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Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown - 30 Day Workbook
66 pages, Paperback
First published June 27, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
November 14, 2019
This is a beautiful little book, and maybe one of my favorite "self-improvement" or "business" books that I've read in a long time. Filled with practical little advice, the premise (and the cover) of the book asks the question: would you rather go one foot in 6000 directions or 6000 feet in one direction? Success, McKeown argues, and much of our happiness, comes from discerning what is essential and what is not. Most of the options and content in the world is just that--non-essential--and so the "essentialist," or one who prescribes to McKeown's suggested way of life, will take extra time to discern what IS essential; recognize that everything is a trade-off; and learn to say no, gracefully but unambiguously, to those things that are aren't essential--to those things that will not contribute to our single great aim.
As someone who has made it a habit to go a variety of directions at once, and has profited somewhat from this interdisciplinary approach, I was somewhat skeptical. But most of this book does ring true. Like any book, it's not perfect, but it's darn enjoyable and informative and inspirational. After reading this book, I realized that a significant choice I had made regarding my acceptance of a job that I would be hired for in a couple of months--it wasn't right. I had made the choice because I had been told all my life, "Bryan, I could see you doing that!" And my wife had supported the decision. But I realized that the job did NOT fit into my real idea of what I wanted to do, as fun as it would be. And so I went in and said, "I can't do it." And they respected me for it, and I am happier. McKeown's "essentialism" DID help me, and in a big way. I recommend this book to anyone interested in cutting the fat from their life and embarking on a difficult, but worthwhile, journey.
As someone who has made it a habit to go a variety of directions at once, and has profited somewhat from this interdisciplinary approach, I was somewhat skeptical. But most of this book does ring true. Like any book, it's not perfect, but it's darn enjoyable and informative and inspirational. After reading this book, I realized that a significant choice I had made regarding my acceptance of a job that I would be hired for in a couple of months--it wasn't right. I had made the choice because I had been told all my life, "Bryan, I could see you doing that!" And my wife had supported the decision. But I realized that the job did NOT fit into my real idea of what I wanted to do, as fun as it would be. And so I went in and said, "I can't do it." And they respected me for it, and I am happier. McKeown's "essentialism" DID help me, and in a big way. I recommend this book to anyone interested in cutting the fat from their life and embarking on a difficult, but worthwhile, journey.
October 30, 2020
Listen to audiobook to get motivational advice and encouragement stuck in your head. Inspiring, actionable, and practical guidance. Good to listen to regarding your life choices, such as career or family priorities. We define our own "Success," if we are wise enough to think deliberately and then act.
April 12, 2020
Really enjoyed this one as an audiobook. There were many good ideas I can apply, though it seems mostly geared toward those with an office job.
June 12, 2021
Everybody must read this amazing book
Read
August 22, 2025Helpful thoughts, ideas and strategies how to pare down and quit spending money on non-essentials.
April 25, 2016
I am startig today with small changes, but i can already tell i will need to read this again in a few months to keep myself on the right track.
Want to Read
October 18, 2016very good
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews