Story in Review: Essentialism by Greg McKeown

 “Essentialism isn’t about getting more done in less time. It’s about getting only the right things done.”

In my constant quest to simplify life, I stumbled upon Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown. McKeown posits that if we invest ourselves in fewer things, we make better progress on the things that matter most. He calls this “living by design, not by default.” In doing so, we enjoy the journey of life and not just the destination we work toward.

I loved this book. McKeown strikes the right balance between information and anecdote as he makes his case for a less jumbled life. He is passionate about this topic, and it shows on the page. This book touched on all of my favorite productivity topics – sleep as a necessity, the idea of decision fatigue, saying “no” to things that aren’t The Best Yes – and did so in a way that was engaging, yet not overwhelming. I actually found myself staying up late to read nonfiction for the first time in my life.

Even though I am firmly on the simplify and minimalism wagon, I find “Essentialism” to be a term that feels more true. Minimalist gets a negative connotation at times, and simplicity can often seem less sophisticated. “Essentialism” makes this way of living life into an active choice – and I find that this really resonates with me.

Favorite Quotes

“Success can distract us from focusing on the essential things that produce success in the first place.” – p. 13

“[Essentialism] is a discipline you apply each and every time you are faced with a decision about whether to say yes or whether to politely decline.” – p. 19

“An Essentialist creates space to escape and explore life.” – p. 65

“Being a journalist of your own life will force you to stop hyper-focusing on all the minor details and see the big picture.” – p. 75

“Imagination is the source of every form of human achievement. And it’s the one thing that I believe we are systematically jeopardizing in the way we educate our children and ourselves.” – p. 84

“In a nutshell, sleep is what allows us to operate at our highest level of contribution so that we can achieve more, in less time.” – p. 99

“… a true essential intent is one that guides your greater sense of purpose, and helps you chart your life’s path.” – p. 128

“We can all live a life not just of simplicity but of high contribution and meaning.” – p. 226

Should you read this book? Yes.

The principles in this book are helpful for editing life, whether you are a mom stretched a little too thin, a business owner who feels like they are constantly spinning their wheels, or anyone who feels like they are sacrificing the important things at the altar of the urgent.

Should you buy this book? Yes. If you have $20 dollars, do it. With all the essays and blogs out there about simplicity and minimalism available for free, I was at first hesitant to pick this up – but it was definitely worth having all this information in one place and in such an engaging read.

So, if you can, pick up a copy of Essentialism. If you are in the Madison, WI area – ask to borrow mine.

P.S. Read more on minimalism here. And more on learning to say “no” here and here.