Do Less Be More

by Susan Pearse, Martina Shehan

At a time when being idle is viewed negatively, and we are accustomed to filling every waking moment with (often useless or unpleasant) activity, The Do Nothing Effect explores why switching off, or at the very least, slowing down, is vital, if we are to live a life of fulfillment.

Drawing on the latest brain-function research, Susan and Martina highlight that merely thinking of an activity, rather than actually doing it, sees the brain in active mode. While cramming in one more task may feel useful, productive, or even satisfying, it’s not always the best use of an idle moment. In fact, it will inevitably lead us to a place where we become less productive, less creative, less inspired and less satisfied with life.

Filled with practical exercises and experiments, The Do Nothing Effect provides readers with a personalized set of tools to hone their ability to switch off, and find space for inspiration.

Genres: Nonfiction, Self Help, Audiobook, Productivity

Paperback

Published June 20, 2017

Reviews

[Suzi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly didn't expect much from this book, but I was pleasantly surprised. I love self help book, especially ones that help you improve/ make you smarter/ healthier/ happier. The title of this caught my eye. Mainly because I was sure it was wrong. In a world where you're only valuable if you're profitable and constantly grinding, I figured, this was all going to be rubbish. But alot of it made sense. it's true, for me at least; I constantly fill the day with doing something (even 2 mins standing in line at a shop, I end up pulling my kindle out to read). And often it's multitasking and it's almost always in an effort to improve myself or become better (hence my addiction to self help books). Anyway, I'm going on too much, what I'm saying is, it's a good book and worth a look if you're like me a feel guilty, anxious and/ lazy for having ANY downtime whatsoever.

some thing(s) I liked:
✅easy to understand
✅easy actionable steps
✅no shaming, but facts are presented to make one think

some thing(s), not so much:
⭕unfortunately, unless the whole world reads this, we're all screwed.

[Matthew L · Rating 5 out of 5]

A excellent book that helps you think about the balance of life not always doing or filling every activity to the max. To simply eat without a phone scrolling, walk without headphones - you brain being under no firm task expands to connect greater areas of your brain, reminding you of important things, working on thoughts you don’t acknowledge and tapping into creative juices. I have found it helpful when creating something in music or painting to walk away and I come back with new ideas. It has also been great for being okay with boring things and embracing them throughout my day.

[Vicki · Rating 3 out of 5]

I knew I needed this book when I was trying to read it as fast as possible, almost like I needed to tick it off a list of jobs. It’s an easy to read, straight forward book with some insightful moments although there is nothing hugely ground breaking in content. It acts as a good reminder about things that I’m sure live in our subconscious most of the time. None the less, it served its purpose getting me to reflect, create self awareness and encouraged me to pause and think through better ways. We can all do better on the mindful front, and this book is a good start.

[Maria · Rating 3 out of 5]

The irony of listening to this audio book (free via local library!) whilst I'm trying to tidy up or walk somewhere... It's mostly about being mindful of what you're doing and focusing on one action at a time (as they argue this brings better wellbeing and results). Being aware of everything you do, from your body whilst walking to the taste of your tea in the morning. I agree with this when it comes to socialising (ie not constantly checking your phone while you're chatting to someone). However, I could never give up listening to music so that I can focus on my driving! Singing at the top of my lungs in the car is like a form of meditation before work and I'm happy to miss the 'ebb and flow of traffic' 💜 I like the concept but its unlikely I could/ I would want to apply it in all areas of my life! Sometimes it's wonderful to be still/present in one action and sometimes capitalism requires something different from you.

[TR Naus · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read through (and took notes) on 21 activities that are designed to help slow down in order to do more. It may sound counter-intuitive, but they all made sense to me. In fact, I am happy to report that I've been practicing most of these exercises as part of my personal journey over they last year and half. I still have work to do, but they've helped me focus on positivity and avoid burnout. Susan Pearse & Martina Sheehan provide a practical guide that outlines how to slow down in order to be more productive. It may be easy-to-read, but it is more difficult to follow in an age where we are often judged by the appearance of being busy. This is good review of the importance of balance, and it outlines steps that we can take to make it create it in our own lives.

[Hash · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐4.8/5
This book has been a valuable read and a terrific buy for sure. It not only helps in building habits, it also asks the right questions.
For me, I went into this already with the mindset of doing less and being more. But this book helped me in prioritizing the real things we need to be doing throughout the day. This book helped me with my creative block and I've identified how I need to be away from something for a while to find solutions on how to tackle it.
Definitely a recommended read for me. Anyone who has the tendency to procrastinate and to get out of a funk where they aren't able to identify what needs to be done and how to find your zen - get the book.
You won't regret it.

[Kym OGorman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED and NEEDED this book. So easy to read (and it doesn't take much time), so inspirational. I was expecting a heavier read but it was simple and flowed nicely. Parts challenged me to the point of a physical reaction and others were a whack upside the head! I'm so ready to lose the chaos. This book is just what I needed.

[Jana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to the audiobook which I do when I'm in bed and I fell asleep a lot!! But I still enjoyed the message and think it'd be a good book to re-read or re-listen too again as a reminder to slow down. Resonated with me at this time!

[Alexandria Blaelock · Rating 4 out of 5]

A few chapters on why doing less matters, and then some ways to do less. Like taking pauses during the day, making lists of things not to do, and going for walks in nature.