Book Review of Atomic Habits by James Clear

 

Review of Atomic Habits by James Clear

I refuse to read Self Help books. My radar is on high drive while browsing for books, to see if the Self-Help books are packaged or named differently. I do believe that I am more aware of myself than a generic book can tell me. But, one of the reasons I joined the Book Club, ‘Books and Conversations’ was to be introduced to a wide and diverse set of books. So, keeping that in mind, I buckled down and started Atomic Habits.

It started strong and slowed down towards the middle and lost me towards the end. I had to use a lot of techniques outlined in the book in order to complete it. The book had a few precious suggestions, sprinkled with some interesting techniques and a handful of overwhelming counsels.

One of the things I loved in this book was the perspective change we can bring into our lives. You have to make dinner for your family every day, or you get to make dinner for your family. For a mom like me, who has made a million dosas in various shapes, sizes and flavours, it can be a chore. Then when I have a crazy baking day at work and then I come home and make dosas while chatting with family – the light shines brighter and makes the world a better place.

According to some of the examples given in this book, I sadly realised that I do not have what it takes to be a world class comedian or an Olympic medallist.  But my respect for the achievers has increased so much more. 

It is like looking at a stunning woman in your neighbourhood. You want to be like her. You slowly see the amount of effort she puts in with exercise, get to know of her diet and then you hear her bedtime skin routine. You ogle at her for a moment longer than is socially acceptable, incorporate what tiny bit you can of her routine into your life, wish her well and move on with your life. Yes. This book felt a lot like that.

It is well written and I would have liked to have seen more personal examples from the author’s life in it. The preaching part of the book was masked a little but did rear its head here and there.

 

Bina’s Quick Takes on Atomic Habits
(Disclaimers – I believe that every experience I have is the experience I am supposed to have and would never consider it a waste of time)
Was it worth the read?	Yes. I think so.
Do I regret reading it?	No
Was it worth the time put in?	Almost
Did I smile when I read the book?	Yes
Was I relieved when I finished the book?	Yes
Was I happy when I finished the book?	Yes and No.
Do I want to read more books like this?	No
Did I feel smarter after I finished the book?	Kind of
Will I read more book by James Clear?	Not Sure
Did I get social Kudos for seeming well read in parties because of this book?	Yes. Definitely
Would I have read this book without recommendation?	No