Easier Than You Think

March 21, 2005
Carlson, author of the bestselling Don't Sweat the Small Stuff
, goes beyond the effort to minimize stress with 39 techniques for making positive changes in all aspects of life. Rather than embarking on lengthy or costly self-improvement projects, he suggests trying out smaller, simpler adjustments that he believes can make a real difference in everything from one's communication skills to peace of mind. Delivered in his trademark upbeat style, Carlson's advice is rooted in showing kindness and compassion to oneself as well as to others. He notes, for example, that a natural inclination to help can lead to taking on too many responsibilities. Learning to say no allows you to pursue a calmer and more meaningful existence. Although the author acknowledges that most people are beset by self-pity, he says that choosing to adopt a cheerful attitude each day will actually make you happier. Learning not to blame others for your troubles will provide a greater sense of control over decision making and enhance self-confidence. While many of the author's ideas are common self-help tropes (much of the book reads like an updated version of glass half-full/half-empty) that are not as easy to accomplish as they sound, Carlson has the knack of making them sound as if they are. Agent, Linda Chester. 15-city author tour.

The popular author of DON'T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF applies his practical know-how to the task of living better through small changes in our mental and behavioral habits. We have more control than we think, he says, and by becoming conscious of this, we can break out of patterns created by force of habit, our emotional wiring, or our family traditions. His down-to-earth advice and examples, most from his own experience, are inspiring and should be easy to apply to anyone's individual challenges. The accessible and contemporary advice covers the basic mechanisms of personal change. The program is delivered with the maturity and speaking comfort of one of our best personal growth teachers. T.W. (c) AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine

Starred review from March 1, 2006
Well known for his Don't Sweat the Small Stuff series, Carlson offers a smorgasbord of 40 little changes in attitude or behavior that can make a big difference in one's response to life's challenges. Most of the suggestions require little more than a commitment for positive change and an everyday application of the technique. He suggests ways to practice humility, humor, satisfaction, and nonjudgment. Sure to be popular with the author's audience, this program is highly recommended for popular listening collections.Kathleen Sullivan, Phoenix P.L.

Copyright 2006 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.