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Optimal Living 360: Smart Decision Making for a Balanced Life
The biggest challenge is figuring out how to make decisions that improve your overall quality of life. In Optimal Living 360, Dr. Sanjay Jain introduces Integrative Decision Making, an approach that focuses on the big picture and teaches you how to make decisions to receive the highest return on investment in life.
While sharing his life-changing discoveries, Dr. Jain guides you through the process of isolating your core values using his ASPIRES model. He then explains how to integrate those ideals or standards into the decision-making process in aspects of life such as health, money, relationships, leisure, and sex, among others. Each optimal decision you make brings you one step closer to finding balance and taking control.
The easy-to-follow technique will help you make the best of any situation and maximize your return on each aspect of your multidimensional life, even if you re on a restrained budget or have minimal resources. Optimal Living 360 is refreshingly comprehensive and a revolutionary approach to personal fulfillment.
@SanjayJainMD
While sharing his life-changing discoveries, Dr. Jain guides you through the process of isolating your core values using his ASPIRES model. He then explains how to integrate those ideals or standards into the decision-making process in aspects of life such as health, money, relationships, leisure, and sex, among others. Each optimal decision you make brings you one step closer to finding balance and taking control.
The easy-to-follow technique will help you make the best of any situation and maximize your return on each aspect of your multidimensional life, even if you re on a restrained budget or have minimal resources. Optimal Living 360 is refreshingly comprehensive and a revolutionary approach to personal fulfillment.
@SanjayJainMD
248 pages, Hardcover
First published January 7, 2014
18 people are currently reading
661 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 28, 2014
An okay book. Glad it was a library loan rather than a purchase. Common knowledge packaged in an MBA style with repeated reference to ROI (return on investment). The final chapter on time management was inspiring, but lacked in depth suggestions for improvements. An easy read in you want a little inspiration, but nothing new offered.
August 3, 2017
After a visit to the doctor when hitting 5-0. I was blasted with so much I needed to change and little voices were planted in my psyche about how wrong my body is.....
Then I decide to read this. It was a well timed huge chunk of wisdom that I will return to again. The book, like the dr visit, encouraged me to make changes. Unlike the doctor visit, I was informed the correct way to go about becoming optimal. Rather than drink from an open fire hydrant, choose small changes and let them become part of who you are. (My doctor's words made me feel like who I am now is just about a failure on every level.)
Then I decide to read this. It was a well timed huge chunk of wisdom that I will return to again. The book, like the dr visit, encouraged me to make changes. Unlike the doctor visit, I was informed the correct way to go about becoming optimal. Rather than drink from an open fire hydrant, choose small changes and let them become part of who you are. (My doctor's words made me feel like who I am now is just about a failure on every level.)
August 19, 2013
Review by Michael McManus for Readers’ Favorite
Dr. Sanjay Jain leverages his expertise in health and finances, along with his understand of life and spirituality, to present a method of decision making that considers six fundamental aspects of living. They say you will get out of life what you put into it. Dr. Jain capitalizes on that notion by showing us how we can control that return on investment (ROI). He takes us through each of the fundamentals (protecting our health and wellbeing, our physical and mental health, making and managing relationships, our economic health, our spirituality and how we manage and use our time), and shows us how they interact with each other to affect our decisions, and how we can improve the ROI we get from each. Additionally, he shows us how to set limits and explains what might happen if limits are not set.
I expected that a medical doctor would present important and useful information about health issues. I was not prepared for the wisdom that Dr. Jain conveys through the lessons he teaches in his book, “Optimal Living 360”, which cover a broad range of subjects. I was especially pleased by his open-minded approach to spirituality. I must add that readers desiring a better understanding of personal economics, and how they should be considered in decision making, will not be disappointed. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to improve their life by making better and more knowledgeable decisions, to insure that the return they realize on what they investment in life is optimal.
Dr. Sanjay Jain leverages his expertise in health and finances, along with his understand of life and spirituality, to present a method of decision making that considers six fundamental aspects of living. They say you will get out of life what you put into it. Dr. Jain capitalizes on that notion by showing us how we can control that return on investment (ROI). He takes us through each of the fundamentals (protecting our health and wellbeing, our physical and mental health, making and managing relationships, our economic health, our spirituality and how we manage and use our time), and shows us how they interact with each other to affect our decisions, and how we can improve the ROI we get from each. Additionally, he shows us how to set limits and explains what might happen if limits are not set.
I expected that a medical doctor would present important and useful information about health issues. I was not prepared for the wisdom that Dr. Jain conveys through the lessons he teaches in his book, “Optimal Living 360”, which cover a broad range of subjects. I was especially pleased by his open-minded approach to spirituality. I must add that readers desiring a better understanding of personal economics, and how they should be considered in decision making, will not be disappointed. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to improve their life by making better and more knowledgeable decisions, to insure that the return they realize on what they investment in life is optimal.
April 28, 2014
I absolutely loved reading the book! My professional life had given a toss to my personal life, and I just could not figure out what is messing what. While I was browsing through self-help books *my ultimate need, if I may add* I came across this ingenious book and was instantly attracted to it. This book has been a guide in so many aspects. It is persuasive and yet has a tinge of humour. Optimal Living 360 has indeed changed my life and helped me make decisions to get the best from every little thing I do.
I believe the core idea of Dr. Jain is to help find balance and take control of life one-step at a time without distressing yourself. He perfectly blends in, and talks about how we can protect our well being, our physical and mental health, financial and intellectual aspects, choose as well as manage relationships, and our spirituality. Yes! There is so much for such a small price!
All in all, I would say it is a well written book in a lucid language, especially when you know it is based on his insights earned from his own experiences of day-to-day life. It beautifully covers all facets to have a more felicitous and healthier life.
April 28, 2014
This book will not only help with motivation for those who need it, but also provide some great practical advice.
After breaking down one's life into aspects, it takes each aspect and breaks it down into even smaller parts, helping you see the big picture as well as seeing the possible small steps you have to take in order to achive what you want.
The book doesn't just say what you have to do, but it says exactly why you have to do it, it shows you the reason behind the choice you must make. It doesn't offer a specifically person approach (naturally, because everyone is different and has their own situation), but a lot of real life examples are provided, offering the opportunity for the reader to learn from someone else's experience, whether success or mistakes.
After breaking down one's life into aspects, it takes each aspect and breaks it down into even smaller parts, helping you see the big picture as well as seeing the possible small steps you have to take in order to achive what you want.
The book doesn't just say what you have to do, but it says exactly why you have to do it, it shows you the reason behind the choice you must make. It doesn't offer a specifically person approach (naturally, because everyone is different and has their own situation), but a lot of real life examples are provided, offering the opportunity for the reader to learn from someone else's experience, whether success or mistakes.
April 28, 2014
This is the ULTIMATE self-help book, an all-rounder! Dr. Jain expertly takes you through an Optimal Living 360. It is indeed a full circle featuring something for everyone. No matter where you are in life, there is definitely something for you in this book. What makes this book unique is that it is experiential, not just information. Dr. Jain reveals to you his personal life journey to optimal living and it just makes this more tangible. I am grateful I got hold of this book and I highly recommend it as a family resource.
October 20, 2014
I enjoy books that are articulate and seem to project some aspect of genuine interest in sharing information, not just a long cheesy sales spiel. This book was a strange mix of both.
The overuse of the term ROI (Return on Interest) made the book too infomercial, yet parts were well planned and executed. This was part constructive resource for business and other facets of life, and part confused narrative.
Was this new or earth shattering? Definitely not, but some of it was a good reminder of ways to help us live life not only well, but also well-balanced.
The overuse of the term ROI (Return on Interest) made the book too infomercial, yet parts were well planned and executed. This was part constructive resource for business and other facets of life, and part confused narrative.
Was this new or earth shattering? Definitely not, but some of it was a good reminder of ways to help us live life not only well, but also well-balanced.
April 14, 2014
Dr. Sanjay Jain did a very good job at outlining ways to be healthy in every day life which really helped me. From what to eat to how much exercise you need to be healthy. It helped me change my life one step at a time which I found convenient. Overall, a great book on all aspects of having a happier and healthier life.
September 3, 2016
Dr. Jain knows what he's talking about! The best part about this book is that the author has actually lived through everything he's giving advice on. It's that personal story that makes this book different. And it's the reason why I've started recommending it to friends and family.
February 24, 2018
This book is good for those who are just beginning their self-development journey. The ideas were basic and general. If you are needing a change and don't know where to start, this would be a good fit for you. If you've been at this for a while and generally have a good knowledge about the basics to health and happiness, I would skip this.
August 19, 2023
ROI (Return on Investment) on all aspects of a life? Seems a little shaky when dealing with God.
May 13, 2014
Sanjay Jain is an M.D. with an MBA -- MBA is a masters in business administration. In his book, Optimal Living 360, both degrees play large parts in how he discusses his idea of a balanced life. It is a book written in a way that is very practical and yet a bit dogmatic, by intention.
As for those degrees? In my opinion, he does a great job of making anything medical sound accessible, but he fails completely to make the discussion of investments meet the mark. I almost fell asleep on that topic: Too much investment advice! He has some real regrets about how he approached investments, and so drills this topic hard. Booooring.
At the end of the book, Dr. Jain hopes you are overwhelmed. Why? Because this is the book he wishes someone had given him earlier in life to help him live to the fullest. This books is meant to start the path for others. It's a way to figure out which topics you need to learn more about, and not be in college never having considered nutrition in order to get the most out of your physical body. He uses terms like Return on Investment (ROI) as keywords for getting the most out of each topic or area of life. It is quite conversational, yet leaving lots of room for curious minds to see gaps and learn more.
He addresses all the ways to get the most out of your health, your sleep, your vacations, and ultimately, how to make the best decisions that fit who you are and which part of life you are trying to focus on. (A made up example: If you want a relaxing vacation, perhaps you should pass the opportunity to go to Disneyland.)
I have one other criticism: he talks about religion in a way only an American could, without much regard to religion beyond the individual. To hear him, it is as though it is all a choice, change it up when needed, discard, sift, change direction, don't let extremism be part of your life. Find what fits you. This buffet-style approach to religion that I personally feel devalues this "value."
Although the author grew up in India, he lived with Catholic school teachings and his views are stated to be his own. The author is very clear from page one, that this is the book HE wishes he had earlier, and all of the ideas are his, and might be disproven or not fit someone else. Dr. Jain certainly delivered a lot of information in a manner that is easy to see his point of view.
A teenager might learn a lot from this book. I think it might be a good book to mention to High School Graduates who have the summer to get ready for college. These ideas can percolate in a young mind. Personally, in a self-help book, I want to come away in a bit of awe, or at least wishing I had the author's signature. This book did not make me feel like this is bound to be a Self-Help Top 10 book.
As for those degrees? In my opinion, he does a great job of making anything medical sound accessible, but he fails completely to make the discussion of investments meet the mark. I almost fell asleep on that topic: Too much investment advice! He has some real regrets about how he approached investments, and so drills this topic hard. Booooring.
At the end of the book, Dr. Jain hopes you are overwhelmed. Why? Because this is the book he wishes someone had given him earlier in life to help him live to the fullest. This books is meant to start the path for others. It's a way to figure out which topics you need to learn more about, and not be in college never having considered nutrition in order to get the most out of your physical body. He uses terms like Return on Investment (ROI) as keywords for getting the most out of each topic or area of life. It is quite conversational, yet leaving lots of room for curious minds to see gaps and learn more.
He addresses all the ways to get the most out of your health, your sleep, your vacations, and ultimately, how to make the best decisions that fit who you are and which part of life you are trying to focus on. (A made up example: If you want a relaxing vacation, perhaps you should pass the opportunity to go to Disneyland.)
I have one other criticism: he talks about religion in a way only an American could, without much regard to religion beyond the individual. To hear him, it is as though it is all a choice, change it up when needed, discard, sift, change direction, don't let extremism be part of your life. Find what fits you. This buffet-style approach to religion that I personally feel devalues this "value."
Although the author grew up in India, he lived with Catholic school teachings and his views are stated to be his own. The author is very clear from page one, that this is the book HE wishes he had earlier, and all of the ideas are his, and might be disproven or not fit someone else. Dr. Jain certainly delivered a lot of information in a manner that is easy to see his point of view.
A teenager might learn a lot from this book. I think it might be a good book to mention to High School Graduates who have the summer to get ready for college. These ideas can percolate in a young mind. Personally, in a self-help book, I want to come away in a bit of awe, or at least wishing I had the author's signature. This book did not make me feel like this is bound to be a Self-Help Top 10 book.
May 8, 2014
Optimal Living 360 is a fantastic guide for those that need to clear the clutter in their lives, and those that need reminders in core areas to get ourselves back in balance. Reminiscent of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, his Core Assets are based on the foundation that you must take care of primary needs for safety before higher order needs, such as intellectual health, relationships, and spiritual well being can be obtained. This theme is carried through the book and is outlined when making decisions, and deciding how to invest to receive the most return on investment. The difference is that instead of financial banking, it’s about baking on satisfaction and meaning in life. With sections on intellectual health (including formal education, lifelong learning, and mental wellness), relationships (communication, listening), and economic health (saving, investing, prioritizing expenditures), and spiritual health (from formal religion to spirituality), the book provides a holistic overview of how to achieve wellness.
Immersed with reminders to be proactive with respect to personal health, personal safety including protecting your identity, the text does a nice job of outlining a path for reaching these goals. He includes good tips on herbal remedies and fitness trends to help guide the way as well. The over-arching theme of getting the most Return On Investment (ROI), which really, is getting the most out of life, reminds us to focus on what is important: our time, energy, and emotions.
A recommended read for those who need a 360-degree view of how to refocus and restructure for optimal wellness.
Immersed with reminders to be proactive with respect to personal health, personal safety including protecting your identity, the text does a nice job of outlining a path for reaching these goals. He includes good tips on herbal remedies and fitness trends to help guide the way as well. The over-arching theme of getting the most Return On Investment (ROI), which really, is getting the most out of life, reminds us to focus on what is important: our time, energy, and emotions.
A recommended read for those who need a 360-degree view of how to refocus and restructure for optimal wellness.
May 10, 2014
Optimal Living 360 is a very right brain, analytical self-help book that is set up more mathematical and clinical then emotional, which does not work for me.
This book is very detailed workbook with practical advice for those who look for a more structured approach to the self-help process. Filled with facts, it attempts to assist you in every aspect of your life, and considering the space of one book, it does fall short of doing so. No one single book can take on every aspect of living, in enough detail to touch more then the basics, even if it brought forth in such a straight forward way. Because of that, the Author fails in delivering the promise of a major overhaul.
Lazed with personal anecdotes that seem a little out of place in this volume, the writer attempts to connect with the reader by giving the “been there, done that” feel, but it feels forced, because it does not fit with the straight forward, right-brain formula approach of the rest of the book, and therefore seems as if an editor/publisher asked to have that added, rather then a natural development of the Author’s voice.
Overall someone who wants a basic outline of multiple aspects of life-improvement, without the depth of an expert in the individual and complex subjects such as diet, will find some useful information in this book. It is not your typical self-help volume, which will serve some readers who are looking for a different approach. But it is not for me, lacking in depth, in the ability to convince me of the sincerity of the Author or in the attempt of such a large subject matter in a single volume.
I reviewed this book for Netgalley.
This book is very detailed workbook with practical advice for those who look for a more structured approach to the self-help process. Filled with facts, it attempts to assist you in every aspect of your life, and considering the space of one book, it does fall short of doing so. No one single book can take on every aspect of living, in enough detail to touch more then the basics, even if it brought forth in such a straight forward way. Because of that, the Author fails in delivering the promise of a major overhaul.
Lazed with personal anecdotes that seem a little out of place in this volume, the writer attempts to connect with the reader by giving the “been there, done that” feel, but it feels forced, because it does not fit with the straight forward, right-brain formula approach of the rest of the book, and therefore seems as if an editor/publisher asked to have that added, rather then a natural development of the Author’s voice.
Overall someone who wants a basic outline of multiple aspects of life-improvement, without the depth of an expert in the individual and complex subjects such as diet, will find some useful information in this book. It is not your typical self-help volume, which will serve some readers who are looking for a different approach. But it is not for me, lacking in depth, in the ability to convince me of the sincerity of the Author or in the attempt of such a large subject matter in a single volume.
I reviewed this book for Netgalley.
May 7, 2014
The book "Optimal Living 360" was my first experience with this authors work. I welcomed the chance to read this self-help book when I was offered it in exchange for an honest review. Being a long-time follower of authors such as Bob Proctor, Tony Robbins and Jim Rohn; I'm always interested in another point of view on ways to live a more productive, but satisfying lifestyle.
Even after being warned in the description of the book, I found this authors advice a bit much to take in all at once. Although not an unusually large book, each chapter required a bit of time to digest. There really is a lot to ponder, contained in this authors writing. This book is definitely not a one-time read. I plan on returning to re-read this book regularly to help remind me to think of my personal ROI's in different ways. I'm sure I'll also pick up nuggets of wisdom that I have missed as well.
This time reading through the book, a couple areas acutely caught my attention. Firstly, considering my ROI in my personal relationships with others. And secondly I never considered the "Law of Diminishing Returns" and it's impact when it came to my personal life. These two things are definitely going to take some time for me to sort out for myself. Anyway, I'm still enjoying the book and I believe I will get a lot from it, each time I read it. I really think you'll like it too!
Even after being warned in the description of the book, I found this authors advice a bit much to take in all at once. Although not an unusually large book, each chapter required a bit of time to digest. There really is a lot to ponder, contained in this authors writing. This book is definitely not a one-time read. I plan on returning to re-read this book regularly to help remind me to think of my personal ROI's in different ways. I'm sure I'll also pick up nuggets of wisdom that I have missed as well.
This time reading through the book, a couple areas acutely caught my attention. Firstly, considering my ROI in my personal relationships with others. And secondly I never considered the "Law of Diminishing Returns" and it's impact when it came to my personal life. These two things are definitely going to take some time for me to sort out for myself. Anyway, I'm still enjoying the book and I believe I will get a lot from it, each time I read it. I really think you'll like it too!
April 29, 2014
Of course I love the book. I wrote it :)
I respect all of the reviews and wanted to add that I had to leave out a lot of information simply because I didn't want this to become an encyclopedia. It had to be a readable book. I chose the areas which seemed most relevant. There are some topics which may seemingly be less revolutionary but regardless it is still very important. I can't assume everyone already knows it. However to those who may be already be well versed in some areas, those topics should serve as a gentle reminder and reinforcement. I can guarantee that there are other topics in the book that you will find new and refreshing. In fact. there is a enough information in here to create 5-6 separate books with even more details(stay tuned on that one). However there is a definite need out there for a single guide to sum it all up and provide a life overview.
Enjoy!
I respect all of the reviews and wanted to add that I had to leave out a lot of information simply because I didn't want this to become an encyclopedia. It had to be a readable book. I chose the areas which seemed most relevant. There are some topics which may seemingly be less revolutionary but regardless it is still very important. I can't assume everyone already knows it. However to those who may be already be well versed in some areas, those topics should serve as a gentle reminder and reinforcement. I can guarantee that there are other topics in the book that you will find new and refreshing. In fact. there is a enough information in here to create 5-6 separate books with even more details(stay tuned on that one). However there is a definite need out there for a single guide to sum it all up and provide a life overview.
Enjoy!
December 16, 2014
Optimal Living 360: Smart Decision Making for a Balanced Life
By Sanjay Jain
Simplistic – Formulated – Rehashed
While this book is easy to read, there is nothing new in it. Written to cover everything that you need to do for a balanced life, it reads like a dictated formula to live life.
I found the book simplistic, written for those with no idea if life, or just beginning life. It doesn’t take into consideration the busyness or complexities of life
It appeared to me to be written as a business approach to life – “Return on Investment” being the repeated catch phrase. How your health, time, diet, age, religion needs to be balanced and in tune for a decent return on the investment, which we call life.
By Sanjay Jain
Simplistic – Formulated – Rehashed
While this book is easy to read, there is nothing new in it. Written to cover everything that you need to do for a balanced life, it reads like a dictated formula to live life.
I found the book simplistic, written for those with no idea if life, or just beginning life. It doesn’t take into consideration the busyness or complexities of life
It appeared to me to be written as a business approach to life – “Return on Investment” being the repeated catch phrase. How your health, time, diet, age, religion needs to be balanced and in tune for a decent return on the investment, which we call life.
May 29, 2014
What an interesting book. It could be described as a handbook to life. Jain covers all kinds of topics, from health to investments to relationships to spirituality. He explains how to make decisions on life to get the best return on the investment of time and energy put in. I found it to be very practical and informative. It would be good for a college graduate to read, or newlyweds. Actually, anyone could benefit from the ideas in this book.
See my full review at http://bit.ly/1iwQFX4.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
See my full review at http://bit.ly/1iwQFX4.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
July 12, 2014
Interesting. Undoubtedly there is a lot of really useful information here. Some of it seems pretty obvious, for example having regular eye tests and dentist check-ups, using sunscreen, etc, but perhaps necessary for some people. Most readers would already know many of these things, but it would perhaps be good for a 'check-up', to make sure that we're doing as well as we can in the areas of nutrition, exercise, education, finances, and, surprisingly, spirituality. It's fairly comprehensive, and I think most readers would find something of use in this book.
Reviewed in exchange for a preview Kindle copy.
Reviewed in exchange for a preview Kindle copy.
May 30, 2014
There is a lot of information in this book for anyone who needs a basic outline of the aspects of self improvement. It fails to deal with other hugely important aspects, such as diet, however.
The author tries hard to connect with the reader with personal anecdotes, which do not fit in with the straight forward aspect of the remainder of the book.
I enjoyed the read but felt that the author could do more in terms of an all round self help book with emotions and diet being brought into the mix.
The author tries hard to connect with the reader with personal anecdotes, which do not fit in with the straight forward aspect of the remainder of the book.
I enjoyed the read but felt that the author could do more in terms of an all round self help book with emotions and diet being brought into the mix.
March 6, 2023
Did not finish, but made it over halfway. There were some good points throughout the book, but the meat of each chapter was too shallow and the author talks about these topics as if he never had to struggle a day in his life.
I stopped reading the book when the author was insinuating that the kids sitting alone in on the playground every day, it’s their choice (their fault) that they’re alone because they are “loners”. Absolutely no empathy as to WHY they’re alone.
Superficial thinking, hard pass.
I stopped reading the book when the author was insinuating that the kids sitting alone in on the playground every day, it’s their choice (their fault) that they’re alone because they are “loners”. Absolutely no empathy as to WHY they’re alone.
Superficial thinking, hard pass.
May 28, 2014
I couldn't get into this book. The writing flow didn't suit my learning style. I'm sure the author has some really great instructions to give but I found this to read like a journal or old style text book. It lacked the motivational style I'm used to in other self help books I've read.I couldn't find that spark or uniqueness that usually grabs me
September 5, 2016
A true guide to living a better more optimized life. Optimal Living 360 taps into all essential areas of life and provides the tools to make them better. An essential resource to anyone who wants to be proactive about living the best life that they can live.
May 10, 2014
THIS IS ONE OF THOSE BOOKS THAT WILL KICK START YOUR JOURNEY OF LIFE GIVING IT CLARITY AND MEANING. THE AUTHOR WRITES FROM THE HEART AND ITS VERY ENJOYABLE TO READ, IT TOUCHES ON A VARIETY OF SUBJECTS DETRIMENTAL TO OUR LIVES BUT YOU HAVE TO READ THIS ONE FOR YOURSELF TO DECIDE IF ITS FOR YOU.
November 16, 2014
Less than optimal book
I bought this book at a reduced price ($2). it was a waste of money. For anyone w half a brain the stuff in here is pathetic. Examples: quit smoking, get fit, exercise. The real genius of this author is that he convinced me to shell out money for this book!
I bought this book at a reduced price ($2). it was a waste of money. For anyone w half a brain the stuff in here is pathetic. Examples: quit smoking, get fit, exercise. The real genius of this author is that he convinced me to shell out money for this book!
October 23, 2014
One of the best everyday reads about life planning that useful in I think everyone's life
This book has definitely help me think differently about decisions I make
This book has definitely help me think differently about decisions I make
July 27, 2015
A business approach to life. There were some interesting facts but I'm not too sad I didn't get to finish it before I had to return it to the library.
January 3, 2024
Understandable, digestible, and useable as a future reference.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews