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Win the Day: 7 Daily Habits to Help You Stress Less & Accomplish More
The New York Times bestselling author of Chase the Lion reveals seven powerful habits that can help you tackle God-sized goals by turning yesterday’s regrets and tomorrow’s anxieties into fuel for a better today.
“This book will change the trajectory of your life.”—John Maxwell, #1 New York Times bestselling author, entrepreneur, and leadership expert
Too many people delay, downsize, or shrug off their dreams just because they don’t know where to start, but playing it safe doesn’t account for the massive cost of a life not fully lived. Win the Day is the jump-start you need to go after your goals, one day at a time. You’ll discover how to:
1. Flip the Script: If you want to change your life, start by changing your story.
2. Kiss the Wave: The obstacle is not the enemy; the obstacle is the way.
3. Eat the Frog: If you want God to do the super, you’ve got to do the natural.
4. Fly the Kite: How you do anything is how you’ll do everything.
5. Cut the Rope: Playing it safe is risky.
6. Wind the Clock: Time is measured in minutes; life is measured in moments.
7. Seed the Clouds: Sow today what you want to see tomorrow.
As Batterson unpacks each of these daily habits, you’ll see how simple it is to pursue them with focus and dedication—not someday down the road, but now. Transform your perspective of a single day and you’ll discover the potential waiting to be grasped at the beginning of each new sunrise.
“This book will change the trajectory of your life.”—John Maxwell, #1 New York Times bestselling author, entrepreneur, and leadership expert
Too many people delay, downsize, or shrug off their dreams just because they don’t know where to start, but playing it safe doesn’t account for the massive cost of a life not fully lived. Win the Day is the jump-start you need to go after your goals, one day at a time. You’ll discover how to:
1. Flip the Script: If you want to change your life, start by changing your story.
2. Kiss the Wave: The obstacle is not the enemy; the obstacle is the way.
3. Eat the Frog: If you want God to do the super, you’ve got to do the natural.
4. Fly the Kite: How you do anything is how you’ll do everything.
5. Cut the Rope: Playing it safe is risky.
6. Wind the Clock: Time is measured in minutes; life is measured in moments.
7. Seed the Clouds: Sow today what you want to see tomorrow.
As Batterson unpacks each of these daily habits, you’ll see how simple it is to pursue them with focus and dedication—not someday down the road, but now. Transform your perspective of a single day and you’ll discover the potential waiting to be grasped at the beginning of each new sunrise.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published January 5, 2021
777 people are currently reading
3363 people want to read
About the author
Mark Batterson
188 books1,116 followersMark Batterson is the lead pastor of National Community Church in Washington, DC. One church in seven locations, NCC owns and operates Ebenezers Coffeehouse, The Miracle Theatre, and the DC Dream Center. NCC is currently developing a city block into The Capital Turnaround. This 100,000-square-foot space will include an event venue, child development center, mixed-use marketplace, and co-working space. Mark holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from Regent University and is the New York Times best-selling author of seventeen books, including The Circle Maker, In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day, Wild Goose Chase, Play the Man, Whisper, and, most recently, Double Blessing. Mark and his wife, Lora, live on Capitol Hill with their three children: Parker, Summer, and Josiah.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 242 reviews
December 7, 2020
Win the Day is a book that is both uplifting and encouraging. Mark Batterson always leaves me feeling like with God I REALLY can do more than I ever imagined. He shares personal stories and stories from Scripture that remind me that God does care and that God can do big things when we put our faith and trust in Him. At the same time, we have to put one foot forward every day to start the process for change. One of the questions that he encourage the reader to ask themselves is Can you do it for a day? With this question and making changes a day at a time, people can often reach goals that they thought were impossible.
This is are the basic habits that the book is divided in to:
1. Flip the Script: If you want to change your life, start by changing your story.
2. Kiss the Wave: The obstacle is not the enemy; the obstacle is the way.
3. Eat the Frog: If you want God to do the super, you’ve got to do the natural.
4. Fly the Kite: How you do anything is how you’ll do everything.
5. Cut the Rope: Playing it safe is risky.
6. Wind the Clock: Time is measured in minutes; life is measured in moments.
7. Seed the Clouds: Sow today what you want to see tomorrow.
I finished this book and felt that if I applied Batterson's wisdom to my life, that I could make some positive changes that I have been feeling like I couldn't do. It also helps that Batterson shares stories of how God has answered some big prayers for him. Along with putting baby steps in to practice towards goals, I am reminded to continue to pray and trust God. I would encourage anyone to read Win the Day who wants to make positive changes in their life.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions within this review are my own.
This is are the basic habits that the book is divided in to:
1. Flip the Script: If you want to change your life, start by changing your story.
2. Kiss the Wave: The obstacle is not the enemy; the obstacle is the way.
3. Eat the Frog: If you want God to do the super, you’ve got to do the natural.
4. Fly the Kite: How you do anything is how you’ll do everything.
5. Cut the Rope: Playing it safe is risky.
6. Wind the Clock: Time is measured in minutes; life is measured in moments.
7. Seed the Clouds: Sow today what you want to see tomorrow.
I finished this book and felt that if I applied Batterson's wisdom to my life, that I could make some positive changes that I have been feeling like I couldn't do. It also helps that Batterson shares stories of how God has answered some big prayers for him. Along with putting baby steps in to practice towards goals, I am reminded to continue to pray and trust God. I would encourage anyone to read Win the Day who wants to make positive changes in their life.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions within this review are my own.
June 15, 2021
Written in cliches and catch phrases, which made me roll my eyes more than it made me stop and think about the content (which was nothing new anyway).
June 18, 2022
I really enjoy Mark Batterson books and "Win the Day" is another delight to read! This book emphasizes that the secret to success is to win the day in front of you. Such advice he gives is to: bury dead yesterdays, habit stacking, imagining unborn tomorrows and enjoying the journey. Of course, if you are familiar with a Batterson book, Mark fills his pages with historical events, famous people, important literary quotes, unique facts and personal stories. One of his chapters was EAT THE FROG. I know what Mark is getting at.... i.e. accomplish the most difficult task first thing. But, the entire section made me gag (since he quoted Mark Twain's advice on eating live frogs! Gross!) And I had quite a few illustrations that I enjoyed, but one in particular was in the COUNTERCLOCKWISE chapter. Batterson shares "the counterclockwise study" by Ellen Langer who recreated the year 1959 to elderly participants and after a week, the participants appeared (and acted) younger. I liked Mark's entire section WIND THE CLOCK on age, ability and living in the moment. If you are a fan of Batterson books , you will see some repetitive examples and phrases that he used in his other books. All in all, I would definitely recommend "Win the Day!"
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2021
Batterson really does seem to want to help, no one could doubt his sincerity.
However, as someone who believes the Jesus stuff he’s toting, I’m curious why Rockerfeller, business gurus and athletes are the primary examples of a life lived well? Is the goal of the life of a disciple synonymous with the American dream? If we need to win the day, how did Jesus win his day (hint: it didn’t look like winning).
As someone who has frequented self-help and habit development literature as well this work falls short. Habits are named in cute little phrases that have little to do with the habit in question. Practices are mentioned without help regarding how to integrate that practice.
Theological disagreements aside, can’t say I’d give it a hearty recommendation.
However, as someone who believes the Jesus stuff he’s toting, I’m curious why Rockerfeller, business gurus and athletes are the primary examples of a life lived well? Is the goal of the life of a disciple synonymous with the American dream? If we need to win the day, how did Jesus win his day (hint: it didn’t look like winning).
As someone who has frequented self-help and habit development literature as well this work falls short. Habits are named in cute little phrases that have little to do with the habit in question. Practices are mentioned without help regarding how to integrate that practice.
Theological disagreements aside, can’t say I’d give it a hearty recommendation.
December 29, 2020
I am not finished with this awesome book yet, but I had to leave a quick review because I have highlighted almost every single sentence so far! My favorite quote or saying is "can you do it for a day?" Why yes I think I can. And then just say it again the next day. For me, I'm trying to Win The Day with a better and healthier lifestyle because I want to be around for my grand kids. What is your goal? Your dream? This book will encourage you with Bibilical principles to Win The Day.
*I was given a copy by the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
*I was given a copy by the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
November 30, 2021
Take it as it is: a self help christian book on establishing 7 habits to maximize your days. I like Mark Batterson for his writing, he has a way of adding life to his books by writing about his experiences (and oh, boy he lived a full life up to now!) and other people’s life adventures, but I do not expect extreme depth in his writing. Nonetheless, his books are worth reading because they are inspiring and motivational by inviting you to fully trust God while striving to live God’s dreams.
December 6, 2020
I've read plenty of personal development books and a ton of Christian growth books. Batterson's book may be the best I've ever read that combines both subjects. His message is clear, to be the very best we can be for the glory of God, giving God an A plus in effort. The key is living today, winning this day.
Batterson reveals his strategy for excellence in seven habits. The first two habits deal with our past, what we should forget and what we should remember. The next two habits deal with daily decisions, unleashing the power of a 24 hour day. The next two habits help us imagine tomorrow, taking risks and recognizing each moment is a gift from God. The last habit reminds us to seize the day because right now, this moment is all we've got.
Like most books in each genre, Batterson gives a number of inspiring stories and studies to illustrate his principles. Some are familiar but others introduce new insights. Unlike many books, Batterson actually includes practical suggestions to help us develop and live into his seven habits. He shares many of his own best practices and gives valuable tips throughout his writing.
I rarely read a book more than once because there are so many new ones begging my attention. Batterson's is a book I plan to read once a year to encourage me and help me develop my own best practices to win my days.
I highly recommend this book if you are ready to make an “uncompromising commitment to continuous improvement.” (2046/3740)
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Batterson reveals his strategy for excellence in seven habits. The first two habits deal with our past, what we should forget and what we should remember. The next two habits deal with daily decisions, unleashing the power of a 24 hour day. The next two habits help us imagine tomorrow, taking risks and recognizing each moment is a gift from God. The last habit reminds us to seize the day because right now, this moment is all we've got.
Like most books in each genre, Batterson gives a number of inspiring stories and studies to illustrate his principles. Some are familiar but others introduce new insights. Unlike many books, Batterson actually includes practical suggestions to help us develop and live into his seven habits. He shares many of his own best practices and gives valuable tips throughout his writing.
I rarely read a book more than once because there are so many new ones begging my attention. Batterson's is a book I plan to read once a year to encourage me and help me develop my own best practices to win my days.
I highly recommend this book if you are ready to make an “uncompromising commitment to continuous improvement.” (2046/3740)
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
February 1, 2021
The book can be summarized by a quote from Mark Batterson:
"Quit wasting guilt on yesterday. Quit wasting worry on tomorrow. It's time to start living in day-tight compartments."
Batterson makes the case that the reason we don't accomplish all that we want in life is simply because we become overwhelmed by the immensity of our goals. What we really should be doing is focusing on each day's tasks to the best of our ability. Giant sized dreams need to be broken down into bite-sized tasks. If we can "win the day" consistently, eventually we'll accomplish our goals and much more!
Two big takeaways from the book:
1. "If you wait for perfect conditions, you'll be waiting till the Lord returns. If you wait until you're ready, you'll be waiting for the rest of your life." Instead, if you get a green light from God, Batterson says to take action day by day. Don't despise small beginnings and don't become consumed with perfectionism. Push forward each day!
2. "Do you have a dream that is gathering dust? Give yourself a deadline! Not just to finish, but to start." Batterson gives the example of how he wrote his very first book. He gave himself 40 days to complete it and after winning the day for 40 consecutive days, he had written his first book! By no means was it his best book, but he proved to himself and God that he could do it. That win gave him the motivation to continue writing!
Batterson says that if you can accomplish something for just one day, you can start a new habit. And that new habit done consistently will snowball into great accomplishments. I enjoyed the book but like any book of this nature, it's all in the doing and not just the reading!
"Quit wasting guilt on yesterday. Quit wasting worry on tomorrow. It's time to start living in day-tight compartments."
Batterson makes the case that the reason we don't accomplish all that we want in life is simply because we become overwhelmed by the immensity of our goals. What we really should be doing is focusing on each day's tasks to the best of our ability. Giant sized dreams need to be broken down into bite-sized tasks. If we can "win the day" consistently, eventually we'll accomplish our goals and much more!
Two big takeaways from the book:
1. "If you wait for perfect conditions, you'll be waiting till the Lord returns. If you wait until you're ready, you'll be waiting for the rest of your life." Instead, if you get a green light from God, Batterson says to take action day by day. Don't despise small beginnings and don't become consumed with perfectionism. Push forward each day!
2. "Do you have a dream that is gathering dust? Give yourself a deadline! Not just to finish, but to start." Batterson gives the example of how he wrote his very first book. He gave himself 40 days to complete it and after winning the day for 40 consecutive days, he had written his first book! By no means was it his best book, but he proved to himself and God that he could do it. That win gave him the motivation to continue writing!
Batterson says that if you can accomplish something for just one day, you can start a new habit. And that new habit done consistently will snowball into great accomplishments. I enjoyed the book but like any book of this nature, it's all in the doing and not just the reading!
June 30, 2023
A Christian self-help book is an oxymoron; secular ones are a dime a dozen. Yet, Batterson tries to “thread the needle” by trotting out his bromides cloaked in a few Bible stories and random scripture verses. There are nuggets to be found, but on the whole, this book is dreadfully superficial.
The book’s structure is built on 7 habits assigned sophomoric handles like “eat the frog” or “seed the clouds.” The intent, presumably, is that these pithy dependent clauses will serve as a reader’s aid in remembering the 7 steps. But the handles are nonsensical and described in each chapter with such word salads of tripe that their meanings become convoluted.
Batterson couches success in spiritual terms, but most of his examples and role models are secular: John D. Rockefeller, John Wooden, and Elisha Otis, to name a few. The metaphor he associates with Otis, “cut the rope,” exemplifies the book’s gibberish. The point of the chapter is that to be successful, one must be willing to risk the unknown. Or, to quote the chapter, “Playing it safe is risky.” But when Otis had the rope cut on his elevator at the New York World’s Fair in 1853, he knew his invention, the safety break, would stop it from plummeting. It was not a risk at all.
As a self-help for how to be more effective in business, the book is not half bad. As a spiritual guide, it is filled with bad theology, turgid advice, and blurred vision.
The book’s structure is built on 7 habits assigned sophomoric handles like “eat the frog” or “seed the clouds.” The intent, presumably, is that these pithy dependent clauses will serve as a reader’s aid in remembering the 7 steps. But the handles are nonsensical and described in each chapter with such word salads of tripe that their meanings become convoluted.
Batterson couches success in spiritual terms, but most of his examples and role models are secular: John D. Rockefeller, John Wooden, and Elisha Otis, to name a few. The metaphor he associates with Otis, “cut the rope,” exemplifies the book’s gibberish. The point of the chapter is that to be successful, one must be willing to risk the unknown. Or, to quote the chapter, “Playing it safe is risky.” But when Otis had the rope cut on his elevator at the New York World’s Fair in 1853, he knew his invention, the safety break, would stop it from plummeting. It was not a risk at all.
As a self-help for how to be more effective in business, the book is not half bad. As a spiritual guide, it is filled with bad theology, turgid advice, and blurred vision.
December 29, 2020
My friend Mark Batterson has a new book out today. It's called Win the Day: 7 Daily Habits to Help You Stress Less and Accomplish More. I interviewed Mark about the book on the Influence Podcast a few weeks back. Take a listen!
I also recommended the book in the forthcoming issue of Influence magazine. Here's what I wrote:
“Almost anybody can accomplish anything if they work at it long enough, hard enough, and smart enough,” writes Mark Batterson. In Win the Day, he identifies seven “daily habits” that will help readers “stress less and accomplish more.” Written with Batterson’s trademark combination of biblical insight, historical and scientific anecdotes, and practical application, this book will get your 2021 off to a good start. Today is the best time to start planning and working for a new year better than the old one.
As always, if you like my recommendation, please click "Helpful" on my Amazon review page.
I also recommended the book in the forthcoming issue of Influence magazine. Here's what I wrote:
“Almost anybody can accomplish anything if they work at it long enough, hard enough, and smart enough,” writes Mark Batterson. In Win the Day, he identifies seven “daily habits” that will help readers “stress less and accomplish more.” Written with Batterson’s trademark combination of biblical insight, historical and scientific anecdotes, and practical application, this book will get your 2021 off to a good start. Today is the best time to start planning and working for a new year better than the old one.
As always, if you like my recommendation, please click "Helpful" on my Amazon review page.
May 16, 2023
We read this as ministerial staff. I’m not really a huge leadership/goal-setting/self-help book kinda guy, but it was good nonetheless.
It inspired me to set some goals and start working on them now, so for that, it was worth it.
It inspired me to set some goals and start working on them now, so for that, it was worth it.
December 5, 2024
A solid, encouraging, and motivating read! Kind of felt like a Christian version of Atomic Habits!
July 10, 2023
I've read several books by Mark Batterson and I'm always inspired by his messages. Mark has an engaging way of writing and uses lots and lots of real-life examples to help illustrate the truth he is trying to get across. This book encourages the Christian reader to get up and get moving toward your goals and dreams, not just sit and hope they'll come to you. Of course, God is the ultimate power behind anything and everything we do and Mark makes that clear as well. It's a motivational book on many levels and I think it's very good.
October 17, 2022
This is the literary genre I call Christian airplane reading. It's a quick read, Christianity light, catchy platitudes, amusing anecdotes, biblical references, prosperity gospel...and very bad theology. If you like Joel Osteen, you'll like this. If you're faithful to the actual teachings of Jesus, you won't.
A word about the theology:
The prosperity gospel is based in Evangelical Christian faith and prayer with material and financial success. [For more, read https://www.vox.com/identities/2017/9... ]
Did Jesus of Nazareth preach that God wants you to be rich? Never! Let's refer to the scriptures:
Luke 16: 13-14: “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
14 The Pharisees, who loved money, heard all this and were sneering at Jesus. 15 He said to them, “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of others, but God knows your hearts. What people value highly is detestable in God’s sight.
Luke 18:22–25: 22“There is still one thing lacking. Sell all that you own and distribute the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” 23But when he heard this, he became sad; for he was very rich. 24Jesus looked at him and said, “How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God! 25Indeed, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God” (also in Matt 19:24).
Jesus did not incarnate as a king, a Pharisee (middle class businessman), a Roman, or anything other than a tektōn, a builder. While it's often translated as carpenter, that is a narrow definition of the original Greek.
__________________________
Compare Stephen Covey's "7 Habits of Highly Effective People" (be proactive, focus on goals/results, prioritize/work first then play, pursue win/win solutions, understand others, seek synergy and balance) with the six habits Batterson promotes to Win the Day. They read like a series of innocuous and somewhat insipid sermons with illustrative anecdotes:
1. Flip the script: If you change the story you tell about your life, you can change the way you interpret events in your past, and see God working within. Family history matters; we are born into our ancestors' stories. Interestingly, teens who know their family history have higher rate of wellbeing (see https://ncph.org/wp-content/uploads/2...).
2. Kiss the wave: Embrace the obstacles; they bring you closer to God since you wouldn't be able to encounter or surmount them without God.
3. Eat the frog: Mark Twain was said to advise that if you must eat a live frog, do so first thing in the morning so that the day's "hardest task is behind you."
4. Fly the kite: Small successes lead to bigger ones that you never imagined.
5. Cut the rope: Take calculated risks.
6. Wind the clock: Bury the past and "imagine unborn tomorrows." "Newness is no virtue and oldness is no vice." Make the most of every moment.
7. Seed the clouds: "Sow today what you want to see tomorrow"; "See the present from the vantage point of the future." "Identify the daily rituals that have the highest return on investment and the daily habits that are high leverage points and prioritize them."
There are a few anecdotes that are mildly amusing.
__________
Again, what in the bible suggests that Jesus of Nazareth wanted/wants us to be materially successful people in the public sphere? Jesus gained a reputation as a wonder worker, a lucrative and common enough profession, but distinguished himself by providing his services to the poor and weak free of charge. He was a sympathizer with nationalists opposing Roman occupation and protested the social, political and economic injustice. For contradicting the prevailing order, he was dispatched by crucifixion, a common means of public punishment of those who spoke out against Rome.
Had Jesus wanted his followers to be middle class businessmen like the Pharisees or empowered occupiers like the Romans, he would have said so. The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12 and Luke 6:17-26) reveal the costly call to discipleship, focused squarely on the world to come, not the present. Jesus' followers "left everything" to follow him. That's the model. Does that sound like worldly success of the kind Batterson promotes?
The concern is that this book can lead Christians astray from scriptural theology into a focus on worldly rather than spiritual affairs. If you are not Christian and want an inspirational self-help book, by all means, have at it, but there are better books to read.
A word about the theology:
The prosperity gospel is based in Evangelical Christian faith and prayer with material and financial success. [For more, read https://www.vox.com/identities/2017/9... ]
Did Jesus of Nazareth preach that God wants you to be rich? Never! Let's refer to the scriptures:
Luke 16: 13-14: “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
14 The Pharisees, who loved money, heard all this and were sneering at Jesus. 15 He said to them, “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of others, but God knows your hearts. What people value highly is detestable in God’s sight.
Luke 18:22–25: 22“There is still one thing lacking. Sell all that you own and distribute the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” 23But when he heard this, he became sad; for he was very rich. 24Jesus looked at him and said, “How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God! 25Indeed, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God” (also in Matt 19:24).
Jesus did not incarnate as a king, a Pharisee (middle class businessman), a Roman, or anything other than a tektōn, a builder. While it's often translated as carpenter, that is a narrow definition of the original Greek.
__________________________
Compare Stephen Covey's "7 Habits of Highly Effective People" (be proactive, focus on goals/results, prioritize/work first then play, pursue win/win solutions, understand others, seek synergy and balance) with the six habits Batterson promotes to Win the Day. They read like a series of innocuous and somewhat insipid sermons with illustrative anecdotes:
1. Flip the script: If you change the story you tell about your life, you can change the way you interpret events in your past, and see God working within. Family history matters; we are born into our ancestors' stories. Interestingly, teens who know their family history have higher rate of wellbeing (see https://ncph.org/wp-content/uploads/2...).
2. Kiss the wave: Embrace the obstacles; they bring you closer to God since you wouldn't be able to encounter or surmount them without God.
3. Eat the frog: Mark Twain was said to advise that if you must eat a live frog, do so first thing in the morning so that the day's "hardest task is behind you."
4. Fly the kite: Small successes lead to bigger ones that you never imagined.
5. Cut the rope: Take calculated risks.
6. Wind the clock: Bury the past and "imagine unborn tomorrows." "Newness is no virtue and oldness is no vice." Make the most of every moment.
7. Seed the clouds: "Sow today what you want to see tomorrow"; "See the present from the vantage point of the future." "Identify the daily rituals that have the highest return on investment and the daily habits that are high leverage points and prioritize them."
There are a few anecdotes that are mildly amusing.
__________
Again, what in the bible suggests that Jesus of Nazareth wanted/wants us to be materially successful people in the public sphere? Jesus gained a reputation as a wonder worker, a lucrative and common enough profession, but distinguished himself by providing his services to the poor and weak free of charge. He was a sympathizer with nationalists opposing Roman occupation and protested the social, political and economic injustice. For contradicting the prevailing order, he was dispatched by crucifixion, a common means of public punishment of those who spoke out against Rome.
Had Jesus wanted his followers to be middle class businessmen like the Pharisees or empowered occupiers like the Romans, he would have said so. The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12 and Luke 6:17-26) reveal the costly call to discipleship, focused squarely on the world to come, not the present. Jesus' followers "left everything" to follow him. That's the model. Does that sound like worldly success of the kind Batterson promotes?
The concern is that this book can lead Christians astray from scriptural theology into a focus on worldly rather than spiritual affairs. If you are not Christian and want an inspirational self-help book, by all means, have at it, but there are better books to read.
July 27, 2021
Meh! Lost my interest.
I guess I got tired of the author telling me to "flip the script". Seemed fluffy to me. Also, I guess it's a good thing the workbook is coming out. There's not much instruction on how to really apply the habits. Some good principles, but I get the feeling the author is very pleased with himself.
Trying to give the benefit of the doubt: maybe I was just tired and cranky when I read it. And I do want to read it again, because part of me is asking, "Was it really that bad?!"
It was really that bad.
I guess I got tired of the author telling me to "flip the script". Seemed fluffy to me. Also, I guess it's a good thing the workbook is coming out. There's not much instruction on how to really apply the habits. Some good principles, but I get the feeling the author is very pleased with himself.
Trying to give the benefit of the doubt: maybe I was just tired and cranky when I read it. And I do want to read it again, because part of me is asking, "Was it really that bad?!"
It was really that bad.
March 1, 2022
Book seemed confused by jumping between secular self-help and biblical self-help. Also seemed confused by sometimes focusing on the day, and other times focusing on long-term success. Felt like a bunch of unrelated points. Also the tag lines are too metaphorical and confusing and I'm not sure I could explain any of them by the end of the book.
March 1, 2021
While Mark Batterson is a great writer, this book left me feeling like I have already read it many times over. He has taken many of the self-help beliefs floating around today and mixed it with Jesus. I don't think he adds too much to what has already been said many times over.
April 21, 2021
Sorry but not for me. This was one of those “because you enjoyed...”. Should have read the synopsis before starting. Way too many religious references and all these concepts I’ve already explored in other books.
January 28, 2025
I joined a book club with my friends because I’m not great at reading unless someone is telling me to read. This is the first book we read. It was a great read to kick off the new year! If you want to be a winner, you should check it out!
June 28, 2022
A few helpful or inspiring passages here and there but much, much fluff. Some one else might love it but it’s not for me.
August 9, 2022
Book: Win the Day: 7 Daily Habits to Help You Stress Less and Accomplish More
Author: Mark Batterson
Rating: 4 Out of 5 Stars
I am going to put this out there. This is one of the few self-help books that I have ever been able to finish, which means that it’s a pretty solid read. Now, this one is Christian and does have biblical references. If that is not something you like, then this is not going to be the title for you.
This book offers seven ways to make each day unique. While at times the steps were not always the clearest on who to use them, the idea behind them is pretty solid. The idea is to move on from yesterday, don’t be ruled by tomorrow, and make today seem like your last. You have to start living your life. It is about putting yourself out there and embracing the day, which many of us fail to do. This book also values hard work and things are not going to be given to you. You have to put the work in. This right here jumped out at me. Many times, I think, books don’t show us how much work goes into something. If you want something, you have to work for it. This idea seems to be shoved to the side by many people.
I like how the book uses practice as a way of showing you have much work you have to do. if you want something, you have to practice it. You can’t give up when it gets hard and you have to push through it. You can’t play it safe either. You have to be willing to go that extra mile. If you are in a situation that you don’t like, such as a job, you still give that job your all because it may lead to your dream. This book also asks you to define what is successful for you. It encourages you to look around and see what you have done, to think about how you have gotten to this point. It always you to look at the blessings in your life. This goes right along with hard work. So many times, I think we as a society get so caught up in comparing ourselves to those around us that we don’t stop to see all that we have accomplished. Do we have the newest car that so and so does? No, but do we have a car that we worked for and paid for ourselves? Yes. These things are often forgotten about when we start looking at others.
Another thing that I liked was moving on from the past. So many times we get hung up by things that have happened in the past. While I am not downplaying trauma nor does the book, you have to move on. This refers to daily things, such as not getting something you want and failing at something. The book understands that there are some things in the past that you can’t move on from this is the trauma. The book also points out that a failure does not mean you give up, it means that God has another plan for you. While it may seem like a terrible thing at the time, there is a reason it happened. I needed to hear this. I don’t know about any of you, but I do hold onto the past and it makes it difficult to live. If you can’t let go of the past, you are dying. You have to let it go to start living. The same thing can also be said for the future. You can’t worry about things to come. If you do, you cannot fully embrace the day.
That’s what this book is at its core. It’s about embracing the day and not worrying about the things that could come. To better yourself, you have to do it one day at a time. This means you practice something even if you don’t feel like it. You don’t give up when the going gets rough. You take it to step by step, day by day. After all, you can’t live if you don’t embrace today and you most certainly cannot win the day if you don’t.
Author: Mark Batterson
Rating: 4 Out of 5 Stars
I am going to put this out there. This is one of the few self-help books that I have ever been able to finish, which means that it’s a pretty solid read. Now, this one is Christian and does have biblical references. If that is not something you like, then this is not going to be the title for you.
This book offers seven ways to make each day unique. While at times the steps were not always the clearest on who to use them, the idea behind them is pretty solid. The idea is to move on from yesterday, don’t be ruled by tomorrow, and make today seem like your last. You have to start living your life. It is about putting yourself out there and embracing the day, which many of us fail to do. This book also values hard work and things are not going to be given to you. You have to put the work in. This right here jumped out at me. Many times, I think, books don’t show us how much work goes into something. If you want something, you have to work for it. This idea seems to be shoved to the side by many people.
I like how the book uses practice as a way of showing you have much work you have to do. if you want something, you have to practice it. You can’t give up when it gets hard and you have to push through it. You can’t play it safe either. You have to be willing to go that extra mile. If you are in a situation that you don’t like, such as a job, you still give that job your all because it may lead to your dream. This book also asks you to define what is successful for you. It encourages you to look around and see what you have done, to think about how you have gotten to this point. It always you to look at the blessings in your life. This goes right along with hard work. So many times, I think we as a society get so caught up in comparing ourselves to those around us that we don’t stop to see all that we have accomplished. Do we have the newest car that so and so does? No, but do we have a car that we worked for and paid for ourselves? Yes. These things are often forgotten about when we start looking at others.
Another thing that I liked was moving on from the past. So many times we get hung up by things that have happened in the past. While I am not downplaying trauma nor does the book, you have to move on. This refers to daily things, such as not getting something you want and failing at something. The book understands that there are some things in the past that you can’t move on from this is the trauma. The book also points out that a failure does not mean you give up, it means that God has another plan for you. While it may seem like a terrible thing at the time, there is a reason it happened. I needed to hear this. I don’t know about any of you, but I do hold onto the past and it makes it difficult to live. If you can’t let go of the past, you are dying. You have to let it go to start living. The same thing can also be said for the future. You can’t worry about things to come. If you do, you cannot fully embrace the day.
That’s what this book is at its core. It’s about embracing the day and not worrying about the things that could come. To better yourself, you have to do it one day at a time. This means you practice something even if you don’t feel like it. You don’t give up when the going gets rough. You take it to step by step, day by day. After all, you can’t live if you don’t embrace today and you most certainly cannot win the day if you don’t.
February 12, 2021
If Mark Batterson wrote it, you know it is good. I might be a little biased, though. Both Batterson and I are CBC graduates. Not only that, but we are also both writers. He has written 17 books. I have written one book (with about 17 copies sold). Not only that but we are also both readers. He reads 200 books a year. I feel accomplished by hitting half that mark. Not only that, but we have both been healed from asthma. Me in '14 and him two years later. Not only that, but I've been listening to his church messages through podcasts for years now. So when I am reading Win the Day, I am reading it with his distinctive voice. Once you are done reading this book, go over to iTunes and get the National Community Church podcast. You won't regret it.
Anyways, back to the book. Win the Day is broken up into three parts with seven "habits" sprinkled among them. The first part is dealing with your past. "Flip the script" is about how you remember and relate to the things that have happened in your past. "Kiss the wave" is about leveraging that past to change your present. It comes from the famous Spurgeon quote, "I have learned to kiss the wave that throws me against the Rock of Ages."
The second part of the book is dealing with our present. "Eat the frog" is about the value of developing and maintaining good habits. "Fly the Kite" is about starting small and slowly building up from there. The term comes from the first bridge that was built over Niagara Falls. They actually had a kite flying competition challenging people to fly a kite from the American side that would land on the Canadian side. Once this was accomplished they took that kite string and used it to span the river with a stronger string, then a stronger rope, then a steel cable, and finally a bridge. But it all started with a young boy and a nearly invisible kite string.
The third part of the book is dealing with the future. "Cut the Rope" is about taking the risk. In a sense, it is a smaller, fresh look at his book All In. (Great book, go buy it, but be warned... your life will never be the same) "Wind the Clock" is about continued persistence. And finally, "Seed the Clouds" is his now or never, wrap it all up call to take action.
Mark Batterson, in every book, is all about living to your greatest potential. When it comes to concepts and principles, there isn't anything new here in this book. That is a good thing. If someone is coming up with an entirely new and revolutionary "formula"... it is probably wrong. We all know exactly what both the Bible and science tell us about living our best life. (Remarkably enough, in this area science is "discovering" what the Bible has been saying all along.) The trick is going from knowing what we ought to do to actually doing it. And here is where Mark Batterson excels. Rather than using the same recycled stories that seem to pop up in every single "self-help" book ever written, Batterson leverages those 200 read a year to pull out fresh illustrations and examples. He then presents them in a way that both inspires you to get out and do it and also encourages you that it actually can be done. So, if you really want to Win the Day... go read the book.
Anyways, back to the book. Win the Day is broken up into three parts with seven "habits" sprinkled among them. The first part is dealing with your past. "Flip the script" is about how you remember and relate to the things that have happened in your past. "Kiss the wave" is about leveraging that past to change your present. It comes from the famous Spurgeon quote, "I have learned to kiss the wave that throws me against the Rock of Ages."
The second part of the book is dealing with our present. "Eat the frog" is about the value of developing and maintaining good habits. "Fly the Kite" is about starting small and slowly building up from there. The term comes from the first bridge that was built over Niagara Falls. They actually had a kite flying competition challenging people to fly a kite from the American side that would land on the Canadian side. Once this was accomplished they took that kite string and used it to span the river with a stronger string, then a stronger rope, then a steel cable, and finally a bridge. But it all started with a young boy and a nearly invisible kite string.
The third part of the book is dealing with the future. "Cut the Rope" is about taking the risk. In a sense, it is a smaller, fresh look at his book All In. (Great book, go buy it, but be warned... your life will never be the same) "Wind the Clock" is about continued persistence. And finally, "Seed the Clouds" is his now or never, wrap it all up call to take action.
Mark Batterson, in every book, is all about living to your greatest potential. When it comes to concepts and principles, there isn't anything new here in this book. That is a good thing. If someone is coming up with an entirely new and revolutionary "formula"... it is probably wrong. We all know exactly what both the Bible and science tell us about living our best life. (Remarkably enough, in this area science is "discovering" what the Bible has been saying all along.) The trick is going from knowing what we ought to do to actually doing it. And here is where Mark Batterson excels. Rather than using the same recycled stories that seem to pop up in every single "self-help" book ever written, Batterson leverages those 200 read a year to pull out fresh illustrations and examples. He then presents them in a way that both inspires you to get out and do it and also encourages you that it actually can be done. So, if you really want to Win the Day... go read the book.
November 25, 2020
Win The Day is a Christian living book by author Mark Batterson.
This is a well-written book for any reader that wants to ‘Win The Day’. The book has lots of information on forming habits to help you ‘Win The Day’. With examples as far back as biblical times and up to the 1800s and also including tidbits from the author's own life.
I found several quotes worth quoting but the main one that sticks out is, “If yesterday is history and tomorrow is a mystery, win the day!” The thesis for this book is about unleashing the power of twenty-four hours.
I would recommend this book to friends and family, and fans of Christian living books. This is a book you’ll want to take your time reading and then re-reading. New habits take time to form.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
#PRHpartner, #partner, #paid, #ad, #sponsored,
This is a well-written book for any reader that wants to ‘Win The Day’. The book has lots of information on forming habits to help you ‘Win The Day’. With examples as far back as biblical times and up to the 1800s and also including tidbits from the author's own life.
I found several quotes worth quoting but the main one that sticks out is, “If yesterday is history and tomorrow is a mystery, win the day!” The thesis for this book is about unleashing the power of twenty-four hours.
I would recommend this book to friends and family, and fans of Christian living books. This is a book you’ll want to take your time reading and then re-reading. New habits take time to form.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
#PRHpartner, #partner, #paid, #ad, #sponsored,
January 3, 2021
Great book to set me up for 2021. Mark’s not only sharing good insight, he does it with extraordinarily fresh stories. Lots to mull and implement. Biggest thing is making the most of the single day we have. Thanks, Mark. I already ate my frog for the day.
“In our quest to win the day, we have buried dead yesterdays and imagined unborn tomorrows. We’ve explored six habits—flip the script, kiss the wave, eat the frog, fly the kite, cut the rope, and wind the clock. There is one more habit we must put into practice if we want to stress less and accomplish more. You have to seed the clouds. How? By taking proactive measures today that will produce desired outcomes tomorrow.” (Pg 180)
“In our quest to win the day, we have buried dead yesterdays and imagined unborn tomorrows. We’ve explored six habits—flip the script, kiss the wave, eat the frog, fly the kite, cut the rope, and wind the clock. There is one more habit we must put into practice if we want to stress less and accomplish more. You have to seed the clouds. How? By taking proactive measures today that will produce desired outcomes tomorrow.” (Pg 180)
August 31, 2021
I enjoy Mark Batterson's books. I can easily picture him speaking the same way his words are written. I like all of the personal and example stories of others that he weaves in his writings.
This book reminds me through 7 different ways how I need to make my daily habits match up with my end goal. " Life goals have to translate into daily habits!"
I am not gifted in the ability to make swift decisions and thinking on my feet in the moment. I am fully aware of this, and so is anyone who knows me! So I know my need to preplan to live my life well.
This book reminds me through 7 different ways how I need to make my daily habits match up with my end goal. " Life goals have to translate into daily habits!"
I am not gifted in the ability to make swift decisions and thinking on my feet in the moment. I am fully aware of this, and so is anyone who knows me! So I know my need to preplan to live my life well.
May 6, 2022
Mark Batterson seems like such a cool guy. I have loved his other books + his Win the Day devotional in the YouVersion Bible app. This book was the long version of that devotional. I love his perspective on the gospel and on life… but about 25% of the way in, I was very over the catchy (cheesy) one-line inspirational quotes.
January 9, 2025
This book took me many tries to get through. It had too many stories about tons of people who have been successful in their endeavors. At times, I felt like it was tedious. One thing that really resonated with me was the concept of stacking habits: coupling an easy habit with another habit that is more difficult to accomplish. I will be doing that going forward.
January 26, 2022
Mark Batterson continues to be one of the best. He has an amazing way of providing simple and relatable examples of successful living, and it all comes from a Christian point of view. This is one I will certainly read again and probably refer to many times in the future.
March 31, 2022
I absolutely love this author and all the wisdom that he gives in his books. This one was no exception. I love how he uses everyday stories to drive home biblical truths, so that I remember them long after I've closed the book. Regardless of what stage you are in life, this book is inspirational, encouraging, and motivational, but not in a preachy way or a way that makes you think you are in control. Batterson always brings you back to God. That is probably what I love most about this author. He keeps the reader God-focused instead of self-focused.
January 30, 2021
This book was just what I needed to get out of the rut of 2020 and start 2021 afresh!
I love Mark's storytelling skills and his simple, yet powerful habits for creating change and making a difference using the unique gifts and talents we've each been given.
I love Mark's storytelling skills and his simple, yet powerful habits for creating change and making a difference using the unique gifts and talents we've each been given.
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