by
3.17 of 5 stars
Bulging in-boxes, out-of-control stress, and even climate change serve as reminders that when it comes to being happy and healthy, less is more. In... read full description

reviews

Mar 17, 2009
Charmaine rated it: 3 of 5 stars
I just love this book! It is straight-foward, thoughtful and insightful. To some, these ideas and suggestions might be obvious, but not for me. I always feel overloaded, overwhelmed and exhausted and don't know how to help myself. This book is helping me to let go, simplify and focus.
1 comment like (2 people liked it)
Nov 01, 2009
Nux rated it: 2 of 5 stars
Full of pretty illustrations and quotes from big men... oh! And lists that you have to do and fill up to help you contemplate things! which is exactly why this book isn't really working for me. Too 'high level', I guess. Feels like I am being nagged at by an auntie who wags her finger at me and telling me I'm doing things the wrong way and I should sit down, be a nice girl, make those lists, meditate and do yoga while I listen to her quoting sayings from Buddha and other enlightened masters of More...
Sep 04, 2009
I liked that this organizing book not only looks at the stuff around us, it looks at the stuff within us. The reason we have clutter is more about our spiritual selves than it is about our physical selves. I liked the exercises she included that really got me thinking about what is important in my life and why. Happily, I have discovered a lot of what was included in this book already on my own, however, I like how she discusses how to actually use those discoveries and create lasting change. More...
0 comments like (2 people liked it)
Feb 28, 2010
Cindy rated it: 4 of 5 stars
From the back of the book:
"By picking up this journal, you've taken the first step toward transforming your life into one of ease and serenity. Guided by organization expert Mary Carlomagno's thoughtful advice, you'll learn to release unwanted clutter and take control of your time and money. The simple, practical steps she offers will help you achieve a newfound clarity and peace of mind, freeing you up to focus on your priorities and fulfill your true passions. Ample space is prov More...
Aug 07, 2011
Lynn rated it: 4 of 5 stars
I think the flavour of this book suits me very nicely. I enjoyed the quotes which allowed me to reflect and think deeply for a few minutes.
The layout and the engaging simplicity of the wording does compel me to do the worksheets. I haven't actually done them, albeit only in my mind. Maybe putting it to paper will do wonders.

I gained new knowledge about references such as Thoreau's Walden pond which I have not heard before this. I also like Carlomagno's ideas about clearing clut
Mar 15, 2009
Gloria rated it: 3 of 5 stars
This is really a workbook that makes you think about what is really important. It interweaves philisophy from the Christian, Buddhist and Hindu traditions. It is a bit "simplistic" but I think would be quite useful for someone starting on a voluntary simplicity journey or project. Author was featured on Oprah.
May 14, 2009
Megan rated it: 3 of 5 stars
The book is full of pretty illustrations and useful information I think everyone needs to be reminded of regardless of how well organized or simplified their life might be. I couldn't have timed reading it at a better time seeing how I was moving the same week I picked it up from the library.
Apr 03, 2009
Gillian added it
this is a beautifully illustrated book, the flow of logic makes so much sense
I've just finished this book and it is a keeper. I'm considering buying for my collection. It not only inspires, but gives you helpful exercises to work through. I savored the last 2 chapters.
Jun 11, 2010
Susan rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Nothing earth-shattering new thoughtwise, but the presentation, the calm voice, the approach, all very appealing and thoughtful and helpful - like a good friend reminding you to do stuff you know you should do but keep forgetting or neglecting...worthwhile.
Aug 05, 2009
Jodi rated it: 5 of 5 stars
An outstanding tool for organizing from the inside out. Full of philosphical material that helps you dig deep enough to uncover the clutter. Loved it. Shared it. And can't wait to use it over and over again.
May 29, 2010
Clifford rated it: 2 of 5 stars
A few good insights and thought-provoking questions to ask yourself. But I think a more serious and thorough approach to the subject would be more helpful, and it seemed to me the author was primarily addressing women; something more balanced would have been appreciated.
Jul 16, 2009
Lisa rated it: 4 of 5 stars
This is a great though provoking work book that will help you evaluate your life and determine what is truly necessary and what is standing in your way.
Nov 12, 2009
Cher rated it: 3 of 5 stars
I really liked how this book was set-up but it was not very in depth ... more like a journal for you to keep track of your progress toward simplicity
Mar 23, 2009
Crystal added it
I can't actually say I read this book cover to cover, but I skimmed through it. There were some good ideas about simplifying, but to be honest, I thought it was a bit too simple. :)
Jan 15, 2012
Tara rated it: 1 of 5 stars
Even more disappointed than "Give It Up." Extremely banal.
Dec 06, 2011
Hiba rated it: 3 of 5 stars
Inspiring. Keep it simple.
Sep 15, 2009
Anki rated it: 4 of 5 stars
I loved the illustrations!
Mar 26, 2010
Jess rated it: 4 of 5 stars
I like books that include worksheets and walk you through all the steps. The book is broken into sections such as release (getting over certain ideas), simplify (how things can be stressing you out), treasure (as in clutter vs. treasure), focus (what's important), and other areas that make you go 'oh yeah' in a thoughtful tone of voice.
May 09, 2011
Lisa added it
(This is not actually the Kindle edition - it's spiral bound, from the library)
Dec 23, 2010
Becky marked it as to-read
I should especially read the section called "Focus."
Nov 04, 2010
Julie rated it: 4 of 5 stars
so far so good...simpler is so much easier.
Sep 28, 2010
Aubrey rated it: 5 of 5 stars
The author reminds the reader what is really important in life, and how to go after your dreams with perseverance, goals, and fun thoughtful exercises. Lots of great, inspirational quotes on every page as well! Changed my attitude on the everyday, so it gets five stars.
Feb 10, 2012
Emily marked it as to-read
Feb 10, 2012
Robert rated it: 3 of 5 stars
Feb 09, 2012
Brandy marked it as to-read
Feb 08, 2012
Nadine marked it as to-read
Feb 08, 2012
Rachel rated it: 3 of 5 stars
Feb 08, 2012
Shannon is currently reading it
Feb 07, 2012
Andrienne rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Feb 06, 2012
Shannon marked it as to-read