YSM Reads: Essentialism

If I had to pick just one book to have every professional read, it would be Essentialism by Greg McKeown. I don’t know about you, but as someone who was in school and starting to work in the 20-teens, the messaging of “rise and grind” culture runs deep. There’s such an emphasis on being the first one in the office, the last one out, the busiest, the most tired, the most worn thin. Not only is this unsustainable and self-destructive, it also isn’t effective. One of the core messages of Essentialism is that more doesn’t mean better. In fact, one of the catch phrases throughout the book is “less, but better”.

If you’ve ever found yourself exceptionally busy but not productive, spread thin and burned out, constantly working but not getting any recognition, it might not be an output volume problem: it could be an area of focus problem.

Essentialism is a no-nonsense, approachable, and surprisingly human walk through of essentialist principles, how to apply them, and what their impact for your life and career could be.

Key findings and messages:

·        “Essentialists” end up exploring more options than non-essentialists. Essentialism allows you to evaluate more options, and then laser focus on the things that matter.

·        Sleep is essential. Start treating it as such.

·        Not making active tradeoffs doesn’t mean you’re not choosing things: you’re just not in the driver’s seat of those choices.

·        Saying “no” is a superpower.

·        If you’re too busy to think, you’re too busy. Full stop.

I honestly cannot recommend this book enough, and I believe it is relevant and applicable to everyone, from student to seasoned professional.

If you end up giving it a read, let me know what you think!

Have a great week,

YSM