Valuing People Over Things Is So Important In Such An Age Of Consumerism!!
I had never heard of this author duo prior to winning this ARC, but I thoroughly enjoyed this book and learning about them. One of the things I loved most about this book is that it applied minimalism to life in general. The basic premises is minimizing distractions so that we can spend time with loved ones doing what matters.
While the book is about minimalism, it is heavily autobiographical as well. I typically either really love this or find that it distracts too much from the overall message of the book, if I don't relate with the author or their writing. I really enjoyed what Joshua shared about his and Ryan's lives. Although it wasn't that I necessarily understood everything they went through, I felt like Joshua masterfully crafted it in such an accessible way to the audience, that also tied in well to his points.
The book teaches a lot of tools to teach the reader how to move from massive consumerism to minimalism. I find it extremely helpful that the authors have been on the other end of things. Some minimalist have been minimalist most of their lives and don't understand how those who are not have different struggles and mindsets. In short, their methods don't work for people on the other end of the spectrum. However, Joshua and Ryan get it. They have dealt with poverty, childhood trauma due to unfortunate circumstances, and the appeal of stuff. They have the empathy to understand and help bridge the gap for those who do not come by minimalism easily. Yet, they also do preach some tough love, when needed. I would say that they are not as abrasive as Dave Ramsey, who I love, but he is definitely a no-nonsense type of guy, but also not permissive about getting to business and making changes.
The book takes a look at relationships with stuff, truth, self, values, money, creativity, and people and identifies a minimalist approach that helps the reader prioritize what matters most in their lives. He offers some great advice and suggestions that I am excited to utilize. Ryan suggests some thought provoking questions to help the reader personalize the chapter and make changes in their life.
Overall, I thought this was a fantastic book and I enjoyed it immensely. It was actually quite a bit different than I had initially expected, but that wasn't a bad thing. I enjoyed the concepts taught throughout and learning more about this awesome duo, who minimalized their own lives, even quitting their high paying corporate jobs, and teach by example how to pursue passions while also giving to others generously, as things have lost their hold on them and people have become their priority.
Thank you Celadon Books for an ARC of this book!
While the book is about minimalism, it is heavily autobiographical as well. I typically either really love this or find that it distracts too much from the overall message of the book, if I don't relate with the author or their writing. I really enjoyed what Joshua shared about his and Ryan's lives. Although it wasn't that I necessarily understood everything they went through, I felt like Joshua masterfully crafted it in such an accessible way to the audience, that also tied in well to his points.
The book teaches a lot of tools to teach the reader how to move from massive consumerism to minimalism. I find it extremely helpful that the authors have been on the other end of things. Some minimalist have been minimalist most of their lives and don't understand how those who are not have different struggles and mindsets. In short, their methods don't work for people on the other end of the spectrum. However, Joshua and Ryan get it. They have dealt with poverty, childhood trauma due to unfortunate circumstances, and the appeal of stuff. They have the empathy to understand and help bridge the gap for those who do not come by minimalism easily. Yet, they also do preach some tough love, when needed. I would say that they are not as abrasive as Dave Ramsey, who I love, but he is definitely a no-nonsense type of guy, but also not permissive about getting to business and making changes.
The book takes a look at relationships with stuff, truth, self, values, money, creativity, and people and identifies a minimalist approach that helps the reader prioritize what matters most in their lives. He offers some great advice and suggestions that I am excited to utilize. Ryan suggests some thought provoking questions to help the reader personalize the chapter and make changes in their life.
Overall, I thought this was a fantastic book and I enjoyed it immensely. It was actually quite a bit different than I had initially expected, but that wasn't a bad thing. I enjoyed the concepts taught throughout and learning more about this awesome duo, who minimalized their own lives, even quitting their high paying corporate jobs, and teach by example how to pursue passions while also giving to others generously, as things have lost their hold on them and people have become their priority.
Thank you Celadon Books for an ARC of this book!