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264
Book • Nonfiction
2010s
2011
Adult
18+ years
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown argues that modern society's overwhelming choices and distractions lead to a lack of focus and purpose. The book advocates for essentialism, which involves discerning the essential from the trivial, prioritizing key tasks, eliminating nonessential activities, and fostering a disciplined approach to focus on what truly matters.
Informative
Inspirational
Contemplative
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Essentialism by Greg McKeown is praised for its practical approach to decluttering one's life and focusing on what truly matters. Reviewers laud its clarity and actionable advice. However, some criticisms point to repetitive content and over-simplicity. Overall, it is considered a valuable guide for those seeking to streamline their priorities and improve productivity.
A reader who values productivity and desires a more focused, meaningful life would enjoy Essentialism by Greg McKeown. Comparable to The One Thing by Gary Keller and Deep Work by Cal Newport, this reader seeks to cut down on non-essential tasks to achieve greater clarity and purpose.
135,706 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mohandas K. Gandhi
A key historical figure whose life is presented as an embodiment of essentialism, highlighting his commitment to a higher purpose and simplicity in his quest to help India gain independence.
Gautama Buddha
The founder of Buddhism, whose life and teachings on simplicity and self-discovery are used to illustrate the spiritual roots of essentialism and its practice as a way of life.
Steve Jobs
Apple cofounder mentioned as a notable figure whose life exemplifies the principles of essentialism by focusing on what truly matters to achieve significant contributions.
Leo Tolstoy
A Russian author known for embracing essentialism, his life serves as an example of making deliberate choices to simplify and focus on meaningful aspects.
Michael Jordan
An American basketball player whose career is highlighted as demonstrating essentialism through dedication and focus in his field.
Warren Buffett
An American financial expert who embodies essentialism by prioritizing core values and making strategic choices to achieve impactful results.
Mother Teresa
An Albanian-Indian nun and activist who is presented as living an essentialist lifestyle by focusing on service and humility.
Henry David Thoreau
An American writer known for his practice of essentialist principles through deliberate living and profound simplicity.
264
Book • Nonfiction
2010s
2011
Adult
18+ years
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