With all the books that I’ve been reading recently, this one seemingly is the one that sums up the main theme of what I’m re-discovering. I use the word “re-discovering” on purpose. What Andy writes about in this book is simple. It’s so simple that when I tell you, you’ll say, “I already know that!” It’s so simple…
Ridiculously Simple
Here it is:
Attention establishes direction which in turn determines destination.
In other words, it’s the advice your momma always gave you. It’s the result of hind-sight, which we all know is 20/20. But what I appreciate about this book was not about WHAT Andy communicated, but HOW.
The first thing I appreciated is that this book, unlike other books of this genre is driven by the principles found in scripture and promotes the “Principles of the Path” by the illustration of scripture. In every section of this book, Andy seamlessly weaves principles of scripture into truths that everyone already knows, but hardly anyone follows.
The second thing I appreciate about this book is Andy’s ability to “tell it like it is” but do so in a way that you know he’s communicating with the desire to see you succeed – not so he can stand back and say, “I told you so.”
This book covers a lot on achieving your goals/dreams/calling/etc, but what I believe separates this book from “the pack” is the willingness of Andy to answer the question and reality that no other writer of these type of books seems to answer. What is that question? What is that reality?
What do you do if you realize your dream will never come true?
The reality is that there will be some dreams/goals that will NEVER be fulfilled
I believe this book answer those questions. How? Well, you have to read the book! Remember, this is just a review, not your college Cliff’s Notes! But here are some quotes to wet your appetite:
- To get from where we don’t want to be to where we do want to be requires two things: time and a change of direction. There isn’t a quick fix.
- Direction – not intention – determines our destination
- Today’s decisions are informed and influenced by their impact on tomorrow.
- The primary difference between the prudent and the simple is not what they see but how they respond to what they see.
- Our propensity to defend our happiness decisions with justifications that aren’t founded in truth is what sets us up for trouble when the road divides.
- You can’t get to where you want to be in life until you are willing to admit where you are to begin with.
- There are better decision-making strategies than simply following your heart. The truth is if you let it, your heart will direct you down a path that leads to the very spot you most want to avoid.
- Your decision-making environments are not emotionally neutral.
- The best counsel in the world is wasted if our minds are already made up.
- You will never reach your full potential without tapping into the wisdom of others.
- We don’t drift in good directions. We discipline and prioritize ourselves there.
- Pause before devoting your attention to anything.
Phillipe,
just re-read the book from Andy Stanley again. As simple and obvious the principle is, I wish I’d be personally aware of it earlier. We all choose paths in our lives and are maybe only later aware of it that the choice was not a good one.
Wish you and your family are aware of the principle in 2012 – and your directions lead you to where you want to go!
Thanks Stephan. Make sure you check out my updated blog at phillipsantillan,blogspot.com. I moved my blog over there a while ago =)