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Busting Clichés
Where there’s a will, there’s a way
Blood is thicker than water
Time heals all wounds
Who hasn’t grown up with clichés?
Clichés have been around forever and everybody uses them from time to time. In fact, we learn a lot of them at English class in the form of proverbs and sayings. And that’s a good thing, because a lot of clichés are power-packed with wise advice and rules to live by.
However, trouble brews when they are generalized, taken literally or misinterpreted due to popular notion. These overused statements then become limiting beliefs that negatively influence our thoughts, choices and decisions.
This book examines 20 commonly misunderstood clichés – the ones we all learned in school. Full of cartoons, popular music references and personal experiences of famous and non-famous folks, it will help you truly live life your way.
Blood is thicker than water
Time heals all wounds
Who hasn’t grown up with clichés?
Clichés have been around forever and everybody uses them from time to time. In fact, we learn a lot of them at English class in the form of proverbs and sayings. And that’s a good thing, because a lot of clichés are power-packed with wise advice and rules to live by.
However, trouble brews when they are generalized, taken literally or misinterpreted due to popular notion. These overused statements then become limiting beliefs that negatively influence our thoughts, choices and decisions.
This book examines 20 commonly misunderstood clichés – the ones we all learned in school. Full of cartoons, popular music references and personal experiences of famous and non-famous folks, it will help you truly live life your way.
190 pages, Paperback
Published February 18, 2017
14 people want to read
About the author
Mahevash Shaikh
4 books19 followersMahevash Shaikh is a millennial woman who writes about culture, society, and mental health. She is recognized by Women's Web as one of India's top 10 mental health bloggers and has also been featured in Healthline.
You can find her words on various websites like HealthyPlace, Reader's Digest, Conscious Being Magazine, HuffPost, Women's Web, The Mighty, HelloGiggles, National Catholic Reporter, os.me, Addicted 2 Success, and World Institute on Disability.
She has authored two books so far and has contributed to Karen Hallion's upcoming book 'The She Series: 100 Portraits and Essays of Inspiring Icons Whose Actions Changed the World'.
Mahevash identifies as a citizen of the world and tries to do her bit to make it an inclusive, livable place. Connect with her at https://www.mahevashmuses.com/.
You can find her words on various websites like HealthyPlace, Reader's Digest, Conscious Being Magazine, HuffPost, Women's Web, The Mighty, HelloGiggles, National Catholic Reporter, os.me, Addicted 2 Success, and World Institute on Disability.
She has authored two books so far and has contributed to Karen Hallion's upcoming book 'The She Series: 100 Portraits and Essays of Inspiring Icons Whose Actions Changed the World'.
Mahevash identifies as a citizen of the world and tries to do her bit to make it an inclusive, livable place. Connect with her at https://www.mahevashmuses.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
July 5, 2018
To call this a book would be an injustice , rather i’d call it a collection of 20 cliches that we’ve been hearing all our lives and an attempt to bust them.
The author follows a format throughout the book. The author picks up a “cliche” , gives an “intended meaning” , followed by the “misunderstood version” of the cliche and gives a popular music reference. The author presents a illustration to support the cliche.
She then explains it in the “takeaway” section. This section basically is the author’s view and her understanding of the cliche.
The author then mentions a quote/saying by a famous person and an “experience sharing” section. And then wraps it up by a “think” section where the reader can pen down their thoughts.
I really liked the whole idea and this new take on self help books. I am not an avid self help book reader and think they are very overrated but this is more like a work book that indeed helps you and serves it’s purpose.
Spread across 183 pages with 20 cliches , the language is kept lucid for better understanding. A unique take on self help books , you must read this one.
The author follows a format throughout the book. The author picks up a “cliche” , gives an “intended meaning” , followed by the “misunderstood version” of the cliche and gives a popular music reference. The author presents a illustration to support the cliche.
She then explains it in the “takeaway” section. This section basically is the author’s view and her understanding of the cliche.
The author then mentions a quote/saying by a famous person and an “experience sharing” section. And then wraps it up by a “think” section where the reader can pen down their thoughts.
I really liked the whole idea and this new take on self help books. I am not an avid self help book reader and think they are very overrated but this is more like a work book that indeed helps you and serves it’s purpose.
Spread across 183 pages with 20 cliches , the language is kept lucid for better understanding. A unique take on self help books , you must read this one.
February 26, 2018
This book takes you through 20 statements we have been hearing all through our lives.
The apple does not fall far from the tree.
Do not count your chickens before they hatch.
Jack of all trades, master of none.
These are some of the cliched statements the book looks at portrays to us the exact meaning behind each and every statement. It breaks a lot of stereotypes we have been carrying around in our minds.
Each statement is taken up clinically and analysed with its intended meaning and its misinterpretation. A simple illustration follows the same to give a visual cue as well. The concept is brilliant and it is a fresh breathe of air to read the book. It is crisp, brief and to the point.
I would highly recommend it
The apple does not fall far from the tree.
Do not count your chickens before they hatch.
Jack of all trades, master of none.
These are some of the cliched statements the book looks at portrays to us the exact meaning behind each and every statement. It breaks a lot of stereotypes we have been carrying around in our minds.
Each statement is taken up clinically and analysed with its intended meaning and its misinterpretation. A simple illustration follows the same to give a visual cue as well. The concept is brilliant and it is a fresh breathe of air to read the book. It is crisp, brief and to the point.
I would highly recommend it
November 24, 2017
As a part-time fiction writer and a full-time editor of a literary magazine, I end up judging everything that I read with a very critical eye. Trust me, I do it with everything, from the stuff written on milk-cartons to doctors' prescriptions. My friends often find me ranting about some terrible, cliche, spectacularly unoriginal tripe I read recently - on an instruction manual for set-top boxes or something similarly inconsequential.
That I did not rant about Mahevash Shaikh's debut attempt is, in a way, indicative of how refreshing and novel I found this book. The author manages to do a good job of selecting, decoding, and explaining the cliche in question, its misinterpretation, and the 'solution' to the misinterpretation. She further attempts to underscore her observations through a set of quotes, 'They Said It', usually by someone globally famous, as well as the 'They Experienced It' section, which contains anecdotes by people of varying degrees of popularity ranging from Ashwin Sanghi to your next-door neighbour. The illustrations accompanying the cliche are simple yet humorous, and capture the delight of an amateur artist taking joy in their work. The writing is honest and engaging, and the language is kept simple and accessible for easy readability.
That being said, there are some downsides to the book as well. While some observations and solutions are very keen and astute, some feel like they are barely skimming the surface and end up appearing rather forced and superficial. There was one quote (by Maya Angelou, I think) which did not fit the context in which it was presented. The observations are well-researched, but have that 'pop science', online listicle-ish feel to it which might not appeal to advanced students/readers of literature. Words and phrases like 'a hell of a lot' made it appear that the author is writing a blogpost, instead of a book. If, indeed, it can be called a book: a lot of it is collected wisdom from other people in the form of quotes and anecdotes, with the author's own additions placed at strategic intervals. She still did quite a good job of stringing together the disparate elements.
All in all, a good attempt. Not the best that could have been, but a good beginning. I would definitely pick up something else by the author, if only to see how she builds on this decent debut showing.
That I did not rant about Mahevash Shaikh's debut attempt is, in a way, indicative of how refreshing and novel I found this book. The author manages to do a good job of selecting, decoding, and explaining the cliche in question, its misinterpretation, and the 'solution' to the misinterpretation. She further attempts to underscore her observations through a set of quotes, 'They Said It', usually by someone globally famous, as well as the 'They Experienced It' section, which contains anecdotes by people of varying degrees of popularity ranging from Ashwin Sanghi to your next-door neighbour. The illustrations accompanying the cliche are simple yet humorous, and capture the delight of an amateur artist taking joy in their work. The writing is honest and engaging, and the language is kept simple and accessible for easy readability.
That being said, there are some downsides to the book as well. While some observations and solutions are very keen and astute, some feel like they are barely skimming the surface and end up appearing rather forced and superficial. There was one quote (by Maya Angelou, I think) which did not fit the context in which it was presented. The observations are well-researched, but have that 'pop science', online listicle-ish feel to it which might not appeal to advanced students/readers of literature. Words and phrases like 'a hell of a lot' made it appear that the author is writing a blogpost, instead of a book. If, indeed, it can be called a book: a lot of it is collected wisdom from other people in the form of quotes and anecdotes, with the author's own additions placed at strategic intervals. She still did quite a good job of stringing together the disparate elements.
All in all, a good attempt. Not the best that could have been, but a good beginning. I would definitely pick up something else by the author, if only to see how she builds on this decent debut showing.
October 11, 2017
The moment I read the title of the book- even before I read the blurb- I wanted to read it. I just loved thought of breaking out of the conditioning that clichéd thoughts bind us in.
I love the quick, snappy format of the book. It sheds new light on familiar thought without being in the least preachy. The content is pointed like a lance and cuts as one. In deft strokes it slashes through beliefs that may be comfortable and familiar, but which also bind and restrict. Sharing the experiences of others, in their own words, gives immense weight to the author’s observations. I particularly liked the fact that she has included the person’s name and a URL to their professional presence on the web.What an amazing concept! To let the words of another sell your thought to your audience!
This book as been a huge learning for me. I am delighted I read it!
Thank you Mahevash Shaikh. I look forward to reading more of your work! All the best!
I love the quick, snappy format of the book. It sheds new light on familiar thought without being in the least preachy. The content is pointed like a lance and cuts as one. In deft strokes it slashes through beliefs that may be comfortable and familiar, but which also bind and restrict. Sharing the experiences of others, in their own words, gives immense weight to the author’s observations. I particularly liked the fact that she has included the person’s name and a URL to their professional presence on the web.What an amazing concept! To let the words of another sell your thought to your audience!
This book as been a huge learning for me. I am delighted I read it!
Thank you Mahevash Shaikh. I look forward to reading more of your work! All the best!
October 16, 2017
Cliches are used all the times and I liked the author's take on each of them. She has justified it with a meaning, her take is represented via stick figures, her context and personal experiences. A Well researched book!
September 19, 2017
At the beginning of the book, the author has mentioned that each of the 20 cliches in the book are on the basis of personal experience, though some of them are out-dated. The book has a typical format. The author starts dissecting each cliché with an ‘intended meaning’, followed by the ‘misunderstood version’ and then a popular song in the ‘popular music reference’. This is followed by a simple illustration which tries to convey the meaning of the topic. Then the ‘takeaway’, where in the author has tried to explain in detail about the saying from her own perspective. This is followed by ‘they said it’ which is a line or two from a famous person on the same cliché. ‘they experienced it’ is an article by a known or an unknown person on the same cliché. This is followed by ‘think’, a blank page for the readers to put their thoughts.
She has wrapped up the book by asking the reader to write some clichés which get to them and what they are going to do about them.
The book is a total of 183 pages with blank pages for thoughts and other stuff which the reader can write. Though there are many blank pages and many with illustrations, the actual written matter is only approximately 130 pages and it took me many days to finish the book.
At the end of the book the author has referenced the music that she has mentioned in each of the clichés and some reading and watching recommendations.
The language is simple and easily understandable but what it portrays is very deep. Each cliché got me thinking. My favourite being ‘Practice makes Perfect’.
The book is such that one can read again and again but if we read one cliché at a time, it becomes more enjoyable. I loved the book and am waiting for more from the author.
She has wrapped up the book by asking the reader to write some clichés which get to them and what they are going to do about them.
The book is a total of 183 pages with blank pages for thoughts and other stuff which the reader can write. Though there are many blank pages and many with illustrations, the actual written matter is only approximately 130 pages and it took me many days to finish the book.
At the end of the book the author has referenced the music that she has mentioned in each of the clichés and some reading and watching recommendations.
The language is simple and easily understandable but what it portrays is very deep. Each cliché got me thinking. My favourite being ‘Practice makes Perfect’.
The book is such that one can read again and again but if we read one cliché at a time, it becomes more enjoyable. I loved the book and am waiting for more from the author.
August 28, 2022
"Each cliché here made it on the basis of personal experience.
Some clichés seem outdated, but have contemporaries that embody the same sentiments. Case in point: Like father, like son/ like mother, like daughter is just another way of saying that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
Owing to social conditioning, even the ones that don't seem to have present-day versions are still floating around in our thoughts and actions one way or another."
- Mahevash Shaikh.
--
It is my Mahevash Shaikh's second book. This time, she has chosen to write about (burst) some clichés she has encountered in her life with accurate interpretations of those otherwise misperceived notions. I think everyone will resonate with the clichés she has discussed.
I love the way the book has been organised. It is crisp, short, subtle, and loaded with examples (I feel the illustrations are the best part of the book). The messages have been very clearly delivered, and there is no such hustle in interpreting what the author is depicting.
It is a concise and light read. And you can very easily sneak in a few pages during the lunch breaks/ before bedtime and finish it within 3-4days. I will urge y'all to grab a copy of Mahevash's new book, "Busting Clichés."
--
My personal two favourite bursting episodes from the other twenties,
1. #StopWaitingStartDoing (Good things come to those who wait)
2. #YouAreNotYourParents (The apple doesn't fall far away from the tree). I liked the Steve Jobs example author used. Very clever one!
P.S. I love the graphical illustrations. Just added more charms to the book.
Thanks to the author for providing me with the review copy!
Some clichés seem outdated, but have contemporaries that embody the same sentiments. Case in point: Like father, like son/ like mother, like daughter is just another way of saying that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
Owing to social conditioning, even the ones that don't seem to have present-day versions are still floating around in our thoughts and actions one way or another."
- Mahevash Shaikh.
--
It is my Mahevash Shaikh's second book. This time, she has chosen to write about (burst) some clichés she has encountered in her life with accurate interpretations of those otherwise misperceived notions. I think everyone will resonate with the clichés she has discussed.
I love the way the book has been organised. It is crisp, short, subtle, and loaded with examples (I feel the illustrations are the best part of the book). The messages have been very clearly delivered, and there is no such hustle in interpreting what the author is depicting.
It is a concise and light read. And you can very easily sneak in a few pages during the lunch breaks/ before bedtime and finish it within 3-4days. I will urge y'all to grab a copy of Mahevash's new book, "Busting Clichés."
--
My personal two favourite bursting episodes from the other twenties,
1. #StopWaitingStartDoing (Good things come to those who wait)
2. #YouAreNotYourParents (The apple doesn't fall far away from the tree). I liked the Steve Jobs example author used. Very clever one!
P.S. I love the graphical illustrations. Just added more charms to the book.
Thanks to the author for providing me with the review copy!
May 16, 2017
I'm by no means an expert on self-help books and could even be seen as a bit of a cynic with regards to them as a whole. Thankfully, 'Busting Cliches' is a different beast; it doesn't claim to be some panacea for all of life's woes, but offers some sage advice about avoiding the traps of expectations. What's nice about the book is that collates different perspectives from different writers and thinkers, all 'busting cliches' and showing that such adages as 'The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From The Tree' isn't some universal truth that curses some to follow the mistakes of their parents. There is a humble style to Mahevash's writing which sets it apart from the genre and makes it appealing to those cynical old dogs like yours truly.
February 26, 2018
I have been reading so many authors of late, specially the young ones and I find it very disturbing with the stories they come up with. the emotions and values portrayed are absolute filth.
Thankfully, Mahevash Shaikh comes up with a brilliant book that is interesting and with unique thoughts. The effort and thought process behind the book is clearly visible. Busting Cliches is a wonderful read for all ages and I would definitely make my children read the same.
A better typesetting and a better cover as someone else suggested would make it even a better package.
Thankfully, Mahevash Shaikh comes up with a brilliant book that is interesting and with unique thoughts. The effort and thought process behind the book is clearly visible. Busting Cliches is a wonderful read for all ages and I would definitely make my children read the same.
A better typesetting and a better cover as someone else suggested would make it even a better package.
February 26, 2018
An absolute wonderful and refreshing read. The concept of the book is amazing and it changes our take on life. It is really great that a young author is coming up with such great work. Completed it in a day as it is a brief read and you never loose interest in it.
The cover could have been a bit better according to me.
Rating: 4.75/5
The cover could have been a bit better according to me.
Rating: 4.75/5
February 26, 2018
Oh!
This book is pure joy and like a blessing to someone who reads a lot of books like me. An amazing effort put in by a young female writer that is pure bliss. I would like to mention the ideology behind the book is so good with each chapter passing by, the misinterpretations and intended meanings is just amazing.
A wonderful and brief read. Highly recommended.
This book is pure joy and like a blessing to someone who reads a lot of books like me. An amazing effort put in by a young female writer that is pure bliss. I would like to mention the ideology behind the book is so good with each chapter passing by, the misinterpretations and intended meanings is just amazing.
A wonderful and brief read. Highly recommended.
February 26, 2018
Just one word!
Refreshing.
A Must Read Book For Everyone. Such a nice theme that I have never ever read before.
Refreshing.
A Must Read Book For Everyone. Such a nice theme that I have never ever read before.
December 19, 2018
Busting Clichés talks about the various clichés we come across in our lives and how we are at times mislead by them. The author has compiled the most popular clichés and how we perceive them over time. A cliché is a phrase or opinion that is overused and betrays a lack of original thought. The author has made an excellent effort to explain these and the popular notions behind them.
Mahevash has dedicated this book to the young people everywhere and it is most suitable for them. Young guns who are ready to take on the world are the perfect audience for this book since they have much to learn in the hard, cutthroat world out there.
According to Wikipedia –
A cliché or cliche is an expression, idea, or element of an artistic work which has become overused to the point of losing its original meaning or effect, even to the point of being trite or irritating, especially when at some earlier time it was considered meaningful or novel.
She has chosen some common and yet relevant clichés. In a well laid out format she gives the exact opposite of what the cliché is saying with a hashtag. She encourages the readers to leave their thoughts on social media with the relevant tags. To mention a few clichés that I enjoyed reading, time heals all wounds, old habits die hard, one good turn deserves another, practice makes perfect and birds of a feather flock together.
She has three aspects of the cliché discussed under the headings of ‘intended meaning’, the ‘misunderstood version’, and the ‘musical reference’. A small caricature is shown about the impact of the cliché. She shares the big ‘takeaway’ from it, how to use it in our lives, learn from it. A relevant quote by a famous personality is also shared about the cliché. The musical list itself is quite entertaining and apt for the clichés mentioned.
The surprising element is the musical reference and the amount of research that went into it. She has even done sketches and examples with them to ensure the explanation is understood easily.
What is the experience of the cliché in life or how a person has understood it, is then discussed. She shares relevant links and finally asks the reader to think about the cliché and its relevance in their own life.
Another section is the awesome links she has shared for improving, growing and learning through various aspects of our lives. These include open source learning, TEDx Talks, books, movies and websites—a must use resource.
I think this book is useful for anyone hoping to learn, grow and follow his or her passion and achieve success.
Mahevash has dedicated this book to the young people everywhere and it is most suitable for them. Young guns who are ready to take on the world are the perfect audience for this book since they have much to learn in the hard, cutthroat world out there.
According to Wikipedia –
A cliché or cliche is an expression, idea, or element of an artistic work which has become overused to the point of losing its original meaning or effect, even to the point of being trite or irritating, especially when at some earlier time it was considered meaningful or novel.
She has chosen some common and yet relevant clichés. In a well laid out format she gives the exact opposite of what the cliché is saying with a hashtag. She encourages the readers to leave their thoughts on social media with the relevant tags. To mention a few clichés that I enjoyed reading, time heals all wounds, old habits die hard, one good turn deserves another, practice makes perfect and birds of a feather flock together.
She has three aspects of the cliché discussed under the headings of ‘intended meaning’, the ‘misunderstood version’, and the ‘musical reference’. A small caricature is shown about the impact of the cliché. She shares the big ‘takeaway’ from it, how to use it in our lives, learn from it. A relevant quote by a famous personality is also shared about the cliché. The musical list itself is quite entertaining and apt for the clichés mentioned.
The surprising element is the musical reference and the amount of research that went into it. She has even done sketches and examples with them to ensure the explanation is understood easily.
What is the experience of the cliché in life or how a person has understood it, is then discussed. She shares relevant links and finally asks the reader to think about the cliché and its relevance in their own life.
Another section is the awesome links she has shared for improving, growing and learning through various aspects of our lives. These include open source learning, TEDx Talks, books, movies and websites—a must use resource.
I think this book is useful for anyone hoping to learn, grow and follow his or her passion and achieve success.
May 24, 2017
The good:
* It's entertaining.
* The illustrations are charming. They're very simple drawings, but most of them fit the topic well and often with a humorous twist.
* The analysis of the sayings is (at least in most cases) spot on.
* The author is opinionated and not afraid to let her personality shine through in the text.
* I'm quite impressed with how much time and effort she's clearly put into thinking about these things. Doubly so because the author is quite young.
The bad:
* Too much of the book is quotes. Each saying has one section for "They said it" and one for "They experienced it", these sections contains text (properly attributed) from other sources. Much of the text is good, but the end-effect is still that less than half the book is actually the authors words. That would be OK if the book was advertised as a quote-collection, but it's not.
* Some of the analysis is a little shallow. What it says is true, but I would've liked it if the author spent a bit more time going into why the saying should be read in this way.
* It's quite thin. It's listed at 190 pages, and I guess that's right, but each of the chapters has one full page dedicated to title and an image, plus the cartoons, and the actual text of the book make up less than half of that. (and the text which is in the authors own words is perhaps half of that again)
In summary:
For being someones first attempt at writing a book, I think this is a good effort. It succeeds both with entertaining the reader, and with making me stop and think. And both are excellent things in a book. I look forward to seeing what Mahevash will write in the future.
* It's entertaining.
* The illustrations are charming. They're very simple drawings, but most of them fit the topic well and often with a humorous twist.
* The analysis of the sayings is (at least in most cases) spot on.
* The author is opinionated and not afraid to let her personality shine through in the text.
* I'm quite impressed with how much time and effort she's clearly put into thinking about these things. Doubly so because the author is quite young.
The bad:
* Too much of the book is quotes. Each saying has one section for "They said it" and one for "They experienced it", these sections contains text (properly attributed) from other sources. Much of the text is good, but the end-effect is still that less than half the book is actually the authors words. That would be OK if the book was advertised as a quote-collection, but it's not.
* Some of the analysis is a little shallow. What it says is true, but I would've liked it if the author spent a bit more time going into why the saying should be read in this way.
* It's quite thin. It's listed at 190 pages, and I guess that's right, but each of the chapters has one full page dedicated to title and an image, plus the cartoons, and the actual text of the book make up less than half of that. (and the text which is in the authors own words is perhaps half of that again)
In summary:
For being someones first attempt at writing a book, I think this is a good effort. It succeeds both with entertaining the reader, and with making me stop and think. And both are excellent things in a book. I look forward to seeing what Mahevash will write in the future.
May 8, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It has all the right ingredients of an amazing dish- it is short and crisp, animated, and engaging with questions asked towards the end of each chapter!Right from the cover of the book to the topics discussed in it, the author did not stray from the theme of the book and that's something that I genuinely liked. It's so easy to get lost but she really did a fine job of this. I recommend this book to any and everyone because it helped bust some of my own cliches and might help you to do the same;)
I cannot wait for the next book from this author :)
I cannot wait for the next book from this author :)
June 22, 2017
A unique look at cliches and how we fall into following them. I liked the format with actual meaning, popular perceived meaning and a song reference. I did not recognize some of the quoted folks in the next segments but that is probably a reflection on my naïveté. The experiences and quotes were good examples of the author's points about the effect of following cliches as were the illustrations. The reflection pages after take away ideas allow for personal exploration of how cliches affect our lives. Thanks to Mahevash Shaikh for a copy.
August 17, 2018
Everyday most of us refer to some situation with oft used phrases. Most times we believe we have used it in the correct sense...it gives us a sense of know-all and we gloat on our knowledge of English language and our ability to describe a certain situation.
But what if I tell you that most of the very commonly used cliches are usually little off the mark of what they actually mean?
Here is a young author Mahevash Shaikh with her debut handbook who busts the misunderstood versions of twenty such phrases.
The size and shape of book itself busts the preconceived notion of a book...at least it broke my preconceived idea of a book. Honestly when the book arrived I was little miffed because it had a look of a pocket book or a cook-book. But later as I read through, I couldn't help but wonder whether the size was purposely meant to break that cliche?
Each phrase mentioned in the book has its originally intended meaning, the misunderstood version, reference of that phrase in popular songs, a caricature and byte size explanation of what to make of it. There are snippets of comments and quotes by some popular names of the world for each phrase.
The book opens with 'Look Before You Leap' as the first cliche to be busted. It seems that that the common understanding of this phrase is to be cautious all the time. However what it really implies is that before we take a decision, we must weigh all the pros and cons. Like Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook says "The biggest risk is not taking any risk. In a world that's changing really quickly, the only strategy that is guaranteed to fail is not taking risks."
Another phrase that left me thinking was 'One good turn deserves another'. Most time we expect reciprocation of a good gesture or act and feel miffed and disappointed if that doesn't happen. And here is what the basic fault lies in understanding this phrase. The real meaning of the phrase is the other way round. It implies that when someone does a favor, we must return it with graciousness when the need arises. But pinning hopes on return of favor takes away the meaning of generosity. What the educator and leadership consultant says is absolutely true: "If expecting something in return is your reason for giving, you really are not giving! If you receive something in returnfor your gift, that is a bonus and not repayment of a debt."
There are more such every day phrases in the book which have been construed in different context than they were supposed to. The book ends on a positive note emphasizing how our thoughts are influenced by what we think and choose to believe. A very different book from what I usually read, this one is a light-hearted nudge without being too much preachy.
But what if I tell you that most of the very commonly used cliches are usually little off the mark of what they actually mean?
Here is a young author Mahevash Shaikh with her debut handbook who busts the misunderstood versions of twenty such phrases.
The size and shape of book itself busts the preconceived notion of a book...at least it broke my preconceived idea of a book. Honestly when the book arrived I was little miffed because it had a look of a pocket book or a cook-book. But later as I read through, I couldn't help but wonder whether the size was purposely meant to break that cliche?
Each phrase mentioned in the book has its originally intended meaning, the misunderstood version, reference of that phrase in popular songs, a caricature and byte size explanation of what to make of it. There are snippets of comments and quotes by some popular names of the world for each phrase.
The book opens with 'Look Before You Leap' as the first cliche to be busted. It seems that that the common understanding of this phrase is to be cautious all the time. However what it really implies is that before we take a decision, we must weigh all the pros and cons. Like Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook says "The biggest risk is not taking any risk. In a world that's changing really quickly, the only strategy that is guaranteed to fail is not taking risks."
Another phrase that left me thinking was 'One good turn deserves another'. Most time we expect reciprocation of a good gesture or act and feel miffed and disappointed if that doesn't happen. And here is what the basic fault lies in understanding this phrase. The real meaning of the phrase is the other way round. It implies that when someone does a favor, we must return it with graciousness when the need arises. But pinning hopes on return of favor takes away the meaning of generosity. What the educator and leadership consultant says is absolutely true: "If expecting something in return is your reason for giving, you really are not giving! If you receive something in returnfor your gift, that is a bonus and not repayment of a debt."
There are more such every day phrases in the book which have been construed in different context than they were supposed to. The book ends on a positive note emphasizing how our thoughts are influenced by what we think and choose to believe. A very different book from what I usually read, this one is a light-hearted nudge without being too much preachy.
August 12, 2017
Over the years I have read quite a few non fiction and self help books and this is unlike any book that I have come across.
The best part of this book is the premise of this book wherein the author has critically analysed the phrases/ proverbs or so called cliched statements that we keep hearing in our daily lives. The thought behind that analysis as said in the blurb was to see how these very statements become limiting beliefs in our lives.
The author has written in detail about twenty such phrases. They way each of them have been explained is very crisp neat. The author breaks down each cliche into intended meaning, misunderstood meaning, a takeaway from it and also shares the experience of people who have faced or overcome the limiting beliefs.
What I liked in the book were the illustrations which were very simple yet effective.
The use of quotes by well known people was a very good idea.
The experience of people have been written in a very crisp and concise manner without sounding preachy. Personally the cover has underplayed the content of the book. More cliches could have been added too.
All in all, it's one of those books that can be kept on your bed side stand to even read a random page or cliche a day to help you get inspired. I definitely recommend this book.
The best part of this book is the premise of this book wherein the author has critically analysed the phrases/ proverbs or so called cliched statements that we keep hearing in our daily lives. The thought behind that analysis as said in the blurb was to see how these very statements become limiting beliefs in our lives.
The author has written in detail about twenty such phrases. They way each of them have been explained is very crisp neat. The author breaks down each cliche into intended meaning, misunderstood meaning, a takeaway from it and also shares the experience of people who have faced or overcome the limiting beliefs.
What I liked in the book were the illustrations which were very simple yet effective.
The use of quotes by well known people was a very good idea.
The experience of people have been written in a very crisp and concise manner without sounding preachy. Personally the cover has underplayed the content of the book. More cliches could have been added too.
All in all, it's one of those books that can be kept on your bed side stand to even read a random page or cliche a day to help you get inspired. I definitely recommend this book.
September 23, 2023
"Busting Clichés: 20 Limiting Beliefs That Are Holding You Back" by Mahevash Shaikh is a refreshing take on familiar sayings that we encounter throughout our lives. The book dives deep into 20 commonly misunderstood clichés, revealing their nuances and shedding light on how they can negatively impact our thoughts and decisions if taken at face value.
Mahevash Shaikh's approach to dismantling these clichés is both enlightening and entertaining. The inclusion of cartoons, references to popular music, and personal anecdotes from both well-known and ordinary individuals adds a unique and relatable dimension to the book.
What makes this book stand out is its ability to empower readers to question conventional wisdom and to encourage them to think critically about the clichés they encounter. By debunking these limiting beliefs, Shaikh offers readers the opportunity to live life on their own terms.
Overall, "Busting Clichés" is an insightful and enjoyable read that challenges the status quo of commonly accepted sayings. It serves as a valuable guide for anyone seeking to break free from the constraints of clichéd thinking and live a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Mahevash Shaikh's approach to dismantling these clichés is both enlightening and entertaining. The inclusion of cartoons, references to popular music, and personal anecdotes from both well-known and ordinary individuals adds a unique and relatable dimension to the book.
What makes this book stand out is its ability to empower readers to question conventional wisdom and to encourage them to think critically about the clichés they encounter. By debunking these limiting beliefs, Shaikh offers readers the opportunity to live life on their own terms.
Overall, "Busting Clichés" is an insightful and enjoyable read that challenges the status quo of commonly accepted sayings. It serves as a valuable guide for anyone seeking to break free from the constraints of clichéd thinking and live a more authentic and fulfilling life.
February 22, 2018
Read the full review at- https://www.banajaprakashini.in/busti...
The book consists of twenty chapters and each chapters as the central idea of busting a cliché. Every chapter has the cliché mentioned at first, followed by the intended meaning and then the misunderstood version. There is a popular music reference for each chapter that music connoisseurs might appreciate.
The book has quirky doodles for each chapter, something that either represents the cliché or the misused meaning or a basic situation.
Being written in easy English, understanding the book would be no herculean task.
Listed under the self-help section, the book is an eye opener and a must read for children and teenagers in their growing years so that they can shape themselves up.
It’s a great children’s book, but the adults who have gone a good number of self-help books, might not find it helping, it’s just fun to read.
The book consists of twenty chapters and each chapters as the central idea of busting a cliché. Every chapter has the cliché mentioned at first, followed by the intended meaning and then the misunderstood version. There is a popular music reference for each chapter that music connoisseurs might appreciate.
The book has quirky doodles for each chapter, something that either represents the cliché or the misused meaning or a basic situation.
Being written in easy English, understanding the book would be no herculean task.
Listed under the self-help section, the book is an eye opener and a must read for children and teenagers in their growing years so that they can shape themselves up.
It’s a great children’s book, but the adults who have gone a good number of self-help books, might not find it helping, it’s just fun to read.
September 30, 2017
Cliché – A phrase or opinion that is overused and betrays a lack of original thought.
We often tend to use a phrase or quote when we want to prove a point or make an impression. But more than often we these phrases are misinterpreted or have lost the original meaning.
Mahevash Shaikh in her debut book Busting Clichés has listed twenty such commonly used and misinterpreted phrases which all of us, at some or other time of life have either heard or have used it.
I personally loved the way author has followed a format to explain each phrase; first with its real meaning followed by its misunderstood version and then a popular song which suits that phrase. Next, you find an illustration in form of stick figure sketches. Then you get author’s take on that particular phrase, followed by personal experiences shared by some well-known bloggers and personalities. Finally, a question which helps the reader analyze and think and pen down our personal experience regarding that phrase.
Mahevash has followed this particular format for all twenty phrases.
The language used is simple, a unique theme which makes Busting Clichés an interesting read.
We often tend to use a phrase or quote when we want to prove a point or make an impression. But more than often we these phrases are misinterpreted or have lost the original meaning.
Mahevash Shaikh in her debut book Busting Clichés has listed twenty such commonly used and misinterpreted phrases which all of us, at some or other time of life have either heard or have used it.
I personally loved the way author has followed a format to explain each phrase; first with its real meaning followed by its misunderstood version and then a popular song which suits that phrase. Next, you find an illustration in form of stick figure sketches. Then you get author’s take on that particular phrase, followed by personal experiences shared by some well-known bloggers and personalities. Finally, a question which helps the reader analyze and think and pen down our personal experience regarding that phrase.
Mahevash has followed this particular format for all twenty phrases.
The language used is simple, a unique theme which makes Busting Clichés an interesting read.
March 27, 2018
A good read
The cliché mentioned in the book are what regulates some people's life. These sometimes stop one from getting what one desires. This book was a good read, clearing off some air on my understanding about some of the clichés, resulting in teaching me a new angle to look towards the things.
The cliché mentioned in the book are what regulates some people's life. These sometimes stop one from getting what one desires. This book was a good read, clearing off some air on my understanding about some of the clichés, resulting in teaching me a new angle to look towards the things.
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