A review by bluepoohreads22
How to Let Things Go: 99 Tips from a Zen Buddhist Monk to Relinquish Control and Free Yourself Up for What Matters by Shunmyō Masuno

hopeful informative inspiring reflective fast-paced

3.0

Written by a Buddhist monk, this book promises to help readers navigate the chaos of modern life by teaching the art of letting go. This is a book that focuses on releasing unnecessary stress, not overthinking, and learning how to let life unfold with ease.

The book is divided into five parts, each offering advice on how to live more calmly and mindfully:
  • Don’t get overly involved
  • Don’t worry about every little thing
  • Be measured in your reactions
  • Don’t waste your energy
  • Don’t see everything as black and white

Each section includes several bite-sized tips, which is where the book’s simplicity really shines. As a seasoned self-help reader, I appreciated that some of the advice was straightforward and could easily be applied to daily life. One tip that really resonated with me was Tip #84: All of your choices are the right ones. What matters is for you to make the most of them. This thought-provoking advice challenges the idea that we need to always make the ‘perfect’ decision, and reminded me to focus on making the most of whatever path I choose.

However, while the book delivers on its promises, I did find that some tips felt a bit repetitive, especially for those familiar with mindfulness or self-help concepts. Some of the advice, such as not getting overly involved or not sweating the small stuff, might come across as a little too simplistic or even dismissive for a more experienced reader.

That being said, this book shines as a great starting point for someone new to self-help. It’s an excellent gift for anyone embarking on a new phase of life or looking for a gentle introduction to mindfulness and self-awareness. For those with more experience in the genre, the book may feel like a refresher or a good tool to flip through when in need of a quick moment of clarity. It’s a simple, easy-to-read guide that emphasizes living in the present and not getting bogged down by life's minor irritations.

In conclusion, while the book may feel repetitive at times for more seasoned readers, it serves its purpose well as an accessible introduction to Buddhist principles and mindful living. Just be aware that some tips could feel somewhat dismissive, especially if you're already familiar with mindfulness concepts. But overall, it’s a good, gentle nudge towards living a more peaceful, uncluttered life.

I would like to extend my gratitude to Times Reads for sending me a review copy.