How to Stop Worrying and Start Living

I just got back from a trip out to San Francisco for the Google I/O Developer conference. On my trip I was lucky enough to get some extra time to re-read one of my favorite books.

I took with me “How to Stop Worrying and Start Living” by Dale Carnegie. The first time I read this book was back in 2001 when I was a freshman in high school. At the time, I was lucky enough to get a scholarship from 4H to attend Dale Carnegie Training on Michigan State University’s campus.

I never have though of myself as a person who worries a lot or doesn’t know how to “live life”, and I think that the title of this book can be a little off-putting for those who haven’t read it before. However, after just reading the first chapter, I see just how valuable this book is.

The book has 28 chapters, each of them built around a theme that ranges from facts, effects, breaking habits, living peacefully, dealing with criticism, and more. The book is written through the experiences of many people that Mr. Carnegie met during his life. He discusses how people came from their furthest depths of worry to start living life more peaceful again.

Reading this book again has given me a new sense of patience, and I haven’t been bothered with criticism. I’ve also picked up a few things about leading effective meetings which I’ve started to spread at work.

The book can be a quick read, but I’d recommend reading a chapter a day. If you’ve read the book then you know how good it is and if you haven’t, now is your opportunity to pick up a copy.

Have you ever read the book or heard of Dale Carnegie? Are you interested in reading the book or at least checking it out? Feel free to leave a comment.