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cdjdhj's review against another edition
3.0
Less debt, fewer things, and thinner bodies = happiness. At least that is the premise of this book. I don't disagree, with Peter Walsh, but I really think there is more to it than that. The subtitle of this book is "Love what you have, have what you need and be happier with less." Good advice. Perhaps I should give this book more than three stars because it did compel me action - I am now cleaning out and de-cluttering my closet, however, my husband and I have been debt free for years and even when we weren't completely debt-free, our debt was never overpowering and burdensome. We do have a little extra "lived-in" clutter in our home, but we clean up and purge on a regular basis, and our home is generally neat and orderly. Also, I have never really had a problem with being overweight, so according to Mr. Walsh, I'm all set for a problem-free family and life. Not so. Being happy with what we have is definitely part of the equation for a life of happiness and contentment, but so many other things come into play - especially when dealing with the choices of others, in a family situation. I really wish things were as easy as Peter Walsh portrays them in this book - but then so many TV Gurus (Mr. Walsh appeared on "Oprah" a number of times) condense true life fulfillment to a few easy steps, that, according to them, no one else has ever figured out - so therefore they are a "genius." Mr. Walsh has some good ideas and advice, but he is not a genius and there is really nothing new, that most people with common sense, don't already know. Maybe some have just forgotten it, so this book is a good reminder.
jenniferstringer's review against another edition
4.0
3.5 - 4 stars This book attempts to get at the heart of clutter which is more psychological than physical. It was written during the height of the last recession when many people were forced to scale back their lifestyles and that is a theme that is carried throughout the book with many recession testimonials. There are several evaluations and questionnaires to try to figure out where your hang-ups are. I did the first one, and I think it's true that I am both avoiding the current situation and living in the future (in my mind). I didn't do the other evaluations regarding money, etc, because I had already done similar things recently while trying to organize finances with an advisor. They are probably helpful if you haven't taken stock in a while. It goes on quite a bit about cost vs value, and opportunity costs when you must constantly spend time taking care of stuff, you are missing out in other areas. So, not exactly a how-to book, but motivational in a different way.
romcm's review against another edition
4.0
This book is incredibly reassuring for those who worry about stuff, clutter, and lack of money. My only criticism is that it seemed to cover so much. With no clear focus, it seemed to drag. However, the author (as always) manages to incorporate the psychology of mess into solution-focused strategies to become more organized.
bibliokris's review against another edition
4.0
I'm a big Walsh fan, because he is genuinely trying to help people--not selling products, but caring about what will lighten their loads (physically, mentally, psychologically). Lots is common sense, but also great reminders about how to organize & clear out stuff throughout the year. Recommended!
eralon's review
4.0
This is a combination of home organizing advice and financial advice which I love. I did Konmari in 2015 and it led me to organize my financial situation (and to Dave Ramsey books to do so). So I've thought for a while that these two issues are definitely tied together. Peter Walsh is very experienced in helping clients organize their lives and you can tell from the insights he provides in this book.
lblewis01's review
4.0
When I got this from the library, I thought it was just a book about decluttering that I was going to make my mother read. Instead, it is about money and the financial impact of clutter and owning too much stuff, and it really made me think more about our finances.
hazelbright's review
1.0
A good example of why I no longer generally bother with British writers. "What is the vision you have for the life you want?" is still a uselessly banal and general question, even if the one who asks it asks with a British accent.
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