Book review: The Four Agreements By Don Miguel Ruiz

Posted In: Me September 5th, 2013 divider No Comments »

A friend suggested this book a while back. Although I still think the Ottawa Public Library is the best deal in town, it took a while for the book to get to me since it’s in high demand and there are only a few copies in circulation.

I must admit I never would have picked up the book a few years back, before what I call the start of the “Enlightenment of Eric Collard”. I’m still not where I want to be but I now look at the world and life through a very different prism.

It’s in the same vein as Eckhart Tolle’s A New Earth but I find it more accessible for the 21st century.

Here are the four agreements with my colour commentary of course!

1. Be Impeccable with Your Word

-I learned a lot about this from working in media relations for years. You had to pick your words rather carefully, especially on controversial issues, as people would take a lot out of context. This is taking it to the next level to also have the correct meaning and intent behind your words.

2. Don’t Take Anything Personally

-This one’s not easy! We’re usually invested in a situation so we usually see the outcome as a reflection of us. Some days are better than others and it’s not always about puppy dogs and unicorns but bad feedback or a less than steller showing doesn’t make us bad people. Learn from it.

3. Don’t Make Assumptions

-We assume a lot in every day life. Be like a child and ask some questions. Even if it’s not out loud, just take a step back and try to figure out why people act in a certain way. It’s quite an informative exercise!

4. Always Do Your Best

-Self explanatory…

This book should be required reading for everyone as it really makes you realize a few things. I plan on reading it again in the coming years, trust me it’s an easy read. But then your mind will be working overtime for a while. Not always a bad thing…

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And I also have an Intro to ChiRunning workshop coming up in a few weeks in Ottawa. It will probably be my last outdoor workshop of the year, Sunday afternoon on September 22. Click the link for all the details.

If there’s enough interest I will do an Intermediate workshop. We will look at the ChiRunning technique with another lens and look at hills, breathing and hip rotation some more so keep me posted!