Book Review: Essentialism
Book Review:
Essentialism
The Disciplined Pursuit of Less
Author: Greg McKeown
In his book Essentialism, The Disciplined Pursuit of Less, Greg McKeown shares his perspective of living with less while getting more out of life. He lays out four key steps in transforming to an Essentialist. First, understanding the core mindset of an Essentialist. Next, learning to discern the trivial matters from what is vital. Then, understanding the process of elimination. Finally, learning how to (almost) effortlessly live a life focused on what matters most.
Early in the book Greg states, “What if the whole world shifted from the undisciplined pursuit of more to the discipline pursuit of less…only better”. Not only have I got caught up in the endless cycle of wanting more, I see this in those I interact with. I am learning to live with less and enjoying life more. I am focusing on what I love and what is important (sometimes those aren’t always the same) and making intentional life choices. Something that is becoming more important to me is silence. Silence is powerful, and not always easy to attain. A couple of years ago I made the choice to walk outdoors every single day, and if possible, twice. I start my day and end my day with time outdoors. I can list several positive results from this decision, and the lesson in discipline I’ve learned in the process.
As I read through this book, I learned Essentialism is a choice. Greg notes that after making a big decision in his life he realized “…a choice is not a thing. Our options may be things, but a choice – a choice is an action. It is not just something we have but something we do.” “…we may not always have control over our options, we always have control over how we choose among them.” I believe it is important we also consider who is most important as we choose what is most important.
In matters of finances and materialism, I related to this quote Greg included from John Maxwell “You cannot overestimate the unimportance of practically everything”. Stop and think about that for a moment.
This quote, “instead of going for the big, flashy wins that don’t really matter, the Essentialist pursues small and simple wins in areas that are essential” says volumes. I get to choose what is essential. I get to say no to what is nonessential.
Why would I want anyone else to make those choices for me? And I choose without shame for what I value, I choose with confidence what is best for me and my family. This book helps us gain a different perspective that can help reveal what is essential, with guidance on eliminating the nonessential from our life. It also helps reveal how life enhancing these choices can be.
This book is full of inspiration for those of us who want less distractions and to experience more of life’s simple joys.
As a financial coach, I believe many pieces play into a successful financial plan. Simplify, focus on what is most important to achieve your goals.
If you want help getting started, let’s meet! CLICK HERE to schedule your Personal Financial Coaching session.
Lisa Atkinson
TFCU | Personal Financial Coach
latkinson@tucsonfcu.com
As a Personal Financial Coach, I do not provide legal or tax advice. Tucson Federal Credit Union does not guarantee that this service will achieve any particular objective or outcome. For any legal advice, please seek the advice of an attorney or tax professional.
