Read How to Live on 24 Hours a Day eBook Arnold Bennett

Product details File Size 226 KB Print Length 33 pages Page Numbers Source ISBN 1519502400 Simultaneous Device Usage Unlimited Publication Date May 17, 2012 Sold by  Digital Services LLC Language English ASIN B0084AHN6C

How to Live on 24 Hours a Day eBook Arnold Bennett Reviews

• This book is not what I expected (though that is not a bad thing). Since I knew nothing about the author, the book, or the time period in which it was written, I went into it hoping for some tips and techniques for condensing my busy life into a more manageable set of proceedings...essentially, I wanted a modern "time management protocol." However, after just finishing the short book in one sitting, I can tell you that the information I received, was what I would call a "life management protocol." Keep that in mind as you go into the book.
  
  It is worth noting, at this point, that the writing format, language, and so forth, could be off-putting to a vast number of readers. I strongly urge anyone attempting to read this book, to put every effort that you can into looking beyond those aspects of the writing, and instead focus on extracting the true essence of what is being communicated, which I will outline below.
  
  As I mentioned, it is imperative to understand what this book is not It is not "How to stuff your busy life into 24 hours." Instead, it is actually, precisely what the title says "How to *LIVE* on 24 hours a day." The author is, essentially, saying that most people are not truly "living," they are "existing."
  
  THE CONCEPT, SUMMARIZED You have 24 hours a day, and no more, for your entire life. It is advised that you spend as much of that time as possible, doing things which will cause you to constantly grow and expand in every area of your life. Quite simply, that is the only way to truly be fulfilled and consistently happy in life, and thus, there is your "How to *LIVE* on 24 hours a day"
  
  Aside from the language and writing style, being antiquated, the actual attitude and approach by the author may repel or even anger a number of readers; notably, people that are engaged in primarily the type of activities and time usages that the author clearly condescends and admonishes against. Examples of those activities would be anything that is generally unquestioned by the masses, that is mindless, that causes no increase in the quality of one's life other than to expend time for pleasure in the moment (not to say that all such things are bad). But when someone basically spends their entire life in that way, and does not grow as a human, touch up on their true potential, and strive for more purpose, therein lies the danger. That is where an ever-prevent, disconcerting, nagging feeling will haunt a person. And this, if forever ignored, will probably lead to a life fraught with dissatisfaction, and unbearable pain at a later time, when one realizes the mistakes they made by not utilizing their time wisely.
  
  I can confidently say that this book has the potential to be a life-changing, and paradigm-shifting, dose of knowledge to a large majority of people (if only they would be open to receive it with thoughtful consideration, as opposed to the dismissive, fast-thinking mindset of the masses). It would be a shame for anyone to overlook this book and its principles, either due to the language, approach of the author, antiquated examples, or negative reviews by other readers.
  
  Despite all of this, I cannot say that I derived much value from it, simply because it is nothing new to me, as I have already been living the overall principles of the book (with boundless benefits as a result, as touted by the author), for the past 2 years of my life - and to a more extreme degree than is suggested by the author (which I think is necessary in this more modern and outrageously busy, distracting age).
  
  I will honestly admit that I've fallen into some of the traps that the author cautions against, and I battle those quite often. Namely, being extremely fervent in my discipline of how I use my time, to the point that I am stressing myself out constantly, never satisfied with what I accomplish in the time I have. I have far too many goals, take on too much at one time, and have unrealistic expectations for the time frame needed to reach those goals. It is a struggle which I am attempting to overcome currently. I suspect that redirecting some of my time to reflect more (also suggested by the author), could aid in doing this, despite it sounding counter-intuitive.
  
  People are free to live as they wish (the author even states that one should mind their own business), but still, at the risk of sounding pompous, and like a "prig," as the author also cautions against, I will just say that one of the best decisions that I've ever made in my life, aside from creating clear, life goals, was to cut out time-wasting activities such as television, movies, video games, and so forth. These are extremely detrimental addictions, consuming the lives of many people; if only they could see it and instead utilize the time to step into the greatness which lies within them. Everyone is special, powerful, gifted, and deserve to experience a rich and fulfilling life of purpose. Anyway, now I am focusing all of my free time on the pursuit of knowledge, and taking constant actions on goals. I've never been happier, and I've accomplished more, and of more value, in the past two years, than in the previous 32 years. People are free to feel offended by my comments, but I think if they would actually try such an extreme change, for one month, they would quickly change their view, and never look back. Go against the crowd, think for yourself, be yourself, and set out on a journey of exploration and achievement!
• I wish I'd read this book 13 years ago and I'd if I should argue my teenage mind wouldn't tolerate it, I sell wish I'd read it 8 years ago.
  The author has am interesting sense of humor. I laughed plenty of times reading this. But the purpose of this book isn't to entertain. I started out thinking it would help me with time management and I ended up with an immense amount of knowledge. The kind you gain from philosophy but in this case, the hard shell had been cracked and what I have is the nut I need. I think every high school great should read this. The earlier the better. Same applies to college grads and if you're far removed from college, it's not too late. I still feel it's not too late for me so it shouldn't be for you.
  This book would change your mentality, and how you think about what constitutes a day. It will also change your perception. The author write in a time where political correctness was nonexistent so he says it like it is - without great nor shame. I love it when he says I stand by what I say.
  I've also downloaded books by epitectus and Marcus A. As a result of freshly this and I've gotten several other titles as well.
  Personally, this book alone should suffice but I've learned how obtaining knowledge can help me in immense ways.
  This book is so much more than I thought and I don't want to go into too much details because it covers a lot. Yet It's a short read.
  It's not boring. It's interesting and read through it over the last 3 days. Most of it today. Trust me it's hard to get my attention focused on a book lately. I I've started books and abandoned somewhere.
  Not this. It's one book I'll go back to read again and again.
  It's free but what you'll gain is priceless. Do yourself the biggest favor and get it.
• This book was recommended as a 'must read' in Dale Carnegie's 'How to develop self-confidence and influence people be public speaking' which I had picked up for a group presentation.
  
  I immediately downloaded it onto my kindle. It is a short book. I read it about an hour and a half, and I am a slow reader.
  
  The author is British and the book was written in 1905. So by modern standards the advice it contains may seem a little harsh and paternalistic and the language somewhat stilted. But I really enjoyed the presentation compared to many modern politically correct but stylisticaly banal works. The humor is subtle but effective. The arguments are witty and thought-provoking and ultimately persuasive.
  
  He begins with urging us to review our day and set aside time from outside our work hours, that we often waste by doing nothing, to do something truly worthwile. He recommends literature and the arts for building self and character but acknowledges that if one truly has no inclination towards these areas then they could do whatever else they enjoy that is interesting and mentally stimulating.
  
  Besides the activity itself, though, he urges mental discipline and reflection. He stresses that the path to self-development is difficult and requires hard work and persistence. He warns against taking on too much to start with since that could result in failure and lowered self-esteem. He also cautions against going down the path only to become an insufferable prig looking down on everyone else.
  
  While these are some of the bare-bones points he talks about, it is his language and style that makes the book such an enjoyable and inspiring read.
  
  Recommended.