Napkin Notes: On the Art of Living

by G. Michael Durst

"The best self-help book on the market!" is the summation for all of the five star ratings on Amazon. Although countless self-help books have been written, none have been able to translate psychological theory into practical, day-to-day application as well as this one does. By integrating Eastern and Western philosophy with science and religion, Napkin Notes provides a concise, easy-to-read guide for living. Dr. Durst promotes the concept that we are 100% responsible for everything in our experience and for our reactions to life's events. This focus provides not only increased knowledge, but also the impetus to change. In so doing, it directs us to greater insight, satisfaction and fulfillment.

Genres: Psychology

234 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1988

Reviews

[maeve morgali · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think the teachings in Napkin Notes are adaptable to almost any problem of any form at any time in a persons life. It has completely changed the way i think about myself, my beliefs, and how I am going to proceed and tackle my problems. It maintains a straightforward and easily digestible prose that makes you want to keep turning pages and keep figuring yourself out in the process.

It's a shame this is not more popular, it's a how to fix your life book written in free verse poetry and has done everything I could have wanted it to and more.

[Dan Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read! This book is written from a Buddhist perspective. I am not a Buddhist. This book challenged and inspired me in many ways. I shared it with a co-worker and she too fell in love with it. Profound truths written in an easy-to-digest manner.

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book

I’ve read it at least four times

I think I’ll read it every year

[Ziggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Am Here Now.... this is one of the best books I have ever read and have given it as a gift to several people in my life. I suggest EVERYONE reads this book. I am here now....is one of the main reasons that I am here now......We Are is a place I found when living its words with a friend, solo equals I am, together equals We are, Its the same thing, a freedom from being together not a chain binding them but an essence connecting them in each other I am into We are, together but free. Sometimes my words do not make sense to all, I sincerely hope my review makes sense to anyone who might read it. In conclusion, it is a book which saved me a long time ago and continues to be a part of me. I guess I should say thank you G. Michael Durst, I should have done that decades ago and yes I realize should is irrational so I am here now thanking you for the peace and safety you wrote in words and put on paper to share with my being.

[Jarteaga · Rating 5 out of 5]

By far the most influential book I've read. My dad gave it to me when I was 17 and about to go to college. The only thing I can remember my father really giving me from him to me. It gave me words to my thoughts. It gave me expressions to keep me grounded that I still use today like bumpers on a bowling lane. I given this book as a gift to graduates. I've re-read it numerous times, picking up the chapters that I need most. I've used the quotes so much I feel like I invented them myself. My husband read it when we were first married and he would put it on his top 10 all time too. Good to know we are on the same sheet of music.

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting and accurate (I believe) insight into the idea that we are completely responsible for our lives. Stop playing the victim and see how our choices make our lives what they are. Good book but a little "scattered" for my taste. A lot of random thoughts put together in a book.

[Vannesa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't know anyone that couldn't benefit from this book. Unique and powerful.

[Hal Boyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good. I was surprised it took me so long to get to it.