Book Review: Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

Book Review: Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff…and it’s all small stuff

Simple ways to keep the little things from taking over your life

by Richard Carlson, Ph.D.

My Rating:  ***** 5/5 Stars

Why Did I Read?

I just finished reading this book for the 2nd time this year. The first time I ever read this book was this past April.  I had always heard very good things about it, and when I saw it at the book swap shed at my local recycle center, I was very excited to take it home and begin reading it.  I liked that this book looked like a very quick read, and it was!

Summary

This book is a New York Times Bestseller.  It lists and describes 100 strategies on living a better life.  The topics cover everything from Random Acts of Kindness to being present, practicing humility, quieting the mind, and so much more!  The main message I got from the book is to learn to slow down, relax, and go with the flow.

Goodreads summary of this book:
“Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff… and it’s all small stuff is a book that shows you how to keep from letting the little things in life drive you crazy. In thoughtful and insightful language, author Richard Carlson reveals ways to calm down in the midst of your incredibly hurried, stress-filled life. You can learn to put things in perspective by making the small daily changes he suggests,including advice such as “Think of your problems as potential teachers”; “Remember that when you die, your ‘In’ box won’t be empty”; and “Do one thing at a time.” You should also try to live in the present moment, let others have the glory at times, and lower your tolerance to stress. You can write down your most stubborn positions and see if you can soften them, learn to trust your intuitions, and live each day as if it might be your last. With gentle, supportive suggestions, Dr.Carlson reveals ways to make your actions more peaceful and caring, with the added benefit of making your life more calm and stress-free.”

What Did I Think/Recommendation

I loved this book!  I loved that it was a very quick read and it could be read very easily in pieces in short amounts of time.  Each of the 100 strategies was about 1-2 pages long, so I found it to be a great book to read anytime I had a few moments to spare (waiting rooms, in line at the gas pump, etc.).  I think all of the advice in this book is excellent.  I think everyone could benefit from slowing down, living in the present, and learning to go with the flow.  I rated this book 5 out of 5 stars.  It is one of my all-time favorite books, and I would recommend it to everyone to read at least once.

When doing some research for this review, I was surprised to learn that the author passed away at a young age.  I am grateful that he put this book out into the world along with several other books.  I am thankful that he shared his wisdom with the world because I personally believe sharing what we know is one of the greatest gifts we can give to others.  Richard Carlson may physically be gone from this earth, but he will forever live on through his writings, and for that I am grateful.

For more information about the author and reviews on Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff, check it out here on Goodreads.