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Essentialism helps you to focus on what really matters to use your time and effort wisely by doing less. That’s the secret to achieving more success in what you want!
Join us in this episode with Greg McKeown, leadership and business strategist, public speaker, and author, who talks about how to discern the absolutely essential so you can make the greatest contribution towards the things that really matter.
McKeown is a New York Times best-selling author and leads The Essentialism Academy, a place created for the smart investment of your time to help you live more deliberately.
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GREG MCKEOWN
GREG MCKEOWN
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less
Audible Audiobook – Unabridged
Audible Audiobook – Unabridged
Greg McKeown (Author, Narrator), Random House Audio (Publisher)
4.6 out of 5 stars
Reviewed in the United States on December 31, 2017
I am 72. I have taken parts of this book and applied them to my life. It’s never to late to learn new ways of making your life more satisfying. Read and re read this book frequently. It is a book to be studied as you become able to do less but do it better. Essentialism is amazing. It really feels like a Happy New Year. Make notes and review them often while you reshape your life.
20 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on August 5, 2019
In recent roles especially in technology I've been in positions that demand tremendous amounts of breadth and depth to cover areas of responsibility. Some of this comes with the territory in being involved with smaller organizations where you have to wear "multiple hats." Also, much of this comes from our pace of life, requiring energy being spent in all directions with personal, professional and family priorities often in competition with each other.
Essentialism was a special book in that it enabled me to more take comfort in the idea that less is more. The notion is to truly focus on being 100% committed to the activities and commitments that you take on and to be comfortable in the art of saying no. Both professionally and personally this has allowed me to be more focused, less frantic, more happy and more productive.
Saying no is no small task however. This process takes a constant practice of self-analysis, self-discipline and cruel priority assessments. In order to be in a more present mindset, to be more focused and to hit key milestones I’ve found it crucial.
Even the graphics of the book provide a powerful visual reminder of the process. Routinely, I find myself speaking of the process of simplifying, focusing and spending more energy on key priorities rather that covering all the bases in life. I often loan, recommend or have purchased this for those that I find have the same energy that when not focused correctly can lead to burnout or worse. Take a read, it will be worth it!
One person found this helpful
Best nonfiction I’ve read in years
Reviewed in the United States on May 1, 2021
Effortless is a rare flavor of highly entertaining, page-turning non-fiction. I devoured the book in a day and I’m listening to it on audio now.
Few books are truly for everyone, but Effortless sure is.
Highly researched, with plenty of anecdotes to illustrate his principles, the book has actionable advice on every page. (Burnout is not a badge of honor!)
And the closing story, deeply personal and beautifully transparent on his family’s struggle with their daughter’s health, is worth the cover price alone.
Reviewed in the United States on November 23, 2019
My favorite book to reread as a refresher in the pursuit of doing less but better! Especially the last chapter, so much insightful information! Thank you!! This book is a must read to anyone that but especially those who have worked hard to get where they are and the opportunities are coming in, which is fantastic, but also overwhelming and can easily take you off track.
2 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on February 8, 2021
Although I have read many books in my life, I rarely identify with one as much as aI did with Essentialism, the disciplined pursuit of less. It is obvious Greg invested a lot of time and energy in this book and made it a powerhouse of invaluable wisdom. I can honestly say this book made me a better person, a better professional and a better human being. Thank you, Greg! Keep up the good work. P.S. it is interesting to note that although I live in the U.S., I found out about this book while watching an online IT workshop in Brazil. One of speakers spoke highly about the book and it catches my attention.
Reviewed in the United States on September 27, 2019
I've read this book going on 3 times now and every single time, I take away something deeply impactful. As an entrepreneur, I am naturally susceptible to the "shiny-object" syndrome - or the idea that my attention is constantly fragmented by the "urgent". The author is helping me overcome this bad habit and prioritize what will actually move my life in the direction I want it to go.
2 people found this helpful
Essentialism: an essential read
Reviewed in the United States on March 7, 2021
Rarely does a book so fully alter how I look at the world, but Essentialism did. Greg McKeown has a brilliant mastery of the English language and beautifully weaves research and narrative. I chose to read this in 21 days (okay, truth be told it took me 28) as a part of a two-person book group. It was a gamechanger for me to focus on what's the most important step for me to take right now. Give yourself a gift...read and act upon this book NOW...so you are ready for Effortless which is due out in April 2021. I cannot wait to dive in again on another McKeown book.
Thought Provoking and Inspiring
Reviewed in the United States on July 4, 2018
This was a very good read. I’m walking away from reading this inspired to make real change in my life happen, which is something I can say of very few books. Essentialism is intriguing, but the possibilities it brings are exciting. I would definitely recommend this to anyone and everyone in a high stress job, anyone who feels overwhelmed, and anyone who has perfectionist or do-it-all tendencies.
5 people found this helpful
integrate simplicity into your life :)
Reviewed in the United States on February 27, 2021
when things feel chaotic and stressful, I always keep this idea in mind! just creating space, purging, eliminating unnecessary tasks... all of this has helped me live more simply. the book really helps to understand what essentialism entails, so you can implement it into your own life.
of all the personal devt I've read over the years, there are a handful I've kept to re-read because of level of impact, and this is one of them!
This book stirred my creative juices
Reviewed in the United States on October 1, 2015
I really enjoyed reading this book. It enabled me to stand back and assess my business and personal life to determine what was important to me and how that might shape my actions going forward. It has inspired me to redesign my business from the bottom up and redesign my work week. The author's comment about using fun and fantasy to stir creative juices was particularly compelling to me. I also loved his tip that "if the answer is not a definite yes, than it should be a No.
Some other takeaways were to focus on the hardest things first and to try to make execution effortless. He encourages minimalism by urging us to consider the simplest possible product/service that we can provide to our customers. He notes that the most creative individuals use strict routines to free up their mind.
Probably the best business book I have read in awhile.
5 people found this helpful
How to Get More Done in Less Time
Reviewed in the United States on January 29, 2019
That's what Essentialism means to me. This book was full of practical ways to evaluate what is truly essential vs what is non-essential. Eliminate the non-essential so you can focus on what really matters to you.
It's not necessarily easy because you're going to have to learn how to say "no" more than you probably ever have before. And that makes many people at least a bit uncomfortable. Yet you are probably wasting a lot of time on things you don't really want to do because you don't say "no" to non-essential projects and activities.
If you're serious about eliminating the non-essential from your life and taking back control of your time and your life, then read this book.
4 people found this helpful
Clearity of what's really important in life
Reviewed in the United States on April 25, 2021
In my mid 50's and thinking of retirement and where I'll be over the next 10 years, I started to notice all the stuff I accumulated over the years and if they really served a purpose or have purpose going forward in my life.
This book helped me realized that your quality of life is not based on Things and Stuff you collected and when you declutter those things from your life, you have a clearer picture and memories of things that are most important in life.
Reviewed in the United States on January 4, 2020
If you’re goal is to do less but make more, this is the book for you. The philosophy taught in this book is, well, essential. While reading this book I’ve been able to reset my mindset to start only doing the things that truly matter to me and cut out all the BS that just clutters my life and prevents me from propelling into the life I dream of having. Very excited to see how the essentialism method shapes 2020 and each year following.
One person found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on January 25, 2017
Fantastically written. I have found myself highlighting and taking notes along the way. Very clearly written and with the perfect balance of anecdotes and wisdom, very inspiring all around. I would recommend it to anyone who is like me and feeling overwhelmed much of the time. I used to say yes to things because I am enthusiastic and eager, but realize it is far more valuable to really hone in on what matters most.
8 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on April 3, 2021
Excellent read for living a purpose and meaningful life without the clutter and the noise of everyday distractions. After reading this book, I am able to apply the essential principles to my work and personal life. Saying no, setting buffers, prioritizing, and putting what matters first has never been so is easy. Less is more equals success.
This book changed my way of thinking and doing!
Reviewed in the United States on January 11, 2021
This book came into my life at the most ESSENTIAL moment in time. I thought I had clarity but the things I were doing weren't clear to me, to what I wanted and decided to do. If that sounds like you, or you want to simplify your life, please read this book. It is easily digestible, has amazingly simple applications you can put into practice (I am a Notion user and I am creating my Notion Setup while referring back to this book.) If you're unclear or struggling to focus on things, these book can help you IF you are willing to actually put it into practice. Please don't let this be another book you read and forget. Do what's written for 1 month as I am and build up these essentialist habits and when they work stick with the ROUTINE that works best for you. It will only help you spend more time doing what you were meant to do and designed to do. You got this let's get it!
Reviewed in the United States on November 2, 2015
Essentialism is about "keeping the main thing, the main thing", "the bigger yes". A very different mindset that chooses certain direction and accepts that trade-offs are part of life. It requires saying "no" to many good, interesting options since we have said "Yes" to a choice we believe is the best aligned with our life mission. Ironically it also means exploring more before a choice is made. I teared a bit when I read the vivid example of Essentialism when a "date" between a speaker and his daughter Cynthia is much more worthy than saying yes to an invitation from an old acquaintance in San Francisco (Chapter 11 about the Graceful No).
Highly recommended reading to help us focus back on the Vital Few than Trivial Many.
4 people found this helpful
How to use this book to take action if you're a business owner or employee...
Reviewed in the United States on December 12, 2016
Really great book on getting clear on what needs to get done. Entrepreneurs who have lots of "visions" and "ideas" could use this and supplement it with having a project manager to make their life easier. A project manager who can safely tell you whether an idea is worth doing or not is invaluable for getting more done in your business and life.
And for employees, you can use this idea to help your employer by offering to help them filter ideas and focus on one thing, one project that drives the business forward.
Great book, and highly executable if used properly.
5 people found this helpful
Honestly the best book I’ve read this year!!
Reviewed in the United States on April 6, 2020
Honestly the best book I’ve read this year!! Greg McKeown shares his simple pattern for living a more abundant life. It isn’t always easy to change how you live your life and Mr. McKeown acknowledges that in his thoughtful writing. I have shared his beautiful book with many friends and colleagues. If you feel overwhelmed, undervalued, or overcome by the life you are living, read Essentialism and act.
As a school administrator, my faculty will join me in an Essentialism book study next fall. Mr. McKeown’s practical directives will offer them a roadmap to less stress and more effectiveness.
One person found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on January 11, 2020
Not what do other people want you to read or what do other people want you to buy, what about what YOU want. Your life is your life, sometimes cutting back is helpful in realizing what it is we really need and want in our lives. And sometimes we realize it is not what other people are telling us. Essentialism is a good approach when sifting through things you have or things you do to find the core most important things to you. I have found it particularly effective when paired with slowing down.
Clear, Concise, Transformative
Reviewed in the United States on December 30, 2021
This book is a great North star for determining what is essential and what to let go of. It is transformative--clear, concise, and life changing--not just for business but for life in general. It lets you see, and then eliminate things that are life-draining so that you can focus on what really matters. Highly, highly recommended.
This is an amazing read for anyone who struggles with creating balance in ...
Reviewed in the United States on April 19, 2018
This is an amazing read for anyone who struggles with creating balance in their life.
I work in a hotel because I love the unpredictability of my day to day (and of course the travel!), but this can make creating balance seems more like a lofty goal than an action.
This book really helped me see how to create the right boundaries and focus on the essentials to be more productive and passionate with my work; therefore, giving myself the space for balance. Highly recommended, especially for all my hospitality friends.
3 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on July 29, 2019
This is a fantastic read of you are anything like me and have shiny object syndrome: you start one thing then get sidetracked or derailed before finishing. It also gave me the motivation to declutter my home and life- lots of great life changes from reading this!
2 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on January 28, 2021
Essentialism is an awesome book. This book helps you to understand what’s most important and how to weed out all the other things in life. It tells how you can be more successful in life by doing what’s most important to you. It is an easy read and so helpful. Anyone wanting to work on themselves should read this book!
Reviewed in the United States on October 23, 2020
This book was an eye opener for me. The author gives a great explanation of the difference between non-essentialist and an essentialist. I have noticed that I do non-essentialist things and want to focus on what is important. He provides great tips on how to become an essentialist and to live life simply and to the fullest. I highly recommend this book
Exactly the advice you knew but needed
Reviewed in the United States on January 8, 2016
The book is fabulously written and the audiobook narration is perfection. The advice in the book is advice you have heard in some form somewhere, but the presentation here is outstanding.
What I find most business books doing is rehashing tired and worn examples and giving a principle but failing to give an application. For example I dare you to find a marketing book that does not mention Starbucks or Apple.
Here in this book are multiple ways for you to apply essentialism. It breaks down and dissects very carefully what it is and how to become an essentialist. It is by far my favorite book that I have read in years.
4 people found this helpful
A very simple way to go back the figuring it what is priority
Reviewed in the United States on August 5, 2015
What a bold and challenging book. In these days of constant connectivity, this books help breakaway from the information overload and go back to "keeping the main thing, the main thing."
I'm still processing my notes on this book but there's too much to tell here.
What you'll find in the pages is a group of different questions and exercises that will help you identify which are your vital few. All concepts come with an example that illustrates the concept.
I also highlighted several of the questions used to explain the concepts in the book. These question were very specific and helped me move beyond excuses and really pinpoint possible solutions.
4 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on April 27, 2021
I'm nearing retirement and found the advice in this book invaluable. I had picked it up a few years ago and coudn't get into it though. I think you have to be in the right mind-set, already predisposed to being an essentialist in some way. The author also has inspiring podcasts.
Reviewed in the United States on September 26, 2021
This book definitely reshaped my idea of how to prioritize, and separate essential from nonessential activities. I highly recommend this book to anyone that wants to change their life.
One person found this helpful
Read this if you feel stretched thin with your time and life!
Reviewed in the United States on September 28, 2020
This was a great read! Very applicable to life and inspiring life outlook. I learned a lot and will keep of those philosophies in my vision from now on! We can’t to everything and be successful at it too! Pick a couple of things that spark joy and become happy and have more time for things that are important to you!
Reviewed in the United States on December 14, 2017
This book has been incredibly inspiring in so many ways. During and after reading, I kept asking myself, "Is this really important", and in doing so, I eliminated many negatives from my life. I realized that saying "No" isn't easy, but the benefits show in the long run. I went straight to my closet and donated most of my clothes that I didn't wear or need after realizing that I could live just fine with much less. A fantastic book in terms of opening your eyes. Highly recommend for anyone who has seen themselves fall into a hectic and busy schedule that is full of stress. I have no doubt that this book will help anyone in any situation.
5 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on October 18, 2014
This is a great read for typical overtaxed American business men and women who say "You wouldn't believe how busy I am", but can hardly recall what exactly they accomplished 2 days ago. Sound familiar?? Great accomplishments rarely arrive without intentional, uninterrupted focus. Many refreshing ideas in here.
Jesus Christ (alone, above the rest, for good reason). Niels Bohr. Al Einstein. Brought Life abundantly. Brought an atomic model. Brought relativism 'into focus'. By staying on their ESSENTIAL course years... Redemption, Quantum Physics... Do you want to contribute your life for good? Read this book. Read the Bible. Give yourself for the essential.
4 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on February 14, 2018
This is an awesome book!! It makes you think of what is really important in your life. And truth be told there's not much that's really important in the grand scheme of things when you remove the unnecessary tasks and obstacles that are created by us humans. Whenever you are faced with any decision when you have to choose.... ALWAYS choose what's best for YOU!!! Your life will be better because of these choices!!! I'm on my way to becoming an Essentialist!!!! I CHOOSE ME 😍❤️😍❤️
7 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on July 19, 2021
This book offers you freedom from all the meaningless clutter of your life and gives you access to infinite access to the most important things, activities, priorities and relationships in your life.
POWERFUL!!!
Reviewed in the United States on April 10, 2018
The truth is, we can’t have it all, do it all, or be all to everyone. Seriously, my life has always been in pursuit of finding ways to do more, faster and efficiently. However, what I was to really looking for is how to do less with more impact. Essentialism is a way of life that brings joy back through the simplicity of purpose. This book is perfect for cutting to the core and has helped me to take my life back -one Essentialist decision at a time. I’m simply grateful.
3 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on May 30, 2014
Creativity can be defined as taking a new look at old information. In his book, Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less, author Greg McKeown gives a fresh and up to date look at his self-management philosophy for success which to me, is a compilation and synopsis of many ideas that I've heard and studied many times in the past.
Is it worth a read? Absolutely! His book exemplifies his philosophy by focusing on many key elements of being successful in today's world, like the importance of sleep and how to protect your assets, without a lot of fluff and extraneous material.
Whether a novice or a seasoned veteran of self-improvement like myself, "Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less" is essential reading in my book. It might help to appy it as well!
4 people found this helpful
Clean The Clutter from Your Life.
Reviewed in the United States on May 31, 2014
Each and every one of us has been confronted at one time or another with an "offer" to help or take on a project that we really did not want to take on. We have priorities that rank from one-ten. Which one is most important? Greg McKeown helps us to "sort out" the "Essentials" in our lives without the fear of saying no to the many that are less than number one.
Learn to become an "Essentialist"; from uncluttered life; uncluttered closets; uncluttered circles of friends. Mr. McKeown shows us how to live the simple life in a rewarding way, without the clutter of the things that a less that the number on priority in our life. Do one thing and do it well. Life will be more rewarding and more rewarded.
I take this book to bed every night and read a chapter every morning. Build your life on simplicity. KISS to all!
5 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on January 22, 2021
Stop doing what doesn’t matter, and you’ll have time for what does. Details in the book.
Short, engaging, practical chapters. Fun to read. I’ll return to this one annually, but the basic idea is mine for life after one read through.
Help yourself out: read it.
Amazing book to simplify, but better your business and life!
Reviewed in the United States on December 22, 2015
This is an awesome book for anyone looking to simplify the way they run their life or business. My favorite quote is, "What is the obstacle that, if removed, would make the majority of other obstacles disappear?" The book really made me look at my small business and my personal life differently. The case examples are relevant and the author uses them well to teach you what Dieter Rams said, "Less, but better." This book should definitely be read with "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing."
4 people found this helpful
This easy to read book has a timeless feel to it
Reviewed in the United States on May 8, 2016
Finding true north: This book helps reset your compass for life. Divided into 4 areas, this book invites the reader to define purpose and passion and using that, to focus on what really matters. Each of that define that for ourselves and through that filter, the non-essentials are eliminated more readily. This easy to read book has a timeless feel to it, fitting for any generation that truly wants to get out the crazy busy lifestyle into a meaningful, more focused, less busy lifestyle. The less is more mentality can help restore calm to chaos. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to simply and enjoy life to the fullest. I would hope that the next generation can grab on to these concepts and make the most of life from early on!
4 people found this helpful
A Must Read for Anyone Feeling Overwhelmed
Reviewed in the United States on February 14, 2016
Arguably one of the most useful books I have ever read. I recommend this one regularly to clients who are feeling overwhelmed and who are worried about disappointing others. If you are feeling like your life is not your own, you need to stop everything and buy this book. Cancel your upcoming meeting and sit down and read every page. The book is fllled with actionable steps that you can take to take control of your life and stop letting others dictate your schedule. As you'll read in this book, there are a lot of things that you don't really have time for, but you should make time to read this book. Doing so will give you more time and more discipline to guard your time.
4 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on January 22, 2021
Greg has done a great job in summarising the why and how of becoming an essentialist. At times it felt like the points were be a bit drawn out but that's probably because they were familiar.
There is a definite need for essentialism and this book will help make that a reality.
Reviewed in the United States on April 25, 2020
This is a very interesting book, some aspects are not new, but always good to record them once again. Very easy reading, and the audio book makes it possible to make the reading anywhere, even when you are driving. I will probably re-read this book again in the future, as some bad habits tend to return.
Reviewed in the United States on October 22, 2021
Most of this wisdom will not come as a revelation, but as a reminder. Greg does an excellent job of relating the wisdom of many ancient faith traditions into our modern culture: the most essential being that of understanding what is truly important in the short time we have on this earth.
Reviewed in the United States on July 9, 2017
I rate this book a 5-star not so much because every aspect of the book rates a 5-star, but because the core message of the book speaks into exactly where I am at the current time. I committed 2017 to a focus on essentials. Therefore, this book is of great value to me personally. When I came across this book while browsing through a book store, thumbed through it, and read a few paragraphs here and there, I knew I had to have this book and wanted to read it very soon.
So, I did what every able-bodied person would do in this day and age, I went home and ordered it on Amazon, and with my Prime account I had it in two days. (That gave me an opportunity to finish the book I was in the midst of reading) Here are some key highlights for me personally:
1. The concept on page 16 of the word :priority" historically being singular as in a priority is priceless and is "this-is-the one-idea-that-is-worth-the-price-of-the-book." It is not about priorities, but a priority. The big idea. Get it? I did, but to be sure that was a sound idea I researched it on the Internet from various perspectives to see what others are saying about it, and I an confident that this is true and not a projection of something that might be true. I am using that concept now in my work and ministry.
2. "The way of the Essentialist is the relentless pursuit of less but better." This is on page 5. It coincides with the long tradition of saying that excellence in leadership is not about doing many things right, but doing the right things. (It is like that current commercial that says, "It is not how fast you mow, but how well you mow fast.")
3. The reference to Stephen Covey's saying on page 134 that he popularized many years ago--"The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing."--fits well from an Essentialist perspective. My son who is in sales just attended a seminar this past Friday that focused on this concept and how to use it to balance his life and not overload himself with non-essentials.
I suppose that three is enough. You need to pick the book up for yourself. Parts of the mid to late chapters dragged a bit for me during my first reading of the book, but when I went back and ready the things I had underlined, I realized there was more helpful insights in these chapters than I had first give the book and its author credit for. I recommend the book without hesitation.
20 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on July 24, 2020
This is an excellent book that will help you discern and sort through the clutter in your life, thinking, and work.
I recommend reading it in tandem with, and prior to, The One Thing. Essentialism is more about a life-encompassing way of thinking and acting.
A great read with lots of ideas and really if you ...
Reviewed in the United States on May 8, 2018
Want to try and cut to the chase in your life? This book will help you. Greg tells you how to really focus in on what is essential. We all have competing priorities, and he helps you see what is most important to you and to hone in on it. A great read with lots of ideas and really if you adopt it fully, a lifestyle.
3 people found this helpful
May radically alter your view of work and life choices.
Reviewed in the United States on April 15, 2014
This books is written for someone that wants to make a meaningful improvement in life choices. I have personally had the opportunity to work with the author and attended his class - the book delivers his deep learning from many years of working closely with the best in business including silicon valley's best companies.
The book walks you through the principle of "Essentialism" - knowingly choosing a few things to focus on in life to have more impact and a better life.
I highly recommend reading this book if you have wondered-
- Do I really need to do all these things my boss wants me to do?
- Can I do it all? Or is just not true?
- How can I make a bigger impact in the world without destroying my personal life?
- What is the best way to focus?
- How do you say yes to the right opportunities? How do you say no to the wrong ones?
2 people found this helpful
Essentialism is a great philosophy
Reviewed in the United States on August 31, 2019
This is the second book in a row that I read about this topic and frankly, it is fascinating. I strongly suggest getting the audible version in addition to the book. That way you can switch from reading to listening frequently and make a better use of your time.
One person found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on March 17, 2020
What an amazing book. If you feel stressed a lot, I highly recommend it.
2 people found this helpful
Excellent compass by which to live one's life
Reviewed in the United States on March 15, 2019
This book really exemplifies what a good read should be about. It is positive and gives great ideas on living up to one's values, principles and ideals. This book will be reread often and will be on my gift giving list.
3 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on February 24, 2020
This book must be an essential read for people struggling to get things done in their lives. Prioritizing and focusing on the things that matter are logical things to do yet people struggle daily to maintain a healthy rhythm to how they pursue life personally, professionally and spiritually. The concepts and ideas and examples discussed in the book provides us with good insights on how to lead an essentialist life to make our lives better.
Reviewed in the United States on June 30, 2018
I didn't really know what to expect with this book. It's essentially all about treating your time as a precious commodity and only spending it on the things that really matter. I loves this book so much that at the end I began reading it from the beginning immediately to take more notes. Author did a great job. One of my favorites and it's really had an impact on my life.
3 people found this helpful
Learn how to say NO to the unnecessary and your time robbers.....
Reviewed in the United States on August 15, 2014
I have read a dozen time managements books over the years on how to get things done by prioritizing. This book was different in it teaches you first to learn how to say NO to the unnecessary and your time robbers. We all know saying no is difficult but author Greg McKeown presents in a well written style how to determine what is truly important in your life. By learning to say no to the irrelevant, you are free to do what is important. I recommend this book to anyone that has had the thought, “I just don’t have time to take on anything else.” I don’t often give five stars for a review on a book, but I wish I knew the principles explained in Essentialism thirty years ago when I first started off as a young executive thinking I had to say yes to everything.
One person found this helpful
Great read to change your life around to see all the important things !!!
Reviewed in the United States on February 6, 2020
If you feel like you are juggling too many things or trying to please too many people and don’t feel like you are getting anywhere then this is book for you!
This book will teach you to ask yourself the RIGHT questions to focus on what’s important in your life and what you should focus on.
Too many times we are focused on so many things that we think are important, but end up not meaning much to us. Just because you’re busy doesn’t mean you are doing important things.
This book is a must read for anyone. Some valuable advice on why living an Essentialist lifestyle can help you.
OVERALL 8.5/10
Reviewed in the United States on February 28, 2021
A great read and a great way to live. I read at least 2 books a month. Not to mention the couple a month that I dump after the third chapter. This book is well written. Get out your highlighter and take some notes!
Lessons never taught in school or experience
Reviewed in the United States on February 25, 2021
As I read this book I thought back to so many of my mistakes from the past, in my personal and professional life, that perplexed me, and found a calming sense of closure. This is book answered what went wrong, and how to avoid reliving them in the future. Truly a great read for anyone looking to make an impact in their lives
One of the best books I've ever read
Reviewed in the United States on June 6, 2020
In a very simple way, this book shows how to focus on the things that really matter to achieve the best results. There's always excluding alternatives competing to be chosen, but only one will lead us to the best result.
"Clarity equals success".
Reviewed in the United States on April 17, 2019
Received the book in good condition.
😜😜😜😜 Happy Wednesday!
Reviewed in the United States on November 26, 2018
Very well written. Concise, to the point and definitely worth reading. With so many tasks in our daily lives this gives real insight on how to choose those that matter most. I could imagine me reading this book once a year just to keep it fresh in my planning and processing. Highly recommend
2 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on May 7, 2020
For all the analyzers in the world (especially women) that have a hard time prioritizing, this book will do miracles. It shows you what you should be focusing on in life. In business and in life, there is no other book that shows you better how to use your time and prioritize. We have so many things to take care of and so little time...or so we think. This book has changed my life.
2 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on January 9, 2022
I loved how the knowledge given was very clear, concise, and monumentally moving in every sense of emotion, heart, and soul.
The stories told add layers of wisdom on top of common-sense practices. I hope to consistently integrate these principles into my life and continue to practice what I started recently… the way of the Essentialist. God bless to all and you will truly enjoy this book, great read through and through.
Reviewed in the United States on January 1, 2019
I really enjoyed reading this (my brother and I read it and called eachother frequently to discuss our takeaways).
We both still pull it out regularly to refer and review. A good read on using our energy on the meaningful and essential and reducing our physical and mental clutter.
2 people found this helpful
I have cut out most all of my unnecessary spending. I'm working on my getting rid of ...
Reviewed in the United States on November 14, 2016
The Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less cause me to realize that in every area of my life had way too much stuff that meant absolutely nothing to me. So, starting with my finances, I have cut out most all of my unnecessary spending. I'm working on my getting rid of things in my home that are simply taking up space and have no real use for me. I'm learning that the less I have in things, the less stress I have in my life. Really awesome book, I recommend it for everyone.
9 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on February 5, 2019
I came across this book during a time in my life when I was feeling overwhelmed and unfulfilled. It gave me the clarity and courage to pull the trigger on some important decisions that have had a HUGE impact on my life. If you want to eliminate clutter from your life and get to your essence, you need this book.
2 people found this helpful
Revolutionary and life-changing!
Reviewed in the United States on April 30, 2017
This is quite possibly the best non-fiction title I have read in the last ten years and I've read quite a few titles. McKeown has challenged my assumptions and decision making processes to the point that I am now starting to apply his principles to my closet (his example that he kept going to).
I hope to slowly and methodically incorporate these principles into every area of my life. This is a MUST READ & APPLY.
7 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on June 26, 2017
I LOVE this book. It really makes you think about how you spend your time. It puts things in perspective, and pounds into your psyche that, your TIME is your life, and your LIFE is your time.
8 people found this helpful
This book is amazing. It is easy to read
Reviewed in the United States on March 27, 2017
This book is amazing. It is easy to read, has some nice visuals to give added effect. If you're looking to clean up and change your life because you are spread super thin, get this book. Even if you think your life is perfect...get this book. It will change the way you see time and the value in tasks.
5 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on May 23, 2016
This book hit me at the right time, and hit the spot just like a delicious meal. I've been feeling overwhelmed and not having any free time to do what I like. I'm greedy and I want my "me" time back. Before the days of the internet and having a girlfriend, I used to have an abundance of time to read books, relax, ponder, take beach walks and chat with random people I don't know.
Now I go to bed each night around midnight and have a list of about 50 errands that never seems to lessen. Last year, I got rid of my TV, and unsubscribed from all my social media sites. Last month, I read "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing" which motivated me to get rid of a bunch of clothes I never wear, and stuff I never use.
This month, I started the Essentialism book, I'm only on page 25, but I read the analogy about "How can you keep a closet clean if people keep throwing clothes in it?" It motivated me to simplify my life more. I asked my girlfriend to only send one or 2 emails to me a week which creates 30 minutes a day for me. I decided not to read my local weekly which I don't really enjoy, but read out of habit, which will save me 2 hours a week. I also used to love 2 TV shows which I got bored of, but still watched on the internet, and this will save me 2 hours a week. So far, that's 7 hours a week or 365 hours in a year I just created, and I'm just on page 25.
Even though your situation is different, I highly recommend this book.
5 people found this helpful
Declutter your life to find your hidden gems
Reviewed in the United States on May 19, 2019
Mckeown generously gifts us a practical roadmap of how to live a life that matters—because we’re stripping away everything that doesn’t matter and focusing on, expressing, and being who we were meant to be. Acknowledging that this is not an easy path in a world built on societal expectations, he gives us strategies and a mental framework to elegantly dance with these constraints while being true to what’s most important to us.
One person found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on December 25, 2018
In "Essentialism", McKeown reminds us that we need to make logical realistic choices about the things that matter - that are essential - if we are going to maintain control over our time, our lives.
His examples and storytelling drive home his points in the book. I am using the ideas outlined in the book.
This book has made my "all time top 10 list".
Greg McKeown has some good points. You will want to start changing your ...
Reviewed in the United States on October 17, 2017
I read the book and listened to the audio book. Eye opening. Greg McKeown has some good points. You will want to start changing your life as soon as you read chapter one. And it will make you happier, more relaxed and more successful.
3 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on February 13, 2020
It’s hard to put into words how impactful this book was (and is) to me.
This isn’t a self help book, it’s more of a philosophy for living that changes how you think about everything.
Now more than ever, we need to learn the art of focusing on what is essential.
In an attention economy, our focus is premium currency.
Don’t let your focus be stolen by what is in the end non essential.
5/5 recommend.
Do yourself a favor and buy this book!
Reviewed in the United States on March 15, 2016
Very thought-provoking! Recommended to me by a friend who felt the book was completely life-changing for him so I was intrigued to discover why he felt that way. I think there is a lot of truth in the book - I have actually begun to practice some of the concepts, though am still only at the beginner stages. I'm not sure it has changed my life, but do feel that I learned a lot in contemplating these ideas. I will probably reread this book several times.
One person found this helpful
Most (Less) Best Nonfiction Imaginable
Reviewed in the United States on May 16, 2021
Taking lessons from this book will lead, inevitably, to a lifestyle change. Numerous ways given to ditch a dysfunctional existence!
What is essential in your life?
Reviewed in the United States on October 21, 2019
This book is excellent and worth your time. In a world filled with distractions it is easy to forget what is essential and this book provides an examination that creates the context for deciding what is essential in your life and tools for focusing on your essentials. Great read.
One person found this helpful
Everyday bit by bit to answer those meaningful questions for your life.
Reviewed in the United States on January 10, 2020
Good thoughtful ideas, I'm on my second reading. Easy layout to take in little by little and put into practice every day.
Remembering to remind myself to say "NO"... and ask if what I am doing is beneficial or just busy. So important.
Reviewed in the United States on July 14, 2020
Great book that sheds light and some ideas on how identify the true essentials that matter and weed out the white noise in our lives. The idea of living in the present and focusing on what is most important right now vs. thinking about the past or fretting about the future is such an important and empowering concept.
Reviewed in the United States on July 21, 2014
I bought this book as I was in the mood for a quick motivational read. Instead I discovered a book that was very well written, and goes well beyond the usual self-help cliches about being successful and the need to prioritize. The book is full of little nuggets of wisdom. If you are one of those people like me who are struggling to live a well focused life but also need to deal with the daily distractions of the internet and smartphones then I definitely recommend this. You will enjoy this book, and you will probably want to refer to it in the future.
3 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on October 11, 2014
Life is complicated. Life is full of responsibilities and opportunities, planned duties and serendipitous possibilities. There is so much we could do, but so little we can do. Many of us battle our whole lives to focus on those few, significant items that we should do must do, and yet so few of us ever feel like we are even nearly succeeding.
Help is here in the form of Greg McKeown’s book Essentialism. While it is not a perfect book, and while it benefits tremendously from adding a good dose of Christian thinking, it is one of the most helpful I’ve read on that constant battle to focus my time and energy on the right things.
McKeown believes in what he calls Essentialism and describes the basic value proposition in this way: “only once you give yourself permission to stop trying to do it all, to stop saying yes to everyone, can you make your highest contribution towards the things that really matter.” The Essentialist pursues fewer but better opportunities and is rigidly disciplined in rejecting the many to devote himself to the few. It is “not about how to get more things done; it’s about how to get the right things done.”
The way of the Essentialist means living by design, not by default. Instead of making choices reactively, the Essentialist deliberately distinguishes the vital few from the trivial many, eliminates the nonessentials, and then removes obstacles so the essential things have clear, smooth passage. In other words, Essentialism is a disciplined, systematic approach for determining where our highest point of contribution lies, then making execution of those things almost effortless.
Now that sounds good! That sounds like what we all want—a clear design to our lives that simplifies decision-making and amplifies each of the opportunities we pursue.
McKeown leads the reader to Essentialism in four parts:
Essence. He begins by looking to the essence of Essentialism and the realities that make Essentialism a necessary but difficult practice today.
Explore. Here he describes the way an Essentialist needs to think so he can pursue the highest possible contribution toward the best goals.
Eliminate. Having determined the best goals, the Essentialist now needs to begin eliminating anything that will compete with the pursuit of those goals. “It’s not enough to simply determine which activities and efforts don’t make the highest possible contribution; you still have to actively eliminate those that do not.”
Execute. And then comes the heart of it all—living in such a way that you now execute on those few goals, and continuing to follow the discipline of it.
McKeown promises his book “will teach you a method for being more efficient, productive, and effective in both personal and professional realms. It will teach you a systematic way to discern what is important, eliminate what is not, and make doing the essential as effortless as possible. In short, it will teach you how to apply the disciplined pursuit of less to every area of your life.”
And I think it can do that. It is chock-full of excellent insights and quoteable phrases. It is the kind of book you can use to implement systems in your life, or the kind of book you can plunder for its big and important ideas.
Yet the Christian reader will want to read it with some discernment. This is a book that benefits from an infusion of the biblical ethos. As the book reaches its end, McKeown expands Essentialism to all of life and here he stops quoting business gurus and begins quoting religious gurus; the last chapter is easily the weakest and one that can be skipped without any great loss.
Reading the book through a Christian lens improves it significantly. McKeown writes about people who always say “yes” and are afraid to say “no.” That sounds like a classic diagnosis of fear of man, a person so motivated by the praise of man that he takes on too much and says no to too little so he can win the praise of other people.
Not only that, but God has a way of diverting us from what we believe are our most important tasks. He diverts us to tasks he determines are even more important, and a too-rigid adherence to Essentialism may keep a Christian from allowing and embracing those divine interruptions. Read the gospels and the book of Acts and you will see how Jesus and the Apostles were extremely focused, but also very willing to depart from their plans. Implementing Essentialism too rigidly may just lead to a self-centered life rather than a life of service to others.
Reading through that Christian lens also allows us to see that Essentialism can be a means through which we honor and glorify God. It propels us to consider where God has specially gifted and equipped us to serve him and his people. Again, “Essentialism is not about how to get more things done; it’s about how to get the right things done. It doesn’t mean just doing less for the sake of less either. It is about making the wisest possible investment of your time and energy in order to operate at our highest point of contribution by doing only what is essential.” The principles of Essentialism, read and applied through the Bible, will help us understand how we are uniquely created and burdened by God to meet specific needs. And, equally helpfully, it will steer us away from those areas where we cannot contribute nearly as well.
I heartily recommend the book, provided you read with Essentialism in one hand, and the Bible in the other.
Let me close with a few of my favorite quotes:
In many cases we can learn to make one-time decisions that make a thousand future decisions so we don’t exhaust ourselves asking the same questions again and again.
If you don’t prioritize your life, someone else will.
We can either make our choices deliberately or allow other people’s agendas to control our lives.
There are three deeply entrenched assumptions we must conquer to live the way of the Essentialist: “I have to,” “It’s all important,” and “I can do both.”
If … people are too busy to think, then they’re too busy, period.
Making our criteria both selective and explicit affords us a systematic tool for discerning what is essential and filtering out the things that are not.
Motivation and cooperation deteriorate when there is a lack of purpose.
Half of the troubles of this life can be traced to saying yes too quickly and not saying no soon enough.
“We need to learn the slow ‘yes’ and the quick ‘no.’ ”
4 people found this helpful
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