Take a photo of a barcode or cover
4.2 AVERAGE
4.2 AVERAGE
informative
reflective
slow-paced
I will start off by saying that an issue I have with self help books overall is the lack of discussion on the differences for neurodivergents. Certain suggestions appeared to be incompatible with most neurodivergents, like the Do Nothing meditation, or the comment that streaming music during a task is a distraction that you should refrain from. For some ND, the level of stimulation needed to actually focus on a given task would necessitate additional input, like music or a fidget toy.
Having ADHD, reading that the Do Nothing meditation requires you to even stop yourself from focusing on your breathing, which is a typical way of redirecting the brain during regular meditation back to the task at hand, was distressing to think about for me. It felt like it would be a Sisyphian endeavor, no matter how long I attempted. While I do like meditation as a whole, I think certain ideas like the Do Nothing meditation are geared towards a brain that can operate as intended.
Because of this, I wish that ND needs would be taken into consideration more with books of this nature. While I liked the content and the overall message, the available actionable items that Burkeman provides aren't feasible for all without some level of modification. And of course the need to modify would signify a lacking on either the ND reader's part or Burkeman's. It wouldn't be outside the realm of what he already has written to address the differences that we can't control and how his idea can fit into our ND mental capabilities or needs.
Having ADHD, reading that the Do Nothing meditation requires you to even stop yourself from focusing on your breathing, which is a typical way of redirecting the brain during regular meditation back to the task at hand, was distressing to think about for me. It felt like it would be a Sisyphian endeavor, no matter how long I attempted. While I do like meditation as a whole, I think certain ideas like the Do Nothing meditation are geared towards a brain that can operate as intended.
Because of this, I wish that ND needs would be taken into consideration more with books of this nature. While I liked the content and the overall message, the available actionable items that Burkeman provides aren't feasible for all without some level of modification. And of course the need to modify would signify a lacking on either the ND reader's part or Burkeman's. It wouldn't be outside the realm of what he already has written to address the differences that we can't control and how his idea can fit into our ND mental capabilities or needs.
inspiring
slow-paced
informative
reflective
slow-paced
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
This is the single most important book I've ever read at this stage in my life. If there's only one self help book you read, please, try to make it this one.
Many good nuggets in here, and I think I need to re-read it slowly to internalize some of them. I did find the tone sometimes drifting toward the nihilistic, and the author's political and social worldview came through sometimes in that way that suggests that agreement is assumed. But all that said, there's a lot of good food for thought in here that deserves a more careful read. I will think this one over and come back to it later.
fast-paced
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
informative
medium-paced
informative
reflective
medium-paced
It saw me through. Worth it more than a therapy session (or at least I now have something to start it with!)
I listened to it in audiobook, then I got the physical copy because I need to take notes. THAT'S how much I needed this book.
I listened to it in audiobook, then I got the physical copy because I need to take notes. THAT'S how much I needed this book.