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Monday, April 21, 2014

The Slight Edge: Turning Simple Disciplines into Massive Success and Happiness by Jeff Olson

The Slight Edge: Turning Simple Disciplines into Massive Success and HappinessThe Slight Edge: Turning Simple Disciplines into Massive Success and Happiness by Jeff Olson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The slight edge concept is very simple: do the small things consistently to win in the long run.  Yet, this simple advice, as the book points out, is just as easy to NOT do and it is TO do.  That is how we get a 200 page book from a one-line philosophy.  I found most of his additional insights helpful in considering how I might apply the slight edge, and I especially liked the last chapter where he has you write down exactly how you are going to use the material.  Isn't that what most book lack?  A tie-in to actual application?

Unfortunately, he pushed about 7 areas for improvement, and not only is that just too big of a number, the areas are not even really distinct.  There is a lot of overlap.  I think three-- physical, mental and spiritually focused would have been enough for me.  Maybe, if you are inclined throw in an extra for professional development/personal finance or something.

At the end of the day, the challenge remains the same as with all other self-help books.  The content is there, and for all its weaknesses, has the power to affect your life in positive ways if practiced.  Yes, this book does have something of a workbook at the end, but the question remains:  Will you be able to apply the slight edge in your life?

3 stars-- I liked it, but nothing revolutionary about this.  If you are going to read 20 self help books this year, put this one on the list.  If you are going to read just one, pick something else.




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