Book Review: How to Live

Those who missed the subtitle “27 Conflicting Answers and One Weird Conclusion” likely felt confused. Those who only briefly glanced at the title (including self-help skeptics) would probably respond, “No one tells me how to live!” and “I call BS. You do you!” With these individuals, Derek Sivers would have a “gotcha” moment, as that is precisely the conclusion he reached in the book.

How to live is a personal journey that each individual must navigate. However, my key realization from the book is that seemingly contradictory approaches to life can be reconciled. One can “not be part of any group” yet still be a valuable member of the community, and one can continually reinvent themselves while maintaining a steadfast commitment.

Here are some of my favorite highlights:

When a problem is bothering you, it feels like you need to do something about it. Instead, identify what belief is really the source of your trouble. Replace that belief with one that doesn’t bother you. Then the problem is solved. Most problems are really just situations.

Mastery is the best goal because the rich can’t buy it, the impatient can’t rush it, the privileged can’t inherit it, and nobody can steal it. You can only earn it through hard work. Mastery is the ultimate status.

People say they’re not doing the work because it’s hard. But it’s hard because they’re not doing the work.

Instead of changing the world, just change your reactions.

Don’t try to be more right. Just be less wrong.

The book is available for free on the author’s website, along with his own audio narration.