Book review: 10% Happier by Dan Harris

Book review: 10% Happier by Dan Harris

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I just finished another audiobook and I thought it was very fitting for my crowd, especially with my recent infatuation with meditation and mindfulness. I’m not sure about the long title though: 10% Happier: How I Tamed the Voice in My Head, Reduced Stress Without Losing My Edge, and Found a Self-Help that Actually Works–A True Story

You probably heard or seen Dan Harris, a somewhat famous ABC News correspondent/anchor. His book is pretty good and makes you look at him in a different light. It’s a great layman’s guide to meditation or more specifically the process you go through when you encounter and then embrace the practice.

It starts off very slow by recapping Harris’ career before getting to the good stuff of his spiritual awakening. I can relate since most people used to see me as an A-Type. It all stemmed from his tours in the Middle East and subsequent drug use. And it all happens because he had a small breakdown on national TV.

You then get to navigate his spiritual journey through interviews of some famous leaders and some of his early endeavours into meditation that didn’t end so well. The best part was his play-by-play of his 10-day silent meditation adventure. He basically nails it, or how I would most likely describe it. I remember thinking that would be torture but now I’m looking to see how I can make it happen.

It’s worthy to note how he doesn’t talk to most people about this subject though since he’s found most people still see it as new age crap that’s only good for hippies and yogis. I think it’s getting better and more accessible but I could be biased.

Like every good book, it ends way too early. The major only drawback would be his slightly pompous attitude at times and his use of million dollar words with no redeeming value.

Overall a great read/listen and a great overview of why a lot more busy and successful are looking at meditation and mindfulness for answers. And who wouldn’t want to be 10% happier?

 

 

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