Saturday, 27 June 2015

How to do Everything and be Happy by Peter Jones

This book is a really easy read. I completed it in a single day which is almost unheard of for me. It's funny, engaging, upbeat and light hearted, and the author draws you into his happiness techniques in a way that encourages you to make lists of things you want to do, while you're reading the book.
 
Yes, the techniques described do take time and effort. And some of your ambitions may require funding that you don't have right now, but the author suggests ways of overcoming obstacles and setting yourself challenging but achievable goals that will take you a step further on your journey towards greater happiness.

The main techniques suggested are making time to do things that you want to do, and setting goals to achieve the things that you want to achieve. The author suggests creating lists of things you'd like to do - either on your spontaneous day, or on another day which requires a bit more planning, and having a separate wish list of all the things you'd like to happen in your life. Then from this list, pull three top priorities to focus upon. Make these 'goals'. Then put time aside every month to focus on what needs to be done to achieve your goals.

My only criticism is that the book does drive home key points rather too much in some places, for my taste. However, this approach leaves you with no excuses - the  author addresses almost every possible objection as to why you might not be able to find the time, money, or feel the approach is beneficial for you.

Fortunately, because it's an easy read, I breezed through the slightly long-winded bits and completed the book. By the end, I had a short 'Now List' of things I'd like to do before I die (hopefully that won't be too soon), and an even shorter 'wish list', from which I created three very half-cut goals. Well it's a start.

I can certainly recommend the book from the perspective that it's an enjoyable read and is very accessible. Whether a few months of following the advice increases my happiness has yet to be seen!

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