Three Minute Review: When You Just Want to Know, Should I Get It or Forget It?
Quote from the Introduction: “The surest path to success is not one-size-fits-all. Instead, you must match your approach to opponent. “
For Your Consideration: How to Change: The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be
Medium: Book
Genre: Non-fiction, Psychology
Author: Katy Milkman
Education Level: 12th Grade Reading Level
Get It: This is a great book if you are struggling to upend certain recurring habits or behavior patterns that have you had trouble changing but can’t seem to understand why. Milkman provides plain language explanations of how to tackle some of the most intractable self-sabotaging human tendencies with practical evidence-based approaches. This is also a great read if you have a more global interest in the psychology of habit formation and change. As an unabashed psychology geek both the research and case studies are utterly fascinating. If you have a love of learning this your kind of book.
Skip It: If you need more emotive language to move you action this book may not be for you. While it has very positive message and many encouraging passages it is not a cover-to-cover book of inspirational quotes. It is also not a workbook. Each section does end with a list of “Chapter Takeaways” but not with a list of “To-Dos” or a checklist. This book is not designed for those looking for an explicit roadmap to change. You also may not enjoy this book if psychology is not your favorite science subject. If you love science but not this field in particular, this book may not be for you.
Maturity Level: 16+ (See Note)
Overall: Great book if you love to geek out on psychology or if you are interested in meaningful self-improvement, with a real-world and straight forward approach.
Blurb: “Everyone wants to know: What makes personal change happen and stick? Milkman uses the latest science to give us answers,” -Carol S. Dweck, New York Times bestselling author of Mindset
NOTE: As with any book regarding behavior change, I would advise parents to be mindful of allowing vulnerable youth or adolescents access to this type of material. As a parent you may determine that your child or adolescent may not be capable of either the self-forgiveness or moderation the author recommends. I always encourage all parents to defer to their best judgment as to their child’s maturity level.
Disclaimer: No affiliate or remunerative relationship (or link) is stated or to be implied from this review.