Psychology – Page 3 – Ryan’s Book Blog

Brief: Make a Bigger Impact by Saying Less

March 4, 2024 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2014, “Brief: Make a Bigger Impact by Saying Less” by Joseph McCormack is a compelling guide that underscores the power of brevity in communication. McCormack argues that in our information-saturated age, being concise can significantly enhance the effectiveness of our messages. The book provides practical strategies for distilling complex ideas into clear, concise communications, whether in writing, presentations, or everyday conversations. Emphasizing the importance of being succinct without sacrificing clarity, McCormack offers readers tools to capture attention, convey information efficiently, and make a lasting impact. Through a blend of research, real-world examples, and actionable tips, “Brief” equips individuals with the skills to communicate more effectively by saying less, making it a vital resource for professionals across all fields aiming to make their messages more impactful.

My Thoughts

Much to the title’s description, the idea is to keep it short and powerful. I really liked this book and it stopped me from prattling on for a good week or so (I hope).

Recommendation

Great book with a great message.

Procrastination on Purpose

March 2, 2024 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2015, “Procrastination on Purpose” is a groundbreaking book by Rory Vaden that challenges conventional views on procrastination. Instead of viewing it as a negative trait, Vaden introduces the concept of ‘strategic delay’—using procrastination as a tool for more effective time management and decision-making. The book outlines a five-tiered method to multiply time, encouraging readers to prioritize tasks based on significance rather than urgency. Vaden’s approach helps individuals differentiate between mere activity and true productivity, advocating for a more thoughtful and purposeful engagement with our to-dos. By embracing this counterintuitive approach to procrastination, readers learn to leverage time as a strategic asset, enabling more meaningful work and personal life balance.

My Thoughts

My son was reading this and said he really liked it. He was good enough to lent it to me and I thought it was pretty good. He made some pretty good arguments about automation and paid appropriate homage to Stephen Covey so I was happy.

Recommendation

Not bad.

Atomic Habits

February 28, 2024 by Ryan

Background

Published back in 2018, “Atomic Habits” by James Clear is a transformative guide that delves into the power of small, consistent actions in shaping one’s life. Clear articulates how minuscule changes can lead to remarkable results by focusing on the compound effects of habits over time. The book presents a comprehensive framework for understanding how habits form, how they can be changed, and the impact they have on our identity and daily lives. Through a blend of scientific research, real-world examples, and practical advice, Clear provides readers with strategies to break bad habits and cultivate positive ones, emphasizing the significance of incremental improvement and the role of environment in habit formation. “Atomic Habits” empowers readers to harness the strength of tiny changes, offering a pathway to achieving personal goals and lasting change.

My Thoughts

This is second time reviewing this book on this blog and I doubt it will be the last. It is also the second time I was talking to a Marine when they mentioned the book and how much it meant to them. So I read it, again. This time I enjoyed it so much it not only was discussed with my wife, but we actually bought the book.

Recommendation

Great book. Give it a read!

Master of Change

October 11, 2023 by Ryan

Background

Published in September of 2023, Brad Stulberg’s “Master of Change” presents a novel approach to navigating life’s constant changes. It combines insights from contemporary science and age-old wisdom, advocating for a mindset that embraces flexibility and resilience. The book offers strategies for engaging positively with change, highlighting the roles of expectations, identity, and proactive actions in overcoming challenges. Stulberg aims to alter our perspective on change, encouraging growth and adaptability in the face of uncertainty.

My Thoughts

“Life is pain Highness. Anyone who says otherwise is selling something.” That quote from “The Princess Bride” could well have been, “Life is Change” according to this book. I agree with the thought that life continues to change and move us along and we need to continually adapt to what it brings us. This requires us to have a level of self actualization that I doubt many people take the time to acquire.

Recommendation

Not a bad book.

“You Just Need to Lose Weight”: And 19 Other Myths About Fat People

August 3, 2023 by Ryan

Background

Published in January of 2023, ““You Just Need to Lose Weight”: And 19 Other Myths About Fat People” is a book discussing the perspective of overweight people. The book talks about diets, trends, myths, and has many examples from the author’s personal life.

My Thoughts

I will say this was a very well written book. The author’s prose, vocabulary, her ability to express herself, and so on were absolutely on point. That said, this was a very angry book full of logical fallacies and nonsensical rants. It goes on the shelf of similar works of supposed oppression where there is no way the individual would be satisfied. One can’t use the term “fat” because thin people have “weaponized” it. Yet she prefers to be called fat…

The last chapter the author expands her ranting to all people or groups or whatever who have ever felt left out for any reason… Seriously, it was embarrassing.

Recommendation

Very well written garbage.

Mind Your Mindset

August 1, 2023 by Ryan

Background

Published in April of 2022, “Mind Your Mindset” is a self-help book that delves into the profound impact of one’s mindset on personal and professional success. Drawing from psychological research and real-life anecdotes, the author explores the power of cultivating a growth-oriented mindset over a fixed one. Through practical strategies and engaging insights, the book illuminates how individuals can shift their perspectives, embrace challenges as opportunities, and harness the potential for continuous learning and development.

My Thoughts

I thought I would really enjoy the book and honestly, it was a good read. However, it didn’t really have any special insights or any new way of thinking about the material presented. It feel on me like more white noise of the self-help world. Perhaps I wasn’t in the best space but it just wasn’t that great.

Recommendation

Nothing wrong with it but I didn’t get much out of it.

The Swedish Art of Aging Exuberantly

July 31, 2023 by Ryan

Background

Published in December of 2022, “The Swedish Art of Aging Exuberantly” authored by Margareta Magnusson is a guide of growing older drawing inspiration from the Swedish philosophy of balanced living. Exploring various facets of physical, mental, and emotional well-being, the book emphasizes the significance of maintaining active lifestyles, nurturing relationships, fostering personal passions, and embracing mindfulness.

My Thoughts

This was an interesting book and has been part of a death themed last couple of weeks. I would classify this book as 1 part relationship guide, 1 part philosophy, and 1 part “The Art of Tidying Up.” It was particularly fun to read as the author (an octogenarian) is full of quips and old-timey sayings (even if they were Swedish).

The book made me stop and think about what I want and even had me ask my wife and kids what they are thinking about if something happens. I don’t know how productive those conversations were but I was glad to have them.

Recommendation

Worth the read.

Countdown to Dallas

June 30, 2023 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2013, “Countdown to Dallas” is by Paul Brandus exploring the events leading up to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The book examines the lives of both Kennedy and Lee Harvey Oswald, and it debunks various theories about who was responsible for the assassination. Brandus argues that the assassination was at the hands of Oswald and gives compelling evidence of the series of events that led to that day in Dallas.

My Thoughts

I never saw the movie “JFK” by Oliver Stone but Paul Brandus doesn’t seem to have a high opinion of it. In fact, he takes every opportunity to show where it was in error. I also had no idea of the time Oswald lived in Russia or his communist ties. I didn’t know he idealized Cuban Marxism or that he was so far down the end of his rope. I was gratified to hear that the Marines kicked him out. He sounds like a real piece of work.

However, if all the above were true, I can certainly understand why it wouldn’t be such a great idea to inform everyone of exactly who this guy was and what he was about as it would certainly cause issues. Of course, it did anyway and that is a worthy story in of itself.

Recommendation

I enjoyed it. The book seems to be well researched and written but there is still some tangible bias in his language. It’s enough that makes me want to delve further.

Born to Run 2

June 24, 2023 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2022, “Born to Run 2” is the sequel to “Born to Run” (2009). Both were written by Christopher McDougall and explores the author’s journey to of the events after the first book. In this book, McDougall delves into practical exercises and still continues his belief the science, biomechanics, and natural form of running for the human body. He also gives some histories of people who made an appearance in his first book.

My Thoughts

I was one of those people who bought minimalist shoes and went running after reading his first book. I ran almost daily back in those days and it is the only thing I miss about my time working in Washington D.C.

This book almost had me buying a new pair of shoes and start running again. (I still have my old pair because they almost never wear out but according to this book, I bought them too small). I currently am laid up due to some plantar fasciitis in my foot. However, McDougall gives specific exercises to deal with it. I still may…

Recommendation

This is a bit of a niche read and meant as more of a reference but it was worth my attention.

The Four Loves

June 14, 2023 by Ryan

Background

Published in 1960, “The Four Loves” is a non-fiction book written by C.S. Lewis on the nature of love. In this insightful work, Lewis explores love from a philosophical and Christian perspective. Expounding on four distinct categories of love:

Storge: This refers to familial or natural affection, the love between family members, or the love that arises naturally, such as the love between parents and children.
Philia: This represents friendship and the love between friends. It encompasses loyalty, camaraderie, and mutual respect.
Eros: Eros refers to romantic or passionate love. It is associated with desire, attraction, and physical intimacy.
Agape: Agape is unconditional love, often seen as divine or selfless love. It is characterized by compassion, generosity, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others.

Lewis delves into the complexities and nuances of each type of love. He examines their strengths, potential pitfalls, and how they relate to one another. Drawing from literature, theology, and personal experiences, Lewis offers profound reflections on the meaning and significance of love in our lives. “The Four Loves” is a timeless exploration of human relationships and emotions that continues to resonate with readers, offering wisdom and understanding on the nature of love.

My Thoughts

I can’t heap enough praise on this book. C.S. Lewis does not tell a story here, rather he is explaining, as plain as he can, the nature of love. I went through it a number of times and still think I’m just scratching the surface.

Recommendation

Read this book!