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How to Stop Worrying and Start Living
Book

How to Stop Worrying and Start Living

Time-Tested Methods for Conquering Worry

Dale Carnegie
Simon & Schuster, 1985

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Editorial Rating

7

Qualities

  • Visionary
  • Engaging

Recommendation

Dale Carnegie compiles time tested wisdom in this book of principles on how to avoid worrying about problems you can’t affect. Carnegie outlines some basic principles to help you stop worrying. He draws from common sense, from people who have achieved peace and happiness, and from the sayings of philosophers, business leaders and others. Although Carnegie wrote his book in the 1940’s and some of his examples may seem dated, his basic principles are timeless - in fact, ahead of his time. He presents them in an easy-to-read, personal way. He draws on his own and other people’s experiences to show a number of techniques for letting go of worries and becoming more productive. getAbstract recommends this self-development classic to everyone.

Summary

Stop Worrying About the Past or the Future

To get the most out of this book, review the basic principles and think about how you can apply them. Then, use them whenever you have an opportunity. Keep a diary showing how and when you used them, and review your progress periodically. Consider how to improve the way you employ these principles, so that you will worry less and less. Some basic principles that will help you reduce worrying and live more effectively include:

Put the past in the past and focus on the present: Many times, when you worry you are thinking about the past and blaming yourself for what you have done wrong. However, if you can follow this principle, you can eliminate many worries. As the writer Thomas Carlyle said, "Our main business is not to see what lies dimly at a distance, but to do what lies clearly at hand."

Do not become anxious about the future: Thinking about the future can be another source of worry. While it’s important to carefully think about and plan for future developments, don’t become anxious about it. Realize that good thinking concerns itself, "with causes and effects and leads to logical, constructive planning."

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About the Author

Dale Carnegie was a well-known inspirational teacher and writer. His books sold in the millions of copies in the 1940’s. They became the basis for a series of seminars and training programs for people in business, especially in sales. His books include How to Win Friends and Influence People, How to Develop Self-Confidence and Influence People by Public Speaking, How to Enjoy Your Life and Your Job, and The Quick and Easy Way to Effective Speaking.

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    F. C. 7 years ago
    Great read. Plan on getting an audio version.
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    M. d. 7 years ago
    Wonderful thinking. Simple and effective. Down to earth, founded in psychology. Should at least be a 9/10.
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    A. G. 1 decade ago
    It is great wisdom