Possibilities: The Art of Living Your Dreams. Mike lives what he teaches, traveling internationally speaking on life, dreams, happiness.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
November 30, 2012
This book is, at best, a pile of New Age bullshit, and at worst, heretical. The writer takes a solipsistic view of divinity, arguing that the Self is a divine being and that Selfishness is good because it attracts health and wealth and friends, and a bunch of other materialistic goodies like vacation homes and Bentleys. The book was given to me by a friend, whose views obviously differ from my own, in order to inspire me. If I apply Dooley's philosophy to my own life, then I should be able to visualize my stage 4 cancer into oblivion. I'll have to run that one by my oncologist. Also, people living in poverty must be there because they don't recognize their own divinity, or else they are not good at visualizing piles of money landing on their doorstep. There are so many flaws in this logic that I could continue ad infinitum. Not only is it illogical, but some parts are vehemently anti-Christian: "Do you think the Universe ultimately rewards those who live in poverty? Do you think those who toil and sweat from paycheck to paycheck are more likely to inherit the Kingdom than those who work in ivory towers?" The answer that Dooley gives to these semi-rhetorical questions is a resounding "NO," which is directly counter to the words of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. Hmmm, do I put more stock in Jesus, a prophet, teacher, and Messiah whose words have stood the test of 2000 years time, or Mike Dooley, some profit-seeking New Age BS artist? Obviously as a Christian, I cast my vote strongly with the former, but I don't see how anyone with active amygdalae can do otherwise. What really burns me is that this Dooley guy along with his cohorts are raking in plenty of dough from these antics, making their philosophy a self-fulfilling prophecy. What is it that attracts seeking middle-class Americans to this feel-good nonsense? Do we really think that we should be exempt from all forms of suffering? Any religion or philosophy worth its salt recognizes that suffering is part of the human experience. The whole idea that we can simply "wish it away" rings hollow to me.
March 16, 2008
The material contained here as "messages from the Universe" is very much in keeping with much of the spiritual/
metaphysical stuff I have been reading and studying the past 20+ years.
However, I appreciate the freshness and charm with which the insights are presented. I had the opportunity to meet author Mike Dooley in November '07 at his "Manifesting Change..." workshop in Austin, Texas, and I can say that he lives this perspective with a tremendous amount of humor, lightness, joy, and peace, so I feel comfortable endorsing this particular read.
Mike is an interesting and engaging man, and you should check out his story and sign up for the daily email "Notes from the Universe" message at www.tut.com.
May you all also find unlimited happiness as you journey through life.
metaphysical stuff I have been reading and studying the past 20+ years.
However, I appreciate the freshness and charm with which the insights are presented. I had the opportunity to meet author Mike Dooley in November '07 at his "Manifesting Change..." workshop in Austin, Texas, and I can say that he lives this perspective with a tremendous amount of humor, lightness, joy, and peace, so I feel comfortable endorsing this particular read.
Mike is an interesting and engaging man, and you should check out his story and sign up for the daily email "Notes from the Universe" message at www.tut.com.
May you all also find unlimited happiness as you journey through life.
December 19, 2021
شاید اگر وقتی بیست ساله بودم و این کتاب کوچک را مطالعه میکردم بیشتر برایم جذابیت میداشت .
August 20, 2014
Many spiritual books are very serious; this one is downright funny! I'm big on highlighting, and I found myself highlighting about a third of the "notes from the Universe." A few of my favorites:
"Someone once said, 'No pain, no gain.' And so it became their reality. Bummer, huh?"
And, "Someone bugging you? Nah, way too easy. Just like happiness, disappointment is an 'inside' job."
And, "All things considered...you've never really asked for much. Hey, what's up with that?"
Mike Dooley has found a way to inspire and entertain at the same time...and that's no easy feat for a former accountant! (I can say that in jest because I was a CPA, too, before trading in numbers for words.)
"Someone once said, 'No pain, no gain.' And so it became their reality. Bummer, huh?"
And, "Someone bugging you? Nah, way too easy. Just like happiness, disappointment is an 'inside' job."
And, "All things considered...you've never really asked for much. Hey, what's up with that?"
Mike Dooley has found a way to inspire and entertain at the same time...and that's no easy feat for a former accountant! (I can say that in jest because I was a CPA, too, before trading in numbers for words.)
November 29, 2017
While I find the majority of notes are a touch too New Age, there are quite a few that are worth keeping in mind. My favorite example is this one: There is no greater weapon than kindness. A smile, a compliment, encouragement, and compassion belong in the arsenal of every Time~Space Adventurer. Today, may you crush, kill, and destroy the fears you encounter, in others and in yourself. En garde.
January 19, 2016
I get these Notes each day and Love them!
August 15, 2017
Notes from the Universe: New Perspectives from an Old Friend (2003) by Mike Dooley is one of those rare books that uplifts and propels you through a new day with such insight that it will leave you with a secret knowledge that, yes, the Universe does give a damn about you.
Instead of me analyzing or interpreting what’s in this little book that can be read in an afternoon or two, or a page a day for 218 days, I will just share with you what resonated with me. So let’s begin and open ourselves up to a Universe much older and much wiser than we could ever imagine being.
Oh, I hear a knock at the door. Excuse me while I get that.
Why I’ll be… it’s the Universe. Welcome!
“That’s right. This is a dream.
“You’re still asleep. Any minute now, an elephant might appear behind you wearing a pink tutu and tennis shoes. Or maybe the phone will ring, and it’ll be Abraham Lincoln to ask why you’re late for the ball. Or perhaps Oprah is down the hall, live audience in tow, about to introduce you as her new favorite author. Anything can happen in a dream, anything, without regard to the past, without regard to logic, and you never have to figure out the ‘hows.’
“Learn from your dreams, because the stuff of time and space is no different. Forget your past. Pitch the logic. And drop the cursed hows.
“Tallyho, the Universe. PS-Cute whiskers” (p 185).
“Actually, it’s pretty simple. You have one real choice: To do your best, with what you have, from where you are. Everything else is just stalling” (p 80).
“Do you know why you are you?
“Because no one else could be” (p 177).
“Don’t you see these are the days, right now, mid-adventure, that will mean the most to you once your dreams come true? Enjoy” (p 149).
“Shhhhh…The secret to living the life of your dreams is to start living the life of your dreams, at once, to any degree that you possibly can” (p 61).
“Don’t just see the magic, engage it! Challenge it! Dare it! Dream big, with every expectation that your dreams will manifest.
“Demand that they come true! You’re not beholden to life. Life is beholden to you. You are its reason for being. You came first” (p 104).
“It’s as if the Universe works backwards, too. You think of the end result, what you want to happen in your life, and then the Universe works backward, aligning your dreamed-of life with where you are today, stringing together people, places and events, for the ‘impossible’ to become possible. This is how life works. Trust the Universe, it knows how. Don’t tie its hands with logic, fear, or limiting beliefs” (p 157).
“Your supply is the Universe, and its ways are infinite” (p 130).
“Someone once said, ‘No pain, no gain.’
“And so it became their reality. Bummer, huh?” (p 126).
“Never underestimate the Universe” (p 72).
“No matter how great the temptation…(I’m talking about the temptation you’re feeling right this very second), no matter how great… STOP seeing yourself as just human! You are pure energy, with an infinite reach” (p 86).
“Here’s a snippet of advice that come from an as yet undiscovered manuscript buried deep in some Pyrenees mountain cave…
“‘Choose feelings over logic, adventure over perfection, here over there, now over then, and always love, love, love.’
“It also said ‘you rock,’ but you never would have believed that” (p 210).
“If you knew for certain that very, very soon all your dreams would be coming true, what would you do today to prepare the way? (Do it.)
“How might you celebrate? (Do this, too.)
“Who would you tell? (Write them a brief note, now; you don’t have to mail it yet.)
“What thoughts of gratitude would you have? (Express them.)
“And finally, who would you help to ‘achieve,’ as you have achieved? (Help them)” (p 77).
“Whosever may torment you, harass you, confound you, or upset you is a teacher. Not because they’re wise, but because you seek to become so” (p 78).
“Do you know what happens just before something really incredible takes place? Something mind-blowing? Just before a really huge dream comes true?
“Nothing. Nothing happens. At least not in the physical world.
“So if, perchance, right now, it appears that absolutely nothing is happening in your life…consider it a sign” (p 140).
“Of course, ‘Here & Now’ is what really matters, but people will be people, so…given that you’re a FOREVER BEING, I do hope you’re spending as much time looking forward as you are looking back. Because really, forever means you have quite a lot to look forward to” (p 209).
“And on Friday, the Universe said, ‘Yo! Ho! Ho! It’s time to have fun!’
“Whereupon it invented imagination, and there was a huge gasp among the angels. For it was clear that the reins of power in Time and Space had been passed to those so blessed, and that they would be left to discover this for themselves.
“And it was good. Happy Anniversary! PS-And as the angels quickly gathered, there, in line, stood you” (p 206).
“When you understand someone, truly understand someone, no matter who they are, you cannot help but love ‘em, even though you might not always love what they do.
“You knew that. Okay. Just as true is that for anyone you feel less than love for, no matter who they are, it’s because you do not truly understand them.
“(No, you don’t have to like what they do either, nor are you ‘supposed’ to stay with them. You get to decide those things)” (p 129).
“Anger closes the mind and cools the heart at a time when both are needed most” (p 183).
“You must live the truths you discover, you must break your old rules, defy logic, be the change. Dig, write the check, and drink eternally, one little step after another.
“I’m sorry, but there’s no other way. Tallyho, the Universe. PS-Of course, you can ask for help” (p 170).
“No one in your shoes could have done better than you’ve done, with where you began, what you had, and all you’ve been through. No one. Aren’t you glad it wasn’t easier?” (p 151)
“How much longer before you revel in the awareness that you are enough, that you’ve done enough, and that you’re now worthy of your heart’s greatest desires?
“What has to happen for you to give this to yourself?
“No biggie. Just wondering. Take your time” (p 148).
“Oh dear, never ask how. Never think about how; let go of the hows. If you wonder about how, it means your consciousness is not dwelling in spirit, it means you’re trying to manipulate matter, and it means you’re gonna be searching for a long, long, long, long time.
“Steer clear of the hows, dear heart, and simply dwell on the end result. Got it?” (p 118)
“For as long as you are capable of anger, there are lessons to learn” (p 114).
“It all goes by so fast, doesn’t it? One minute you’re here, and the next you’re gone.
“So really, you’ve got nothing to lose, have you? Nothing! You’re gonna make it ‘home’ anyway. You’re gonna be exalted, and it’s gonna be so glorious, happy, and easy.
“Then, after a careful life review, you’re gonna slap your hand on your celestial forehead, jump up and down with uproarious laughter, and say, ‘Dang, my thoughts really did become the things and events of my life. That little book was right. And as exalted as I am here, I was there. And as easy as it is here, so could it have been there! I wanna play again, I wanna go back. This time I promise not to forget. I promise I’ll believe in my dreams and myself. I’ll never let go. I’ll never give up. I’ll keep the faith. Really I will” (p 79).
Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year to all of you…
Keep reading and smiling…
Instead of me analyzing or interpreting what’s in this little book that can be read in an afternoon or two, or a page a day for 218 days, I will just share with you what resonated with me. So let’s begin and open ourselves up to a Universe much older and much wiser than we could ever imagine being.
Oh, I hear a knock at the door. Excuse me while I get that.
Why I’ll be… it’s the Universe. Welcome!
“That’s right. This is a dream.
“You’re still asleep. Any minute now, an elephant might appear behind you wearing a pink tutu and tennis shoes. Or maybe the phone will ring, and it’ll be Abraham Lincoln to ask why you’re late for the ball. Or perhaps Oprah is down the hall, live audience in tow, about to introduce you as her new favorite author. Anything can happen in a dream, anything, without regard to the past, without regard to logic, and you never have to figure out the ‘hows.’
“Learn from your dreams, because the stuff of time and space is no different. Forget your past. Pitch the logic. And drop the cursed hows.
“Tallyho, the Universe. PS-Cute whiskers” (p 185).
“Actually, it’s pretty simple. You have one real choice: To do your best, with what you have, from where you are. Everything else is just stalling” (p 80).
“Do you know why you are you?
“Because no one else could be” (p 177).
“Don’t you see these are the days, right now, mid-adventure, that will mean the most to you once your dreams come true? Enjoy” (p 149).
“Shhhhh…The secret to living the life of your dreams is to start living the life of your dreams, at once, to any degree that you possibly can” (p 61).
“Don’t just see the magic, engage it! Challenge it! Dare it! Dream big, with every expectation that your dreams will manifest.
“Demand that they come true! You’re not beholden to life. Life is beholden to you. You are its reason for being. You came first” (p 104).
“It’s as if the Universe works backwards, too. You think of the end result, what you want to happen in your life, and then the Universe works backward, aligning your dreamed-of life with where you are today, stringing together people, places and events, for the ‘impossible’ to become possible. This is how life works. Trust the Universe, it knows how. Don’t tie its hands with logic, fear, or limiting beliefs” (p 157).
“Your supply is the Universe, and its ways are infinite” (p 130).
“Someone once said, ‘No pain, no gain.’
“And so it became their reality. Bummer, huh?” (p 126).
“Never underestimate the Universe” (p 72).
“No matter how great the temptation…(I’m talking about the temptation you’re feeling right this very second), no matter how great… STOP seeing yourself as just human! You are pure energy, with an infinite reach” (p 86).
“Here’s a snippet of advice that come from an as yet undiscovered manuscript buried deep in some Pyrenees mountain cave…
“‘Choose feelings over logic, adventure over perfection, here over there, now over then, and always love, love, love.’
“It also said ‘you rock,’ but you never would have believed that” (p 210).
“If you knew for certain that very, very soon all your dreams would be coming true, what would you do today to prepare the way? (Do it.)
“How might you celebrate? (Do this, too.)
“Who would you tell? (Write them a brief note, now; you don’t have to mail it yet.)
“What thoughts of gratitude would you have? (Express them.)
“And finally, who would you help to ‘achieve,’ as you have achieved? (Help them)” (p 77).
“Whosever may torment you, harass you, confound you, or upset you is a teacher. Not because they’re wise, but because you seek to become so” (p 78).
“Do you know what happens just before something really incredible takes place? Something mind-blowing? Just before a really huge dream comes true?
“Nothing. Nothing happens. At least not in the physical world.
“So if, perchance, right now, it appears that absolutely nothing is happening in your life…consider it a sign” (p 140).
“Of course, ‘Here & Now’ is what really matters, but people will be people, so…given that you’re a FOREVER BEING, I do hope you’re spending as much time looking forward as you are looking back. Because really, forever means you have quite a lot to look forward to” (p 209).
“And on Friday, the Universe said, ‘Yo! Ho! Ho! It’s time to have fun!’
“Whereupon it invented imagination, and there was a huge gasp among the angels. For it was clear that the reins of power in Time and Space had been passed to those so blessed, and that they would be left to discover this for themselves.
“And it was good. Happy Anniversary! PS-And as the angels quickly gathered, there, in line, stood you” (p 206).
“When you understand someone, truly understand someone, no matter who they are, you cannot help but love ‘em, even though you might not always love what they do.
“You knew that. Okay. Just as true is that for anyone you feel less than love for, no matter who they are, it’s because you do not truly understand them.
“(No, you don’t have to like what they do either, nor are you ‘supposed’ to stay with them. You get to decide those things)” (p 129).
“Anger closes the mind and cools the heart at a time when both are needed most” (p 183).
“You must live the truths you discover, you must break your old rules, defy logic, be the change. Dig, write the check, and drink eternally, one little step after another.
“I’m sorry, but there’s no other way. Tallyho, the Universe. PS-Of course, you can ask for help” (p 170).
“No one in your shoes could have done better than you’ve done, with where you began, what you had, and all you’ve been through. No one. Aren’t you glad it wasn’t easier?” (p 151)
“How much longer before you revel in the awareness that you are enough, that you’ve done enough, and that you’re now worthy of your heart’s greatest desires?
“What has to happen for you to give this to yourself?
“No biggie. Just wondering. Take your time” (p 148).
“Oh dear, never ask how. Never think about how; let go of the hows. If you wonder about how, it means your consciousness is not dwelling in spirit, it means you’re trying to manipulate matter, and it means you’re gonna be searching for a long, long, long, long time.
“Steer clear of the hows, dear heart, and simply dwell on the end result. Got it?” (p 118)
“For as long as you are capable of anger, there are lessons to learn” (p 114).
“It all goes by so fast, doesn’t it? One minute you’re here, and the next you’re gone.
“So really, you’ve got nothing to lose, have you? Nothing! You’re gonna make it ‘home’ anyway. You’re gonna be exalted, and it’s gonna be so glorious, happy, and easy.
“Then, after a careful life review, you’re gonna slap your hand on your celestial forehead, jump up and down with uproarious laughter, and say, ‘Dang, my thoughts really did become the things and events of my life. That little book was right. And as exalted as I am here, I was there. And as easy as it is here, so could it have been there! I wanna play again, I wanna go back. This time I promise not to forget. I promise I’ll believe in my dreams and myself. I’ll never let go. I’ll never give up. I’ll keep the faith. Really I will” (p 79).
Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year to all of you…
Keep reading and smiling…
January 13, 2020
Wow!! I have fallen in love with this book! If you suspend your disbelief , you will find great treasure in this book
May 20, 2021
Notes from the Universe is meant to be an uplifting, easy to read book. I found some of the notes relatable. But some of the notes were written in cutesy way, which I did not care for. I prefer a direct approach.
There were very few notes in which I liked and/or felt were rememberable. Overall, I liked the author's own story and what he set out to do by writing this book. But it was not properly executed in my opinion.
Note: My copy of the book was 218 pages. Plus, there was a 5 page introduction. And a section called How You Might Use This Book, which was 3 pages long.
There were very few notes in which I liked and/or felt were rememberable. Overall, I liked the author's own story and what he set out to do by writing this book. But it was not properly executed in my opinion.
Note: My copy of the book was 218 pages. Plus, there was a 5 page introduction. And a section called How You Might Use This Book, which was 3 pages long.
June 30, 2018
This was a quick read, but it was uplifting and gripped me like few books do. I'll not be the first to admit that I cannot focus while reading, but this book, in an unusual but delightful way, managed to keep me reading throughout the length of the book. Yes, the pages are short and the font is large, but I had a truly great time reading it. Who could say no to a book of compliments from the Universe itself?
January 11, 2022
Very quick read but a lot to process. A few passages stabbed at me quick and painfully. Others were just glancing blows. And others still, were hay makers.
Ultimately, I feel sad which is the opposite of the author's intentions. But, that's just because of a cursory examination of my life to now...leaves me...saddened.
Ultimately, I feel sad which is the opposite of the author's intentions. But, that's just because of a cursory examination of my life to now...leaves me...saddened.
October 20, 2017
Was a tad too new- agey...would have enjoyed it more back in 2008 when I lost my job and needed all the positive affirmations I could get my hands on so I wouldn’t go crazy.
December 8, 2017
love this book and positive inspiration it gives. thank you Mike Dooley for the lovely messages.
January 18, 2018
Not really a traditional novel-type book, but more something you can dip into as you're inspired to. I love this book, and also get the TUT emails delivered every day. Fabulous.
September 13, 2018
Fun and inspiring
October 26, 2019
I absolutely loved this book
December 1, 2020
Never doubt what a few well-written words can do to change your moment, hour, day, and life!
January 30, 2024
Oodles of helpful and kind thoughts to fill your mind throughout the day. I've enjoyed reading and re-reading pages of this book for years.
April 19, 2012
Reading this book, it's just makes me feel Massive to realize that i'm not alone in this Universe. and makes me feel Infinity. why? Because this book like a bestfriend that give you notes, about reaching your biggest dream that you should make it real.
like a sign in our way to our authentic life. i read this book, many times, now i know what should i do with my Life and my authentic dreams.
just read this book, you will feel infinity. and believe that Universe is like a bestfriend that help us to reach our dreams.
Be Infinity!
like a sign in our way to our authentic life. i read this book, many times, now i know what should i do with my Life and my authentic dreams.
just read this book, you will feel infinity. and believe that Universe is like a bestfriend that help us to reach our dreams.
Be Infinity!
January 30, 2015
The book has a positive and uplifting message. Basically we need to visualize what we want, don't think about how to get it, and not get upset at the little setbacks in life, and we'll achieve our dreams. That's fine, and may well work! However, the message is delivered in such bite-sized chunks of pithy aphorisms that might be suitable for putting on t-shirts, but don't really persuade or prove the point of the book.
January 1, 2010
This book was not what I was expecting. Of the 200-some pages, there were but seven quotes that I enjoyed. I anticipated this book to be God-driven, whereas it wasn't...it was beaconing the reader to appeal to the forces of the Universe for favored outcomes. On page 99, it actually likens God to the Easter Bunny and Santa Claus. Not my type of book.
May 12, 2015
I didn't get much out of this book. It reminded me of a middle school guidance counselor. I expected it to be more intellectual and therefore my rating is low. It left a lot to be desired for me, given that I think the universe has a lot to give us, but unlike this author, I doubt it cares about the details of our lives.
May 11, 2008
There were a few little gems of advice from "the universe," that make sense and reaffirm that everything is great right where I am. I like that. Not sure if the cost of the book is worth it; but if you get it from the library, ...nice short read.
June 23, 2009
“Notes from the Universe” reflects little tidbits of inspiring phrases and thoughts that should give anyone a positive uplifting. Originally, the phrases were sent out by email to a list of subscribers. If you are looking for a little inspiration, this is a great start.
January 10, 2012
Readers!!
If you ever ever come across this gift of little notes from the universe...pick it up!! A must read but more importantly, very interesting to internalise each of the little notes...
I know you will love it, we all will...
Much love,
Scherry
If you ever ever come across this gift of little notes from the universe...pick it up!! A must read but more importantly, very interesting to internalise each of the little notes...
I know you will love it, we all will...
Much love,
Scherry
March 30, 2012
Great advice. Dooley ranks up there with Wayne Dyer when it come to motivational speaking. Two minor criticisms: it was a little too short for me and the live production was only okay.
~Ken Baumbach, author of Mayageddon 2012 and The Heretics' Power
~Ken Baumbach, author of Mayageddon 2012 and The Heretics' Power
January 3, 2014
Uplifting and humorous messages. I love how quick and easy it is to glean the nuggets of wisdom. You can read one note or a chapter and absorb the message. Every time I revisit the notes I seem to receive another message.
September 25, 2007
I love Mike Dooley. LOVE HIM. I want to be his best friend. I hope he likes beer.
January 3, 2008
Inspirational and thought provoking. Good to use daily.
February 19, 2008
get one note each day to make me feel worthy, why not?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews