Think This, Not That: 12 Mindshifts to Breakthrough Limiting Beliefs and Become Who You Were Born to Be

by Josh Axe

Are you feeling stuck? Wanting more out of life? Use twelve powerful mindshifts to break through limiting beliefs, spark personal transformation, and build a more meaningful life. Perhaps you're busy but still feel empty. Maybe things haven't turned out how you'd hoped, and life seems stale and unfulfilling. What if you could wake up every morning excited about your purpose, knowing you're fulfilling your greatest potential? A more meaningful life is within your reach, and it starts in one your mind. Living with a mindset of false narratives will keep you stuck, locked in a prison of unpursued dreams and goals. But cultivating a new mindset based on what is actually true will set you free—free to start exploring and growing beyond the limits you thought you had. In Think This, Not That , Dr. Josh Axe unpacks the top twelve mental barriers holding people back from realizing their potential and becoming the greatest version of themselves, and contrasts each one with a new empowering mindset, such   Whether you want to improve your physical or financial health, raise the quality of your relationships, or take your career to new heights, these mindshifts will help transform your life. It's time to break through your limiting beliefs and find out who you can become, to build a meaningful life through new thoughts and actions, and to make the switch from what's stalled you toward a life of ultimate significance.

Genres: Self Help, Nonfiction, Psychology, Personal Growth, Health, Audiobook, Personal Development

1 pages, Audio CD

Published April 2, 2024

About the author

a wellness physician, popular radio show host

Reviews

[Brennen Schmitt · Rating 3 out of 5]

i truly don’t think this was a bad book. i’ve just read too many books that are of the same vein. not much stuck out or went farther than what i’ve already found.

[Karin H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Josh Axe's book, "Think This, Not That," is like a friendly nudge in the ribs for anyone who's ever thought, "Life's just not cutting it!" With twelve mindshifts that pack a punch and a punchline, Dr. Axe guides you to break free from those pesky limiting beliefs, spark some personal growth fireworks, and build a life so meaningful even your pet goldfish will be impressed.

In a world that's 99% hustle and 1% "What's for dinner?", Dr. Axe dishes out wisdom with a side of humor. He helps you bust through the mental barriers that have you stuck in life's waiting room, replacing them with mindset upgrades that make you feel like the superhero of your own story.

The best part? Dr. Axe doesn't just talk the talk; he walks you through practical steps to put these mindshifts into action. From finding your purpose (it's not hiding under the couch, we promise) to mastering your self-control (yes, even in the cookie aisle), you'll find advice that's as practical as it is chuckle-worthy.

What makes this book a true gem is its take on success. Dr. Axe flips the script on conventional success and tells you to redefine it, not as a trophy shelf but as a character-building journey. Get ready to laugh your way to personal growth as you learn to focus on who you become while achieving your goals.

With Dr. Axe's friendly and approachable style, you'll feel like you're chatting with a wise (and funny) friend. Whether you want to up your health game, improve your relationships, or conquer your career goals, "Think This, Not That" is your humorous GPS to personal transformation.

In a world where "Follow the herd" is often the default setting, this book will have you marching to the beat of your own quirky drum, all while embracing timeless wisdom.

So, why read this book? Because it's your ticket to breaking free from those limiting beliefs, discovering your inner superhero, and laughing your way to a more meaningful, purpose-driven life. Don't miss the chance to unlock your potential and discover a life that's the funniest and most significant adventure of all!

[Fred Fontz · Rating 3 out of 5]

After reading some glowing reviews, I went into Think This, Not That with high expectations, but I found myself feeling a bit underwhelmed. While it’s certainly a solid and motivational read, it didn’t deliver the depth or originality I was hoping for. The premise of challenging your mindset and reframing your thoughts is valuable, but the execution fell a bit short in terms of fresh insights.

I did enjoy parts of the book, especially the positive, can-do attitude it promotes. However, the content seemed somewhat shallow, often skating over more profound opportunities for self-exploration. One thing that stood out was the heavy reliance on faith-based principles. While faith can be an important component for many readers, it felt a bit more prevalent than I expected or would have liked in what I thought would be a more generalized self-help book.

Another issue I had was the repetitiveness throughout the book. At times, Axe revisits the same points, which made sections feel redundant. Additionally, much of the content is pulled from other sources. While I appreciate that he quotes his references and is transparent about where his information comes from, there were moments when it felt like I was reading a college paper stitched together from other people’s research. This reliance on external sources sometimes made the book feel less original and more like a compilation of other ideas.

Overall, Think This, Not That is a decent read if you’re looking for a quick motivational boost and an introduction to the power of positive thinking. However, if you're expecting deep, original insights, or if you're not particularly looking for a faith-heavy approach, you might find this book a bit lacking. It’s worth a read for the right audience, but it didn’t quite live up to the hype for me.

[Marla Mulkey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It is easy to read and rich with practical nuggets of wisdom. The author reminds us both a strong identity, as well as foundation in which to live, are the most rewarding and guides the reader as to how best attain them. I have great respect for the author. He is all about making the world a better place: healthy, positive and virtuous, yet he is not without his own trials and transparent about them.
The book provides clarity for many options (mind-shifts) for growth. One can pick and choose those which one may be lacking, or follow them all. I am grateful for this methodical roadmap I can refer to when needed.

[January · Rating 5 out of 5]

Think This, Not That: 12 Mindshifts to Breakthrough Limiting Beliefs and Become Who You Were Born to Be by Josh Axe (2024)
ix+274-page Kindle Ebook story pages vii-252

Genre: Self-Help, Psychology, Self-Actualization, Change, Adaptability, Self-Realization, Self-Perception
Thought and Thinking, Success

Featuring: [Your Notes], External Hyperlinks, Introduction, Create a Breakthrough by Unlimiting Your Beliefs, What Are Beliefs, and Where Do They Come From?, Graphics, The Power of Beliefs, Placebo, Nocebo, Identify Your Limiting Beliefs, Create Unlimited Beliefs, Tips for Transforming Beliefs, 10x Strategy, Long Chapters, Redefine Success by Becoming, Not Accomplishing; An Accomplishing Mindset vs The Mindshift of Becoming, Become Self-Aware to Get Where You Need to Go, The Mindshift of Self-Awareness, Conversational Narcissists, Barriers That Block Self-Awareness, SWOT • Strengths • Weaknesses • Opportunities • Threats; Find a Why or Risk Wasting It All, Why Your Why Matters, Levels of Purpose, The Right Kind of Happy, Meaning—and Even Suffering—Builds Purpose; Rewrite Your Role in the Story, What Character Are You Playing?, Victim, Villain or Hero; Eight Stages to Transforming in a Hero, STARS Method, Guides, Assemble a Team to Fulfill Your Dreams, We Is Better Than Me, The Power of a Community of Greatness, Practical Tips for Your Group, Mentorship Matters, Build an Unshakable Identity So No One Else Does It for You, Modern Identity, Traditional Identity, Divine Identity, Bust Vices by Building Virtues, How to Determine What Is Good, What Stands in the Way of Virtuous Character?, The Seven Vices, Seven Divine Virtues, Turn Off Opinions and Turn On Principles, Principled Thinking • 5 Whys • First Principles Thinking • Iceberg Thinking; Flip the Fear to Turn On the Growth, A Fear-Based Mindset, A Flourishing Mindset, Steps to Improve Your Relationship With Failure, Embrace Your Fear, Optimize Your Skills, Raise Your Standards, Visualize to Realize, Prioritize, Visualize, Strategize, Systematize, Power Up Your Potential with Positive Perseverance, Negative Undercurrents, Positive Perseverance: Hope, Grit, and Gratitude; Positive Words and Perspective, Use Empowering Language Conclusion, QR Code, Author's Links, Notes

Rating as a movie: PG-13

Books and Authors mentioned: The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky, Tony Robbins, Believe IT: How to Go from Underestimated to Unstoppable by Jamie Kern Lima, Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ by Daniel Goleman, Dr. James Pennebaker, Socrates, Erwin McManus, Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl, Leo Rosten, The Lord of the Rings Series by J. R. R. Tolkien, Hero on a Mission: A Path to a Meaningful Life by Donald Miller, Bob Goff, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis, Harry Potter Series by J. K. Rowling, The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin, The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are by Brené Brown, The Chronicles of Narnia by C. S. Lewis, The Gay Science by Friedrich Nietzsche, The Weight of Glory and Other Addresses by C. S. Lewis, Today Matters: 12 Daily Practices to Guarantee Tomorrow's Success by John C. Maxwell, Beauty and the Beast by Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve, Dave Ramsey, The Holy Bible, written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck, William Shakespeare, Stephen King, Tyranny of the Urgent by Charles E. Hummel, The Stories We Tell: Every Piece of Your Story Matters by Joanna Gaines, Power, Money, and Sex: How Success Almost Ruined My Life by Deion Sanders

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🤔💭

My thoughts:🔖Page 23 of 274 (+283) Mindshift 2: Redefine Success by Becoming, Not Accomplishing - This book is great so far. I'm excited to read more, but I have to get started on a book club book. I'm going to have to stay positive as the nocebo effect was eye-opening.
🔖83 MINDSHIFT 5 REWRITE YOUR ROLE IN THE STORY - So good, but I forgot to finish my book club's buddy read book and the meeting is in 10 minutes, so I'm out for now.

This book is great! I really enjoy the breakdown on Elsa's mindset, but overall this was a fantastic read.

Recommend to others: Yes. If you have KU this is on there. This is one you want to revisit and certainly keep a copy for reference.

Memorable Quotes: In this ebook edition, please use your device’s note-taking function to record your thoughts wherever you see the bracketed instructions [Your Notes]. Use your device’s highlighting function to record your response whenever you are asked to checkmark, circle, underline, or otherwise indicate your answer(s).

The reason people don’t enjoy meaningful relationships, apply for their dream jobs, try something again after they’ve failed, or execute their five-year plan is not because they don’t have the skills or the potential to succeed; it’s because limiting beliefs have thwarted their momentum. These roadblocks are nothing more than lies they’ve been told or have told themselves.

In this book, I have curated twelve mental barriers that obstruct personal growth and hinder success. Each chapter explores one of these barriers, peeling back the layers of false narratives that hold us captive, and introduces a transformative mindset shift—a mindshift—that can liberate us. By replacing limiting beliefs with empowering truths, we can break free from the chains of self-doubt, optimize our potential, and embark on a journey of personal transformation. If you’re plagued with uncertainty and feel stuck, these mindshifts will help you break through your limiting beliefs, grow beyond your preconceived boundaries, and unlock the greatest version of yourself. Through science, stories, and strategies, each chapter will provide you with the tools it takes to create lasting change and live a life beyond your wildest dreams.

When someone you love and trust, like a parent, coach, or teacher, says something that dismisses your potential or overthrows your confidence, it can be discouraging, even crushing. It’s not uncommon to give strangers this power as well. One negative comment on social media directed at you from a random person can prompt you to question your value and create a belief that sticks in your psyche.

Frequently, we believe things because everyone else does (or seems to) or because a so-called expert said so. “Social proof” is a psychological phenomenon that depicts our reliance on the opinions of others to inform our own. If it seems everyone else is buying into a product or an idea, that’s a solid enough reason to follow suit. The same is true of a well-known influencer or expert who publishes their opinion. Most people will take their word as gold simply because they admire the person or because of their credentials. Social proof is not always reliable, however, just as following the crowd—without thinking for yourself and forming your own beliefs based on facts—can end up hurting you and limiting your potential.

Many of us are led to believe that our present situation or our destiny is directly shaped by an event that happened to us, but that’s not true. It’s not what happened to us that dictates our identity or our lot in life; it’s what we believe about that event and about ourselves that determines our destiny. Our belief about what has occurred is even more important than the event itself. The event may lie in our past, but our perception of that event can impact our entire future.

This is true of placebo as well as nocebo, placebo’s evil twin. Chances are you’re not as familiar with this term. The nocebo effect happens when a person experiences negative or unpleasant effects from being told they may receive a negative outcome from a medical intervention. Negative side effects appear because of negative expectations.

Success = maximizing your unique skill for the good of others

Even the business world values character over performance. If you had to guess why most company executives are fired, what would you say the top reason is? Poor financial performance? Lack of skills? In fact, it’s misconduct. Nearly 40 percent of CEO and company executives are fired due to moral and ethical failures versus only 35 percent fired for poor financial performance.¹² If we focus on accomplishing before becoming, the weight of achievement will eventually crush us. This priority of character over accomplishment also applies to our relationships, our personal mission in life, and whatever it is we strive for. None of us can claim the prize for perfect character, but how many of us are committed to being a person of moral value when no one is looking, when we know we won’t get caught, or when it doesn’t hurt anyone? Think of your behavior from an ethical standpoint in the workplace. Did you really work on that project over the weekend? Did you ask for permission to take supplies home? Would your spouse appreciate the conversations you’re having with your coworker? Were you completely honest about being sick and unable to work or about how many hours in total you reported working per week? Let’s focus on lying for a minute. According to studies:
78 percent of job applicants lie during the hiring process.¹³
60 percent of participants in one study admitted to lying about being sick.¹⁴
41 percent of people who didn’t like their job admitted to lying once or more a week.¹⁵
Most people who say they work more than sixty hours a week are lying or overestimating by eighteen hours.¹⁶
President Abraham Lincoln earned the nickname “Honest Abe” because of his commitment to fairness as a young man. According to one source, when he worked as a store clerk and realized he shortchanged a customer by a few pennies, he always shut down the store and walked, sometimes for miles, to the customer to deliver the correct change.17 Because he consistently showed his strong character, he eventually was invited to mediate disagreements in town. “Lincoln’s judgment was final in all that region of the country,” reported one townsperson. “People relied implicitly upon his honesty, integrity, and impartiality.”18 By the time Honest Abe became president, he was already known and respected for being a person of value.

Chances are, you experienced a heightened sense of well-being, a feeling of belonging, a renewed perspective on life, and a boost to your self-confidence. Psychologists refer to this as the “helper’s high.” Altruism has been shown to produce the same chemicals in the brain as a mild version of a morphine high.¹⁸ When someone gives, the part of the brain that lights up in an MRI is the same region that is activated in response to pleasure or receiving rewards.¹⁹ We are created to help others.

Villains are victims who have not worked through their pain. They take on a mission of what they believe will help remedy their pain by trying to gain control, force their agenda, and do whatever is necessary to get others to do their bidding. Villains often have a warped worldview, believing that, in order to succeed, they must use other people as tools. Consciously or subconsciously, villains create pain in the lives of other people, in hopes that those people have no choice but to succumb to their demands. The adage “Hurt people hurt people” certainly applies to villains. Resentful of their pain, they inflict it on others. But there’s good news for both victims and villains. Both characters are redeemable. Both can transform into something greater. Victims and villains can become heroes and guides, not only changing who they are on the inside but also using their newfound power to influence others for good.

It’s a troubling reality that many people lack guiding principles in their lives. I believe the two predominant reasons for this are unhealthy family dynamics and educational institutions. Many parents have assigned the responsibility of educating their children to schools and social media. Parents should be teaching their kids life skills, moral wisdom, principles of success, and how to think for themselves, but too few of them are doing that. As a result, young children through college students are indoctrinated with morally void political ideologies and taught to memorize often useless information. According to an article in the New York Times, “The American education model . . . was actually copied from the 18th-century Prussian model designed to create docile subjects and factory workers.”⁷ John D. Rockefeller was an advocate of this model and said, “I don’t want a nation of thinkers, I want a nation of workers.”⁸ This is in direct opposition to the wisest people in history, including philosophers, rabbis, theologians, doctors, and scientists like Albert Einstein, who believed that education isn’t about learning facts but training the mind to think.⁹
I learned calculus in high school and college, but I’ve never used it since then. A survey by H&R Block found that only 37 percent of the information learned in high school is used postgraduation. Most people surveyed said they wish they would have learned more life skills.¹⁰ What if, instead of being forced to take calculus, we were taught money management? Or how about classes in nutrition, ethics, or the basics of cultivating healthy relationships? I wish I would have learned these things earlier in life. You may agree.

When you are locked within this headspace, you live in fear because you’ve tied an event (or series of events) to your identity. If you receive a bad performance review or don’t get a job offer, you deem yourself a failure. Because you are so invested in maintaining this idea of perfection and setting unrealistic expectations for yourself, you’ll do anything to protect your self-image, including keeping up the lie at whatever cost. You won’t be honest with yourself or others. You’ll never grow beyond superficial status because the goal isn’t to develop your character and skills but to achieve, accomplish, and arrive—at least in the eyes of others.

Your perspective can be either Nothing is a miracle or Everything is a miracle.

[Clayton Wagler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Perhaps my favorite self-help book so far, but still a self-help book. I really liked his chapter on limiting beliefs. 4/5 stars.

[Caitlin Gentry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb. I love how Dr Axe is for everyone on a journey to healthy living but that he’s an unapologetic, unwavering Christian in this arena- and shares how we can use ancient and Biblical wisdom to heal our bodies and propel us into the best life we can live utilizing our mind. Listened on audible and loved the extra excerpts from his podcast.

[Liz Boyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. A great one to reframe my goals for this year. Add this to a valuable talk with author Platte Clark and I really want to start making some changes.

[Chazz Glaze · Rating 2 out of 5]

I picked up and started this book very excited to hear from a medical doctor insights on the power of one's thoughts to live a better life. It started off as a fresh take on a lot of traditional self-development work out there. I'm not one to poo-poo on this as others might because I think it's good to review tried-and-true concepts from a different angle multiple times.

However, about a third of the way through, the author quickly turned the medical/scientific/psychological talk into a message of spirituality. And while I am certainly not at all opposed to a spiritual approach or even a religious one, it seemed to come out of nowhere. The author made it clear his personal background of Judeo/Christian theology and made an attempt to seem open to all faiths, but the rest of the book after that used example after example of Christians (friends, celebrities, historical figures, etc.) and how "virtuous" they were and how their faith was to credit for that.

He even touted MLK Jr. as one of his top heroes for these exact reasons. And yet he failed to mention MLK Jr.'s multiple affairs, something I couldn't seem to get past as a reader. Don't mistake this as not thinking highly of MLK Jr.--I absolutely do. He was an incredible man who was instrumental in changing the course of our country. BUT he was not without flaws. Nor are most people. And the way this book progressed, it was as though the author would have everyone believe that if they just turned to spirituality, they would be better people.

But as someone who left organized religion a long time ago, I know that people are people. Having a religion/faith/spiritual practice doesn't make someone better or even necessarily improve their lives. The decisions still have to be made, and everyone is equally capable of being good or doing harm, regardless. I found his idea that without a spiritual practice you can't be fully fulfilled or a truly virtuous and good person to be insulting. Why do we need the threat of an afterlife to be good to one another in this one? We don't.

By the end, it was all I could do to get through this book.

I think if there had been any indication whatsoever before reading it--on the cover, in the flap, in the author bio, in the introduction even--that this medical doctor was going to go in that direction, maybe I wouldn't be writing the lengthiest negative review I've ever left. But that wasn't the case. Given that this is clearly so much a part of this man's identity, that is quite surprising. It felt like being invited to a neighbor's book club only to learn halfway through that it was really a Bible group dressed up in appetizers and wine.

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Think This, Not That, Dr. Josh Axe helps readers to focus on thinking on right mindsets and to turn off the bad mindsets. He explained how his grandfather used to own and operate a 60-acre recreational campground in Lima, Ohio. They have waterslides, rafts for the big lake, basketball courts, tennis, golf, RV camping areas, and much more. His first summer there they allowed him to run wild and have fun. Later on, they explained to him how he needed to grow in responsibility and to take on different tasks. His grandfather taught him how to think this and not that. He learned from him how to serve others and working hard. He carried this lesson throughout his career as a physician. He believes in the mindset medicine and how having the right mindset can reverse disease and lose weight. He explained the real reason we fail in finding meaningful relationships, catching after our dream jobs, or trying again is mainly because of their own limiting beliefs.




He struggled with a limiting mindset at an early age. In his freshmen year, his teacher laughed at him when he told her what he wanted to do with his life. He told her that he wanted to be a doctor or a physical therapist. He wanted to pursue that route because of his mother’s cancer diagnosis. His grades were very mediocre and he had just received an F and had a D average. She told him that he would never be able to get into med school and that he wouldn’t even finish college. She diagnosed him with ADHD and this caused him to feel even more insecure. He did manage to up his grade to a C to help to please his dad. He stated how we need to ponder on how much power we have gave to others concerning our future and how their beliefs have changed our own beliefs about ourselves. What has held us back from going after what we really wanted. He explained how critical it is understanding our beliefs and how powerful they are and how they determine what our future will look like. He had a very prevailing illustration on a table and the tabletop and their legs and how we can compare them to our beliefs. He later goes onto clarifying how he had an English teacher in his freshman year of college that changed his life and instead encouraged to pursue English or to become a writer. He experienced a memory transplant and he started to believe that he was in fact smart. He shared how he has since become a doctor and he shared some of the accomplishments he had.



I would recommend this life changing book to anyone who is ready to change their mindsets and to think this instead of that. I immensely like how he encouraged readers to write down three of five limiting beliefs about ourselves and how they can be harming us. I liked how he encouraged us to consider the cost if we never change and still believe the lie. I also liked how he shared his mother’s health story and how he assisted her in eating healthier and she was healed from her health scares. The principles in this book are very impactful and this book is one that is meant to be studied and applied to your life. This is probably one of the better book on mindsets and changing your thoughts and how they help us to improve our health.







I received this book free from Thomas Nelson for my honest review.”

[Beauty in the Binding · Rating 5 out of 5]

Think This, Not That by Dr. Josh Axe gave me a lot to think about. It’s not a book to read too quickly (because there are many ideas to consider) or too slowly (lest the momentum and train of thought be lost). Honestly, I probably need to read it again to cement some of the ideas deeper in my mind while I continue working on my vision board (an exercise from Chapter 11).

Think This, Not That held Christian undertones throughout, but it’s during Chapter 7 (Build an Unshakable Identity So No One Else Does It for You) that spirituality and God began to be discussed more openly. The content often felt like a combination of traditional Christian ideas with lots of motivational, self-help narrative. In my opinion, it’s best let the Holy Spirit illuminate what in this book works for the individual reader (and I think Dr. Josh would likely agree with that). For instance, Chapter 5 (Rewrite Your Role in the Story) was very motivational, but ultimately, a miss for me. Sometimes a person endures such severe trauma that even with counseling, prayer, and healing, they may always have scars (physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual) that prevent certain achievements and/or resilience.

Chapter 6 (Assemble a Team to Fulfill Your Dreams) felt unrelatable. I agree that we need community for encouragement, companionship, and inspiration, but Dr. Josh presented the ideas based on his own experience which included a “team” of celebrities and extremely wealthy people who gave him opportunities that just aren’t common for most people.

I will say that Dr. Josh seemed to be very authentic in his desire to help people and make the world a better place. And I have no doubt that Think This, Not That will help many readers, myself included. Chapter 1 (Create a Breakthrough by Unlimiting Your Beliefs) made quite an impression in my mind and has helped me have a more positive, open mindset. Chapter 9 (Bust Vices by Building Virtues) has stuck with me and reminded me to do things with excellence. Though I’ve finished off the book, I still flip back through it, rereading quotes I underlined and notes I made in the margins.

Think This, Not That by Dr. Josh Axe offers readers a resource of best practices and positive mindsets. In my opinion, nearly everyone could glean inspiration from this book, but not all of this book will be applicable to everyone. 4.5 Stars!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

[C.A. Gray · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read so many self-help books over the years that I rarely bother with them anymore, since they mostly seem to say the same things I've heard over and over again. I picked this one up only because it was on an Audible daily deal, and I'm familiar with the author for his work in natural health--and also because the book is categorized under faith and religion, which I found intriguing.

The first few chapters were (as the title suggests) just about entertaining positive and affirming thoughts rather than negative ones. Nothing earth-shattering there. But I became more intrigued with chapters that emphasized not just positive affirmations, but reevaluating life goals, and making sure that you're not merely a high achiever, but you're becoming a better person, since ultimately that matters far more. (There were a lot of missed opportunities for quoting scriptures here, but I think the book is meant to appeal to a wider audience, which might be why it didn't go there.) I was especially intrigued when the author linked this concept to Joseph Campbell's "The Hero's Journey," encouraging readers to be inspired by and to view their lives through the lens of some of their favorite stories. I've always found the concepts from "The Hero with a Thousand Faces" to be fascinating.

One thing I will say about this book, that might be specific to me (but then again, since self-proclaimed "achievers" are the ones who will likely read a book like this, maybe not): the author tells a lot of personal stories as well as stories of famous people in his own inner circle, all of which are spectacular, glowing, and larger-than-life. They were things like building this multimillion dollar business empire before the age of 40 (and then moving on to the next big adventure because, conquered that mountain), creating a mastermind group with that superstar, going on those fabulous vacations, spending time with their perfect families, building their dream houses, etc. I understood the reason: he's trying to illustrate the power of these principles in action, but rather than being relatable and inspirational, it was too much. It made me feel like, "why bother? I'm never going to be anywhere near that league." I felt this way until I read the last chapter, when the author revealed his own major health challenge, and how he used some of the principles in this book to overcome it. I felt like that humanized him, and I wish he'd included that or something like it earlier in the story.

[Charles Reed · Rating 4 out of 5]

70 the placebo and the nosebo effect, positive thoughts, beckoning positive outcomes, negative thoughts beckoning negative outcomes. Some of the mental models here. Uh, an examples, we're not good. But that's irrelevant. The point of this is actually very good. I was interesting how he tied in so much religious context into this, and you can totally do that. You can totally write a book about whatever you want to book about. I think the topic is overdone. I don't think it's added anything. Into.

The science and culture.

I feel semi-obligated to enjoy the book because you practices is functional medicine, which needs to Pat.

Replace. Allopathic medicine. Like several decades ago.

We are not going. Into that fast enough.

Uh, the idea of needing to work. 80 hours a week. It's entrepreneur to make it that has Merit. Um, how many hours a week do I work? An entrepreneur, I don't know. Barely like 100. I don't know. I actually did the math on this recently.

I think it was like something like 100 hours.

And it's not that profitable. It's the thing because when you're doing all the work yourself,

You are doing all of the work yourself. That's why because you can't afford. Too higher out and that's where it gets. Problematic, if you just don't have the funds freely to do that, because You don't have an immediate bridge between A and B.

With this being so much about.

Positive mindset versus negative mindset. Positive mindset, of course, being the Builder negative mindset being the Saboteur

It's true. It's all true stuff at the heart and that's what makes it a very good book.

[readingromantic · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. Had a wealth of super practical advice. I listened to the audio book and the bonus interviews were really good. I found Hal Elrond’s interview particularly meaningful.

My only complaint is that based on the title I thought this would be completely focused on thought work and some of the “mind shifts” are actually not at all thinking based in my opinion. They’re still great things to do, just not really mind work.

* Mind shift 11 << something to focus on
* #2: accomplishing vs becoming mindset: the more you’re connected to your future self the better choices you’ll make
* Accomplishing vs becoming mindset
* To be list -> what actions do I need to start doing today to get those character traits?
* Pay attention to what you pay attention to < that can help you find your passions
* 3: become self aware to get where you need to go
* Create times of stillness and silence (decrease noise/distractions)
* Reflective writing (any events that perpetually bother you from your past?)
* Swot: strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats

[Dee MaColly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone should read this book. In "Think this not that" Dr. Josh Axe presents a compelling guide to transforming our thought patterns and challenging our limiting beliefs. This book offers practical insights and actionable steps to create new neural pathways in our brain for healthier thinking!

This book is not just theory; it's packed with original illustrations and simple prompts that make implementing these mind shifts straightforward and effective. Dr. Axe's approach is refreshingly clear, and in my opinion, very congruent with tried and true cognitive behavioral therapy. He emphasizes the importance of reprogramming our minds by replacing negative thought patterns with positive alternatives.

What sets this book apart is the included workbook, a valuable tool that complements the text by providing structured exercises to reinforce new beliefs. This interactive component is instrumental in solidifying the concepts and genuinely rewiring our thinking patterns.

I highly recommend "Think This, Not That" to anyone seeking to enhance their mental health and well-being and break free from limiting beliefs. Whether for friends, family, or clients, this book offers a practical roadmap to unlock a more positive and fulfilling mindset.

Dr. Axe's book is easily digestible & profoundly impactful. A investment in personal growth that will, if applied, yeild tangible results.

[LAMONT D · Rating 3 out of 5]

I hopefully will always look to learn as I read through the books on my list to read. There was a lot of sound practical tips and advice in this book. I knew nothing about Dr. Axe or Ancient Nutrition or his other books. I probably will not partake on what he is selling on his websites. But I do think this book offers any person in whatever stage of life they are in at the moment, a chance to recalibrate and take stock on what is most important in their life. The many quotes and illustrations that he draws upon in the book are positive and should point you in a better direction. We all can improve, and it is never too late to make adjustments. The main take-a-way is becoming the leader, friend, spouse and parent you want to be and not what you can obtain or accomplish. What lasting impact on those around you do you want to have?

[Lindzi · Rating 2 out of 5]

There is a lot of good in this book. I particularly enjoyed his guest chapter on how to create better mantras. It was actionable.

However, there is way too much Christianity and religion in this book — and that’s coming from someone that is religious. I had to skip a couple of sections because it got full on preachy — especially when it came to “virtues” we should live by. Plus anyone who respects Dave Ramsey and gives him a platform is an immediate red flag for me.

Can you get some good info from this book? Absolutely. Will you cringe your way through a lot of it? Also yes. After reading up about the author afterwards, would I have given it a read in the first place had I read about the the author before? Absolutely not.

[Treetop:) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was really good! There was SO MUCH information in this book that it may take me a bit to fully process it, but I overall feel like it was a worthwhile read. There were a lot of different topics and repeated references to said topics, therefore I often had to try and remember what exactly that was again, because there was a lot to remember! However, it was written really well and I bet that when I go back through and write down the things I tabbed (and write an essay on it bc I read it for school as well) I will get a nice, clear recap. If you are looking for a Christian, self-help type book that teaches you to become the person you were born to be, using the gifts God has given you for the good of yourself and of others, this is definitely a worthwhile read for you!😊

[David Petersen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really 3.5 stars. I should have loved this book. It says all the things I believe in and it's full of great tips and ideas for improvement. Sadly it somehow just missed for me. The author read the book which might have been part of the problem. Also it felt very "extra" so many of the stories were over the top and just too much. I also felt like the author was constantly name dropping. Clearly he runs in crazy circles and has access to all kinds of famous influencers especially from the south but for me that was all a turn off. I loved a lot of the content but I just didn't love the book.

[Lisa Duvall · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was good for what it was. It's basically teaching someone how to be a good person and not waste their life. Everything he talks about seems like it's from Biblical teachings. I thought it was good the way he talks about God and the Bible and divine calling without making the book only geared towards Christians. I docked one star because the way this book was advertised... I thought it would be about his injury and how he fought back from that... When he only just mentions it in the last chapter. I thought this book would be about what to think and do when trying to persevere through trials and it definitely wasn't

[Clea · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book is an appropriation of advice from multiple legitimate sources (psychology 101, English lit 201) to guide you slowly to feed you religious ideas. The worst of it is the incredibly dumb “unless you’re religious you’re amoral”. No - religion does not hold the monopoly on doing the right thing. Also, just because your mom’s cancer got better after eating vegetable juice doesn’t make you an authority on cancer.
Please go find the actual sources of the early chapter’s legitimate ideas and don’t grace this load of garbage with your time - you’ll never get that time back.

[Kehinde K. Amos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing!

This book will definitely change your way of thinking and will make you hopeful wherever you may have had doubt in your life. Negative thoughts are strong but you will realize that having hope, being grateful, and having perseverance while trying to become a better you, will positively strengthen your thoughts and outlook on life. There is nothing wrong with having big dreams and wanting more for your life. Are you afraid to fail? Do you feel stressed and hopeless? Tired of the negativity? Give this book a read.

[Man Ha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life's unpredictability, with its mix of setbacks like illness or business challenges, truly tests our resilience. The essence of character is not in the events that occur to us but in how we respond to them. Whether we rise to the occasion, adapt to change, or succumb to defeat shapes our destiny. Our daily interactions and choices, down to the food we eat, forge our identity in this era of uncertainty. Ultimately, the decisions we make in the face of life's twists and turns define us.

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good overall. Tons of helpful info. I was getting bored though. It seemed repetitive. I really dislike when authors push their ideals in an actual pushy way and at times, his tone did just that. Somewhat condescending even…. Otherwise though, I loved the book. The parts about doing everything we can to bring Heaven to Earth + the lessons on “building the water park” really struck a good cord with me.

[David Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

A bit trite at times and much, much longer and repetitive than needed, this is still a good reminder of self evident advice we can all use to better our own Earthly predicaments. I am glad ‘Dr.’ Axe didn’t hit the “buy my supplements” as hard as many others have done in their self help books, but there is an odd dissonance between his underlying message and the realities of the super hucksterism that got him to where he is today.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you feel stuck and don't know where to start,this book is for you.
Axe breaks down having a positive mindset. The book is packed with tools and exercises that are simple but impactful to work through. Great illustrations to relate to and be inspired by. The book is practical for everyone on the journey of life.

[BookHobby · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one is similar to any other book like it except for the overly Christian undertone. I really rush that prayer and good choices would save people but unfortunately it doesn’t always work out like that. The movie antidotes were a bit awkward. There were some good takeaways but too much other stuff.

[Marty Webb · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a middle of the road self-help book.

It is clear that Dr Axe is a Christian and that belief permeates pages of the book. He does extoll the virtues of some ppl I don't agree with ideologically namely Jordan Peterson and the owners of Hobby Lobby. But, if you can't pick something up from everybody you won't pick something up from anybody.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I heard of Josh on Mallory Ervin’s podcast, Living Fully. I loved Mallory’s books so I decided I’d check out this book. 5 stars. Very well written with great points and ideas of how to think of things differently. Would definitely recommend if you enjoy self-help books.

[Scott · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book is full of pseudoscience and anecdotal evidence. I would give it a negative number if I could.

I'm sure the author doesn't mean any harm, but people don't know what they don't know. This book may be for you if you are into alternative medicine and new-age magical thinking.