Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

Everything in this book is simple. It's an easy read for those of you who hate self-help books, and crammed full of simple strategies that'll help even those who think they have a grip on everything. There is quite a bit of repetition, but that only serves to reinforce the basis for the whole approach - to focus on the positive, ignore/rise above the negative. Sadly all the things in this book are all blatantly obvious, and you could pinch yourself as you read, thinking 'well duh! I knew that', but that's the point: we've conditioned ourselves to ignore our inner compass and be guided by warped ideas and 'keeping up with the Jones''. So ditch all the plans for a making your life better with stuff, and focus on enjoying the journey and listening to the birds along the way.

When I first picked up this book I did my usual flick through the (kindle) pages to see if it would 'fit the bill' for me. Initially, on first glance, I had already prejudged the book as a probable three star read. Well, don't judge the book by the cover stands true on this one. It is not just a run of the mill self-help book. It is a book of strategies one can apply to life and living. 100 strategies to be precise. Each strategy is given it's own heading and explanation in chapter format which works very well for readers who wish to have the 'bullet-point' list to refer to on a regular, perhaps daily, basis. On the Kindle edition it is even more convenient by the ability to click the link from the contents list straight to the relevant strategy or chapter. The Kindle edition also means it is easily transportable and accessible throughout the day (or night for those who read in the wee small hours of sleeplessness). The author has a good balance of both the 'I' and the 'You' statements. The chapters (aka the strategies) are not too long or full of woolly self-praising explanations. There is enough information about how and why to apply each strategy to one's life without being extensive or limiting. The author's 'voice' comes through as an encouraging close friend without being the 'I am right, you must do' authoritive figure found in a lot of other self-help books. Carlson seems to get the right balance of personal examples and reasoning within his writing. The layout of the book makes for an easy 'dip in, dip out' approach. One doesn't necessarily need to read through it in the order it it written, although I did. This is a book I will be dipping into on a frequent basis, reminding myself that I don't need to 'Sweat the Small Stuff' of my life. I have found this book to be both encouraging and motivational. I can honestly say that my positive attitude has increased, and the negativity that creeps into life has subdued, by reading and applying these strategies. On that basis I feel this book deserves a full five star rating. I can recommend this as a very useful tool to anyone wanting to develop their emotional strength and live life in a more positive, self-caring way.

Everything is going to be OK! This book is a quick read and to the point. There were lots of things I was already aware of but this was an excellent summary of how to live relatively stress-free. The only section I did not like and was disappointed was included was on “God” although as the author is American I forgive him.. his indoctrination is not his fault!

Huge eye opener for me..after reading this book I have realised just how much small stuff I let affect my life.

Wow this book has really made me take stoke of the things in my life that I give my energy to. That it’s okay to have thoughts but not to give them too much head space. That when the negativity ensues that I can shoo them away and not let them take residence in my mind. My mind is a precious pop ace and I should only let the good in. Thank you so much for writing this book it has been amazingly helpful. God bless you and all who read this book.

The book consists of 100 pieces of advice, each presented with a story or example of its use. This makes the book pleasing to read and effective as both a reference system or a 'pick a random page' life aid. Reading through the book made me question many of my own behavioural patterns, reactions and thought processes and on several occasions I couldn't believe how much the advice given not only has practical application but is so common sensical. The authors ability to simplify complexity made the experience enjoyable and due to my affinity towards his writing style, I purchased his book entitled 'stop thinking, start living' which although varied in format acts as a perfect twin to this book. One last thing, as an amateur self hypnotist, I find that each of the 100 pieces of advice can be woven into personalised scripts with effectiveness.

I found it overly simplistic so hard to read. I understand that's the whole point though, but it's not for me

Great book. The chapters are just one or two pages, but each one really makes you stop and reflect. Best book I’ve read (amongst many) to slowly make changes and improvements to myself and my life. Now I’ll start back at the beginning and keep it as par of my morning ritual.

I recommend it as a small guide to keep some things in mind, but not as a revealing guide where you gonna find out a great new perspective.

Richard Carlson’s Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff is more than just a book—it’s a guide to clarity, acceptance, and peace. For me, it was an eye-opener, a work that challenged my perspective on life, stress, and the things I once considered important. This book came to me at the right time, and finishing it on January 23, 2025, felt like starting the year on the right note. It’s a powerful reminder of what really matters in life. The insights Carlson offers are both profound and practical. He encourages readers to focus on what they can control—their responses and attitudes—and let go of what they cannot. This simple yet profound concept significantly lowered my stress level. Certain situations, circumstances, and even people that once weighed heavily on me now hold less power. I’ve learned to accept things—and people—for what and who they are, understanding that everyone’s behavior is shaped by their past and environment. This acceptance has brought peace to my life, reminding me that the only real control I have is over my own reactions, or even whether I choose to respond at all. One of the book’s key messages is that God is in control of so much more than we realize. Carlson’s words brought me clarity about trusting Him while focusing on the areas of life where my actions can make a difference. The reminder to live each day as if it’s your last resonated deeply. As someone who works in the final expense profession, I know all too well that life is unpredictable. You don’t have to be old, young, or sick to pass away—you just have to be alive. This truth makes it vital to focus on what truly matters and leave behind unnecessary worries. What I appreciated most is the emphasis on intuition. Carlson reminds us that intuition is God-given—a gift to guide us. Reading this book has helped me trust my own instincts more, leaning into that inner wisdom to make decisions that align with my values and purpose. This is a five-star read and a book I recommend to anyone looking to lower their anxiety, gain a clearer understanding of what’s truly important, and embrace a more peaceful approach to life. It’s not just a guide to living stress-free—it’s a manual for living well. Carlson’s wisdom is timeless, and I’m grateful he took the time to share his life experiences with the world. Even though the author is no longer with us, his legacy lives on through this book. Thank you, Richard Carlson, for giving us a gift of wisdom that continues to transform lives. For me, Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff has been more than a book—it’s been a shift in how I live, think, and view the world. I recommend it wholeheartedly to anyone ready to let go of unnecessary burdens and embrace a life of clarity and peace. Deon Freeman Finished January 23, 2025 A meaningful way to start the year.

A must Read for everyone I would suggest. Read carefully, take notes or underline and I normally read 5 chapters a day and did not finish like a novel. I wanted to practise in my life so took it bite by bite. It is one of the best books on self help and life lessons and I am sure it will improve your approach to deal with tough times, annoying people, frustration and depression. Just make it practical and don't read like a Novel.

Amazing book

perfecto estado