Book Review - "Reclaim your dreams" 10/14/2009
The byline says it all - "An uncommon guide to living on your own terms". The book delivers exactly what it promises - a total guidebook on living life deliberately and having fun while at it. The book "Reclaim your dreams" by Jonathan Mead is one of the most inspiring and innovative books I have read in recent times. The book is written in a unique and inimitable style - a unique interlocking of almost poetic beauty and disarming simplicity. There is a subtle vein of humor running through out too, which makes it all the more enjoyable. Have you ever found yourself stuck in a rut, or just plain tired of getting through life from day to day? Do you feel that you have lost your passion and zing? Do you feel that you have lived enough of life to see that there is no alternative? Then this book will do wonders for you. It really doesn't matter what sort of a mind or life you bring to the table when you start reading this book. It is one that understands that changes need to be made at the grass root level, for any permanent effect to occur. So, it gives you a mindset makeover. There are two parts to this book. The parts are best explained in the author's own words: "Part 1 was about pulling the weeds and making room for your dreams, Part 2 is about figuring out what you want to plant there and giving you the tools to make those dreams grow and thrive." The first part helps us to create an attitude conducive to absorbing the second part fully. There are three chapters in the first part, and five in the second. Each chapter contains three parts: the idea, one or more exercises for practical application and some key points to meditate on. This format is adopted throughout the book. The book contains a lot of bold statements and almost disturbing questions. If you would only take a moment to think of those, they would suddenly transform themselves into obvious truths you never noticed before, and you have an "Aha!" moment. I had many such moments while reading this book; and each gave me fresh perspective and insight. I felt it worthwhile to have a small book ready while reading this, to note down all these key statements and ideas. When I am in need of some quick motivation, a cup of coffee plus a small dose of these pointers prove a potent combination. The exercises in this book require special mention - there are simple and powerful ones in there which don't even take up too much time. Just as an example, in a single chapter you learn to create your personal manifesto, your dream sanctuary, your value list, your mind map... and more! The book also lists and draws from some great resources, the links to which are provided throughout. This makes for fun and informative further reading. One of the best things about the book is that it has its feet firmly planted in reality, and doesn't paint rosy pictures. It is a very practical book, and understands and takes into consideration all the myriad pitfalls and problems of everyday life. It is not an idealist's dream book, it is a realist's workbook. And a word about the conclusion... It is an absolutely beautiful chapter, something you may want to print out and stick to your wall for your daily dose of inspiration. It sums up the book beautifully, and makes you feel you have the wings to fly. This value for money book can be purchased here: http://www.illuminatedmind.net/reclaim-your-dreams/ Don't forget to write in with your experiences of the book! CommentsLeave a Reply |
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