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The Little Things: Why You Really Should Sweat the Small Stuff
Wall Street Journal Bestseller Have you ever wondered why we spend so much time and energy thinking about the big challenges in our lives when all the evidence proves it’s actually the little things that change everything? That’s right… Absolutely everything. Little Things embodies Andy’s own approach to life and work, detailing for the first time some of the exclusive material that he uses to teach and coach some of the most successful corporations, teams, and individuals around the world. In his unique humorous style, Andy shows how people succeed by actually going against the modern adage, “don’t sweat the small stuff”. By contrast, Andy proves that it is in concentrating on the smaller things that we add value and margin. Discover a new perspective and a game plan for meeting various challenges, such
192 pages, Hardcover
Published March 7, 2017
462 people are currently reading
1357 people want to read
About the author
Andy Andrews
118 books1,099 followers~ Hailed by a New York Times writer as a "modern-day Will Rogers who has quietly become one of the most influential people in America."
~ Spoken at the request of four different U.S. Presidents
~ Every single minute a book by Andy Andrews is sold somewhere in the world!
~ New York Times Bestselling Author of The Noticer and The Traveler's Gift
Source:
http://www.andyandrews.com/
~ Spoken at the request of four different U.S. Presidents
~ Every single minute a book by Andy Andrews is sold somewhere in the world!
~ New York Times Bestselling Author of The Noticer and The Traveler's Gift
Source:
http://www.andyandrews.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
January 14, 2018
A very pleasant short read meant to inspire the reader. A lot of original ideas, illustrated with stories. Loved it.
Q:
My name is Andy Andrews. I am a Noticer.
It is entirely possible that I am the first professional Noticer you’ve ever met. (c)
Q:
And I am more passionate than ever about my search to notice that thing—that one tiny thing—that, when understood and harnessed, allows me to help YOU create a life of extraordinary purpose and powerful results. It’s less about drive and willpower than it is about a deep understanding of certain principles and why they work . . . every time.
Nothing excites me more than a focused search for little things that make big differences. After all, only the smallest essence of a thing can ever reveal its purity and, consequently, the source of its power. (c)
Q:
How many ideas are out there, waiting patiently for you to show up?
... One is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do . . .(c)
Q:
Did I mention that you couldn’t miss it? Well, apparently we had. (c)
Q:
These people are so far off the graph that most of their friends don’t really have a grasp on what they do. I have found that what they do is usually several things, and rarely do those enterprises seem to have any relation to one another. (c)
Q:
“You can know HOW to apply a principle, and that’s a mighty good thing. But when you know WHY that certain principle works as it does, you can apply it in contrasting areas of life that seem to have no connection to one another. And those businesses, those communities, those families grow and thrive as never before.” (c)
Q:
Your life’s compass responds to the same principles and yields the same measure of movement as the compass on a boat. Small moves can equal great gains. In fact, when small moves are repeated consistently over time, you’ll one day look up and realize you’ve traveled all the way from where you were to exactly where you always dreamed you’d be. (c)
Q:
Yes, everything you do matters.But everything you don’t do matters just as much. Every little thing you do—or don’t do—steers life onto a slightly different course. (c)
Q:
“Success takes many forms, and it is on a timetable of its own. (c)
Q:
I WILL PERSIST WITHOUT EXCEPTION (c)
Q:
Don’t always believe everything you think. To do so will be the end of any exponential growth you might have experienced in your life. (c)
Q:
... competing on a level where your competition does not even know there’s a game. (c)
Q:
In most cases, extraordinary achievers became comfortable with being seen as “different” or even “odd” long before they achieved the level of success they were after. It’s a distinction that average people often fail to make. If one desires to live life on a different level, that destination will not be reached by traveling the same road everyone else has chosen.
In other words, if you want to be different, you’re going to have to be different!
You will need to act differently as well. ...
as a percentage of our world’s population, there are not many extraordinary achievers. That’s why extraordinary achievers are considered to be different. Their financial situations are different from those of the average person. They possess different levels of influence. They live different lives.
If you want to be an extraordinary achiever, then you really do want to be different! (c)
Q:
Proof trumps uncertainty. Proof leads. We might question motives. We often question conclusions. We question methods and timing. But we do not question proof. (c)
Q:
True, more than three decades have passed since I lived on the beach, but there were just as many sunsets then as there are now. The fact that my self-pity and anger allowed me an excuse to ignore beauty—to choose blindness—does not mean that sunsets did not exist at that time.
Surely there were sunrises as well. And rainbows and full moons and stars scattered across the night sky like a vast black canopy, inset with a million diamonds and lit from behind. And I missed it all.
Again, it is important to note that for a time in my life, I chose to be blind. Because of that choice, I was blind not only to beauty; I also was blind to opportunity, to forgiveness, to the value in others, and a host of other things, material and spiritual. My rejection of these virtues at that time effectively neutralized any chance I might have had to pull myself into the light of a better life.
Please be aware: a person who obstinately chooses blindness is a dangerous step or two beyond mere pessimistic perspective. A gloomy way of seeing things is only a walk along an unguarded cliff. Choosing not to see the cliff at all, however, can be the end of everything.
To be clear, perspective is how we decide to perceive a thing. Blindness is the decision not to see it at all.
Choosing a negative perspective is limiting.Choosing blindness is a tragedy.
As you and I navigate the rest of our lives and help others understand how to successfully navigate their own, we must be aware that opening our hearts and minds to reality is a necessary part of being able to live each day with proper perspective.
In other words, we must choose to see before having the opportunity to choose how we see it. (c)
Q:
My name is Andy Andrews. I am a Noticer.
It is entirely possible that I am the first professional Noticer you’ve ever met. (c)
Q:
And I am more passionate than ever about my search to notice that thing—that one tiny thing—that, when understood and harnessed, allows me to help YOU create a life of extraordinary purpose and powerful results. It’s less about drive and willpower than it is about a deep understanding of certain principles and why they work . . . every time.
Nothing excites me more than a focused search for little things that make big differences. After all, only the smallest essence of a thing can ever reveal its purity and, consequently, the source of its power. (c)
Q:
How many ideas are out there, waiting patiently for you to show up?
... One is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do . . .(c)
Q:
Did I mention that you couldn’t miss it? Well, apparently we had. (c)
Q:
These people are so far off the graph that most of their friends don’t really have a grasp on what they do. I have found that what they do is usually several things, and rarely do those enterprises seem to have any relation to one another. (c)
Q:
“You can know HOW to apply a principle, and that’s a mighty good thing. But when you know WHY that certain principle works as it does, you can apply it in contrasting areas of life that seem to have no connection to one another. And those businesses, those communities, those families grow and thrive as never before.” (c)
Q:
Your life’s compass responds to the same principles and yields the same measure of movement as the compass on a boat. Small moves can equal great gains. In fact, when small moves are repeated consistently over time, you’ll one day look up and realize you’ve traveled all the way from where you were to exactly where you always dreamed you’d be. (c)
Q:
Yes, everything you do matters.But everything you don’t do matters just as much. Every little thing you do—or don’t do—steers life onto a slightly different course. (c)
Q:
“Success takes many forms, and it is on a timetable of its own. (c)
Q:
I WILL PERSIST WITHOUT EXCEPTION (c)
Q:
Don’t always believe everything you think. To do so will be the end of any exponential growth you might have experienced in your life. (c)
Q:
... competing on a level where your competition does not even know there’s a game. (c)
Q:
In most cases, extraordinary achievers became comfortable with being seen as “different” or even “odd” long before they achieved the level of success they were after. It’s a distinction that average people often fail to make. If one desires to live life on a different level, that destination will not be reached by traveling the same road everyone else has chosen.
In other words, if you want to be different, you’re going to have to be different!
You will need to act differently as well. ...
as a percentage of our world’s population, there are not many extraordinary achievers. That’s why extraordinary achievers are considered to be different. Their financial situations are different from those of the average person. They possess different levels of influence. They live different lives.
If you want to be an extraordinary achiever, then you really do want to be different! (c)
Q:
Proof trumps uncertainty. Proof leads. We might question motives. We often question conclusions. We question methods and timing. But we do not question proof. (c)
Q:
True, more than three decades have passed since I lived on the beach, but there were just as many sunsets then as there are now. The fact that my self-pity and anger allowed me an excuse to ignore beauty—to choose blindness—does not mean that sunsets did not exist at that time.
Surely there were sunrises as well. And rainbows and full moons and stars scattered across the night sky like a vast black canopy, inset with a million diamonds and lit from behind. And I missed it all.
Again, it is important to note that for a time in my life, I chose to be blind. Because of that choice, I was blind not only to beauty; I also was blind to opportunity, to forgiveness, to the value in others, and a host of other things, material and spiritual. My rejection of these virtues at that time effectively neutralized any chance I might have had to pull myself into the light of a better life.
Please be aware: a person who obstinately chooses blindness is a dangerous step or two beyond mere pessimistic perspective. A gloomy way of seeing things is only a walk along an unguarded cliff. Choosing not to see the cliff at all, however, can be the end of everything.
To be clear, perspective is how we decide to perceive a thing. Blindness is the decision not to see it at all.
Choosing a negative perspective is limiting.Choosing blindness is a tragedy.
As you and I navigate the rest of our lives and help others understand how to successfully navigate their own, we must be aware that opening our hearts and minds to reality is a necessary part of being able to live each day with proper perspective.
In other words, we must choose to see before having the opportunity to choose how we see it. (c)
April 1, 2024
I listened to The Little Things: Why You Really Should Sweat the Small Stuff on audiobook. It is narrated wonderfully by the author, Andy Andrews. Andrews shares that the small things we do or don't do, steers our life in a different direction.
Andrews describes the importance of grit and not quitting. Quitting is normal for some people, he indicates. He inspires, motivates, and shares his perspective on success and deciding what you want for your life.
He reminds us of the phrase many of us heard from our mothers, "Just because everyone else is jumping off the bridge, does that mean you will jump also?" Andrews indicates that extremely successful people don't follow the crowds and are often viewed as different.
What really stood out for me is that Andrews' book, The Traveler's Gift: Seven Decisions that Determine Personal Success was turned down by 51 publishers over a three and a half year period. The 52nd publisher said "Yes," and it has sold millions of copies in many different languages.
I recently read Andrews' The Heart Mender: A Story of Second Chances and rated it five stars. He's a terrific author!
Andrews describes the importance of grit and not quitting. Quitting is normal for some people, he indicates. He inspires, motivates, and shares his perspective on success and deciding what you want for your life.
He reminds us of the phrase many of us heard from our mothers, "Just because everyone else is jumping off the bridge, does that mean you will jump also?" Andrews indicates that extremely successful people don't follow the crowds and are often viewed as different.
What really stood out for me is that Andrews' book, The Traveler's Gift: Seven Decisions that Determine Personal Success was turned down by 51 publishers over a three and a half year period. The 52nd publisher said "Yes," and it has sold millions of copies in many different languages.
I recently read Andrews' The Heart Mender: A Story of Second Chances and rated it five stars. He's a terrific author!
May 9, 2018
Did not dig this. Started listening to the audio book & it was just like listening to some chatty guy at the bar spewing his rando personal philosophy to anyone who will listen in a long-winded way...crossed with one of those pop psych books peddling ONE crucial concept as the key to it all.
I usually try to be fairly open-minded, recognizing that you can usually glean one or two interesting ideas at least from any book, even if it's a bit out there (case in point: Marie Kondo's book in which the author goes into hysterics over balled up socks yet had very useful tips for folding shirts). I do appreciate his general point about the importance of being detail-oriented.
But I peaced out HARD around chapter 3, when he makes a valid point about not taking offense about things, and being able to control your own behavior regardless of your own emotions. Yes, that's good advice and I agree.
However, good GOD he reeks of privilege and cluelessness.
He basically dismisses people who engage in resistance and political protest as crazy childish people throwing tantrums. While I agree that you should be allowed to choose your beliefs but not your verifiable facts (especially in this day and age), his complete dismissal of the idea of relativism was a bit much, IMO. He basically argues that you're allowed to believe trees talk to one another, but crazy people with beliefs like that shouldn't be allowed to hold the rest of the "rational majority" "hostage" by claiming offense based on their beliefs. Basically he goes on a MEGA anti-PC rampage...which is cute and all, and again, I agree people can take all that to an unpleasant extreme.
But you know what? Most (yes, not all, but MOST) things that people are upset about in society are JUST A TAD more legitimate than some bullshit "trees talking to each other and having feelings" idea he made up and projected on the offended people he disagrees with to try to discredit them. He basically argues that people with grievances are just being "emotional" and need to chill the fuck out. I disagree. Once upon a time in America, the "rational majority" believed that African Americans were 3/5 of a person and were property. The "rational majority" believed that women were unfit to do things like vote. Following the arguments that he presents, if the author lived 150 years ago, in his eyes, those trying to abolish slavery would've seemed "emotional" and "irrational" for holding their anti-slavery beliefs that went against society's (i.e. the "rational majority's") norms, and they would have been WAY out of line for imposing their beliefs on his personal right to own slaves. Where would America be, if during segregation instead of "acting like children" and (BOO HOO) daring to block traffic and disrupting the lives of "rational" citizens going about their daily lives with protests (which the author portrays as being REALLY BAD) all minorities followed his advice, which would be to just CHOOSE not to be offended about segregation?
Pffft. Sorry buddy. It must suck to lack the imagination to conceive of the possibility that YES, other people's realities may be different than your own. I can't imagine the egocentrism, willful ignorance, close-mindedness, and unquestioning self-righteousness involved in getting someone to arrive at the conclusion that their personal viewpoint is the one true human experience from which what is "rational" or "irrational" can be measured.
And yes, I get it. I agree. I do try to choose not to be offended as much as possible - it's always better to be magnanimous. But for fucks sake, that doesn't mean that the societal problems and ongoing injustices at the root of the offenses are illegitimate and should be indefinitely ignored and never addressed at a systems level.
//rant. This review probably would've been a little less harsh if I didn't just listen to these IMO ridiculous claims delivered in the author's voice dripping with utter condescension via audiobook.
I usually try to be fairly open-minded, recognizing that you can usually glean one or two interesting ideas at least from any book, even if it's a bit out there (case in point: Marie Kondo's book in which the author goes into hysterics over balled up socks yet had very useful tips for folding shirts). I do appreciate his general point about the importance of being detail-oriented.
But I peaced out HARD around chapter 3, when he makes a valid point about not taking offense about things, and being able to control your own behavior regardless of your own emotions. Yes, that's good advice and I agree.
However, good GOD he reeks of privilege and cluelessness.
He basically dismisses people who engage in resistance and political protest as crazy childish people throwing tantrums. While I agree that you should be allowed to choose your beliefs but not your verifiable facts (especially in this day and age), his complete dismissal of the idea of relativism was a bit much, IMO. He basically argues that you're allowed to believe trees talk to one another, but crazy people with beliefs like that shouldn't be allowed to hold the rest of the "rational majority" "hostage" by claiming offense based on their beliefs. Basically he goes on a MEGA anti-PC rampage...which is cute and all, and again, I agree people can take all that to an unpleasant extreme.
But you know what? Most (yes, not all, but MOST) things that people are upset about in society are JUST A TAD more legitimate than some bullshit "trees talking to each other and having feelings" idea he made up and projected on the offended people he disagrees with to try to discredit them. He basically argues that people with grievances are just being "emotional" and need to chill the fuck out. I disagree. Once upon a time in America, the "rational majority" believed that African Americans were 3/5 of a person and were property. The "rational majority" believed that women were unfit to do things like vote. Following the arguments that he presents, if the author lived 150 years ago, in his eyes, those trying to abolish slavery would've seemed "emotional" and "irrational" for holding their anti-slavery beliefs that went against society's (i.e. the "rational majority's") norms, and they would have been WAY out of line for imposing their beliefs on his personal right to own slaves. Where would America be, if during segregation instead of "acting like children" and (BOO HOO) daring to block traffic and disrupting the lives of "rational" citizens going about their daily lives with protests (which the author portrays as being REALLY BAD) all minorities followed his advice, which would be to just CHOOSE not to be offended about segregation?
Pffft. Sorry buddy. It must suck to lack the imagination to conceive of the possibility that YES, other people's realities may be different than your own. I can't imagine the egocentrism, willful ignorance, close-mindedness, and unquestioning self-righteousness involved in getting someone to arrive at the conclusion that their personal viewpoint is the one true human experience from which what is "rational" or "irrational" can be measured.
And yes, I get it. I agree. I do try to choose not to be offended as much as possible - it's always better to be magnanimous. But for fucks sake, that doesn't mean that the societal problems and ongoing injustices at the root of the offenses are illegitimate and should be indefinitely ignored and never addressed at a systems level.
//rant. This review probably would've been a little less harsh if I didn't just listen to these IMO ridiculous claims delivered in the author's voice dripping with utter condescension via audiobook.
March 27, 2017
Another moment of brilliance from Andy Andrews. This man may be my favorite writer and this book does not disappoint. Most books in this genre tell us to look at the big picture. Andrews focuses on small things that make a big difference. Small choice that yield amazing results. His chapter on offense and tolerance alone was worth the price of the book. This is a man who describes himself as a noticer and taking to heart the things that he notices could yield serious results in your life. I could not recommend this book any higher. It is a must read for anyone breathing or at least anyone who wants to lead a blessed and fruitful life.
March 16, 2017
This book was extremely motivational and I recommend everyone read it!
April 19, 2017
More of a talk you might hear a motivational speaker give than an actual book. Also, Andrews refers constantly to his previous books as though the reader would have heard of them (I haven't).
I'm sure he's a great speaker (I heard him on Dave Ramsey's radio show), but his writing isn't quite as adept as his speaking.
The point about why you should be concerned with small things (few others are) is well taken, though.
I'm sure he's a great speaker (I heard him on Dave Ramsey's radio show), but his writing isn't quite as adept as his speaking.
The point about why you should be concerned with small things (few others are) is well taken, though.
January 19, 2018
I thought that the author had some really good insights and there were some fun and interesting anecdotes in the book. Also I listened to the audio version, which he narrates, and I loved that because he really puts his personality into it and he giggles from time to time at funny parts where I too was giggling.
But a couple things I didn't like and really affected my enjoyment of the book.
1. The author is very proud of himself, which is ok, until you start to toot your own horn too much. I got tired of him telling us about how his books has been sold in so many countries, has been used by so many schools, and so on. He covers it a few times in a very short book. Really, his stories and thoughts stand well enough on their own and people would talk about him and his books even without him having to tell us how wonderful he is every chapter.
2. He goes through 3/4 of the book explaining all of these ideas and how you can use them to make lasting change and then at the end he brings in God. He insinuates that really you need to have a full belief in God or you can't make lasting change or really be a good person. So he goes through this whole book with nice ideas and stories and then gets preachy at the end, says he knows people are going to think he is preachy but keeps on going. UGH. Now I am not a non believer but I know many who are that are good, decent and successful without being maniacal people. But almost every asshole successful person who would throw their mother under the bus to advance themselves that I know has professed an undying belief in God. So......I don't feel that is a good measurement of a person.
But a couple things I didn't like and really affected my enjoyment of the book.
1. The author is very proud of himself, which is ok, until you start to toot your own horn too much. I got tired of him telling us about how his books has been sold in so many countries, has been used by so many schools, and so on. He covers it a few times in a very short book. Really, his stories and thoughts stand well enough on their own and people would talk about him and his books even without him having to tell us how wonderful he is every chapter.
2. He goes through 3/4 of the book explaining all of these ideas and how you can use them to make lasting change and then at the end he brings in God. He insinuates that really you need to have a full belief in God or you can't make lasting change or really be a good person. So he goes through this whole book with nice ideas and stories and then gets preachy at the end, says he knows people are going to think he is preachy but keeps on going. UGH. Now I am not a non believer but I know many who are that are good, decent and successful without being maniacal people. But almost every asshole successful person who would throw their mother under the bus to advance themselves that I know has professed an undying belief in God. So......I don't feel that is a good measurement of a person.
November 9, 2017
This was a quick read and fairly interesting. The author has a conversational tone that probably reflects his speaking style (as he is a well-known inspirational speaker). Some of the chapters were better than others, but all had something to be gleaned from them. The point of the book was that the small stuff, whether a nail for Napoleon's army or a degree on a boat's autopilot system, may be the difference in how successful you are in your endeavor, or indeed, your life. It does make you think.
Quotes to remember:
The advantage in any arena of life is earned far in advance of the moment one is required to perform.
A person cannot achieve beyond what he really believes to be the truth about himself.
Quotes to remember:
The advantage in any arena of life is earned far in advance of the moment one is required to perform.
A person cannot achieve beyond what he really believes to be the truth about himself.
June 20, 2017
This is a great book. I read it and sent copies to three other people. It really makes you think about how you think and the impact that really little things has on your life.
I love the chapter about perspective. Excellent insights.
I love the chapter about perspective. Excellent insights.
August 31, 2017
I picked this up at the library after a good review in the paper and on Goodreads.
All I can say after skimming through it....what a load of self congratulatory b.s. and a waste of paper
All I can say after skimming through it....what a load of self congratulatory b.s. and a waste of paper
August 28, 2020
Interesting
August 19, 2021
No idea how come this book has such a high rating. It felt very inconsistent, as if it's a kind of collection of wise thoughts randomly put together under one cover. I was looking for a thought-provoking read, instead I got just some random facts and ideas... Would not recommend this book to anyone.
July 16, 2019
Good. Lots of sports analogies but really talks about by paying attention to the small stuff you can do amazing big stuff.
August 17, 2019
Andy Andrews describes himself as a “noticer”. He says he notices things that others might miss like when his mother told him not to play with a stick because he would “poke his eye out.” Young Andy remembers thinking that he’d poke his eye “in” not out.
In “The Little Thing”, Andrews shares a number of short stories reminds me of Paul Harvey’s old radio series “The Rest of the Story,” where’s there’s more to a story than what we know from its most obvious facts.
For example, Andrews shares the story about how explorers Lewis’s and Clark lost few soldiers because he brought along an air rifle which he would demonstrate for the Native Americans he would meet. They were shocked when the air rifle could fire multiple shots in rapid succession. The Native Americans were used to defeating explorers with muskets that needed to be reloaded after every shot. Of course, Meriwether Lewis didn’t share that the air rifle would need to be “pumped up” periodically or that the rest of his men carried traditional muskets. To Andrews, it was that little thing that gave them their advantage.
He shares the story of how much he hated participating in high school football practice and couldn’t understand why his father was steadfast that he couldn’t quit. Only many years later did Andy find out that his dad privately cried about what he was putting his son through. But his dad’s thinking was that if a person thinks he can quit something as simple as football, it will lead to a habit of quitting more important things.
And, the stories go on and on.
In “The Little Thing”, Andrews shares a number of short stories reminds me of Paul Harvey’s old radio series “The Rest of the Story,” where’s there’s more to a story than what we know from its most obvious facts.
For example, Andrews shares the story about how explorers Lewis’s and Clark lost few soldiers because he brought along an air rifle which he would demonstrate for the Native Americans he would meet. They were shocked when the air rifle could fire multiple shots in rapid succession. The Native Americans were used to defeating explorers with muskets that needed to be reloaded after every shot. Of course, Meriwether Lewis didn’t share that the air rifle would need to be “pumped up” periodically or that the rest of his men carried traditional muskets. To Andrews, it was that little thing that gave them their advantage.
He shares the story of how much he hated participating in high school football practice and couldn’t understand why his father was steadfast that he couldn’t quit. Only many years later did Andy find out that his dad privately cried about what he was putting his son through. But his dad’s thinking was that if a person thinks he can quit something as simple as football, it will lead to a habit of quitting more important things.
And, the stories go on and on.
April 26, 2025
3.5 stars rounded down. I love Andy Andrews and his writing. Lots of useful nuggets in this short read. Asking “why” can lead to a more enriched life. Also realizing your perception of a truth may not be the actual truth. My favorite book of his is The Noticer. This could be more appealing or useful if the reader were actually going or about to go thru a change. A nice little self help book with a dash of wittiness.
June 15, 2022
Excellent! I listened to this as an audiobook, and I would definitely recommend it. Very interesting, and very educational! I’m amazed at the importance of details.
May 6, 2025
“One idea will change everything. One idea will change the world.... And one idea can move you from where you are to where you want to be.”
Every action you take, or even the things you choose not to do, gently nudges your life in a different direction, guiding you onto a unique path. I truly found this read to be enlightening and captivating.
Every action you take, or even the things you choose not to do, gently nudges your life in a different direction, guiding you onto a unique path. I truly found this read to be enlightening and captivating.
March 11, 2021
Mr. Andrews writes about the difference between perspective and perception in a chapter in this book and a different perspective is what this book brings! Must read if you want to be great!
July 17, 2017
This short book is packed with wisdom, humor and wit. Andy Andrews is an excellent communicator, and he brings those skills to this book about subtle differences that can be harnessed by individuals, teams, and corporations to separate themselves dramatically from their industries’ averages. He writes that nothing excites him more than a focused search for little things that make big differences. In this book, he shares stories that not only make a point but have a purpose beyond the point.
The book covers a wide range of thoughts, including chapters that will bring peace to your family, and some, when you harness what they teach, can make you a lot of money or turn your team into a winner.
He writes that in order to change your life, all you need is one idea. One idea will change everything. One idea will change the world. He writes that if we are to become extraordinary achievers, we must learn to recognize the little things that actually create the gap—and, consequently, the difference in opportunities—between one and two. The difference really is in little things because the actual gap between first and second place is most often ridiculously small.
He asks what are the “things” that create the life of our dreams, and states that it is really the small stuff. Small, strategic moves in the beginning of any endeavor yield massive growth down the road.
He tells us that most people live their entire lives without ever thinking beyond what they have come to believe is true. But it is a valuable person who manages to see a new way of thinking as an opportunity. He encourages us to not always believe everything we think. To do so will be the end of any exponential growth you might have experienced in your life. To begin to compete at a different level, he encourages us to examine our thinking, especially about how things are done in our industry—and realizing we can’t always believe everything we think.
He returns to the concept of perspective, one he has written about extensively in the past. He tells us that it is critical that we understand the difference between perception (how a situation is perceived) and perspective (what one decides what the facts of that moment mean in terms of direction toward one’s ultimate desired destination).
He tells us that average people compare themselves to other people, while extraordinary achievers do not compare themselves to other people. Instead, they compare themselves to their own potential. He tells us that if we want to be an extraordinary achiever, then we really do want to be different.
I found his discussion of change to be of particular interest. He writes that change is a constant and all-encompassing reality. Change is a part of everything we do, every day of our lives. He debunks three common myths about change and replaces them with two convincing change ingredients, which are:
Change Ingredient #1: What’s in it for me?
Change Ingredient #2: Proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
He tells us that if you understand the myths and the elements of change, you can respond to it with confidence and creativity and even joy. And we can help others respond positively as well.
He writes that a person cannot achieve beyond what they really believe to be the truth about themselves. What a person really believes is so powerful that their belief actually controls their behavior. He tells us that we should spend less time setting goals to satisfy the expectations of other people and use more time to concentrate fully upon legitimately increasing the level of what we really and truly believe is possible. And he tells us that this can only be done by aligning ourselves on a course to pursue the life that God has identified for us as the very best.
The book covers a wide range of thoughts, some of which could be expanded into an entire book on their own. The book concludes with a helpful Reader’s Guide, with questions that will be helpful whether reading the book together or in a book club with others.
The book covers a wide range of thoughts, including chapters that will bring peace to your family, and some, when you harness what they teach, can make you a lot of money or turn your team into a winner.
He writes that in order to change your life, all you need is one idea. One idea will change everything. One idea will change the world. He writes that if we are to become extraordinary achievers, we must learn to recognize the little things that actually create the gap—and, consequently, the difference in opportunities—between one and two. The difference really is in little things because the actual gap between first and second place is most often ridiculously small.
He asks what are the “things” that create the life of our dreams, and states that it is really the small stuff. Small, strategic moves in the beginning of any endeavor yield massive growth down the road.
He tells us that most people live their entire lives without ever thinking beyond what they have come to believe is true. But it is a valuable person who manages to see a new way of thinking as an opportunity. He encourages us to not always believe everything we think. To do so will be the end of any exponential growth you might have experienced in your life. To begin to compete at a different level, he encourages us to examine our thinking, especially about how things are done in our industry—and realizing we can’t always believe everything we think.
He returns to the concept of perspective, one he has written about extensively in the past. He tells us that it is critical that we understand the difference between perception (how a situation is perceived) and perspective (what one decides what the facts of that moment mean in terms of direction toward one’s ultimate desired destination).
He tells us that average people compare themselves to other people, while extraordinary achievers do not compare themselves to other people. Instead, they compare themselves to their own potential. He tells us that if we want to be an extraordinary achiever, then we really do want to be different.
I found his discussion of change to be of particular interest. He writes that change is a constant and all-encompassing reality. Change is a part of everything we do, every day of our lives. He debunks three common myths about change and replaces them with two convincing change ingredients, which are:
Change Ingredient #1: What’s in it for me?
Change Ingredient #2: Proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
He tells us that if you understand the myths and the elements of change, you can respond to it with confidence and creativity and even joy. And we can help others respond positively as well.
He writes that a person cannot achieve beyond what they really believe to be the truth about themselves. What a person really believes is so powerful that their belief actually controls their behavior. He tells us that we should spend less time setting goals to satisfy the expectations of other people and use more time to concentrate fully upon legitimately increasing the level of what we really and truly believe is possible. And he tells us that this can only be done by aligning ourselves on a course to pursue the life that God has identified for us as the very best.
The book covers a wide range of thoughts, some of which could be expanded into an entire book on their own. The book concludes with a helpful Reader’s Guide, with questions that will be helpful whether reading the book together or in a book club with others.
April 4, 2022
Andy Andrews is a professional noticer. If you've read his "Noticer" books, you can appreciate this particular talent and perspective that he shares through his books. This latest book is a thought-provoking collection of little things he has noticed that are quite significant. Although each stand-alone chapter is an enjoyable read in and of itself, this book offers more than a good read. Andy Andrews' conversational and personable approach to story-telling is like having your own life coach at your beck and call any time you are ready for positive change.
Andy is a teacher in the truest sense because he compels you to think about the details in your own life and how beneficial it could be to come off of auto-pilot and be more intentional about your daily activities. His delivery is so natural, his voice so effectively wise through the pages, that you begin thinking of specific little things in your life as if they were your own ideas. You start thinking about how you could make some slight adjustments to your habits and ways and be just a little more intentional. You walk away from these pages with inspiration, determination, and a realistic plan, as well as a sense of satisfaction that your time invested in reading was well spent. This is one of those books that you'll want to come back to at some point and read again.
Andy is a teacher in the truest sense because he compels you to think about the details in your own life and how beneficial it could be to come off of auto-pilot and be more intentional about your daily activities. His delivery is so natural, his voice so effectively wise through the pages, that you begin thinking of specific little things in your life as if they were your own ideas. You start thinking about how you could make some slight adjustments to your habits and ways and be just a little more intentional. You walk away from these pages with inspiration, determination, and a realistic plan, as well as a sense of satisfaction that your time invested in reading was well spent. This is one of those books that you'll want to come back to at some point and read again.
April 19, 2017
We all know the saying that we should not judge a book by it's cover. To take that one step further, one could also say that one should not judge one by it's size either and especially a book written by Andy Andrews. While a short 161 pages "The Little Things" is filled to over flowing with good stuff. We are reminder here that there really are no small things and that the greatest differences are often measured in micro seconds or less. As we study the lives of those who achieve great success in any field we often search for those big differences - in style, preparation or execution. But we may search there in vain for the finger prints of success unless we are open to the really small things that more often than not make the ultimate difference. Like perhaps learning that quitting sometime as seemingly small and inconsequential as sixth grade football can really build the character that will be needed years later when trying to publish a book that no one will take. Or how one single air rifle played a significant role in the exploration and opening of the western United States. Not only is this a great read but it is also even a better gift for team members, employees or family. There lessons to be learned here by all.
Read
June 5, 2017***3 Stars. Quick, motivational read--a common sense approach to life. I learned that it is much easier to peel a banana from the bottom instead of the top. LOL. Author Andrews closes by asking 3 questions:
1. Do you believe in God who loves you, cares about you, and wants THE BEST for you?
2. Do you think God has a better imagination than you?
3. Then when we examine the best life we can imagine and the best life God can imagine for us, is it possible these two lives might look entirely different?
Lesson: We need to spend less time setting goals to satisfy the expectations of other people and use more time concentrating upon legitimately increasing the level of what we really believe is possible.
1. Do you believe in God who loves you, cares about you, and wants THE BEST for you?
2. Do you think God has a better imagination than you?
3. Then when we examine the best life we can imagine and the best life God can imagine for us, is it possible these two lives might look entirely different?
Lesson: We need to spend less time setting goals to satisfy the expectations of other people and use more time concentrating upon legitimately increasing the level of what we really believe is possible.
June 16, 2017
Don't let a rating stop you from picking up this book
The idea that is presented feels a bit scattered for the most part but the message really shines through in some chapters. I had an epiphany with the chapter that spoke about being diiferent, it may have changed me for the better. There are several chapters in this book that have the capacity to challenge your current belief system and thinking, so I'd urge anyone to find that out for themselves. You won't know till you read it.
The idea that is presented feels a bit scattered for the most part but the message really shines through in some chapters. I had an epiphany with the chapter that spoke about being diiferent, it may have changed me for the better. There are several chapters in this book that have the capacity to challenge your current belief system and thinking, so I'd urge anyone to find that out for themselves. You won't know till you read it.
November 21, 2019
Interesting read, specially after reading Don't sweat the small stuff, as it gives you kind of a different point of view.
I found the book entertaining and the anecdotes were interesting and to the point.
Quick read, not too happy with the ending, as it says something like if you don't believe in God you would never have a "great" life... but apart from that, it was good
I found the book entertaining and the anecdotes were interesting and to the point.
Quick read, not too happy with the ending, as it says something like if you don't believe in God you would never have a "great" life... but apart from that, it was good
March 25, 2023
1.75🌟
There were some theories and aspects that were okay, just a lot of it was ablest and elitist. Plus the religion part at the end, though the theory was nice I guess, it was degrading people who don’t believe in a God and telling them to change their beliefs. Just not quite for me🤷🏻♀️
There were some theories and aspects that were okay, just a lot of it was ablest and elitist. Plus the religion part at the end, though the theory was nice I guess, it was degrading people who don’t believe in a God and telling them to change their beliefs. Just not quite for me🤷🏻♀️
February 19, 2019
Would give it 0 stars if I could. I tried to listen to the audiobook- just horrible to listen to. Drawn out and irritating. Maybe reading would have been more tolerable
August 19, 2019
This is like any other self help book
October 15, 2019
Somehow manages to spend 130 pages on one concept and still be unconvincing and give no practical advice.
July 12, 2023
All the stories were too long winded. Needed to get to the points quicker.
May 16, 2017
I have read a few of Andy Andrews’ previously books a few years ago and wanted to listen to something a little more current from this author. That is why I picked up “Little Things: Why You Really Should Sweat the Small Stuff” which was one of Andrews more current releases at the time of this review; released in early 2017. Not only is the book written by Andrews, but the audio edition is skillfully narrated by him. Andrews takes the well-known phrase we have all heard saying “Don’t sweat the small stuff.” and turns that on its head by saying it is often the small stuff that makes all the differences in many cases. If you are looking for reasons to sweat the smaller things in life, not to become fearful of them, but more showing how the smaller things we do can have great impact during one’s life and even afterwards. Andrews give many examples from history where the little things made the difference between life and death, success and failure, etc. It is a rather quick listen at only four and a half hours in audio format. Andrews never disappoints with his writing style that is often very conversational including wit, humor, and a few earth-shattering concepts that when understood and applied may change your life forever.
Andrews books always contain light hearted reading, that often can have a deep impact when properly understood. He claims to be a professional “Noticer” (based also in many of his other books) who often sees things that others do not observe during our day-to-day activities. What I like the most about his work is that it is written in a way that nearly anyone could pick up one of his books and get something from them. His books are also timeless and relevant to the many different places people are in their life journey; young adult, adult, aged, etc. One could even re-read many of his books and learn something new at every stage of life. Andrews is a well-respected speaker, author, and consults some of the top corporations around the globe; including the US government and military agencies.
I like very much his many examples where the small stuff made the difference. He talks about western expansion, civil war, failed country leaders, broken up spy rings and many more. All were impacted by the small things that occurred and yet most of us only remember the larger outcomes from them. In many ways, it is also easier to attach things in smaller incremental steps than to attack something head on all at once. As the old saying goes, one eats an elephant one bite at a time. Andrews, in a similar way, say that the small things we do have a ripple effect that can have grand impact overall.
The audio narration was expertly and professionally done. I like that Andrews while narrating the audiobook included a few whimsical statements relating only to audiobook listeners; not a part of the book. He includes areas where he felt punctuation does not express well his intentions, and this can be added (and it is) in this audiobook version via his expression. Being a professional speaker, the narration was well-done and Andrews adds inflection to his work, which is not a surprise being he is the book’s author.
In summary, if you have read and enjoyed any other books written by Andrews I would recommend you pick this book up and have a listen. It is worth the credit and time spent for what you will learn from the book. If you have read and not enjoyed Andrews other works, this book is much of the same, but it is seen from a different angle from them.
Andrews books always contain light hearted reading, that often can have a deep impact when properly understood. He claims to be a professional “Noticer” (based also in many of his other books) who often sees things that others do not observe during our day-to-day activities. What I like the most about his work is that it is written in a way that nearly anyone could pick up one of his books and get something from them. His books are also timeless and relevant to the many different places people are in their life journey; young adult, adult, aged, etc. One could even re-read many of his books and learn something new at every stage of life. Andrews is a well-respected speaker, author, and consults some of the top corporations around the globe; including the US government and military agencies.
I like very much his many examples where the small stuff made the difference. He talks about western expansion, civil war, failed country leaders, broken up spy rings and many more. All were impacted by the small things that occurred and yet most of us only remember the larger outcomes from them. In many ways, it is also easier to attach things in smaller incremental steps than to attack something head on all at once. As the old saying goes, one eats an elephant one bite at a time. Andrews, in a similar way, say that the small things we do have a ripple effect that can have grand impact overall.
The audio narration was expertly and professionally done. I like that Andrews while narrating the audiobook included a few whimsical statements relating only to audiobook listeners; not a part of the book. He includes areas where he felt punctuation does not express well his intentions, and this can be added (and it is) in this audiobook version via his expression. Being a professional speaker, the narration was well-done and Andrews adds inflection to his work, which is not a surprise being he is the book’s author.
In summary, if you have read and enjoyed any other books written by Andrews I would recommend you pick this book up and have a listen. It is worth the credit and time spent for what you will learn from the book. If you have read and not enjoyed Andrews other works, this book is much of the same, but it is seen from a different angle from them.
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