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The Half-Known Life: What Matters Most When You're Running Out of Time
“I’m going down now,” I said to a young woman a few seconds before the darkness—my first cardiac arrest. As I returned to work as a behavioral coach, it became maddening to hear, for the ten-thousandth time, about all-consuming, everyday problems and misguided priorities while I fought to merely remain conscious.
The Half-Known Life challenges conventional thinking of success, identity, and personal change. Most often, truly-profound change happens following events that shake someone to their core—a car accident, death of a family member, or cardiac arrest that pulls them into a moment of clarity. Priorities change when time becomes precious. Problems look different when you have no energy left to give them. After all, marathon runners don’t say much on mile twenty; they choose to breathe. And all I have to give is channeled into each moment that I am awake and I, too, choose to breathe.
Why wait until you’re burnt out or for a life-changing event to occur before getting real about your life? Who are you when all of the accolades and accomplishments are gone? You can master time management but what does how you manage that time say about what’s important to you—about what matters most?
Get out of your head and get into your life, before it slips away.
The Half-Known Life challenges conventional thinking of success, identity, and personal change. Most often, truly-profound change happens following events that shake someone to their core—a car accident, death of a family member, or cardiac arrest that pulls them into a moment of clarity. Priorities change when time becomes precious. Problems look different when you have no energy left to give them. After all, marathon runners don’t say much on mile twenty; they choose to breathe. And all I have to give is channeled into each moment that I am awake and I, too, choose to breathe.
Why wait until you’re burnt out or for a life-changing event to occur before getting real about your life? Who are you when all of the accolades and accomplishments are gone? You can master time management but what does how you manage that time say about what’s important to you—about what matters most?
Get out of your head and get into your life, before it slips away.
- GenresPhilosophySelf Help
156 pages, Paperback, hardback, ebook, audiobook
First published April 19, 2022
223 people are currently reading
2074 people want to read
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October 12, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. In Ryan Lindners' book, he tells how, after having experienced two cardiac arrests and being on the brink of death, how he cherished the moments in his life and how his perspective of life has changed.
A very introspective and interesting look at life, through the lens of someone who has a whole new outlook on time. He points out that we should live more in the moment and cherish each experience in the now and to cherish the people we love, today. In his book, Lindner says, "You can die, or you can live until you die. You, and no one else, decide how you do that." He also states in his book, "On one normal, ordinary day after one of those sunsets, the tide will go out, and you with it. Go knowing your life was more than half known. You are not a noun; you are a verb."
With a saying by RUMI, which is:
"The morning wind spreads its fresh smell. We must get up and take that in, that wind that let's us live. Breathe before it's gone."
-RUMI
Excellent book, that deserves the time to read it. I took off one star, for a couple of grammatical errors, but I thoroughly enjoyed this one!
Thank you to author Ryan Lindner, Koehlerbooks Publishers and Goodreads, for this First reads Advanced Copy and the opportunity to read it.
Time...is a valuable thing and I'm so glad I spent some, to read your thoughts and perspective of life, Ryan. Thank you.
A very introspective and interesting look at life, through the lens of someone who has a whole new outlook on time. He points out that we should live more in the moment and cherish each experience in the now and to cherish the people we love, today. In his book, Lindner says, "You can die, or you can live until you die. You, and no one else, decide how you do that." He also states in his book, "On one normal, ordinary day after one of those sunsets, the tide will go out, and you with it. Go knowing your life was more than half known. You are not a noun; you are a verb."
With a saying by RUMI, which is:
"The morning wind spreads its fresh smell. We must get up and take that in, that wind that let's us live. Breathe before it's gone."
-RUMI
Excellent book, that deserves the time to read it. I took off one star, for a couple of grammatical errors, but I thoroughly enjoyed this one!
Thank you to author Ryan Lindner, Koehlerbooks Publishers and Goodreads, for this First reads Advanced Copy and the opportunity to read it.
Time...is a valuable thing and I'm so glad I spent some, to read your thoughts and perspective of life, Ryan. Thank you.
April 13, 2022
The author of this book had 2 heart attacks and nearly died when he was young. This book cuts to the chase about what is important and what us not. It would be good for anyone trying to sort out their lives. There us a lot of wisdom here.
December 7, 2022
For the first third of the book I thought this guy might be onto something. I had to quit reading at the half-way mark. The book shamelessly bashes conservative christian patriots with multiple straw-men and a false narrative. He does exactly what he preached against in the first third of the book. He attacks conservatives. He makes many declarations that, to my observations, have no basis in reality.
He is very adamant about his contempt for the accomplishments of others - educational degrees, wealth, celebrity. I can understand why. An admittedly quick google search failed to find any of his credentials. I note that there are none listed on his website.
In, at least the first half, of the book, he blathers on about some mythical “you” that nobody can know. All other humans, he asserts, know a “Perception” of you. Having made the very connection he claims is impossible with my wife, I know he is incorrect on this baseless assertion. I can only assume that he, having never experienced this profound connection with another person, erroneously concludes that it doesn’t exist.
I’ve bladder cancer and didn’t expect to survive. So, when he talk about his heart conditions, I was more than willing to give him the benefit of the doubt. Sadly, he failed me completely. This is not a book about hopeful overcoming adversity. It’s a political diatribe against conservative christians.
Even in a narrative so miss-guided, there are a few ideas I agree with.
Politically liberal readers will probably love it, conservatives …. not so much.
He is very adamant about his contempt for the accomplishments of others - educational degrees, wealth, celebrity. I can understand why. An admittedly quick google search failed to find any of his credentials. I note that there are none listed on his website.
In, at least the first half, of the book, he blathers on about some mythical “you” that nobody can know. All other humans, he asserts, know a “Perception” of you. Having made the very connection he claims is impossible with my wife, I know he is incorrect on this baseless assertion. I can only assume that he, having never experienced this profound connection with another person, erroneously concludes that it doesn’t exist.
I’ve bladder cancer and didn’t expect to survive. So, when he talk about his heart conditions, I was more than willing to give him the benefit of the doubt. Sadly, he failed me completely. This is not a book about hopeful overcoming adversity. It’s a political diatribe against conservative christians.
Even in a narrative so miss-guided, there are a few ideas I agree with.
Politically liberal readers will probably love it, conservatives …. not so much.
April 19, 2022
Lindner, Ryan. The Half-Known Life: What Matters Most When You’re Running Out of Time (2022) *****
And we’re all running out of time.
Prose like greased lightning. Yeah, you’re not going to agree with everything here, and yeah he says it in thirteen different ways, and he’s wrong some of the time (you be the judge) but some of it’s brilliant and most of it makes a lot of sense. It’s kind of like reading Jordan Peterson turbo’ed.
Okay, let’s get specific. Lindner writes: “You have control over your behaviors, yes, but never outcomes.”
Well, no. Even the best of us have only partial control over our behaviors, perhaps if we’re lucky, a good percentage of the time. And outcomes? We do have partial control over many, especially day to day, outcomes.
What Lindner is serving up here is the kind of prose that makes bald statements that aren’t exactly true, but mostly are, and therein lies the wisdom.
Let’s jump to near the beginning of the book. Lindner advises:
“There’s no such thing as ‘work life’ or ‘personal life.’ There’s just life. Stop wishing it away as you wait for a better tomorrow that never comes.”
Well, there IS “work life” and “personal life,” but never mind. But what counts here is the STOP WISHING AND WAITING. Lindner knows what it’s like to be almost dead, and that can open your eyes to what is really important, and what he is trying to get across in this breezy but sagacious tome IS what’s really important.
Here’s what he thinks about a few things:
Relationships? Most relationships aren’t real. They’re superficial, even fake. You’re talking but she ain’t listening. Or this guy is talking about himself like a firehose gushing, and you might as well be on another planet because the torrent of words is just for him.
Becoming you? Don’t let other people define who you are. For one thing, you’ll get many different you’s. For another how they define you depends a whole lot on how they define themselves. Or as they used to say in polite society, “Comparisons are odious.”
As for chasing success, it’s “Never Enough.” He means “Validation, Money, and Stuff,” and this stuff doesn’t define you. What defines you are your experiences in life. Jeff Bezos was the richest man in the world. Well, fly me to the moon. It wasn’t enough.
“If you become lost in small things, you, too, become small.”
Sprinkled throughout the book are some interesting quotes from popular figures like…uh, Jim Carry. My favorite is this from Ram Dass: “If you think you are enlightened, go spend a week with your family.”
Okay, enough. You KNOW you are going to want to read this.
--Dennis Littrell, author of “The World Is Not as We Think It Is”
And we’re all running out of time.
Prose like greased lightning. Yeah, you’re not going to agree with everything here, and yeah he says it in thirteen different ways, and he’s wrong some of the time (you be the judge) but some of it’s brilliant and most of it makes a lot of sense. It’s kind of like reading Jordan Peterson turbo’ed.
Okay, let’s get specific. Lindner writes: “You have control over your behaviors, yes, but never outcomes.”
Well, no. Even the best of us have only partial control over our behaviors, perhaps if we’re lucky, a good percentage of the time. And outcomes? We do have partial control over many, especially day to day, outcomes.
What Lindner is serving up here is the kind of prose that makes bald statements that aren’t exactly true, but mostly are, and therein lies the wisdom.
Let’s jump to near the beginning of the book. Lindner advises:
“There’s no such thing as ‘work life’ or ‘personal life.’ There’s just life. Stop wishing it away as you wait for a better tomorrow that never comes.”
Well, there IS “work life” and “personal life,” but never mind. But what counts here is the STOP WISHING AND WAITING. Lindner knows what it’s like to be almost dead, and that can open your eyes to what is really important, and what he is trying to get across in this breezy but sagacious tome IS what’s really important.
Here’s what he thinks about a few things:
Relationships? Most relationships aren’t real. They’re superficial, even fake. You’re talking but she ain’t listening. Or this guy is talking about himself like a firehose gushing, and you might as well be on another planet because the torrent of words is just for him.
Becoming you? Don’t let other people define who you are. For one thing, you’ll get many different you’s. For another how they define you depends a whole lot on how they define themselves. Or as they used to say in polite society, “Comparisons are odious.”
As for chasing success, it’s “Never Enough.” He means “Validation, Money, and Stuff,” and this stuff doesn’t define you. What defines you are your experiences in life. Jeff Bezos was the richest man in the world. Well, fly me to the moon. It wasn’t enough.
“If you become lost in small things, you, too, become small.”
Sprinkled throughout the book are some interesting quotes from popular figures like…uh, Jim Carry. My favorite is this from Ram Dass: “If you think you are enlightened, go spend a week with your family.”
Okay, enough. You KNOW you are going to want to read this.
--Dennis Littrell, author of “The World Is Not as We Think It Is”
May 25, 2022
living honestly
The Half-Known Life: What Matters Most When You're Running Out of Time is a collection of lessons that the author, Ryan Lindner, has learned since suffering from cardiac arrest. Lindner, at the time young and athletic and otherwise building a successful life for himself outside of the small mundane things, suffered two cardiac arrests in what is still a mystery to doctors. From this experience, he provides wisdom from someone who has walked a path we hope not to.
This book is definitely a trigger for looking at your own life more closely—your motivations and validations—and potentially changing priorities. I think I’ve glided through life and ended up where I am, like many people, and Lindner’s book is very thought-provoking for the everyday, average person.
The Half-Known Life: What Matters Most When You're Running Out of Time is a collection of lessons that the author, Ryan Lindner, has learned since suffering from cardiac arrest. Lindner, at the time young and athletic and otherwise building a successful life for himself outside of the small mundane things, suffered two cardiac arrests in what is still a mystery to doctors. From this experience, he provides wisdom from someone who has walked a path we hope not to.
This book is definitely a trigger for looking at your own life more closely—your motivations and validations—and potentially changing priorities. I think I’ve glided through life and ended up where I am, like many people, and Lindner’s book is very thought-provoking for the everyday, average person.
October 9, 2022
Good advice for those who feel like a better life is just around the corner. It's not. Unless you make it so. And you do have the power. Life isn't "happening" to you. You are the one responsible for your own situation. Change is difficult, and it's not going to happen on its own.
July 23, 2024
Just say no. This guy had a heart attack. Evidently This gives you permission to be extremely judgmental of others While telling you not to be judgmental of others. Additionally it gives you Permission to write a book RANTING about all of the Things you don't like about other people - Especially their politics. He makes wild assumptions about others like the janitors in his building who are on their cell phones And what they are doing while they are on their cell phones. He seems to know exactly what they're doing and exactly what their politics are. He actually goes on to blame one TV network for being biased while not blaming another for being biased. And Only he seems to know the difference. Aren't they all biased? This book is like the letter you write when you're upset to assuage your anger. After one writes such a letter it should be burned. Unfortunately I got the privilege of reading it. I could absolutely have done without doing that. I hope you and many others don't make the same mistake.
March 24, 2023
This is a repost as my original didn't appear. Original post date is 3/15/23
The Half-Known Life is an excellent book, especially for those who exhibit the "busyness" gene. People with the "busyness" gene are the ones that never seem to have enough time to do something but always have other irons in the fire that make it- to them, almost impossible to complete all their self-assigned tasks, as well as those assigned by others. People such as them usually are involved in life to cover up something in themselves that shouts inadequacy.
I like the arrangement of this book. The author starts with his first heart attack and how it surprises him. This heart attack made him wonder how he survived being homeless to come to this state.
What I liked about this novel is the chapter for "Never Enough," starting with a quote from Jim Carrey actor, which makes me think of you selling your soul to the devil to obtain success. To paraphrase Jim Carrey- you would have to kill yourself to succeed; the author's job -is to help others succeed in being whole individuals who achieve their goals and manage their time the right way for their success.
The previous chapter, "Becoming You," discusses being yourself to achieve a whole personality defining who you are.
The chapter entitled "Never Enough" states that we all want more and more. The reason behind it- we see the glass as half-full instead of full; we look at another life and see their success; we are jealous and wish to attach ourselves to their success, thereby validating our lives and not necessarily their own.
We become attached to titles, monetary items, and things to show that we have arrived.
Surrounding yourself with people who want you instead of people who want what you can give them is what I took from the latter part of the chapter. It discusses what your social life interaction means, too.
Chapter seven was my next most-liked from this novel- do not sweat the small stuff. I read the book of the same title, and although I cannot find it- I have to share it was my go-to whenever I needed to remind myself that something else was more important, and this was not. Let go of the small stuff- do not be petty, and do not worry about what you cannot control. The author uses the word detach- detach yourself from emotions and deal with the facts. By doing so, you will be able to as he says- feel more emotion and let go of what does not matter. The idea of detachment is bolstered by facts surrounding any issues, interactions, and life choices you make. This will help you do as it says in chapter nine to deal with what's real.
The author says that relationships are always the first to disappear in our lives. Any relationship makes you deal with what is real in your life-meaning what is a concrete fact and emotion in your life. It will not be easy, and it will not come easy.
His heart attacks and the aftermath of both are discussed further in this chapter. His energy level was depleted due to the heart attack causing him to be more aware of how he spent his energy due to his lack of it; this is what he was trying to impart to his clients; through this book, he wants to impart the same thought to you. Watch how you spend your energy translates into watching how you spend your time.
At the end of the book, the author discusses the passing of a co-worker and how the day before she died, she, Joyce, wished she could visit Hawaii. Planning to do it, she kept walking, and so did the author. The next day she passed and would not be doing anything of that nature. This made him feel that it is important to smell your roses while you are here, enjoy your theatre while you are here, enjoy your loved ones while both of you are here, together, and slow down to appreciate the life you have even the small things that matter. Let the rest of it go to achieve your goals and also to help manage your time.
I highly recommend this read to all ages, particularly to people who need to manage their time due to too much "busyness."
The Half-Known Life is an excellent book, especially for those who exhibit the "busyness" gene. People with the "busyness" gene are the ones that never seem to have enough time to do something but always have other irons in the fire that make it- to them, almost impossible to complete all their self-assigned tasks, as well as those assigned by others. People such as them usually are involved in life to cover up something in themselves that shouts inadequacy.
I like the arrangement of this book. The author starts with his first heart attack and how it surprises him. This heart attack made him wonder how he survived being homeless to come to this state.
What I liked about this novel is the chapter for "Never Enough," starting with a quote from Jim Carrey actor, which makes me think of you selling your soul to the devil to obtain success. To paraphrase Jim Carrey- you would have to kill yourself to succeed; the author's job -is to help others succeed in being whole individuals who achieve their goals and manage their time the right way for their success.
The previous chapter, "Becoming You," discusses being yourself to achieve a whole personality defining who you are.
The chapter entitled "Never Enough" states that we all want more and more. The reason behind it- we see the glass as half-full instead of full; we look at another life and see their success; we are jealous and wish to attach ourselves to their success, thereby validating our lives and not necessarily their own.
We become attached to titles, monetary items, and things to show that we have arrived.
Surrounding yourself with people who want you instead of people who want what you can give them is what I took from the latter part of the chapter. It discusses what your social life interaction means, too.
Chapter seven was my next most-liked from this novel- do not sweat the small stuff. I read the book of the same title, and although I cannot find it- I have to share it was my go-to whenever I needed to remind myself that something else was more important, and this was not. Let go of the small stuff- do not be petty, and do not worry about what you cannot control. The author uses the word detach- detach yourself from emotions and deal with the facts. By doing so, you will be able to as he says- feel more emotion and let go of what does not matter. The idea of detachment is bolstered by facts surrounding any issues, interactions, and life choices you make. This will help you do as it says in chapter nine to deal with what's real.
The author says that relationships are always the first to disappear in our lives. Any relationship makes you deal with what is real in your life-meaning what is a concrete fact and emotion in your life. It will not be easy, and it will not come easy.
His heart attacks and the aftermath of both are discussed further in this chapter. His energy level was depleted due to the heart attack causing him to be more aware of how he spent his energy due to his lack of it; this is what he was trying to impart to his clients; through this book, he wants to impart the same thought to you. Watch how you spend your energy translates into watching how you spend your time.
At the end of the book, the author discusses the passing of a co-worker and how the day before she died, she, Joyce, wished she could visit Hawaii. Planning to do it, she kept walking, and so did the author. The next day she passed and would not be doing anything of that nature. This made him feel that it is important to smell your roses while you are here, enjoy your theatre while you are here, enjoy your loved ones while both of you are here, together, and slow down to appreciate the life you have even the small things that matter. Let the rest of it go to achieve your goals and also to help manage your time.
I highly recommend this read to all ages, particularly to people who need to manage their time due to too much "busyness."
August 15, 2022
The Half-Known Life: What Matters Most When You’re Running Out of Time by Ryan Linder is an insightful and revealing memoir that serves as a reminder that life is short. After experiencing an unexplained cardiac arrest, the author went through a deep self-actualization process and shares some important lessons all can learn from.
Five important lessons from The Half-Known Life: What Matters Most When You’re Running Out of Time are:
1. Individuals don't change except if they decide to change. We all have to make a conscious decision to make a change in our lives because the end can come at any moment.
2. You can't persuade anybody regarding anything. They need to arrive at their own decisions. Regardless of whether the thought is from somewhere else, they need to choose to be available to it. People have to arrive at their own convictions.
3. Living with the consistent feeling of dread toward death makes you genuinely value the gift of life. This resonated deeply because we are all expected to die but reading the near death experience of Linder shifts perspective greatly, which in itself is a motivator to live life to the fullest.
4. Happiness is a perspective, an inclination. True harmony isn't. At the point when you find a sense of contentment, you live in the moment. Life continues to go on, but instead of being an observer, you can join in and enjoy all life has to offer instead of vicarious living.
5. Be mindful of people and pain from the past that steal your energy. Absolution is something you accomplish for yourself. Holding on the burdens from the past that weighs on the heart, mind and soul is toxic. Free your self and embrace forgiveness.
The Half-Known Life: What Matters Most When You’re Running Out of Time by Ryan Linder is an insightful memoir that deals with the fragility of life in the face of death.
Five important lessons from The Half-Known Life: What Matters Most When You’re Running Out of Time are:
1. Individuals don't change except if they decide to change. We all have to make a conscious decision to make a change in our lives because the end can come at any moment.
2. You can't persuade anybody regarding anything. They need to arrive at their own decisions. Regardless of whether the thought is from somewhere else, they need to choose to be available to it. People have to arrive at their own convictions.
3. Living with the consistent feeling of dread toward death makes you genuinely value the gift of life. This resonated deeply because we are all expected to die but reading the near death experience of Linder shifts perspective greatly, which in itself is a motivator to live life to the fullest.
4. Happiness is a perspective, an inclination. True harmony isn't. At the point when you find a sense of contentment, you live in the moment. Life continues to go on, but instead of being an observer, you can join in and enjoy all life has to offer instead of vicarious living.
5. Be mindful of people and pain from the past that steal your energy. Absolution is something you accomplish for yourself. Holding on the burdens from the past that weighs on the heart, mind and soul is toxic. Free your self and embrace forgiveness.
The Half-Known Life: What Matters Most When You’re Running Out of Time by Ryan Linder is an insightful memoir that deals with the fragility of life in the face of death.
August 30, 2022
This book is your wakeup call, to stop living a half-life; to instead see possibilities and opportunities for learning rather than risks, to get your priorities right (and it ain't getting more likes on Instagram), and to being grateful for what you already have.
Or in Lindner's own words:
"The Half-Known Life challenges conventional thinking about success, identity, and personal change. It’s about what’s real and exploring answers to the right questions, perhaps allowing you a different life perspective and helping you to take the first step toward change."
As Lindner sets out very clearly in his book, our 'priorities change when time becomes precious'. With limited time left, we typically reevaluate what's important. Why not do it now? Before you have a time limit to your life?
The book is jam packed with the wisdom gathered by Lindner after his two cardiac arrests, and various coaching discussions with his clients (who he doesn't always agree with when it comes to priorities).
If you need a kick up your backside to live your life to the full, then this is the book for you. If you love motivational quotes and thoughtful sentences, this is also the book for you.
Please see below for a few of the sections I highlighted when reading this book;
#People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. —(Maya Angelou)
#If you aren’t living, you’re dying.
#A good education teaches someone how to think, not what to think.
#If friendships have no room for honesty, then they aren’t friendships.
#Would you rather be right or be happy?
Finally, for many of us, another wakeup call: "your purpose is to be alive and experience your life. Instead, we work, are exhausted, and add things to the to-do list quicker than we can complete them."
Or in Lindner's own words:
"The Half-Known Life challenges conventional thinking about success, identity, and personal change. It’s about what’s real and exploring answers to the right questions, perhaps allowing you a different life perspective and helping you to take the first step toward change."
As Lindner sets out very clearly in his book, our 'priorities change when time becomes precious'. With limited time left, we typically reevaluate what's important. Why not do it now? Before you have a time limit to your life?
The book is jam packed with the wisdom gathered by Lindner after his two cardiac arrests, and various coaching discussions with his clients (who he doesn't always agree with when it comes to priorities).
If you need a kick up your backside to live your life to the full, then this is the book for you. If you love motivational quotes and thoughtful sentences, this is also the book for you.
Please see below for a few of the sections I highlighted when reading this book;
#People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. —(Maya Angelou)
#If you aren’t living, you’re dying.
#A good education teaches someone how to think, not what to think.
#If friendships have no room for honesty, then they aren’t friendships.
#Would you rather be right or be happy?
Finally, for many of us, another wakeup call: "your purpose is to be alive and experience your life. Instead, we work, are exhausted, and add things to the to-do list quicker than we can complete them."
April 27, 2023
What an inspiring journey to go on.
was so hit by this book. It mirrored much of my own experience with autoimmune-in that life has more meaning when we become more aware of the value of energy and resources when we have limits...
It's truly a profound read and worthy of being read in such a way, not to rush and scurried through...but chewed over and marinated in the soul.
I read parts of what was written to my hubby, because he had heard me comment over the years about certain things- and here I was reading this book, and finding someone who finally got IT...
I love the heart behind this book, it says what I imagine most counsellors want to say to their clients who come in each session with the same problems which cycle around, week after week, without change.
This book offers us a part memoir, part behavioral science, part life coach read.
Filled with story, examples, wisdom, and heart.
This book inspires readers, human doings to become human beings once again.
To live, to suck the marrow out of life, and make the time we have count, for the things that matter most.
Truly, this book stands apart in a sea of pages, chapters and volumes and I'm grateful for having read it.
I don't think you could read this book and not come away with something... inspiration, daring to dream once again...it is a hard read in places, because it forces us to evaluate what an I doing, and why am I doing it?
There will be parts you might no agree with, but even if you gain 5% greater revelation about an aspect of life- isn't that better than when you first began.
This is that kind of book...
Personally, loved it
was so hit by this book. It mirrored much of my own experience with autoimmune-in that life has more meaning when we become more aware of the value of energy and resources when we have limits...
It's truly a profound read and worthy of being read in such a way, not to rush and scurried through...but chewed over and marinated in the soul.
I read parts of what was written to my hubby, because he had heard me comment over the years about certain things- and here I was reading this book, and finding someone who finally got IT...
I love the heart behind this book, it says what I imagine most counsellors want to say to their clients who come in each session with the same problems which cycle around, week after week, without change.
This book offers us a part memoir, part behavioral science, part life coach read.
Filled with story, examples, wisdom, and heart.
This book inspires readers, human doings to become human beings once again.
To live, to suck the marrow out of life, and make the time we have count, for the things that matter most.
Truly, this book stands apart in a sea of pages, chapters and volumes and I'm grateful for having read it.
I don't think you could read this book and not come away with something... inspiration, daring to dream once again...it is a hard read in places, because it forces us to evaluate what an I doing, and why am I doing it?
There will be parts you might no agree with, but even if you gain 5% greater revelation about an aspect of life- isn't that better than when you first began.
This is that kind of book...
Personally, loved it
October 25, 2024
A Guidebook For The Nearly Dead!
The Half-Known Life unexpectedly succeeds on drastically different levels. Ryan Lindner defies the reader’s expectations—not preaching to the unenlightened nor minimizing the obstacles to appreciating life properly. In his words: “It’s not a sunshine-and-rainbows book.” The delightful difference in this narrative from a Near-Death survivor is that the author does not rely on ethereal encounters of higher reality to denounce the world of physical reality. Instead, he applies the perspective he gained from touching “higher ground” to offer practical methods for living a fully appreciative life—here and now. The first step is to question the truth of one’s current reality.
• Your future is shaped by the constant search for confirmation that what you believe is true. If what you believe about your life isn’t true, then how do you know what is?
• Reactions are your mind’s attempt to control outcomes—the ego’s trick to steer situations in its favor.
• We can’t see that nothing we can ever do will truly control how others see us.
When taken to heart, Mr. Lindner’s revelatory litany of daily living habits can leave one feeling embarrassed, if not downright ashamed. That is not his purpose or intent—quite the opposite. By showing how insidiously easy it is to become enslaved by busyness, false impressions, and misplaced values, The Half-Known Life means to reveal the light that shines before the tunnel’s end. The brilliance of this account lies in its ability to illuminate our darkness and show us the way out—no need for an early death.
Joel R. Dennstedt - Author/Editor
The Half-Known Life unexpectedly succeeds on drastically different levels. Ryan Lindner defies the reader’s expectations—not preaching to the unenlightened nor minimizing the obstacles to appreciating life properly. In his words: “It’s not a sunshine-and-rainbows book.” The delightful difference in this narrative from a Near-Death survivor is that the author does not rely on ethereal encounters of higher reality to denounce the world of physical reality. Instead, he applies the perspective he gained from touching “higher ground” to offer practical methods for living a fully appreciative life—here and now. The first step is to question the truth of one’s current reality.
• Your future is shaped by the constant search for confirmation that what you believe is true. If what you believe about your life isn’t true, then how do you know what is?
• Reactions are your mind’s attempt to control outcomes—the ego’s trick to steer situations in its favor.
• We can’t see that nothing we can ever do will truly control how others see us.
When taken to heart, Mr. Lindner’s revelatory litany of daily living habits can leave one feeling embarrassed, if not downright ashamed. That is not his purpose or intent—quite the opposite. By showing how insidiously easy it is to become enslaved by busyness, false impressions, and misplaced values, The Half-Known Life means to reveal the light that shines before the tunnel’s end. The brilliance of this account lies in its ability to illuminate our darkness and show us the way out—no need for an early death.
Joel R. Dennstedt - Author/Editor
February 21, 2023
Life is a journey, so brace up and enjoy every money.
Let’s face the fact that there is certainly no way to figure out everything about your life. It goes far beyond what we perceive and believe. Therefore, the goal is to figure out the crucial things and separate them from the trivial ones. In line with this, Virginia author Ryan Lindner has put together this excellent book to help us better understand how to lead happier lives.
Ryan’s twice near-death experiences opened his eyes to the reality of life. So, in return, Ryan is on a mission to start living life, both personally and for others whom he leads as a life coach. Ryan’s works extend beyond individuals and touch even groups and companies.
The Half-known Life talks about our understanding of who we are, how we relate with others, and how we manage our time. Reading this book has brought me to a better understanding of life as it should be—not work life or personal life—just life.
Instead of wishing you had a better life that may never come, why not relax and start enjoying the moment? Start understanding the little things; they make up your story. I so much love this book that it has become a handy companion.
Let’s face the fact that there is certainly no way to figure out everything about your life. It goes far beyond what we perceive and believe. Therefore, the goal is to figure out the crucial things and separate them from the trivial ones. In line with this, Virginia author Ryan Lindner has put together this excellent book to help us better understand how to lead happier lives.
Ryan’s twice near-death experiences opened his eyes to the reality of life. So, in return, Ryan is on a mission to start living life, both personally and for others whom he leads as a life coach. Ryan’s works extend beyond individuals and touch even groups and companies.
The Half-known Life talks about our understanding of who we are, how we relate with others, and how we manage our time. Reading this book has brought me to a better understanding of life as it should be—not work life or personal life—just life.
Instead of wishing you had a better life that may never come, why not relax and start enjoying the moment? Start understanding the little things; they make up your story. I so much love this book that it has become a handy companion.
April 10, 2023
An important message for those caught up in the rat race of life
In my life, I noticed that I am always busy thinking about my next move without really focusing on what’s important. The Half-Known Life made me take time to really evaluate how I was living, working, and even looking at my life goals. There is a lot to be said about identity and how it can change in an instant when something profound happens. While the book details how the author was faced with an epiphany as he was fighting for his life, the actual message of the book helps us readers to benefit without being on the brink of death.
The book is a great way to take a harsh and honest look at the routines that you follow in life and the real motivations behind them. It can help you to eliminate, or at least identify harmful tendencies that are not really helping you reach your goals or improve your place in life. Getting joy from your effort is really the true goal, and if you are looking for a way to achieve a higher state of being or a more clear state of mind, this is a great place to start. Let go of the unimportant minute and take the time to look around you to find out what’s really important in the short time we have on this earth.
In my life, I noticed that I am always busy thinking about my next move without really focusing on what’s important. The Half-Known Life made me take time to really evaluate how I was living, working, and even looking at my life goals. There is a lot to be said about identity and how it can change in an instant when something profound happens. While the book details how the author was faced with an epiphany as he was fighting for his life, the actual message of the book helps us readers to benefit without being on the brink of death.
The book is a great way to take a harsh and honest look at the routines that you follow in life and the real motivations behind them. It can help you to eliminate, or at least identify harmful tendencies that are not really helping you reach your goals or improve your place in life. Getting joy from your effort is really the true goal, and if you are looking for a way to achieve a higher state of being or a more clear state of mind, this is a great place to start. Let go of the unimportant minute and take the time to look around you to find out what’s really important in the short time we have on this earth.
February 23, 2025
The Half-Known Life by Ryan Lindner is a fascinating journey into near-death experiences and personal transformation. The book begins with a compelling exploration of the author's brush with mortality, offering insightful, thought-provoking reflections on what truly matters in life. Lindner's early chapters brim with energy and raw emotion, drawing you into his world with vivid anecdotes and a clear passion for self-discovery.
However, as the narrative unfolds, it occasionally veers into lengthy, opinionated diatribes that can feel heavy-handed. While certainly earnest, the relentless political and religious rants sometimes detract from the otherwise engaging personal insights. Though rich in ideas, the writing style tends to be a tad disorganised at times—almost like a stream of consciousness that leaves you sifting through bullet-point moments.
Despite these minor flaws, The Half-Known Life offers an abundance of wisdom and a fresh perspective on life's most profound questions. This book is an absolute must-read if you're up for a read that challenges your thinking and encourages deep reflection. It is highly recommended for anyone ready to ponder the true essence of existence.
However, as the narrative unfolds, it occasionally veers into lengthy, opinionated diatribes that can feel heavy-handed. While certainly earnest, the relentless political and religious rants sometimes detract from the otherwise engaging personal insights. Though rich in ideas, the writing style tends to be a tad disorganised at times—almost like a stream of consciousness that leaves you sifting through bullet-point moments.
Despite these minor flaws, The Half-Known Life offers an abundance of wisdom and a fresh perspective on life's most profound questions. This book is an absolute must-read if you're up for a read that challenges your thinking and encourages deep reflection. It is highly recommended for anyone ready to ponder the true essence of existence.
August 13, 2024
Loved it!
Interesting, intriguing, creative, well done, and thoughtful are some of the many words that I would use to describe this amazing book. The author, Ryan Lindner, did an incredible job when wriggling this deep exploration of the human experience. I really loved this book and I really wanted to mention some special highlights about it. First of all, Lindner's writing style was full of thought-provoking topics included that really challenged the readers to think deeply about their own life, making the book really engaging and enjoyable. Also, thanks to the real-life stories included, we as readers could understand and connect better with the author. On another hand, I loved how the book promoted and encouraged people to think more about being in the present and throughout this book, you will be given many tools that would make your life more intentional and meaningful. In overview, I would recommend this book to everyone that wants to explore and better understand the aspects of existing. It would be an interesting read for anyone investing on their own personal growth and feeling deeper the meaning of life.
Interesting, intriguing, creative, well done, and thoughtful are some of the many words that I would use to describe this amazing book. The author, Ryan Lindner, did an incredible job when wriggling this deep exploration of the human experience. I really loved this book and I really wanted to mention some special highlights about it. First of all, Lindner's writing style was full of thought-provoking topics included that really challenged the readers to think deeply about their own life, making the book really engaging and enjoyable. Also, thanks to the real-life stories included, we as readers could understand and connect better with the author. On another hand, I loved how the book promoted and encouraged people to think more about being in the present and throughout this book, you will be given many tools that would make your life more intentional and meaningful. In overview, I would recommend this book to everyone that wants to explore and better understand the aspects of existing. It would be an interesting read for anyone investing on their own personal growth and feeling deeper the meaning of life.
June 19, 2022
Thought-provoking book written by someone with a unique perspective, someone who had two near-death experiences. Very quotable. “We all have this clock, but I can always hear its tick, the ever-present reminder to manage my energy as I walk the tightrope, always a misstep away from falling into my dark world again.’
“We all have this clock, but I can always hear its tick, the ever-present reminder to manage my energy as I walk the tightrope, always a misstep away from falling into my dark world again.’
People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel''
"We might think we are lawyers or accountants or clerks or landscapers, but really, we are time traders. We give our time, usually for something cheap in return. Remember, if something doesn’t add to your life, it takes away. And time always seems slow in the moment. One day you’ll realize that it quietly vanished without your knowing. Don’t be a bystander. Get out of your head and get into your life before it slips away."
“We all have this clock, but I can always hear its tick, the ever-present reminder to manage my energy as I walk the tightrope, always a misstep away from falling into my dark world again.’
People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel''
"We might think we are lawyers or accountants or clerks or landscapers, but really, we are time traders. We give our time, usually for something cheap in return. Remember, if something doesn’t add to your life, it takes away. And time always seems slow in the moment. One day you’ll realize that it quietly vanished without your knowing. Don’t be a bystander. Get out of your head and get into your life before it slips away."
August 12, 2022
The Half-Known Life by Ryan Linder is a wake-up call to truly understand and ponder the way we live our lives. The author has twice experienced near death experiences which completely changed his perspective in life. He describes that for everyone else it doesn't have to be that way and they can realize early on the true way of living. The author illustrates that one doesn't have to follow a particular way of life which is approved by others instead they can choose how to live their life fully without the negatives of depression, anxiety, and failure. Ryan Linder, through this guide, encourages self-love and demonstrates the impact that it represents leading to full known life. I feel positively encouraged to make changes in my day-to-day life after this brilliant read. I can now distinguish between what is important and my motives for my actions. The author’s tone is soothing, and his guidance is the nudge I needed in life. I highly recommend this read, the best I have read in a while.
February 21, 2023
It’s personal
Someone else might’ve given this five stars. Despite a really rousing beginning and a lot of good advice, it didn’t make any impression on me because I’ve heard it all before. In my 20s, I was an Al-Anon, and I think I’ve learned all of the stuff in this book just by being in n Al-Anon except for the worrying thing. And I figured out the worrying thing when I realized that only about 10% of all the things that I’d worried about ever happened and of those only 3% had mattered. so in that way, I learned that worrying was not just a waste of time, but complete idiocy. Someone else might find this an amazing book, full of great wisdom. (I was kind of hoping for something about god in there. Because my whole life is about God now and anything new to think about God is like ice cream to me. But oh well, I recommend this if you’ve never been in AA or Al-Anon or Alateen or any other such 12 step program. You will certainly pick up some useful information, but for me, it was “MEH”.
Someone else might’ve given this five stars. Despite a really rousing beginning and a lot of good advice, it didn’t make any impression on me because I’ve heard it all before. In my 20s, I was an Al-Anon, and I think I’ve learned all of the stuff in this book just by being in n Al-Anon except for the worrying thing. And I figured out the worrying thing when I realized that only about 10% of all the things that I’d worried about ever happened and of those only 3% had mattered. so in that way, I learned that worrying was not just a waste of time, but complete idiocy. Someone else might find this an amazing book, full of great wisdom. (I was kind of hoping for something about god in there. Because my whole life is about God now and anything new to think about God is like ice cream to me. But oh well, I recommend this if you’ve never been in AA or Al-Anon or Alateen or any other such 12 step program. You will certainly pick up some useful information, but for me, it was “MEH”.
March 14, 2023
I think that not all self-help books manage to convey a message as clear and down-to-earth as this one. I highly recommend this book for everyone, it is not necessary to be going through a bad time to become aware and make changes in your life, there is no need to hit bottom to react.
The half known life is a book where you will be able to find significant stories and processes that can be experienced, really hard, where people until they live these moments of shock where they find themselves face to face with death or with some definitive event, they find reasons to make change and become aware of important issues in life, where he exposes how success is not the most important thing through the eyes of others and recognition.
I highly recommend this book, since as I mentioned before, it is very down-to-earth and is honest with the fact that there is no magic pill to change your whole life overnight, but it exposes how day by day with small changes you can reach the goal and be happy.
The half known life is a book where you will be able to find significant stories and processes that can be experienced, really hard, where people until they live these moments of shock where they find themselves face to face with death or with some definitive event, they find reasons to make change and become aware of important issues in life, where he exposes how success is not the most important thing through the eyes of others and recognition.
I highly recommend this book, since as I mentioned before, it is very down-to-earth and is honest with the fact that there is no magic pill to change your whole life overnight, but it exposes how day by day with small changes you can reach the goal and be happy.
March 17, 2023
The Half-Known Life: What Matters Most When You’re Running Out Of Time, by Ryan Linder, is a nonfiction novel that challenges the established way of thinking about prosperity, a person’s uniqueness, and individual change. The book stresses how it takes a catastrophe for a person to see their life with clarity. So, why wait for a disaster to change your life? Get out of your fantasy world life, and into reality, before reality slips away.
Linder has come up with a way for a person to analyze his or her life, ideas, incentives, and patterns to encounter the moments in their life with clarity. Linder also demonstrates that life is indeed short, and it’s up to each person to make the most of what time they have on earth. And he does this through examples from his own life.
The Half-Known Life: What Matters Most When You’re Running Out Of Time, by Ryan Linder, is a wonderful resource for the distracted mind. Why do people do what they do? What is their incentive? Their motive? The thought-provoking questions we all need to think about.
Linder has come up with a way for a person to analyze his or her life, ideas, incentives, and patterns to encounter the moments in their life with clarity. Linder also demonstrates that life is indeed short, and it’s up to each person to make the most of what time they have on earth. And he does this through examples from his own life.
The Half-Known Life: What Matters Most When You’re Running Out Of Time, by Ryan Linder, is a wonderful resource for the distracted mind. Why do people do what they do? What is their incentive? Their motive? The thought-provoking questions we all need to think about.
August 9, 2024
A wake up call to live your life now.
This is a memoir type self-help book as the author talks us through his near death experience and how that began a change in the way he looked at life.
Sharing his lessons from near death he supplies numbers quotes he's written. This one struck a cord with me: there's no such thing as 'work life' or 'personal life'. Stop wishing it away as you wait for a better tomorrow that never comes. I am guilty of this, like a lot, so I eagerly read on.
I will say that this is an excellent book, however, I take issue with the author's comment about Christian people. Christianity is not just a feel good club and nothing more. I was pretty outraged by that passage.
My faith gives me peace and my fellowship gives me love, support and friendship.
It is one thing to write a book to lift people up, and I applaud the author in that, but is quite another to knock people's faith.
Besides my little upset, I went on to finish the book.
It offers tremendous common sense.and really gets you to stop and think about who you really are.
If you're looking for a book to help you live a different life you will probably find this very helpful.
This is a memoir type self-help book as the author talks us through his near death experience and how that began a change in the way he looked at life.
Sharing his lessons from near death he supplies numbers quotes he's written. This one struck a cord with me: there's no such thing as 'work life' or 'personal life'. Stop wishing it away as you wait for a better tomorrow that never comes. I am guilty of this, like a lot, so I eagerly read on.
I will say that this is an excellent book, however, I take issue with the author's comment about Christian people. Christianity is not just a feel good club and nothing more. I was pretty outraged by that passage.
My faith gives me peace and my fellowship gives me love, support and friendship.
It is one thing to write a book to lift people up, and I applaud the author in that, but is quite another to knock people's faith.
Besides my little upset, I went on to finish the book.
It offers tremendous common sense.and really gets you to stop and think about who you really are.
If you're looking for a book to help you live a different life you will probably find this very helpful.
July 7, 2022
Ryan Linder is a personal development specialist and the author of this book called “The Half Known Life: What Matters Most When You’re Running Out of Time”. Putting his knowledge to work, Linder created this book to provide assistance to people that feel they are not in control of their own lives. His brand-new perspective in life is easy to follow and has a sweet taste altogether.
I enjoyed reading this book, I was seeking for help to see if someone had another way of seeing things and helping out and I am beyond the moon that I found this book. Linder’s personal troubles made him the person and helper he is today because he had the courage to pursue his dreams regarding the situations he encounter and he inspires with every word he wrote. It is a book that helps the reader get to know themselves better and force them to fight their fears. Anyone struggling, like me, will benefit from this read!
I enjoyed reading this book, I was seeking for help to see if someone had another way of seeing things and helping out and I am beyond the moon that I found this book. Linder’s personal troubles made him the person and helper he is today because he had the courage to pursue his dreams regarding the situations he encounter and he inspires with every word he wrote. It is a book that helps the reader get to know themselves better and force them to fight their fears. Anyone struggling, like me, will benefit from this read!
November 9, 2022
The Half-Known Life, penned by Ryan Linder, is a book that serves as an eye-opener. It is straight-up taken from Ryan's life experiences when he had two cardiac arrests and from then on, he learned the value and true meaning of life. Everyone learns the hard way from different experiences. We may have different struggles in life but these things will always lead us to one thing, change. As I was reading this book, I had so many realizations in life. We sometimes fall because of circumstances and sometimes it feels like it's hard to get up, but this book teaches us that things always happen for a reason and we should cherish every moment life is giving us and look around us more and see the people we love and love us. The passages in this book are deep, meaningful, and sensible. I loved that it has full of sense and it makes me ponder everything. It was a read that will definitely remain in my mind for a long time.
May 5, 2023
Suffering two heart attacks in your 30's, despite being in excellent health, can really change a person's outlook on life. That's what happened to the author of this book.
For some people, life is all about getting honors and accolades, and being able to put letters after their name. Is that all there is? Is it more important than being a decent and considerate person? After you are dead, will people remember your awards, or will they remember what sort of person you were?
Are you waiting for the "perfect time" to start working on a personal goal? There is no "perfect time," there is only "now." As with any goal, make it specific, measurable and achievable. Put a time limit on it, and break it up into smaller pieces. Every day, resolve to do at least one goal-oriented thing. Start tomorrow.
This book covers a lot of areas. It may require more than one reading to "get" this book, but it is time very well spent. Perhaps this will help you to get out of your emotional "rut."
For some people, life is all about getting honors and accolades, and being able to put letters after their name. Is that all there is? Is it more important than being a decent and considerate person? After you are dead, will people remember your awards, or will they remember what sort of person you were?
Are you waiting for the "perfect time" to start working on a personal goal? There is no "perfect time," there is only "now." As with any goal, make it specific, measurable and achievable. Put a time limit on it, and break it up into smaller pieces. Every day, resolve to do at least one goal-oriented thing. Start tomorrow.
This book covers a lot of areas. It may require more than one reading to "get" this book, but it is time very well spent. Perhaps this will help you to get out of your emotional "rut."
August 12, 2024
For those who are facing life transitions or challenges, this book serves as a guide. I had the chance to explore life fragility to reflect on the choices that I have made and how I want to live. Lindner encourages the readers to turn off the autopilot and be mindful about the present, stay on the past or worry about the future, and go one day at a time. The main question was "What truly matters?" Redefining how success, happiness, and fulfillment is challenged by challenging those notions and inviting to prioritize life experiences, relationships, and personal growth over validation from other people or material possessions. This book is an invitation for profound change, I explored the practical exercises offered by the author to identify my values, set goals, and ended up gaining the tools to empower myself. This transformation culminates with a call to action to cultivate gratitude for every step you take for your life transformation.
July 6, 2022
This book makes you wonder what matters the most in your life if everything currently important in your eyes was to be taken away from you. It's written by Ryan Lindner, a man who wrote this book after having an eye-opening experience, a cardiac arrest. It was after his cardiac arrest and him returning to his job as a behavioural coach that he understood how misguided most of our priorities are. Our priorities change after eye-opening life experiences. This book challenges that manner of thinking and encourages us to change our life for the better before any unfortunate experience. It made me think about my priorities in a manner I had never thought about, and after finishing this book, I definitely changed them up a whole lot. This book is all about living life to your fullest, but with the right priorities.
July 8, 2022
The Half-Known Life by Ryan Lindner is the book that everyone should read at least once in a lifetime.
This book confronts conventional thinking in every posible way. Success, identity, and personal change are on the table here. I believe that true changes appear after hitting moments in life; a car accident, death of a family member or health problems. Priorities change when time becomes a treasure. Problems change levels when there is no energy left. I was shocked to know that the author wrote this book after a cardiac arrest he had. I could feel what he felt, I had some of these moments in my life as well, and that's why I believe that everyone should read this book. No one should wait until something bad happens to them, in order to change the perspective in life. I highly recommend this book to everybody.
October 17, 2022
The Half-Know Life is written by a cardiac arrest survivor, Ryan Lindner. A man who used to work as a behavioral coach for some time until he brushed up against death. Returning to his work, most of everyone’s problems seemed mundane, as compared to his new way of thinking. A way of thinking which prioritizes learning to forget the conventional ways of thinking about success, personal change and identity. The book goes on to educate you about how you don’t necessarily need a life-changing event to put things in your life in an order that truly benefits you. With this book you can understand a different view, a different way of thinking about life. A way in which you’re able to focus on yourself more than the mundane, time-consuming, useless things around you. It’s a very unique and helpful guide that aims to change your thinking for the better, and promote personal growth.
November 8, 2022
A great read for anyone who is ready and interested in living their life more fully. After two cardiac arrests at a young age, the author realized how precious life is.
When you have faced death (twice) and are living with the knowledge that it can happen again at any time, it really helps you let go of the small stuff. The author talks about how to get out of your daily routines and appreciate life for what it is, in the present moment. Things like meaningless office and social chit chat, the Monday through Friday drudgery and the supposed weekend bliss that we usually end up frittering away, as well as many other societal rants really bring into perspective that most of us are wasting our lives not being in the present moment. Inspiring book if you need a little push to let go of the nonsense and really live.
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