What do you think?
Rate this book
Niksen: Embracing the Dutch Art of Doing Nothing – Expert-Backed Strategies for Stress, Burnout, and Productivity
The Dutch people are some of the happiest in the world. Their secret? They are masters of niksen, or the art of doing nothing.
Niksen is not a form of meditation, nor is it a state of laziness or boredom. It’s not scrolling through social media, or wondering what you’re going to cook for dinner. Rather, to niks is to make a conscious choice to sit back, let go, and do nothing at all.
With this book, learn how to do nothing in the most important areas of your life, such Backed with advice from the world’s leading experts on happiness and productivity, this book examines the underlying science behind niksen and how doing less can often yield so much more. Perfect for anyone who feels overwhelmed, burnt out, or exhausted, NIKSEN does not tell you to work harder. Instead, it shows you how to take a break from all the busyness while giving you sincere, heartfelt permission to do nothing.
Niksen is not a form of meditation, nor is it a state of laziness or boredom. It’s not scrolling through social media, or wondering what you’re going to cook for dinner. Rather, to niks is to make a conscious choice to sit back, let go, and do nothing at all.
With this book, learn how to do nothing in the most important areas of your life, such Backed with advice from the world’s leading experts on happiness and productivity, this book examines the underlying science behind niksen and how doing less can often yield so much more. Perfect for anyone who feels overwhelmed, burnt out, or exhausted, NIKSEN does not tell you to work harder. Instead, it shows you how to take a break from all the busyness while giving you sincere, heartfelt permission to do nothing.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2020
235 people are currently reading
1999 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 303 reviews
September 20, 2020
Review from an actual Dutch person:
We’ve all seen those trendy lifestyle books based a specific aspect of certain cultures: hygge, ikigai, lagom… and now “niksen”, which is apparently the Dutch art of doing nothing.
I picked up an advance reader’s copy of this book because I was curious what it would be like to read about Dutch culture from an outsider’s perspective, and because I'm always looking for new books on being more mindful and staying off my phone. It was certainly interesting and mostly accurate (we do love us some bitterballen), but as a born-and-raised Dutch person, I can assure you that “niksen” is a concept that was made up to cash in on the current trend of lifestyle books, and is not something that anyone here would consider a vital part of our culture. I felt like the book was more of a celebration of Dutch culture rather than actually being about the concept of doing nothing.
(If you want to see peak Dutch culture in action, get yourself invited to a kringverjaardag (a birthday party where all the chairs are set up in a circle) where, after congratulating each and every guest with the birthday of the jarige, you can enjoy blokjes jong belegen kaas (little blocks of cheese, often with tiny paper Dutch flags in them) and plakjes leverworst (sausage slices) while talking to someone's neighbor or relative about God knows what, feeling completely and utterly uncomfortable.)
I frequently found myself bored by this book and I really had to force myself to pick it back up every day. I was relieved when it was over. The book was too long and repetitive, and after reading a chapter I felt like I read nothing of substance. This book could have stayed the article it originally was.
I liked that the author emphasized that “niksen” isn’t for everyone. It may work for you, it may not. For my ADHD brain, it does not. Brb gonna hand in my Dutch passport. :(
I guess I’d recommend it to people who are interested in the Netherlands, but not necessarily to people who are interested in learning to do nothing. Check these out instead: How to Break Up with Your Phone: The 30-Day Plan to Take Back Your Life is a good one about reducing your smartphone use, and on my to-read list is How to Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy, about actually doing nothing.
Disclaimer: A digital copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher (via NetGalley) in exchange for a review. In no way does this affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
We’ve all seen those trendy lifestyle books based a specific aspect of certain cultures: hygge, ikigai, lagom… and now “niksen”, which is apparently the Dutch art of doing nothing.
I picked up an advance reader’s copy of this book because I was curious what it would be like to read about Dutch culture from an outsider’s perspective, and because I'm always looking for new books on being more mindful and staying off my phone. It was certainly interesting and mostly accurate (we do love us some bitterballen), but as a born-and-raised Dutch person, I can assure you that “niksen” is a concept that was made up to cash in on the current trend of lifestyle books, and is not something that anyone here would consider a vital part of our culture. I felt like the book was more of a celebration of Dutch culture rather than actually being about the concept of doing nothing.
(If you want to see peak Dutch culture in action, get yourself invited to a kringverjaardag (a birthday party where all the chairs are set up in a circle) where, after congratulating each and every guest with the birthday of the jarige, you can enjoy blokjes jong belegen kaas (little blocks of cheese, often with tiny paper Dutch flags in them) and plakjes leverworst (sausage slices) while talking to someone's neighbor or relative about God knows what, feeling completely and utterly uncomfortable.)
I frequently found myself bored by this book and I really had to force myself to pick it back up every day. I was relieved when it was over. The book was too long and repetitive, and after reading a chapter I felt like I read nothing of substance. This book could have stayed the article it originally was.
I liked that the author emphasized that “niksen” isn’t for everyone. It may work for you, it may not. For my ADHD brain, it does not. Brb gonna hand in my Dutch passport. :(
I guess I’d recommend it to people who are interested in the Netherlands, but not necessarily to people who are interested in learning to do nothing. Check these out instead: How to Break Up with Your Phone: The 30-Day Plan to Take Back Your Life is a good one about reducing your smartphone use, and on my to-read list is How to Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy, about actually doing nothing.
Disclaimer: A digital copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher (via NetGalley) in exchange for a review. In no way does this affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
October 15, 2020
Many an off-day my (not-Dutch) friend would text me asking what I was up to, to which my answer would be ‘nothing’. And almost every time he would tell me to get of my lazy ass (after which I would inform him there is absolutely nothing wrong with my ass).
And then I saw this book on Netgalley and I just Had to read it. Because 1) I liked confirmation that I am not lazy, 2) I like to read/hear/see how other countries see us Dutchies, 3) how can one write 250 pages about doing nothing, and 4) if this doing nothing could make me happy, I needed to more about it.
And so I started this book. And foremost, Olga can definitely write. She has a very pleasant ‘voice’, making this an incredibly easy, accessible and just fun book. And sure, there were parts I couldn’t relate to. I don’t have kids, I don’t work in an office, … and still she managed to make even those paragraphs interesting.
However, I couldn’t quite connect to it. I spend a lot of the book thinking ‘yes, but…’. And that but was answered about 70% into the book. Because, the main reason I do nothing isn’t because I am taking a break. It is because I cannot motivate myself to get out of bed, so am just staring at the ceiling counting down the time till it is acceptable to go back to sleep. Until I inevitably have to go and take a piss.
Niksen is ‘doing something without a purpose’, allowing your mind to wander. It isn’t watching a movie, scrolling on Facebook, procrastinating, mindfulness or emotional labor. And guess what, the last thing I want on those days is for my mind to go wandering about. And luckily Olga says: ‘Just like any other trend, niksen may not work for everyone. [It] is simply not a good idea in some circumstances.’ One of those circumstances is being depressed, burnt-out, down, unmotivated (to get out of bed).
So, did I just read a book that book for nothing? Well, no… For one, I really liked the chapter about Dutch culture and send so many screenshots of it to my (not-Dutch) husband. Two, I won’t be down forever. I hope. So even though this book isn’t applicable to me now, it still made me aware of a ‘tool’ I could use in future. Three, the cheats.
Not everyone can just go and do nothing. So Olga showed us some things we can do whilst doing nothing, things that don’t take much thinking capacity, cheating our brain. Like listening to music, creating something (colouring, puzzling, knitting), and going for a walk. And guess what, I already do the later two… whilst listening to my audiobooks. So maybe there is hope yet for this Dutchie to one day master the Art of Doing Nothing.
And then I saw this book on Netgalley and I just Had to read it. Because 1) I liked confirmation that I am not lazy, 2) I like to read/hear/see how other countries see us Dutchies, 3) how can one write 250 pages about doing nothing, and 4) if this doing nothing could make me happy, I needed to more about it.
And so I started this book. And foremost, Olga can definitely write. She has a very pleasant ‘voice’, making this an incredibly easy, accessible and just fun book. And sure, there were parts I couldn’t relate to. I don’t have kids, I don’t work in an office, … and still she managed to make even those paragraphs interesting.
However, I couldn’t quite connect to it. I spend a lot of the book thinking ‘yes, but…’. And that but was answered about 70% into the book. Because, the main reason I do nothing isn’t because I am taking a break. It is because I cannot motivate myself to get out of bed, so am just staring at the ceiling counting down the time till it is acceptable to go back to sleep. Until I inevitably have to go and take a piss.
Niksen is ‘doing something without a purpose’, allowing your mind to wander. It isn’t watching a movie, scrolling on Facebook, procrastinating, mindfulness or emotional labor. And guess what, the last thing I want on those days is for my mind to go wandering about. And luckily Olga says: ‘Just like any other trend, niksen may not work for everyone. [It] is simply not a good idea in some circumstances.’ One of those circumstances is being depressed, burnt-out, down, unmotivated (to get out of bed).
So, did I just read a book that book for nothing? Well, no… For one, I really liked the chapter about Dutch culture and send so many screenshots of it to my (not-Dutch) husband. Two, I won’t be down forever. I hope. So even though this book isn’t applicable to me now, it still made me aware of a ‘tool’ I could use in future. Three, the cheats.
Not everyone can just go and do nothing. So Olga showed us some things we can do whilst doing nothing, things that don’t take much thinking capacity, cheating our brain. Like listening to music, creating something (colouring, puzzling, knitting), and going for a walk. And guess what, I already do the later two… whilst listening to my audiobooks. So maybe there is hope yet for this Dutchie to one day master the Art of Doing Nothing.
July 29, 2020
Oh how I adore this colorful guide to doing nothing, a practice the Dutch have perfected. The cover and illustrations are lively, the message reassuring and perhaps even lifesaving in this time of high anxiety. To wit: Doing less can make you happier, healthier and even more productive. Backed by scientific evidence and brimming with helpful examples, NIKSEN receives my highest marks!
5 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 12 Jan 2021
Thanks to the author, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are mine.
#Niksen #NetGalley
5 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 12 Jan 2021
Thanks to the author, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are mine.
#Niksen #NetGalley
December 19, 2020
Like many other readers, I really enjoyed Meik Wiking's book on the Danish wellness concepts/ practices of Hygge and Lykke. So when I saw a book purporting to be about a Dutch lifestyle/ wellness practice, I was intrigued. And then I was delighted to be approved for an advanced digital copy from #NetGalley and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. The artistic layout of the book is attractive, and the concept of purposefully doing nothing sounded not only good in general, but especially good for the nonstop, ever growing stressors of life in 2020.
Here's the thing, though. Not only did readers like myself enjoy Wiking's books and similar, but publishers and authors presumably enjoyed the hype and sales that went along with those books. And so marketing another book as similar to those books became an increasing likelihood. Which would be fine, if that's what the book was actually about. But I realized early on in the book, actually still in the foreword by the author, that this book is not like those previous popular books. Why? Because those books were about recognized Danish concepts and practices. Whereas Niksen is a concept made up by an author who is not Dutch, and who has admittedly only lived in the Netherlands for ten years. Regardless of her argument that being an outsider allows her to observe more objectively observe what the Dutch DO, not what they think they do, I still feel there's a basic level of disingenuousness in presenting and marketing a book as being about a Dutch practice when Mecking herself says in the introduction, "Critics, most of them Dutch, have accused me of pulling a trend out of thin air." If the people you are writing about tell you it isn't a practice in their culture, then maybe you should listen to them.
Does this make the concept of doing nothing a bad one? No, and I'm sure that the rest of the book lays out a lot of useful tips on how the practice of doing nothing can contribute to our overall well-being. However, that makes it a book about a wellness principle and practice, not a specifically Dutch cultural practice. Mecking goes on to say in the introduction "As you will find out, many cultures have some concept of doing nothing." If this is a general concept common to many cultures, why not write it and market it as such? Was this merely a decision by cynical publishers? Or a good faith but questionable approach originating with the author?
Either way, I found I had lost interest in the book, and did not read further than the introduction. I will probably try to find writing on the actual subject--the benefit of spending time specifically doing nothing, or as Mecking says, a practice that "does not mean to work, to perform emotional labor, or to be mindful." Mecking cites another author in the introduction, Jenny Odell, who wrote "How to do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy," and I may go look that book up instead, as I know what to expect with a title like that, and won't be receiving something misleadingly marketed as a cultural practice of a specific country.
Thanks anyway to #NetGalley and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for this temporary digital advanced readers' copy of #Niksen by Olga Mecking. This is my honest opinion.
Here's the thing, though. Not only did readers like myself enjoy Wiking's books and similar, but publishers and authors presumably enjoyed the hype and sales that went along with those books. And so marketing another book as similar to those books became an increasing likelihood. Which would be fine, if that's what the book was actually about. But I realized early on in the book, actually still in the foreword by the author, that this book is not like those previous popular books. Why? Because those books were about recognized Danish concepts and practices. Whereas Niksen is a concept made up by an author who is not Dutch, and who has admittedly only lived in the Netherlands for ten years. Regardless of her argument that being an outsider allows her to observe more objectively observe what the Dutch DO, not what they think they do, I still feel there's a basic level of disingenuousness in presenting and marketing a book as being about a Dutch practice when Mecking herself says in the introduction, "Critics, most of them Dutch, have accused me of pulling a trend out of thin air." If the people you are writing about tell you it isn't a practice in their culture, then maybe you should listen to them.
Does this make the concept of doing nothing a bad one? No, and I'm sure that the rest of the book lays out a lot of useful tips on how the practice of doing nothing can contribute to our overall well-being. However, that makes it a book about a wellness principle and practice, not a specifically Dutch cultural practice. Mecking goes on to say in the introduction "As you will find out, many cultures have some concept of doing nothing." If this is a general concept common to many cultures, why not write it and market it as such? Was this merely a decision by cynical publishers? Or a good faith but questionable approach originating with the author?
Either way, I found I had lost interest in the book, and did not read further than the introduction. I will probably try to find writing on the actual subject--the benefit of spending time specifically doing nothing, or as Mecking says, a practice that "does not mean to work, to perform emotional labor, or to be mindful." Mecking cites another author in the introduction, Jenny Odell, who wrote "How to do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy," and I may go look that book up instead, as I know what to expect with a title like that, and won't be receiving something misleadingly marketed as a cultural practice of a specific country.
Thanks anyway to #NetGalley and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for this temporary digital advanced readers' copy of #Niksen by Olga Mecking. This is my honest opinion.
June 21, 2021
Another book that wants to be Hygge or Marie Kondo but isn’t cozy or life-changing. Mostly a ramble about how awesome the Netherlands is rather than useful instructions for me on how to feel great doing absolutely nothing.
See more of my reviews: Instagram
See more of my reviews: Instagram
March 31, 2022
“Să fii un om al zilelor noastre este epuizant.”
“Să mănânci sănătos, să faci constant exerciții fizice și să păstrezi curățenia în casă - toate acestea înseamnă grijă de sine. Așa încât puteți adăuga pe lista voastră și un pic de niks și să nu vă simțiți prost că nu faceți nimic; la urma urmelor, sunt aproape sigură că nu vă simțiți prost nici dacă mâncați sănătos."
"Și cu toate că am spus că niksen nu înseamnă muncă, aici voi face o excepție: este munca de a avea grijă de tine.”
“Să mănânci sănătos, să faci constant exerciții fizice și să păstrezi curățenia în casă - toate acestea înseamnă grijă de sine. Așa încât puteți adăuga pe lista voastră și un pic de niks și să nu vă simțiți prost că nu faceți nimic; la urma urmelor, sunt aproape sigură că nu vă simțiți prost nici dacă mâncați sănătos."
"Și cu toate că am spus că niksen nu înseamnă muncă, aici voi face o excepție: este munca de a avea grijă de tine.”
February 8, 2021
I preface this by saying that I have read and very much enjoyed all of Meik Wieking's books and my experience with those books is what drew me to request a copy of Niksen. Perhaps I went in with the wrong expectations, but in any case, I was disappointed.
I had difficulty completing this book. While Mecking can certainly write capably, I do not think there was enough here to constitute a book. I know she wrote a popular article on this topic, and I'm sure there was more to say than could be contained in an article, but this book felt padded.
While Wieking is skilled at weaving research into personal observations and insights about his topic, I did not find the same here. It did not feel integrated, rather choppy and at at times rather disjointed.
But most surprising for me is the fact that this concept of Niksen turns out to be one that the author herself invented, inspired by the Dutch culture, rather than one that has existed within the culture for years (like hygge in Denmark for example). I mean, the author is transparent about it, which is important, but it left me with a definite, "What?" reaction when it was revealed. It was disappointing and inspired a double take on my part. I almost set the book down at that point. Fair enough, you can notice that the Dutch in general seem to be good at "doing nothing" but there is something about creating a term and running with it that felt perhaps that the author was trying to jump on the very successful Nordic lifestyle book bandwagon.
If framed differently, perhaps as a deeper look at how people in different cultures around the world practice "doing nothing", this book might have come off more successfully.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this title in exchange for my honest review.
I had difficulty completing this book. While Mecking can certainly write capably, I do not think there was enough here to constitute a book. I know she wrote a popular article on this topic, and I'm sure there was more to say than could be contained in an article, but this book felt padded.
While Wieking is skilled at weaving research into personal observations and insights about his topic, I did not find the same here. It did not feel integrated, rather choppy and at at times rather disjointed.
But most surprising for me is the fact that this concept of Niksen turns out to be one that the author herself invented, inspired by the Dutch culture, rather than one that has existed within the culture for years (like hygge in Denmark for example). I mean, the author is transparent about it, which is important, but it left me with a definite, "What?" reaction when it was revealed. It was disappointing and inspired a double take on my part. I almost set the book down at that point. Fair enough, you can notice that the Dutch in general seem to be good at "doing nothing" but there is something about creating a term and running with it that felt perhaps that the author was trying to jump on the very successful Nordic lifestyle book bandwagon.
If framed differently, perhaps as a deeper look at how people in different cultures around the world practice "doing nothing", this book might have come off more successfully.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this title in exchange for my honest review.
December 20, 2021
I'm Dutch and I thought this book was quite difficult to get behind. I've read the Little book of Hygge, which I thought was a good book about a concept that's well explained and is something that you can actually write a whole book about. "Niksen" just isn't something in that line. I read a lot in this book about my country and Dutch people that I completely couldn't get behind, from acting like the entire country is solely like the major cities to calling the tiniest characteristics as typically Dutch.
The whole concept of "niksen" is barely talked about in this book. There's so much talk around the subject, talking about other concepts, the country, or ideas like busyness, that I felt like the main subject just isn't a big enough thing to fill a whole book with.
"Niksen" in Dutch is simply doing nothing. Absolutely nothing. But when one is doing this, they often aren't literally doing nothing. It's more that they do nothing that has real meaning or productivity to it. People could be sitting down and staring out of the window, or stare into a wall. Though it's not a state of nothing going on in your head or something. You're often thinking about something or daydreaming or whatever, but not literally nothing. It's not meditation where you focus on having minimal thoughts.
Because this concept is so limited and is more a state of what you're doing at the moment, it's not worth looking that deep into. In that case the concept of hygge is more interesting, as it focuses on many aspects together to create a hygge situation. Or like the Dutch "gezelligheid" where you take different aspects and create a situation that fits this term.
I can appreciate trying to find meaning behind behaviour, but this unfortunately missed the spot for me.
The whole concept of "niksen" is barely talked about in this book. There's so much talk around the subject, talking about other concepts, the country, or ideas like busyness, that I felt like the main subject just isn't a big enough thing to fill a whole book with.
"Niksen" in Dutch is simply doing nothing. Absolutely nothing. But when one is doing this, they often aren't literally doing nothing. It's more that they do nothing that has real meaning or productivity to it. People could be sitting down and staring out of the window, or stare into a wall. Though it's not a state of nothing going on in your head or something. You're often thinking about something or daydreaming or whatever, but not literally nothing. It's not meditation where you focus on having minimal thoughts.
Because this concept is so limited and is more a state of what you're doing at the moment, it's not worth looking that deep into. In that case the concept of hygge is more interesting, as it focuses on many aspects together to create a hygge situation. Or like the Dutch "gezelligheid" where you take different aspects and create a situation that fits this term.
I can appreciate trying to find meaning behind behaviour, but this unfortunately missed the spot for me.
September 4, 2023
I saw a post on FB about Niksen. Then realized it's a Dutch thing. And I realized I'm NOT good at niksening. I'm the type of person who cannot sit and relax until my mental "to do" list for the day is done. So I need to practice this more. It's the art of doing nothing for small lengths of time, in order to help relax your mind and body. The book talks about Niksen, (called other things in other countries) but I loved reading so much about Dutch traditions and society. It even mentions the tradition of children eating Hagelslaag (chocolate sprinkles) on bread in the morning. Being a 3rd generation Dutch girl in America, I too learned to do this and taught our kids and Grands to do it too. It also tells us that we have so much information at our fingertips these days with smart phones etc. that we can be addicted to scrolling as a form of relaxing, but it really isn't relaxing. Also, when we niksen (zone out in our minds) sometimes our subconscious will help figure out a problem when we least expect it to. I have had this happen sometimes when I wake up, VOILA! An answer to a problem is right there.
This past week, although I had things "to do", I purposely decided to take time for 3 days in a row to go to our daughter's pool with her and her 3 boys, my Grands. Floating in a pool is a fabulous way to Niksen. I'm very glad I did this.
I also loved that the book is printed in NAVY print. Something I didn't notice until my daughter pointed it out. It is definitely easier on the eyes.
This past week, although I had things "to do", I purposely decided to take time for 3 days in a row to go to our daughter's pool with her and her 3 boys, my Grands. Floating in a pool is a fabulous way to Niksen. I'm very glad I did this.
I also loved that the book is printed in NAVY print. Something I didn't notice until my daughter pointed it out. It is definitely easier on the eyes.
January 10, 2021
Niksen e efectiv definiția unei cărți drăguțe & cozy, de citit la cafea dimineața. Foarte, foarte simpatică, nu pot să zic că vine cu nu știu ce informații noi și valoroase, dar a fost o plăcere să o citesc. Te învață ce important e să îți acorzi câte-un răgaz din când în când.
September 10, 2020
This is a sweet little book about the supposed Dutch habit of Niksen, which the author says is the art of doing nothing and which she admits is a concept that many Dutch people have accused her of making up. It has come at a time when there are lots of similar books being written, all designed to convince us there's a happy magic to be found in just slowing down and not doing so much. I agree with this, but I don't think I'm the target audience as I already live this sort of life. Despite working from home and homeschooling 5 kids (2 graduated now) and living a pretty busy old fashioned life (foraging, gardening, canning, cooking from scratch and the like), I am remarkably capable at doing very little on a regular basis. :) I lie in hot baths reading books on my iPad, sit in the sun in the back yard with my 17 y/o getting sunshine, spend the afternoon at the lake with the kids and so on.
Reading this book seemed like as much a primer on Dutch life (and to some extent, why it's all better over there) as concrete ideas for "niksing." It has cute illustrations and is interesting, but I found it rather forgettable, unfortunately. It would be a great fit for someone who needs to be convinced to put down their iPhone, start saying no to extra commitments (which I suspect the pandemic has helped many do anyway) and just slow down. If you need someone to tell you why this might be a good idea or point you in some good directions to start, this will be a handy and encouraging little book.
I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for review.
Reading this book seemed like as much a primer on Dutch life (and to some extent, why it's all better over there) as concrete ideas for "niksing." It has cute illustrations and is interesting, but I found it rather forgettable, unfortunately. It would be a great fit for someone who needs to be convinced to put down their iPhone, start saying no to extra commitments (which I suspect the pandemic has helped many do anyway) and just slow down. If you need someone to tell you why this might be a good idea or point you in some good directions to start, this will be a handy and encouraging little book.
I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for review.
February 22, 2021
This was such an interesting book to read! I hadn't expected to fly through a non fiction book as I did with this one. The subjects touched upon in this book were all very interesting and insightful. It really IS important to take some time off for 'Niksening'. Mecking doesn't portray 'Niksen' as THE solution for peace and calmness in your life, and also clearly makes sure that it doesn't always work for everyone. I really liked that, as some self help books tend to portray their methods as THE perfect solution. This wasn't the case for Niksen!
As a person living in a neighboring country of the Netherlands, and as a Dutch speaking person as well, I think I liked this book even more. I loved reading some more about the beautiful Netherlands.
I really enjoyed this book and found it to be very interesting! If you're interested in how to implement 'niksen' into your own life, I would definitely recommend reading this book.
Thank you Netgalley and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This in no way affected my opinion.
As a person living in a neighboring country of the Netherlands, and as a Dutch speaking person as well, I think I liked this book even more. I loved reading some more about the beautiful Netherlands.
I really enjoyed this book and found it to be very interesting! If you're interested in how to implement 'niksen' into your own life, I would definitely recommend reading this book.
Thank you Netgalley and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This in no way affected my opinion.
January 28, 2023
This book is written from the perspective of a journalist based in the Netherlands about the art of doing nothing.
Niksen is a dutch word that means “doing nothing”. Most of the author’s insights are based on what she observes about the dutch culture in embracing the practice of doing nothing in this fast-paced era.
Before I pick up this book, I expect for it to be a good read and satisfy me but alas, I don’t really enjoy the content. As much as I try to like it and take all of the messages, this book is not for me.
Big thanks to @putrifariza @times.reads for this book!
Niksen is a dutch word that means “doing nothing”. Most of the author’s insights are based on what she observes about the dutch culture in embracing the practice of doing nothing in this fast-paced era.
Before I pick up this book, I expect for it to be a good read and satisfy me but alas, I don’t really enjoy the content. As much as I try to like it and take all of the messages, this book is not for me.
Big thanks to @putrifariza @times.reads for this book!
February 7, 2021
Cartea care-mi însoțește cafeaua de 2 zile deja. Îmi place faptul că în sfârșit pot să-i zic mamei că ceea ce-mi place mie cel mai mult să fac - adică să stau și să visez cu ochii deschiși - e o artă. Și n-o zic eu, ci o zice Olguța.
Trecând peste, îmi place cartea asta. E lejeră, treci rapid prin ea, prezintă informații utile și ne arată faptul că statul nu se asociază cu "degeaba", ci cu "creativitate" , "relaxare" și "productivitate crescută" .
Trecând peste, îmi place cartea asta. E lejeră, treci rapid prin ea, prezintă informații utile și ne arată faptul că statul nu se asociază cu "degeaba", ci cu "creativitate" , "relaxare" și "productivitate crescută" .
August 21, 2021
Setelah membaca beberapa buku soal gaya hidup dalam suatu budaya seperti Lagom, Hygge, Sisu, Nunchi, dan lain-lain, saya sebetulnya cukup skeptis terhadap buku ini. Namun, saya memang sedang menaruh perhatian pada buku-buku bertemakan istirahat dan 'slowing down', jadi saya memutuskan untuk coba membacanya dulu dan tidak menyesal.
Buku ini membahas soal 'niksen' konsep budaya Belanda yang bermakna tidak melakukan apa-apa alias 'do nothing' di era yang sangat sibuk ini. Di awal, buku ini membahas budaya Belanda dan kenapa Belanda disebut sebagai negara yang bahagia. Bagian ini menurut saya kurang komprehensif karena ada kecenderungan cherry picking dan dicocok-cocokkan, misalnya orang Belanda disebut bahagia karena banyak jajanan manis dan berlemak. (Apa piscok kurang manis dan berlemak?)
Namun bab-bab selanjutnya menarik dan relevan sekali untuk dibaca orang seperti saya, misalnya soal kenapa di era sekarang kita sulit sekali bahkan merasa bersalah untuk istirahat atau 'tidak melakukan apa-apa' bahkan hanya untuk sejenak. Ada juga pembahasan soal kenapa perempuan lebih sulit untuk 'niksen' dibandingkan laki-laki, dan kalau ditinjau dari sisi evolusi, apakah memang manusia 'tidak bisa berdiam diri'?
Buku ini juga menjelaskan manfaat dari istirahat dan tidak melakukan apa-apa secara ilmiah. Secara umum, bagian ini tidak banyak berbeda dari buku lain yang membahas soal istirahat dan produktivitas, tapi jika ini buku pertama Anda yang bertema 'pentingnya istirahat untuk produktivitas', buku ini membahasnya dengan baik.
Bagian favorit saya justru bagian akhir dimana penulis menuliskan apa yang ada dalam pikiran saya: gaya hidup dari suatu budaya tidak bisa serta merta diaplikasikan ke kebudayaan kita. Kita perlu lebih kritis dalam menangkap esensinya dan menyesuaikan dengan situasi kita. Saya sangat setuju. Lebih dari itu, penulis juga menjelaskan bahwa 'niksen' bukan satu-satunya jawaban untuk segala permasalahan kelelahan modern. Olga menjabarkan alternatif-alternatif 'tidak melakukan apa-apa' dan membuat daftar 'Kiat-Kiat Niksen Praktis' di bagian terakhir.
Layak dibaca? Ya, terutama untuk kita yang masih mempertanyakan apakah kita perlu merasa bersalah untuk 'leha-leha'.
Buku ini membahas soal 'niksen' konsep budaya Belanda yang bermakna tidak melakukan apa-apa alias 'do nothing' di era yang sangat sibuk ini. Di awal, buku ini membahas budaya Belanda dan kenapa Belanda disebut sebagai negara yang bahagia. Bagian ini menurut saya kurang komprehensif karena ada kecenderungan cherry picking dan dicocok-cocokkan, misalnya orang Belanda disebut bahagia karena banyak jajanan manis dan berlemak. (Apa piscok kurang manis dan berlemak?)
Namun bab-bab selanjutnya menarik dan relevan sekali untuk dibaca orang seperti saya, misalnya soal kenapa di era sekarang kita sulit sekali bahkan merasa bersalah untuk istirahat atau 'tidak melakukan apa-apa' bahkan hanya untuk sejenak. Ada juga pembahasan soal kenapa perempuan lebih sulit untuk 'niksen' dibandingkan laki-laki, dan kalau ditinjau dari sisi evolusi, apakah memang manusia 'tidak bisa berdiam diri'?
Buku ini juga menjelaskan manfaat dari istirahat dan tidak melakukan apa-apa secara ilmiah. Secara umum, bagian ini tidak banyak berbeda dari buku lain yang membahas soal istirahat dan produktivitas, tapi jika ini buku pertama Anda yang bertema 'pentingnya istirahat untuk produktivitas', buku ini membahasnya dengan baik.
Bagian favorit saya justru bagian akhir dimana penulis menuliskan apa yang ada dalam pikiran saya: gaya hidup dari suatu budaya tidak bisa serta merta diaplikasikan ke kebudayaan kita. Kita perlu lebih kritis dalam menangkap esensinya dan menyesuaikan dengan situasi kita. Saya sangat setuju. Lebih dari itu, penulis juga menjelaskan bahwa 'niksen' bukan satu-satunya jawaban untuk segala permasalahan kelelahan modern. Olga menjabarkan alternatif-alternatif 'tidak melakukan apa-apa' dan membuat daftar 'Kiat-Kiat Niksen Praktis' di bagian terakhir.
Layak dibaca? Ya, terutama untuk kita yang masih mempertanyakan apakah kita perlu merasa bersalah untuk 'leha-leha'.
March 24, 2021
This book makes a big deal out of how it's not like other wellness trends (eg mindfulness, meditation, essential oils, etc) but that's mostly because it doesn't seem to have any substance at all. What is niksen? It's nothing. Like, it's actually not anything. It's spacing out I guess? Which is fine, but are you trying to tell me that there are lots of people out there who never do it? People who never stare into space, or sit there with a cup of coffee in the morning not thinking about anything? It just seemed to me like the author is saying that this is a "thing" she's discovered that we all need to do...but to me it seems like of course we all do that already, all the time.
If her point was that we should refrain from mindlessly reaching for our phones anytime we have a free minute, then ok point taken but then I think we're moving into mindfulness, which is indeed already a wellness trend, and has been covered thoroughly already.
Have to mention that some of the people she references/quotes in the book are questionable. There's one whose title is like "Former model, parenting expert, and wellness enthusiast" or something along those lines. I'm not sure I want to put a ton of stock in that.
I thought there just wasn't a lot of substance here. A lot of filler, talking about the culture of the Netherlands (which was fun and interesting!) but it also sounds like all the Dutch people she talked to (she is not Dutch btw) kind of pushed back against the idea of niksen, but that didn't stop her. Anyway I would have given it only two stars HOWEVER the artwork is absolutely gorgeous and I can't get enough of it.
If her point was that we should refrain from mindlessly reaching for our phones anytime we have a free minute, then ok point taken but then I think we're moving into mindfulness, which is indeed already a wellness trend, and has been covered thoroughly already.
Have to mention that some of the people she references/quotes in the book are questionable. There's one whose title is like "Former model, parenting expert, and wellness enthusiast" or something along those lines. I'm not sure I want to put a ton of stock in that.
I thought there just wasn't a lot of substance here. A lot of filler, talking about the culture of the Netherlands (which was fun and interesting!) but it also sounds like all the Dutch people she talked to (she is not Dutch btw) kind of pushed back against the idea of niksen, but that didn't stop her. Anyway I would have given it only two stars HOWEVER the artwork is absolutely gorgeous and I can't get enough of it.
January 6, 2021
I had high hopes going into this book, mostly because I think that it is important that people learn to really do nothing, but this book didn't really follow through on the why or how though.
Which made it feel more like a new trendy thing rather than something that we should be trying to implement into our lives for the long term.
If you're looking for a book that feels more like it's written for the long term I'd recommend "How to Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy" by Jenny Odell
*I received a free copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for a review, all opinions are my own*
Which made it feel more like a new trendy thing rather than something that we should be trying to implement into our lives for the long term.
If you're looking for a book that feels more like it's written for the long term I'd recommend "How to Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy" by Jenny Odell
*I received a free copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for a review, all opinions are my own*
February 9, 2021
Fascinating Information
This book looks at life and examines how we fill days with work and activities — until we are not taking time to recharge and care for our brains by actually taking time to do nothing — which is actually very helpful. This well- organized book explains the ins and outs to fully understand what is involved. No special equipment to buy! No fancy clothing required! It can be done anywhere (unless you would get in trouble at work for doing nothing). These ideas are sure to sweep the world.
This book looks at life and examines how we fill days with work and activities — until we are not taking time to recharge and care for our brains by actually taking time to do nothing — which is actually very helpful. This well- organized book explains the ins and outs to fully understand what is involved. No special equipment to buy! No fancy clothing required! It can be done anywhere (unless you would get in trouble at work for doing nothing). These ideas are sure to sweep the world.
December 7, 2020
Sheds a light on what Niksen is and what it isn't. This is crucial because it's hard to think about another movement that competes with mindfulness, self-care, meditation etc. Particularly useful are some Dutch ideas and cultural markers that give the art of Niksen plenty of context and to see how it can work for the reader.
Thanks to the publisher for letting me read early.
Thanks to the publisher for letting me read early.
January 30, 2025
De schrijfstijl is medium en de bronvermeldingen redelijk vaag, maar de grote lijn en het concept vind ik echt fantastisch!
August 14, 2022
As someone who has a problem with slowing down, relaxing, and doing nothing, I was intrigued by the premise of this book which aims to tech the reader how to embrace Niksen, the Dutch art of doing nothing.
“Niksen” consists of an introduction, six chapters, and an epilogue. Following the epilogue, the book also consists of the nikseneers’ manifesto, quick niksen tips, niksen tips from the Dutch, acknowledgments, bibliography, and an index.
Each chapter discusses a different aspect of the niksen way and also proves interesting facts, stories, or expert opinions from people living in the Netherlands or researchers who study some aspect of niksen. At the end of each chapter, Mecking provides three questions to niks on in ones free time.
In the introduction, Mecking begins with an idealistic life of being the perfect mother, wife, while having an organized house and well behaved children. Quickly, Mecking shares that the idealistic life she was previously referring to doesn’t exist and her desire to do nothing. Wonders when doing nothing became frowned upon except when collapsing from exhaustion. Further in the introduction, Mecking clarifies what Niksen aka niks is which is not to work, perform emotional labor, or to get mindful and what niks is not which is browsing Facebook, sitting and worrying about children, or meditating. I appreciate that Mecking discloses that as an outsider living in the Netherlands for over ten years, it has provided her with a unique perspective and opportunity to become closely attuned to the local customs. Likewise, I appreciate that Mecking is not presenting herself as an expert in niks but instead using this book as a way to share the extensive research she has obtained on this specific topic.
In chapter one, Mecking helps readers become familiar with the concept of niksen, the ways to approach doing nothing, and how people feel about niksen. Niksen is best defined as “doing something without a purpose, like staying out of a window, hangout out, or listening to music. Interesting to learning different ways people do nothing around the world such as dolce far niente in Italy, siesta in Spain, Sabbath (which is performed by the Jewish as well as seventh day Adventists,) and Wu-Wei by the Chinese. The is very little consensus of what Niksen is. Niksen is not working, not emotional labor, not laziness or boredom, mindfulness, reading books, watching TV, or browsing social media.
In chapter two, Mecking focuses on the Netherlands, presents her observations on the country as well as its ways of being. Mecking shares personal connection to the Netherlands through her grandfathers being the Polish ambassador to the Netherlands and mother lived there for eight years as well as her return to the Netherlands as an adult with a child. Interesting to read comparison between Netherlands country size with United States. Tiny county with tallest people averaging 6 feet tall. Reading the book makes me long to go to the Netherlands due to the slower pace of life, friendliness, and low stress levels. Oddly enough, researchers say it’s hard to make friends with the Dutch due to a tight knit society where people live in whole town or are their whole life. The Dutch are content, not happy. Like that the Dutch believes in everyone doing their own things, live and let live. Emotional outbursts are frowned upon and actions speak for themselves. Decisions are made by consensus and compromise. Flat work hierarchy.
In chapter three, Mecking explains where the need to be constantly busy comes from and what it does to ones health and social life. Mecking shares her attempts to niks which is quickly thwarted by thoughts of work and children. Presents history of busyness stemming from ancient times with a clear separation between work and leisure after the industrial revolution.Busyness is now used as an alternative status symbol since if you’re busy all the time, it means you are sought after. Niks can help with work/life balance and can lead to more work productivity.Fascinating that research shows that it’s easier for men to niks than women and that women are willing sacrifice their own leisure time for their husbands. Doing nothing is unheard of among women. People now self soothe with devices and screens instead of soothing from within. Dependence of tech also blur work life and personal life which leads to employers expecting employees to be constantly available.
In chapter four, Mecking shows how niksen can positively affect one’s life. Also shows that the brain is always active, even when doing nothing. Implies that niksen is brain’s default mode which is deactivated when motivated by external stimuli, an inner drive or anxiety. Workers view productivity by how many hours worked instead of getting a lot accomplished. Discussed procrastination and defines three three types of procrastinators which are anxious procrastinator, disgusted procrastinator, and manipulative procrastinator.
In chapter five, Mecking teaches the reader how to introduce and embrace niksen in work, home, and in public. Encourages reader to own their nothingness time as a way to prevent work burnout. Introduces concept of “FaceTime culture” which expects employees to never leave work before the boss. Recommends bosses to show self niks ring which will in turn lead to employees taking niksen themselves. Recommends niking at work by really taking a break by taking a walk and not continuing work. Recommends niking at home by reorganizing your environment, teach children to learn to entertain themselves, and do nothing as a family. Recommends niking in public by incorporating niksen during sports by leaving phone at home and not listening to music or finding a Niksen friendly hobby opposite from life currently lived. Suggests two ways to niks by either planning it or doing it spontaneously.
In chapter six, Mecking talks about situations in which niksen doesn’t work and addresses some of the criticism it has received. Says that niksen might not work for all due to culture and economic circumstances. Niksen can be used often, sporadically, or not at all. Mecking says that readers should not attempt niking if they are depressed, if it could get you in trouble if you have a job where you’re constantly monitored, or when there is nothing wrong in your life and your life is good enough. Liked was to trick brain into doing niks such as listen to music, create something,play, go for a walk, ride your bike, and listen to your body.
In the epilogue, Mecking ends the book by providing an update on her niksen journey as well as looking to the future and how niksen can help with productivity, picking and choosing things from other cultures, and looking for contentment instead of happiness.
Enjoyed the three appendix items consisting of the nikseeneers’ manifesto, quick niksen tips, and niksen tips from the Dutch.
As I finished reading this book, I liked that the concept of Niksen doesn’t require adding something new to ones life but instead requires that the reader takes the time to stop and learn to do nothing without feeling guilty or unworthy. In addition, I appreciated that Mecking works to remove the stigma of doing nothing, removes shame at taking time to not being active all the time, and encourages the reader to not view themselves as lazy or doing nothing as unimportant.
“Niksen” consists of an introduction, six chapters, and an epilogue. Following the epilogue, the book also consists of the nikseneers’ manifesto, quick niksen tips, niksen tips from the Dutch, acknowledgments, bibliography, and an index.
Each chapter discusses a different aspect of the niksen way and also proves interesting facts, stories, or expert opinions from people living in the Netherlands or researchers who study some aspect of niksen. At the end of each chapter, Mecking provides three questions to niks on in ones free time.
In the introduction, Mecking begins with an idealistic life of being the perfect mother, wife, while having an organized house and well behaved children. Quickly, Mecking shares that the idealistic life she was previously referring to doesn’t exist and her desire to do nothing. Wonders when doing nothing became frowned upon except when collapsing from exhaustion. Further in the introduction, Mecking clarifies what Niksen aka niks is which is not to work, perform emotional labor, or to get mindful and what niks is not which is browsing Facebook, sitting and worrying about children, or meditating. I appreciate that Mecking discloses that as an outsider living in the Netherlands for over ten years, it has provided her with a unique perspective and opportunity to become closely attuned to the local customs. Likewise, I appreciate that Mecking is not presenting herself as an expert in niks but instead using this book as a way to share the extensive research she has obtained on this specific topic.
In chapter one, Mecking helps readers become familiar with the concept of niksen, the ways to approach doing nothing, and how people feel about niksen. Niksen is best defined as “doing something without a purpose, like staying out of a window, hangout out, or listening to music. Interesting to learning different ways people do nothing around the world such as dolce far niente in Italy, siesta in Spain, Sabbath (which is performed by the Jewish as well as seventh day Adventists,) and Wu-Wei by the Chinese. The is very little consensus of what Niksen is. Niksen is not working, not emotional labor, not laziness or boredom, mindfulness, reading books, watching TV, or browsing social media.
In chapter two, Mecking focuses on the Netherlands, presents her observations on the country as well as its ways of being. Mecking shares personal connection to the Netherlands through her grandfathers being the Polish ambassador to the Netherlands and mother lived there for eight years as well as her return to the Netherlands as an adult with a child. Interesting to read comparison between Netherlands country size with United States. Tiny county with tallest people averaging 6 feet tall. Reading the book makes me long to go to the Netherlands due to the slower pace of life, friendliness, and low stress levels. Oddly enough, researchers say it’s hard to make friends with the Dutch due to a tight knit society where people live in whole town or are their whole life. The Dutch are content, not happy. Like that the Dutch believes in everyone doing their own things, live and let live. Emotional outbursts are frowned upon and actions speak for themselves. Decisions are made by consensus and compromise. Flat work hierarchy.
In chapter three, Mecking explains where the need to be constantly busy comes from and what it does to ones health and social life. Mecking shares her attempts to niks which is quickly thwarted by thoughts of work and children. Presents history of busyness stemming from ancient times with a clear separation between work and leisure after the industrial revolution.Busyness is now used as an alternative status symbol since if you’re busy all the time, it means you are sought after. Niks can help with work/life balance and can lead to more work productivity.Fascinating that research shows that it’s easier for men to niks than women and that women are willing sacrifice their own leisure time for their husbands. Doing nothing is unheard of among women. People now self soothe with devices and screens instead of soothing from within. Dependence of tech also blur work life and personal life which leads to employers expecting employees to be constantly available.
In chapter four, Mecking shows how niksen can positively affect one’s life. Also shows that the brain is always active, even when doing nothing. Implies that niksen is brain’s default mode which is deactivated when motivated by external stimuli, an inner drive or anxiety. Workers view productivity by how many hours worked instead of getting a lot accomplished. Discussed procrastination and defines three three types of procrastinators which are anxious procrastinator, disgusted procrastinator, and manipulative procrastinator.
In chapter five, Mecking teaches the reader how to introduce and embrace niksen in work, home, and in public. Encourages reader to own their nothingness time as a way to prevent work burnout. Introduces concept of “FaceTime culture” which expects employees to never leave work before the boss. Recommends bosses to show self niks ring which will in turn lead to employees taking niksen themselves. Recommends niking at work by really taking a break by taking a walk and not continuing work. Recommends niking at home by reorganizing your environment, teach children to learn to entertain themselves, and do nothing as a family. Recommends niking in public by incorporating niksen during sports by leaving phone at home and not listening to music or finding a Niksen friendly hobby opposite from life currently lived. Suggests two ways to niks by either planning it or doing it spontaneously.
In chapter six, Mecking talks about situations in which niksen doesn’t work and addresses some of the criticism it has received. Says that niksen might not work for all due to culture and economic circumstances. Niksen can be used often, sporadically, or not at all. Mecking says that readers should not attempt niking if they are depressed, if it could get you in trouble if you have a job where you’re constantly monitored, or when there is nothing wrong in your life and your life is good enough. Liked was to trick brain into doing niks such as listen to music, create something,play, go for a walk, ride your bike, and listen to your body.
In the epilogue, Mecking ends the book by providing an update on her niksen journey as well as looking to the future and how niksen can help with productivity, picking and choosing things from other cultures, and looking for contentment instead of happiness.
Enjoyed the three appendix items consisting of the nikseeneers’ manifesto, quick niksen tips, and niksen tips from the Dutch.
As I finished reading this book, I liked that the concept of Niksen doesn’t require adding something new to ones life but instead requires that the reader takes the time to stop and learn to do nothing without feeling guilty or unworthy. In addition, I appreciated that Mecking works to remove the stigma of doing nothing, removes shame at taking time to not being active all the time, and encourages the reader to not view themselves as lazy or doing nothing as unimportant.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2020
Samenvatting
Olga zoekt in dit boek uit wat het Nederlandse woord ‘Niksen’ inhoudt en doet dat door dit te vergelijken met alle media en boeken die ze kan vinden. Ook heeft ze met andere Nederlanders gesproken en heeft ze zichzelf onder de loep genomen.
Daarnaast kijkt ze naar de vergelijking met Mindfulness, Wellens- en zelfhulpboeken en de opvoedboeken waarvan ze het idee heeft dat deze op enkele uitzonderingen na erg schadelijk kunnen zijn en het vertrouwen in je eigen capaciteit naar beneden halen. Ze geeft ook uitleg over verschillende trends, die met dit onderwerp te maken hebben.
Quote: ‘Ik ben van mening dat niksen van andere wellnesstrends verschilt, en ik weet zeker dat je het aan het einde van dit boek met me eens zult zijn. Ten eerste vraagt niksen niet van je dat je jezelf verandert of aan jezelf werkt. Andere wellnesstrends doen dat wel. Is dat niet verfrissend?’
Maar de hamvraag luidt: Hebben we niksen nodig?
Mijn mening
Wat mij opvalt zijn de leuke tekeningen die het boek sieren. In elk hoofdstuk komt een ander aspect van de niksen-filosofie aan de orde, die feiten of verhalen omvatten vanuit een breed (vak-)specialisme en daar heeft ze heel veel werk voor moeten doen. Het boek zette me wel aan het denken en het kan geen kwaad om het te proberen. Het enige waar ik moeite mee heb is dat een boek lezen ook tot het ‘Niksen’ wordt bestempeld, voor mij persoonlijk is boeken lezen juist een erg actieve bezigheid.
Conclusie
Het is erg interessant om het begrip ‘Niksen’ in een bepaald perspectief te leren kennen. De hoofdstukken kunnen erg leerzaam zijn, je leest de adviezen, tips en trucks om te proberen, ieder mens is anders en voor velen kan dit daadwerkelijk werken. Ik kan dit boek zeker aanraden en het is niet al te moeilijk geschreven, je leert hierdoor ook om over jezelf na te denken.
Olga zoekt in dit boek uit wat het Nederlandse woord ‘Niksen’ inhoudt en doet dat door dit te vergelijken met alle media en boeken die ze kan vinden. Ook heeft ze met andere Nederlanders gesproken en heeft ze zichzelf onder de loep genomen.
Daarnaast kijkt ze naar de vergelijking met Mindfulness, Wellens- en zelfhulpboeken en de opvoedboeken waarvan ze het idee heeft dat deze op enkele uitzonderingen na erg schadelijk kunnen zijn en het vertrouwen in je eigen capaciteit naar beneden halen. Ze geeft ook uitleg over verschillende trends, die met dit onderwerp te maken hebben.
Quote: ‘Ik ben van mening dat niksen van andere wellnesstrends verschilt, en ik weet zeker dat je het aan het einde van dit boek met me eens zult zijn. Ten eerste vraagt niksen niet van je dat je jezelf verandert of aan jezelf werkt. Andere wellnesstrends doen dat wel. Is dat niet verfrissend?’
Maar de hamvraag luidt: Hebben we niksen nodig?
Mijn mening
Wat mij opvalt zijn de leuke tekeningen die het boek sieren. In elk hoofdstuk komt een ander aspect van de niksen-filosofie aan de orde, die feiten of verhalen omvatten vanuit een breed (vak-)specialisme en daar heeft ze heel veel werk voor moeten doen. Het boek zette me wel aan het denken en het kan geen kwaad om het te proberen. Het enige waar ik moeite mee heb is dat een boek lezen ook tot het ‘Niksen’ wordt bestempeld, voor mij persoonlijk is boeken lezen juist een erg actieve bezigheid.
Conclusie
Het is erg interessant om het begrip ‘Niksen’ in een bepaald perspectief te leren kennen. De hoofdstukken kunnen erg leerzaam zijn, je leest de adviezen, tips en trucks om te proberen, ieder mens is anders en voor velen kan dit daadwerkelijk werken. Ik kan dit boek zeker aanraden en het is niet al te moeilijk geschreven, je leert hierdoor ook om over jezelf na te denken.
March 26, 2021
So yes, I did pick up this little book because it is about the Dutch. But I did pick up a few helpful tips about how to “do nothing.” It is a great reminder to put the phone down and stop obsessing about the latest self-improvement trend. I think this could have good benefits for many parts of life.
It reads a bit like a book report and some of the translation is a bit clunky, but Mecking gets her point across in a readable way. The art and extra pull quotes are a fun and easy way to read through the book quickly, especially on Kindle.
It reads a bit like a book report and some of the translation is a bit clunky, but Mecking gets her point across in a readable way. The art and extra pull quotes are a fun and easy way to read through the book quickly, especially on Kindle.
August 9, 2020
This is a book about doing nothing, but I felt the text said nothing. It was redundant and poorly written without making a point beyond we should all do nothing sometimes. I read half before I gave up. Goodreads rating: 2 stars (it was ok)
I received an ARC from NetGalley. The book will be released on January 21, 2021.
I received an ARC from NetGalley. The book will be released on January 21, 2021.
July 6, 2022
It's a little slow to start - it often feels like she's justifying why the book even exists - but once it gets into the details, it's very good. It's not a self help book, and it's not a wellness book. It has some interesting ideas and things to try. In fact, I'm buying a copy even though I took this one out of the library.
May 8, 2022
This book reminded me of a research paper that a student is writing where they don't have anything more to say but keep trying to stretch it out page after page. The best part of the book was the references she made to other books that sound better than this one, that I added to my Goodreads list.
August 11, 2023
"Niksen: Embracing The Dutch Art Of Doing Nothing" by Olga Mecking is a refreshing book that explores the Dutch concept of niksen, which means doing nothing. The audiobook is narrated by Lucy Price-Lewis, who does an excellent job of bringing the author's words to life. Below, I will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the audiobook.
What I liked:
* Engaging Narration: Lucy Price-Lewis's narration is engaging and easy to listen to. She captures the author's voice and tone perfectly, making it feel like you're having a conversation with a friend.
* Insightful Content: The book provides a fascinating insight into the Dutch culture and their approach to life. It challenges the notion that being busy all the time is a good thing and encourages listeners to embrace the art of doing nothing.
* Practical Tips: The author provides practical tips on how to incorporate niksen into your daily life. She suggests simple activities like taking a walk, staring out of the window, or simply doing nothing for a few minutes.
* Well-Structured: The book is well-structured and easy to follow. It is divided into short chapters, making it easy to listen to in short bursts.
What I didn't like:
* Repetitive Content: Some parts of the book feel repetitive, with the author repeating the same ideas and concepts multiple times. This can make the book feel longer than it needs to be.
* Lack of Depth: While the book provides a good introduction to the concept of niksen, it lacks depth. The author could have explored the topic in more detail, providing more examples and case studies.
Overall, "Niksen: Embracing The Dutch Art Of Doing Nothing" is an enjoyable and insightful audiobook that challenges our obsession with being busy all the time. The narration is engaging, and the content is practical and easy to follow. While the book could have gone deeper into the topic, it provides a good introduction to the concept of niksen. I would recommend this audiobook to anyone looking to slow down and embrace the art of doing nothing.
What I liked:
* Engaging Narration: Lucy Price-Lewis's narration is engaging and easy to listen to. She captures the author's voice and tone perfectly, making it feel like you're having a conversation with a friend.
* Insightful Content: The book provides a fascinating insight into the Dutch culture and their approach to life. It challenges the notion that being busy all the time is a good thing and encourages listeners to embrace the art of doing nothing.
* Practical Tips: The author provides practical tips on how to incorporate niksen into your daily life. She suggests simple activities like taking a walk, staring out of the window, or simply doing nothing for a few minutes.
* Well-Structured: The book is well-structured and easy to follow. It is divided into short chapters, making it easy to listen to in short bursts.
What I didn't like:
* Repetitive Content: Some parts of the book feel repetitive, with the author repeating the same ideas and concepts multiple times. This can make the book feel longer than it needs to be.
* Lack of Depth: While the book provides a good introduction to the concept of niksen, it lacks depth. The author could have explored the topic in more detail, providing more examples and case studies.
Overall, "Niksen: Embracing The Dutch Art Of Doing Nothing" is an enjoyable and insightful audiobook that challenges our obsession with being busy all the time. The narration is engaging, and the content is practical and easy to follow. While the book could have gone deeper into the topic, it provides a good introduction to the concept of niksen. I would recommend this audiobook to anyone looking to slow down and embrace the art of doing nothing.
December 28, 2020
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. First of all, I liked the format a lot. The illustrations were beautiful and the sections of the book were organized in a friendly, easy to read way. I love the voice of the book as well. It felt more like a conversation the author was having with you as the reader, instead of most “self-help” books, where it feels like the author is talking at you or telling you what to do. The vibes of this book were very chill and comforting.
I enjoyed how the book taught me about Dutch culture and practical ways to savor my time spent truly relaxing and doing nothing. It’s very easy to fall into the workaholism trap of today’s capitalist societies and hustle cultures, and she makes it easy to take advantage of a few minutes here and there to clear your mind throughout the day. I also appreciated that she acknowledged how niksen may not be for everyone. It was a breath of fresh air.
The only inconsistency I noticed was that the author said Niksen is not mindfulness, but towards the end she suggests practicing grounding techniques and noticing your surrounding as a way to practice niksen; but this is a way to practice mindfulness as well.
All in all, the benefits of “niksen-ing” presented in this book made me notice how I spend my time more, and I will try to consciously “do nothing” more often.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. First of all, I liked the format a lot. The illustrations were beautiful and the sections of the book were organized in a friendly, easy to read way. I love the voice of the book as well. It felt more like a conversation the author was having with you as the reader, instead of most “self-help” books, where it feels like the author is talking at you or telling you what to do. The vibes of this book were very chill and comforting.
I enjoyed how the book taught me about Dutch culture and practical ways to savor my time spent truly relaxing and doing nothing. It’s very easy to fall into the workaholism trap of today’s capitalist societies and hustle cultures, and she makes it easy to take advantage of a few minutes here and there to clear your mind throughout the day. I also appreciated that she acknowledged how niksen may not be for everyone. It was a breath of fresh air.
The only inconsistency I noticed was that the author said Niksen is not mindfulness, but towards the end she suggests practicing grounding techniques and noticing your surrounding as a way to practice niksen; but this is a way to practice mindfulness as well.
All in all, the benefits of “niksen-ing” presented in this book made me notice how I spend my time more, and I will try to consciously “do nothing” more often.
February 13, 2022
‘Niksen’ is een grappig boekje over niksen, ofwel luieren, en waarom dit zo belangrijk is. Olga Mecking heeft een toegankelijke schrijfstijl, waardoor haar relaas goed te volgen en heel ‘gezellig’ is. Daardoor vlieg je door het boek heen!
Tegelijkertijd word wel erg duidelijk dat de schrijfster een expat is; haar visie van Nederland(ers) is enorm geromantiseerd. Veel kleine dingetjes waren zeker correct, denk aan de bitterballen en kringverjaardag, maar de verdere omschrijving van de maatschappij is erg rooskleurig, en daardoor onrealistisch. Zo tolerant is het Nederland waar ik in ben opgegroeid (helaas) helemaal niet, en op niksen word behoorlijk neergekeken. Eigenlijk vind ik het jammer dat hier niet dieper op in word gegaan - dat wij Nederlanders neer zouden moeten niksen. Nu klinkt het eerder alsof ‘wij’ het allemaal zo goed doen, en de rest van de wereld daar maar eens een voorbeeld aan moet nemen. Te.. eenzijdig. Maar wellicht had ik dit moeten verwachten toen ik aan het boek begon, de boekentrends zoals ‘hygge’ laten vast eenzelfde foutief beeld over de Denen zien.
Tevens vroeg ik me na het lezen af: waarom moest dit boek eigenlijk geschreven worden? Ik zag naderhand dat er al meerdere boeken over dit onderwerp waren uitgebracht, met nagenoeg dezelfde titel. Dus wat zou dit boek moeten toevoegen?
Wat ik wel leuk vond is dat er aan het eind van elk hoofdstuk 3 vragen werden benoemd om lekker over te ‘niksen’. Dat maakt het geheel wat interactiever en nodigt je uit om het boek even dicht te slaan en juist te doen wat Olga zo ophemelt.
Tegelijkertijd word wel erg duidelijk dat de schrijfster een expat is; haar visie van Nederland(ers) is enorm geromantiseerd. Veel kleine dingetjes waren zeker correct, denk aan de bitterballen en kringverjaardag, maar de verdere omschrijving van de maatschappij is erg rooskleurig, en daardoor onrealistisch. Zo tolerant is het Nederland waar ik in ben opgegroeid (helaas) helemaal niet, en op niksen word behoorlijk neergekeken. Eigenlijk vind ik het jammer dat hier niet dieper op in word gegaan - dat wij Nederlanders neer zouden moeten niksen. Nu klinkt het eerder alsof ‘wij’ het allemaal zo goed doen, en de rest van de wereld daar maar eens een voorbeeld aan moet nemen. Te.. eenzijdig. Maar wellicht had ik dit moeten verwachten toen ik aan het boek begon, de boekentrends zoals ‘hygge’ laten vast eenzelfde foutief beeld over de Denen zien.
Tevens vroeg ik me na het lezen af: waarom moest dit boek eigenlijk geschreven worden? Ik zag naderhand dat er al meerdere boeken over dit onderwerp waren uitgebracht, met nagenoeg dezelfde titel. Dus wat zou dit boek moeten toevoegen?
Wat ik wel leuk vond is dat er aan het eind van elk hoofdstuk 3 vragen werden benoemd om lekker over te ‘niksen’. Dat maakt het geheel wat interactiever en nodigt je uit om het boek even dicht te slaan en juist te doen wat Olga zo ophemelt.
February 7, 2024
Continuing my “study” of “niksen” and my belief that two is better than one, I read this book, also. One of the first things Olga Mecking reminded me of is all that can be recommended about the Netherlands – a generous social support system, short work-weeks, and a lot of time off; its natural beauty, however, makes a great partner to practice niksen (or you can make this a verb and just, niks.)
The author clearly makes the case this is not another wellness fad; the Dutch have been doing this for years although they may not acknowledge it: lessening stress, increasing creativity, and healthy resets. Scientists, sociologists, parenting experts, psychologists, and business types are among the many people interviewed for this book, explaining how we have arrived at believing what we do about our work life, leisure time, a clean house, “wired for busyness,” tied to our screens. Why do we find stopping for a few minutes to look out the window so hard? At the end of each of the six chapters the author summarizes what she has presented and asks several questions to allow the reader to make a personal connection to the material. Her detailed bibliography provides a wealth of additional reading, which might take away from your niksening time.
The author made her case for me and despite so much background information, interview material, and facts, her approach is non judgmental, gentle, suggesting the reader take baby steps in niksening.
The author clearly makes the case this is not another wellness fad; the Dutch have been doing this for years although they may not acknowledge it: lessening stress, increasing creativity, and healthy resets. Scientists, sociologists, parenting experts, psychologists, and business types are among the many people interviewed for this book, explaining how we have arrived at believing what we do about our work life, leisure time, a clean house, “wired for busyness,” tied to our screens. Why do we find stopping for a few minutes to look out the window so hard? At the end of each of the six chapters the author summarizes what she has presented and asks several questions to allow the reader to make a personal connection to the material. Her detailed bibliography provides a wealth of additional reading, which might take away from your niksening time.
The author made her case for me and despite so much background information, interview material, and facts, her approach is non judgmental, gentle, suggesting the reader take baby steps in niksening.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 303 reviews