It's Not About You: A Brief Guide to a Meaningful Life

This book contains wonderful information about life and living. It couldn't have come at a better time as I am losing my eyesight. (Vision in right eye is gone) and the left one ...although holding steady is also darkening bit by bit. Some of his wisdom rings true and several examples ... 'get over yourself, invest in people who matter most, invest your time wisely and life is too short to live with regrets'. Lots more in this one besides these few points that I mentioned.... Regrets ...I don't have many as I am in my 70's now but do have a couple that I need to address before that time comes when I may become completely without vision. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction on a couple of items. Most highly recommended. Please note that I borrowed this with my KU subscription.

First of all let me say thank you to Mr. Tom Rath, I was almost to tears when I read this book. Without further due let get to the five reasons I believe everyone should read this book. 1. Personal Experience: There is literally no better way to connect with a reader than sharing your personal experience. Mr. Rath's story is deeply moving and at times can lead you to be emotional as well. In many ways his personal story is the definition of the book itself. 2. Not a self help book Yep you've read right. Too many of the self help books lead us into the trap of focusing only on ourselves and Mr. Rath took time to define why we can be our own enemies. If people actually tried to help others this world would be a much better place. 3. Somebody needs your help Think about it, someone might be having a worse time in life than you. Just imagine the joy of putting a smile on that person's face. No amount of money in the world could purchase what you mean to others. 4. Powerful anecdotes and research packed into a little book Mr. Rath found a way to drop so many timeless gems and to include research into a short book. Absolute genius. My favorite line"Real growth is the product of following your contributions more than your passions" 5. Think about your legacy Many people live for here and now. What if 2019 or 2020 is your last? How would people remember you? When you focus on your contributions your life will experience new dimensions. For crying out loud just buy the damn book its too good of a message and one quite frankly that is needed in a time such as this

It’s a lovely autobiography about the authors experience, but not really a guide for others.

A short powerful read to start the new year off with the right message ITs Not About You! Live life tonite fullest by doing for others. A message that can make a difference and meaningful lasting g change.

I liked the focus of the book and that it was a brief message- got through it quickly and read it again!

It was a nice short read full of good advice. It was easy for me to retain that advice because of the length of the read!

easy to read, direct, blunt and fast, no chance to misunderstand. A great truth, a great message. Enjoyed this reading.

Quick easy read. One of those books you get through in one sitting. The author provides great life lessons and guidance with impact as it is done so through his walk through life.

Where do you start a book review when you find that one book that causes you to pause, repeatedly rewind the audio, stop, and then restart the book again? I did not want to miss any of the goodness, educational, or spiritual importance on these pages of love. Maybe it is my battles with vision challenges and chronic pain that caused me to connect with this book. I am not sure, but the author's words and his experiences spoke to me in a deeply profound way. I felt like my soul was nourished. The chapters are short, powerful, full of meaning, and purpose. It's Not About You is the food my soul needed to continue reaching for more and strive to do better. This book brought tears, deep reflection and made me want to make time standstill. There are words of hope on every page, and I highly recommend this book. One of my all-time favorite inspirational books.

This is a short, easy read. The author’s story is very inspirational, and while there are certainly some nuggets of true wisdom in here, it’s not an infallible piece of writing. Humans are prosocial, and I agree with the premise that a life of purpose and service is the most likely path to bring true fulfillment, especially when compared with the hedonism so rampant in America today. Humans are literally wired to be “part of a tribe,” and I completely agree that contributing to something greater than oneself is deeply meaningful and fulfilling (for non-sociopaths). We have piles of data confirming the premise that strong social networks are essential to overall well-being. However, always focusing outwardly- prioritizing how you can “contribute” to others and never mindfully learning to know oneself- is a recipe for mid-life resentment. Especially if you’re a woman in a patriarchal, Christian, western society. Maybe this book is solid advice for men, who are less innately “nurturing” (biologically and hormonally speaking) and are more inclined towards physical tasks (hunting/gathering, i.e. providing), but having lived a life of dutiful devotion to the comforts and needs of others above my own (as dictated by the Christianity I was indoctrinated from infancy with), I can assure you, by the late 30’s, there is a real sense of having been exploited and taken advantage of by others who benefitted from my selfless contributions, and weren’t as quick to reciprocate. I am still genuinely eager to help whenever I can, and I still believe that a purpose “greater than myself” is both worthwhile, deeply satisfying, and worth pursuing. But I feel MUCH happier since bringing balance into my life. Learning to say, “No.” Learning to ask for help. Indulging the desire for alone-time to read, journal, participate in endurance sports, and basically be “selfish” when the urge strikes. Personal achievements are just as necessary for feelings of meaning, true satisfaction, and overall accomplishment, as those we make on behalf of others and society. That was the component I felt was missing from this book. “Get over yourself,” is just not always the right advice- every day, at all times. But it is a great philosophy for the mindfully self-aware person who is looking for deeper meaning from the doldrums of life!

This book contains wonderful information about life and living. It couldn't have come at a better time as I am losing my eyesight. (Vision in right eye is gone) and the left one ...although holding steady is also darkening bit by bit. Some of his wisdom rings true and several examples ... 'get over yourself, invest in people who matter most, invest your time wisely and life is too short to live with regrets'. Lots more in this one besides these few points that I mentioned.... Regrets ...I don't have many as I am in my 70's now but do have a couple that I need to address before that time comes when I may become completely without vision. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction on a couple of items. Most highly recommended. Please note that I borrowed this with my KU subscription.

First of all let me say thank you to Mr. Tom Rath, I was almost to tears when I read this book. Without further due let get to the five reasons I believe everyone should read this book. 1. Personal Experience: There is literally no better way to connect with a reader than sharing your personal experience. Mr. Rath's story is deeply moving and at times can lead you to be emotional as well. In many ways his personal story is the definition of the book itself. 2. Not a self help book Yep you've read right. Too many of the self help books lead us into the trap of focusing only on ourselves and Mr. Rath took time to define why we can be our own enemies. If people actually tried to help others this world would be a much better place. 3. Somebody needs your help Think about it, someone might be having a worse time in life than you. Just imagine the joy of putting a smile on that person's face. No amount of money in the world could purchase what you mean to others. 4. Powerful anecdotes and research packed into a little book Mr. Rath found a way to drop so many timeless gems and to include research into a short book. Absolute genius. My favorite line"Real growth is the product of following your contributions more than your passions" 5. Think about your legacy Many people live for here and now. What if 2019 or 2020 is your last? How would people remember you? When you focus on your contributions your life will experience new dimensions. For crying out loud just buy the damn book its too good of a message and one quite frankly that is needed in a time such as this

It’s a lovely autobiography about the authors experience, but not really a guide for others.

A short powerful read to start the new year off with the right message ITs Not About You! Live life tonite fullest by doing for others. A message that can make a difference and meaningful lasting g change.

I liked the focus of the book and that it was a brief message- got through it quickly and read it again!

It was a nice short read full of good advice. It was easy for me to retain that advice because of the length of the read!

easy to read, direct, blunt and fast, no chance to misunderstand. A great truth, a great message. Enjoyed this reading.

Quick easy read. One of those books you get through in one sitting. The author provides great life lessons and guidance with impact as it is done so through his walk through life.

Where do you start a book review when you find that one book that causes you to pause, repeatedly rewind the audio, stop, and then restart the book again? I did not want to miss any of the goodness, educational, or spiritual importance on these pages of love. Maybe it is my battles with vision challenges and chronic pain that caused me to connect with this book. I am not sure, but the author's words and his experiences spoke to me in a deeply profound way. I felt like my soul was nourished. The chapters are short, powerful, full of meaning, and purpose. It's Not About You is the food my soul needed to continue reaching for more and strive to do better. This book brought tears, deep reflection and made me want to make time standstill. There are words of hope on every page, and I highly recommend this book. One of my all-time favorite inspirational books.

This is a short, easy read. The author’s story is very inspirational, and while there are certainly some nuggets of true wisdom in here, it’s not an infallible piece of writing. Humans are prosocial, and I agree with the premise that a life of purpose and service is the most likely path to bring true fulfillment, especially when compared with the hedonism so rampant in America today. Humans are literally wired to be “part of a tribe,” and I completely agree that contributing to something greater than oneself is deeply meaningful and fulfilling (for non-sociopaths). We have piles of data confirming the premise that strong social networks are essential to overall well-being. However, always focusing outwardly- prioritizing how you can “contribute” to others and never mindfully learning to know oneself- is a recipe for mid-life resentment. Especially if you’re a woman in a patriarchal, Christian, western society. Maybe this book is solid advice for men, who are less innately “nurturing” (biologically and hormonally speaking) and are more inclined towards physical tasks (hunting/gathering, i.e. providing), but having lived a life of dutiful devotion to the comforts and needs of others above my own (as dictated by the Christianity I was indoctrinated from infancy with), I can assure you, by the late 30’s, there is a real sense of having been exploited and taken advantage of by others who benefitted from my selfless contributions, and weren’t as quick to reciprocate. I am still genuinely eager to help whenever I can, and I still believe that a purpose “greater than myself” is both worthwhile, deeply satisfying, and worth pursuing. But I feel MUCH happier since bringing balance into my life. Learning to say, “No.” Learning to ask for help. Indulging the desire for alone-time to read, journal, participate in endurance sports, and basically be “selfish” when the urge strikes. Personal achievements are just as necessary for feelings of meaning, true satisfaction, and overall accomplishment, as those we make on behalf of others and society. That was the component I felt was missing from this book. “Get over yourself,” is just not always the right advice- every day, at all times. But it is a great philosophy for the mindfully self-aware person who is looking for deeper meaning from the doldrums of life!

Not a good listen.

Self-help and self-care books are becoming more popular by the minute as this review is being written. While those types of books are beneficial, additionally with many of them easy, light, and even entertaining to read, there are not enough books out there today that don’t focus solely on helping oneself. This book, while still reiterating to readers that taking care of oneself IS important, they would actually leave a LARGER impact on the world by helping others and making a positive change, no matter how small in THEIR lives, too. What’s unique about this book is that not only does it tell readers that they DO have the ability and potential to help make a positive difference in someone else’s life, it also lets them know that their time on Earth isn’t unlimited, especially those who are diagnosed with a terminal, life-threatening condition, or at least a chronic one like Rath himself had as a teenager. As much as anyone HATES thinking about their own fates, especially when death may come sooner for them then anticipated/desired, Rath assures readers that such conditions don’t define you and that, while still able-bodied to do so, you should still leave an unselfish mark on this Earth until it IS your time to leave it for good.

Every now & then we come across a book that we know just reading once won't do the trick. I came across this title and the $0 price tag caught my attention. I figured, why not? Plus the subtitle of "A Brief Guide To a Meaningful Life" sounded right up my alley. The book is short - I read the Kindle version and was done within 30-45 min. The author does a good job reminding his audience that the most important thing we can do in our lives is giving back to others and that we are really robbing ourselves of our own well being by focusing on self happiness. I tend to love self-help books and this was a refreshing point of view that it's not actually about me.... I definitely plan on re-reading this book periodically as I feel the need for reminders of it's lessons. I'm also taking the opportunity, as a result of this book, to write handwritten letters to the people who matter most in my life, to share with them the impact they have had on my life and who I turned out to be, before it's too late. Thank you Tim Rath!

The narration is good. It's a short story with enough content to be worth a listen but it gave me the feeling that it was an introduction to a future product even though it wasn't a direct selling tactic. It's worth a listen to gain perspective about Tom's journey but don't expect earth shattering revelations. I give it 4 stars instead of 3 because I won't blame the author for my misaligned expectations from the book. Good story just not enough "meat" for what I was expecting.

With this SIP time I have had some time to reflect on my life. Or should I say the end of my life. I recently wrote in my journal that one day "this" will be gone (and by this I mean my stuff) and it is my hope that what I do for and with people will carry on for many years after I am gone. I believe that when I come from a place of contribution - it not only blesses the others - it blesses me. This book was received right on time and short enough to read during my time of rest, reflection and reset.

I listened to the audiobook of this and its pretty incredible. The authors perspective of the meaning of life is unlike anything I've ever heard. Rath suggests that living with purpose of creating work that will live on far beyond your life span is the key to truly being happy and is an extremely fulfilling. I know I will think of his words for a long time and hope that ai can create a legacy that lives beyond me.

"It's Not About You" is a fantastic 34 page guide calling us to contribute to the lives of others. We have the opportunity to inspire and make profound positive impact with each individual we encounter. I highly recommend this quick read.. I am surrounded by friends, family and followers who put others first and I believe you will be encouraged by author Tom Rath's story and call to action. Check it out.

I enjoyed the first half more than the second half. Mostly this book is a celebration of those who have contributed to the author's life, but the beginning does provide the reader with a quick reminder of how to invest in filling up others around us. There is a three step guide, but the third step focuses on his career exploration. He does explain how he ended up writing the book "How Full is Your Bucket", though loosely connected. From Step 3 on, it is a lot of rambling stories. The organization is muddled. 6 Total Chapters: *Step 1-Get Over Yourself *Step 2- Invest in the People Who Matter Most *Step 3- Focus on What Will Grow When You Are Gone *Living a Life of Contribution *How Can I Contribute Today *Answering Life's Greatest Questions

This should be required reading in all schools, homes, etc. our world would be a better place if we all followed this practice.

While Tom suggests few methods to follow to achieve his results, he hits the nail on it's head when he defined how to enjoy a "MEANINGFUL LIFE"!!!

Many books strive to answer life's great question with page after page of stories and quotes. Eventually the point is lost and the stories mix together. This book avoids that by being a very short yet very impactful book.

Easy read, that flows smoothly and time passes fast. Rath is well spoken and delivers examples of meaningful contributions to the life of others no matter what size. This book makes you evaluate what you are doing, have done, and can do to improve the lives of others.

This is a great quick read, however, please do not let it mislead you - YOU CANNOT FILL OTHERS' BUCKETS IF YOURS IS EMPTY. It is 100% necessary for you to take care of YOURSELF first, and there is no shame in doing so.

Why use more time to deliver this message? This book is a great length - maybe the length of a TED Talk in writing. It’s also perfect for repeated readings, and contains wisdom and inspiration that provides a welcome boost for daily living. I really enjoyed it.

A very Insightful and inspiring read that enables the reader to identify and focus on what is most important in life

I read his book “How Full Is Your Bucket?” With my class last year and NEVER knew he was the author, and the story behind until randomly coming across this book!! I wish I could buy it in an actual hard copy though

This book is mostly meant to show you an alternative way of living to the one you’ve been taught overtly and covertly. The main premise is to show you how living for the sake of contribution will in effect give your own life more purpose. If you’re like me and have a lot going for you but feel like something is still missing, I think this book will be a good first step in your journey.

Ok content but compared to Strenghtsfinder this book falls short, literally short as it is more of a long article than a short book.

This book was worth reading. It stayed interesting from beginning to end and I would recommend it to everyone interested in improving their life.

It's never about self. Happiness lies in being selfless and making contribution to others so that their lives are better because of your contributions.

I could relate to the author so well and have never had things explained in such a way it left me hungry for more. Thought and action provoking.

Wonderful book on how your meaningful life is made to serve others. Authors personal story and his life experience from his grand father is a duly remarkable. Begin today to think on being meaningful to others and contribute to their life.

Short but exceptionally useful information delivered through an extraordinary story. Compelling advice.

This is a concise set of good advice on how to make an impact on people around you, and ultimately on yourself.

The book is fine. Short, simple language, easy to read. Mainly a reflection on the author’s idea of life’s purpose which is to contribute in something that would outlive you. There were no exceptional insights. But overall I would agree with the author’s point of view.

I really appreciate Tom Rath’s and Gallup’s resources in my work as a career counselor. I learned a lot about Mr. Rath and respect him all the more from experiencing this jewel of a book. I highly recommend it. V

This is an easy read and super inspirational. I have leaned a lot in just a short time. To me giving or doing good to others feels way better than the strongest “orgasm” I have ever had. Thanks for the book. After reading .. I was inspired to post a couple of quotes on my Facebook and tweeter feed .

Nothing new in this book. Read like a bunch of copied internet blogs.

Wonderful must read. I live in pain and battle with longtime injury and this book echoes my thoughts and my trials to live differently. Thanks. I recommend this book for those who live in pain or/and some deseas and are struggling to find a meaning in every days' battle

It is very short book. But it is moving. So I like it.

In a society that is always telling you to look out for number one, this is a refreshing reminder that we are most happy when we are helping others.

Mi favorite part más "I learned from this experience is that we must find ways to celebrate people’s lives and contributions while they are still alive."

Nice quick read with a surprising impact. You'll get a very positive feeling from reading this book; definitely worth the 30 minutes or so spent on it.

Great book about finding happiness by giving of yourself for others. Leaving a positive legacy. It is about doing something that will bring positivity even after your lifetime. Great read that really gave me plenty to think about.

Good book with a strong reminder

I lived my life for the self way too much and this has taught to look passed my self .

Good read

Concise book on how to benefit others and yourself. Highly recommended. If only all political parties would read this! Get it.

a little drawn out but overall good message

Most inspiring short read.Authentic and moving.Words that can profoundly influence your life for the better.And also the lives of others.

See title...says it all for me. The price is good, too! Take a chance on it! You may like it.

This is simple read that keeps Tom’s message clear and concise. He’s not pushing any strange 3rd party narrative. He just lives his life in the moment and takes care of others around him. I found it very worthwhile to read.

With the covid-19 pandemic in full force against our nation and the world this question needs to be answered by all. Pay it forward

Another amazing book by Tom Rath giving precious insight into the human condition and how to maximize the true meaning of life by helping others.

Wonderful

The book was so meaningful and well written. I hope I can learn to use the advice. I would recommend this book

Puts 'life' into right perspective for a Meaningful Life and how our lives matter everyday. When we realize we will be 'dead' a whole lot longer than we are alive, we think and live differently to make an positive impact on those around us. JGL

Once you get over feeling like you’ve wasted many years, move on, and make the most of today by helping somebody other than yourself.

This was an easy short read that answers the question of , what is life? I recommend this book for your contemplation.

The title is inviting, the idea is great. However, I felt more like reading a blog instead of reading a book. It's just way too short, lack of reference.

Very resilient author who focuses outward and how it has helped to combat his challenges. Very interesting to observe the healing process.

I really enjoyed reading this book. It makes you look at life differently. Recommended by a friend🙏👍. I will read more by this author.

Excellent, thought provoking book. Very important points that are even more important now with so much loss in the world.

Quick read with great insight. Asks the readers the right questions and make them think. I strongly recommend this book to others.

not only me live in the world. We have to think out of ourself that'll make the world better from now.

Downloaded the book on a whim. Turns out to be a good short read. What are you doing for others today?

When faced with a decision to choose between making his own path in life or conveniently joining the family business, he chose the latter. When deciding whether to heed geneticists' warnings about his hereditary condition (avoiding irresponsible procreation) or to adopt healthy (or unhealthy) children who need a loving home, who chose to play Russian roulette. Twice. And he got lucky both times. We are all human, we do the best we can, we make the best decisions that we can at the time of making them. But based on his decisions, in my opinion he does not have the authority or credibility to teach others how to live. Also, someone should tell him about the ketogenic diet, which for him will have to be a lifetime commitment as it is for epileptic children, but it will obviate the need for surgeries and make it a physical impossibility for cancer to exist in his body. Had his doctors known about keto, he could have saved his eye and needless surgery-related suffering.

I enjoyed this short book until the very end. The book was simply a story of how Tom Rath is grateful for all the people and circumstances that led him to where he is now. There are a couple of good one-liner quotes mixed in. However, the end rubbed me wrong. Have you ever been in a webpage that scrolls on forever to find out they are trying to sell you something at the bottom of the page? Well, I thought I was getting a short sweet book on how not to focus on my self but others. Nope, it is a setup to get you interested in his new book with a new online discover your strengths type of test. And now the whole book seems to be a sales pitch to me. Ughh

Great book about living a life for others. We should focus on how we can impact others every single day.

Enjoyed the ease of read and how relatable the author's stories are. Highly recommend for anyone open to changing their perspective on life.

A quick, meaningful and thought provoking read. It's short but has impact. I recommend it to everyone.

This felt like an intro, which I guess it was considering it all LEED to an offer for another book. A good personal story, but it would have benefited from some practical tips. It was not a “guide”.

A thought provoking read by Tom Rath on how to contribute to another person’s life today instead of your own? The author writes about his own personal experience of battling a rare genetic defect and how he internalized the value time is more valuable when he could see his own mortality on the horizon. Although, some of lines penned down on mortality, gratitude, giving back are sheer brilliance, I could not come to terms with improving other's lives more than yourself. I believe in both but starting with self. My fav line from the book: "Your life has an unknown expiration date. Your efforts and contributions to others do not. Acknowledging that all our stories have an end can be deeply beneficial."

I was hoping for more information, but it was so short. I felt as if it was more of an introduction to buy another book that he talked about, in which he wrote with his grandfather, Don.

The audacity of some completely selfish dude telling everyone else how to think past ourselves and work for the benefit of the greater good is jaw-dropping. I am part of a family that has been destroyed by an autosomal-dominant genetic disease, and this loser not only went against genetic counselors’ advice, but did so WITHOUT EVEN UTILIZING CURRENT TECHNOLOGY that would allow him to safely father his own children, while simultaneously guaranteeing that he wouldn’t pass this horrible disease to future generations. I have three stepchildren who may or may not have inherited their selfish mom’s autosomal-dominant deadly disease because she placed her desire to “have her own children” above her spouse’s and her children’s futures. The disease is so horrible that it is proper procedure not to even offer someone a genetic test until they’re 18 or older and go through counseling. She never mentioned the possibility of having a genetic disease to her husband, and even denied things were wrong when symptoms surfaced the same year their 3rd child was born. Fast forward to now. She spent several years in a nursing home and missed almost all of her children’s important milestones. Her children had to go to a NURSING HOME to see their mom. She couldn’t hold them or kiss them because her body spasms were so violent. She had to wear a helmet and padded garments to prevent serious injuries to herself from the spasms. The youngest doesn’t even really remember her. Their dad is STILL carrying the financial burden of dealing with so many medical bills and child care expenses for three young children. Needless to say, her children, now my children, have a ton of emotional scars and fear for their future. They’re afraid to get tested, and instead live a life where they’re afraid to dream and look into the future. It’s not just they each have a 50% chance of having this disease, it’s also that their mother knowingly put them in this position. Nobody should knowingly and willingly do this to a child just to make themselves happy. How dare this selfish guy do the same thing to his children and to their future generations? Unlike when my children’s mother was having babies, this guy had access to IVF technology that would ensure that only sperm that didn’t contain the defective gene was used. My husband tried to read this book, but had a really hard time taking some selfish clown seriously who played Russian roulette with his kids’ futures. He warned me not to read it, stating that the author’s selfishness would make me painfully angry. Of course I didn’t listen, and read part of it anyway. I wish I hadn’t. All of what he states is common sense golden rule stuff I’ve done all my life, and I didn’t need to read about his complete selfish disregard for his children’s futures. What ever happened to adoption? If he actually wanted to walk the walk that he loves to talk, and consider the greater good, rather than just himself, he would have adopted some kids who otherwise would have to spend their lives in foster care or an orphanage. But of course, doing things for others doesn’t apply to all aspects of his life. Just the ones he wants to brag about in this dumb, common sense book. Gross.

Short and sweet but also thought provoking. As a people pleaser, I always thought I needed more boundaries instead of always doing more. I think there isn't anything bad in doing good things for others as long as you aren't being taken advantage of. My goal going forward is to ask more questions and be fully engaged in others and forming more meaningful relationships. Live as much as possible in the here and now. Full book, short, enjoyable and no cliffhanger.

Rajinikanth is one of the most famous silver screen personalities in the annals of Indian cinema. He is also known for his spiritual inclinations and innate altruistic predilections. In a public gathering he once famously quoted that if one was to be aware of the date of his/her shedding the mortal coils, every remaining day until that day of reckoning would be an absolute torture. One person who can relate to this philosophy is one of my all- time favourite authors, Tom Rath. When he was just sixteen years old (or young), Mr. Rath was diagnosed as having a fatal genetic mutation, one that basically shuts off the body’s most powerful tumour suppressor. This was after what was supposed to be a routine eye test. What this meant was that in addition to large tumours that were already growing on his left eye, Mr. Rath was likely to have kidney and pancreatic cancer, and tumours in his spine, brain and adrenal glands. If this list was not daunting enough, Mr. Rath also lost the vision in his left eye, post multiple surgeries. But at the time of this writing, Mr. Rath has braved the odds and lived to tell his tale. And, what a fascinating tale it has been! A prolific author, Rath has penned many bestsellers that have changed the contours of his reader’s perspectives. In “It’s Not About You”, his shortest book till date, he juxtaposes wisdom with fortitude. Asserting that life is not just about oneself, but about what you do for others, Mr. Rath, conveys to his readers the most fruitful way to lead a contended and enriching life. Battling the dreaded von Hippel-Lindau condition, Mr. Rath has been an inspiration to millions across the globe. Echoing the late great Randy Pausch on how it takes the realization of mortality to develop an outward focus, Mr. Rath emphasises that life is about what you put back into the world and not what you take out of it. He illuminates his readers about an empirical research finding which revealed that “kids who battle cancer somehow emerge stronger when compared to peers who have not faced a similar challenge. In particular, when children twelve and older battle cancer and survive, they are more likely to experience what scientists call post-traumatic growth. Mr. Rath exhorts us to invest in people who matter the most. Relying on a finding by researchers, Mr. Rath informs us that if one is able to have at least five positive exchanges for every negative exchange in a given day, it should carry forward and energise the networks around that person. Such persons, incidentally, are five times as likely to have a very high sense of well-being. For facilitating positive exchanges, Mr. Rath argues that it is imperative for one to assume the role of both a positive questioner and a keen listener. Both of these qualities are in peril, courtesy, the information age. As Mr. Rath illuminates his readers, in a study titled, “The iPhone Effect”, which was based on an experiment with two hundred participants, and examined the effects of the mere presence of a smartphone on a conversation, the researchers revealed that anytime a smartphone is visible, even if it is not ringing, vibrating, buzzing or even powered on, it degraded the quality of the conversation for everyone. In the cases where the phone was visible, the participants had lower levels of empathetic concern and found the conversations less fulfilling. The people who took their phones out were essentially saying, “This device comes before you and this conversation.” Inspired by his grandfather, with whom Mr. Rath wrote the bestseller, “Strenghtsfinder”, Mr. Rath recollects the poignant story, where after being diagnosed with a gastroesophageal cancer (advanced stage), his grandfather Don Clifton collaborated with Mr. Rath to finish their bestseller in record time. The book titled “How Full Is Your Bucket?”, was based on the concept that filling in others’ bucket provides more contentment than dipping into another’s. To paraphrase Mr. Rath, “Contribution starts when you see beyond self.” It may seem preposterous if one was to claim that life’s quintessential philosophies were all packed within the confines of a thirty-five-page book. But then again, it’s quality that matters than quantity. Mr. Rath, in his inimitable style and using an imprimatur that has by now become a trademark, manages to pull this feat off in a brilliant fashion. To which we shall remain indebted to him.

*DISCLAIMER* In no way am I trying to spread hatred by leaving this review -that others may percieve as rude towards the author. It is imperative that you understand: I intend to spread positivity in the world. This review is simply my own, honest reflection about this book. If you do not agree, please be respectful in this manner. I understand the message! I 100% support the amazing statement that the author incorporates into this book: do good, be kind, help OTHERS… it makes sense that the book itself is called "It's not about YOU". But to be quite frank, life is…kind of about YOU. You are the one who has to face those inevitable challenges that life has to offer. You are the one who always can get into your mind and know what you are thinking. And feeling. You are the one who has to do different day to day tasks. And above all, you should put yourself first. Not convinced? Hear me out. Let's imagine this scene: Carla and her daughter, Nicky, are both in a plane. Something goes terribly wrong. Carla, being the wise adult, has read the airplane flight manuel -that has guidelines that you need to follow, in case something happens during the flight. Carla has read this ahead of time. She knows what to do. Meanwhile, her daughter Nicky is only 5 years old, and is confused, scared and crying. Carla needs to put on her oxygen mask and desperately wants to help her daughter. But she needs to put on her own mask BEFORE she can help her daughter. Even though Nicky is her daughter, Carla cannot assist her if she does not have her oxygen mask on. After that, Carla calmly- and safely- puts Nicky's mask on. All is well, and both Carla and Nicky are safe. This was the perfect example. Life IS about you.

While i love the message in being of service to the collective and adding value to people’s lives, i wholeheartedly believe that a life lived having not added a positive contribution to this world is greatest opportunity one could miss out on as it is certainly an important part of the human experience. Only hang up i have is the presented belief that “you can’t be anything you want” or “more of who you already are”; In my unfoldment of self seeking greater awareness and understanding of the meaning of life, the governing laws of the universe, and the understanding of consciousness and the faculties of the mind have consistently come across a commonly expressed fact of the creative powers of the mind that i’ve experienced firsthand to be infallably true in that understanding the gift we possess to choose our thoughts and direct our imagination towards any depiction of circumstance we desire to experience in our reality; In other words, i think it’s a false assumption that we are incapable of becoming anything we want to become. But i can understand the jaded experiences of the author’s life that could lead to a belief that life is not meaningful unless you offer a contribution of value in the best quality and quantity you’re capable of offering. I believe it most certainly is a core element to the human experience but i don’t agree that we are purposely existing to be of value and service to others. We’re creative beings and the purpose of our existence is to simply live joyously and create and express freely as you desire. we are all individual expressions of the universal source of conscious creation and not contributing in a substantial way to lives of others doesn’t mean in anyway that you have not lived a meaningful life because meaning to you is what you are drawn to and seven billion individuals are not all going to be drawn towards a desire to be of value to others. anyways, take it with a grain of salt. and do you my fellow human <3

Typical positivity and philosophy of sacrificing to others drivel.

This is a very short book, essentially a memoir. Tom Rath recounts his experiences that have helped shape who he is and how he lives his life. It’s a nice and quick read that will help refocus your priorities and do a bit of self reflecting as well. I enjoyed this book, it wasn’t what I was expecting to be quite honest but it wasn’t a bad experience overall. Being aware of your mortality certainly helps you be more appreciative of life, and to take more action before you “run out of time”. These are aspects of life that we all don’t consciously think about because we live our lives essentially assuming there is a tomorrow, an infinite number of them. This book sort of grounds you and reminds you that you have today, and instead of focusing on yourself, you should think about what you can do to contribute to the world and to other people. This kind of reminds me of a Mitch Albom book but without the actual story telling part, just the message, straight and direct as can be. I would recommend this as it is quick and easy to digest and gives you some food for thought.

Want the perfect gift during this pandemic? A gift to yourself as well as everyone you know to stop you dead, no, ALIVE in your wisdom tracks? Treat yourself to a quick read. But don't fool yourself by the brevity of Tom Rath's candid, succinct writing. Despite his gut wrenching journey through life with a bizarre, constantly life-threatening disease causing him great suffering and pain, he credits his challenges for opening his heart and soul to helping YOU. No nonsense and remarkably sincere , Rath kindly helps you open the door to illustrate first hand how giving to others is the key to unlocking your own life's goal journey. How your helping others elevates yourself and how you value yourself along the way. HINT: It ain't about you. Get over yourself. Focus on service. Even small gestures of giving a compliment or sending a gratitude letter helps you as well as the receiver. An inspiring truthful road map for your life success begins right here. An A+ read with my highest recommendation.

This book will make you think! It might even motivate you to act! Tom Rath writes short, focused books, so you don't have to sort through lots of noise to find the key points. This short work follows the same pattern. Rath's direct and personal tone makes this booklet believable and engaging. The author focuses on how others, especially his grandfather, Don Clifton, influenced him to use his strengths and time to help others despite any personal challenges. In a world selling personal gratification, self-focus, and the irrelevant, the author provides several wise perspectives and thoughts that encourage us to stop worrying about what we haven't got and to start using our time and those strengths we do have to help and develop other people. Although this short book is a prequel or introduction to another book, it is clearly an effective standalone read with several valuable insights. One additional benefit is the list of other related works by other authoritative writers on subjects introduced in this inspiring yet short read. The accompanying Audible narration is a valuable addition to the reading experience. Even if you haven't read one of Tom Rath's books before, this short work is worth reading.

I picked this book up on a whim. With so many self-help books on the market, and so many people having an opinion on how best to live your life, I wasn't sure what new information this book would provide. However, I don't think that was the intent of this book. In my opinion, this book serves as a reminder for those who truly desire to live a life larger than themselves, but sometimes get caught up in the minutiae of the everyday challenges we all face. It's easy to focus on the small, insignificant issues that may come about. Granted, we naturally have a negative bias when it comes to these things. However, this book emphasizes how, in the grand scheme of things, it really is about what we can do for other people, versus what other people can do for us. There are many great quotable lines in this book, but reading this book as a whole gives a much larger satisfaction. Definitely recommend spending 30 minutes of a calm evening going through this one.

A lot of gentle reminders and they warming stories are packed in this short book. The author's story is touching and inspirational. I'm glad he has shared his experiences. I have always known that it wasn't about me. 😊 After reading, I looked up has grandfather's StrengthsFinder to see it that could help direct me to identify my greater talents other than what my friend and family think. I found the sample results to be broad (like a horoscope) and not really offer any examples in how to contribute with said talents. It made me wonder how this helped people. Giving me an explanation of my strength doesn't tell me how it benefits me to help other (IMO). Overall, it's a sweet story.

The most consistent theme was contribution. Look beyond yourself and see what people need. Don't think it has to be big. Start small. You never know how much a small contribution could help someone tremendously. It is inspiring to see how Tom has beat the odds of various cancers and blindness. It was his mindset to be more giving to his friends and family that has made a huge difference with his health. Don't wait until your special people are sick or dying, tell and show them how much they mean to you as soon as possible. Finally, Tom reminds us to do meaningful work that will outlive us. The kind of work that will continue to be helpful and inspiring to others after we are gone. We all need this reminder. Live with the end in mind.

I like short books that make a point know that's the perfect length for their message. That's what this book felt like. While it feels like we are incapable of having civil discourse in this country, this book offers some much needed perspective. "It's not all about you" is quick, inspirational reminder of why you should be a good person and to tell someone how they have contributed to your life . . . while they are still around to hear it. It's also a pretty inspiring tribute to the author's grandfather. Lots of good inspirational quotes supported by the author's real-life examples. Note: I've entered some giveaways of (mostly) random pre-releases of books with the idea of expanding my range and helping authors get reviews. #goodreads

A key takeaway from this book is that Tom received a lot of support from his family and friends as he was battling his various illnesses. This enabled him to create the self-esteem necessary to identify his strengths and contribute to other people. Sadly this does not work for everyone, myself included. When you’re told from an early age that you’re not good enough or smart enough and that message Is reinforced over and over, it becomes hard to think about how to contribute to the world at large. This is not addressed in his book and yet it is a key obstacle in preventing people from realizing their true gifts and how they can share them with the world.

It's Not about you. A simple shift in focus from your "junk" to a focus on blessing other's lives creates a positive flow of good in...good out. Or the other way around. Either way, it works! Like Mr. Rath, I too have been able to say to loved one's what they meant to me before they were gone, not after. I appreciate his story here and the choices he has made in the way he lives his life. Great Book!

This is one of the best fast and easy read books that will leave an everlasting impression on all its readers, young and old alike! A must read, this book just made the top of the list of "books to read" that I am compiling for my son (now a toddler) to read in a few years as he grows up. Simplicity with which Tom in this book has explained what should naturally come to most of us; if not all, the urge to contribute as much and as positively as we can, is tremendously appealing.

Tom Rath has been reading about well-being for twenty years and he suggests that focusing on your own happiness will not bring you as much joy as helping to improve the lives of others. What can you do to put something back into the world? Where should your cell phone be when you are interacting with people? How will people remember you when you are gone? As Tom Rath wisely notes: “You have to find work that you know in your heart is making a positive contribution.” This is a book that only takes 30 minutes to read, but may change your perspective on life and ultimately help you find more meaning. ~The Rebecca Review

This short autobiography emphasizes the author's encounters with mortality as events that drove him and others towards a life more focused on contributing to others than on themselves. This is particularly relevant in 2020 America where individualism is at all time high, often to the point of prioritizing one's self even at the expense or harm of others. I think everyone could benefit from the simple advice the author gives to tell the people you love that you appreciate them and to contribute to their well being. I believe the author could have improved this work by leaving out some details of his own life ( though much of his story is very powerful and should be kept ) and including more specific suggestions that people from all walks of life can follow. Perhaps these are included in his longer works.

I read Tom Rath’s book aloud to my wife. It was a small way for me to give to her. Nevertheless, I was not prepared for the wonderful & encouraging truths that we would encounter together. We are both around six decades into life. This would have been better in many ways 50 years ago; yet, there is still today & maybe another one to three decades of tomorrows left in us. Our hope is to be reinvigorated in doing good for others. I read this out loud in less than one hour. It’s an hour you won’t regret!

This is a short read on life’s purpose being to contribute to others around you. Why it will make you happy and bring fulfillment. Brings in stories about others in his life and what they contributed that will live on, long after their deaths (several of these people are facing death). A little bit of history about the strengthsfinder tool is in here, too. Highly recommend for someone who is depressed or just feeling a bit down about their life. Hopefully it will motivate and empower them to help others, and bring happiness and clarity to their own life.

Good information that we should all live by. Quick read full of encouraging information. If we all applied this to our lives, we would be better off.

I will be honest in saying that I did not want to read this book. I will be even more honest in saying that my finger slipped and opened the book by accident. Even so, I am very, very glad to have read such a clear and simple message. It’s not about me. It’s about you. It’s about us. It’s about being the best we can be for each other. Reading this in 2020, the message has never resonated within me so clearly until now. I hope that I am able to live out this message, and teach others (while also recommending the book) that life is meant to be meaningful.

Wonderful quick read! Inspiring and powerful reminder that life is about what you do now and how you make others feel.... it truly isn't about YOU. It's also a great reminder to live life to the fullest and stop waiting to share your love, your story, and your life with others.

I have read many books that are 500 pages long and the message is sometimes lost. This book was the exact opposite. It was short, meaningful, and to the point. I love that Mr. Rath talks about living a life of contribution. While it may seem like he is saying that we need to care more about others than we do ourselves, that is not the case at all. In fact, when he says that we are the product of others’ contributions, it makes you think “who?” I thought about my parents, my extended family, my teachers, my friends, my mentors, and etc. I thought about how I felt when they contributed their time, their expertise to me and I wanted to be that person for someone else. I wanted to contribute to another person’s life so that one day, in the future, I will be remembered. I am thinking about painting the question “what can I do for another person today?” on my ceiling.

Your life is about you! Who else is it about? After all, if and when you mess us, as we all, do, others will be quick to let you know just whose life you're living and just who that life is about.

This is more about him than any type of guide. However it is written well I suppose. Not really what I thought is would be.

This book is for anyone and everyone! Tom gives meaningful and applicable guidance wherever you may be in life’s journey.

One sentence describes this whole book. Neat story about overcoming the odds but put others first sums it all up.

This book was a very quick read for me (an hour), but I will re-read it a few times to try to refocus my life. Life is a chain of choices made, and this book makes me rethink my motivation and my purpose. I want to stop spreading trashy emotions and start being positive. This book is a good motivator for that purpose.

I like that the author spoke from his experience; however, I am a big believer in healing one’s self first. That doesn’t mean I’m not contributing to my community. The author forgot to mention that in order for a person to help others he or she has to be of sound mind. I don’t think people can be helpful when their own life is in shambles.

Great book! Easy to read and understand. I really like the story and motivated me to do better. I enjoyed listening to the book.

Just by it's title, it's a goodread for anyone or everyone finding a purpose in their life. I was diagnosed with having GAD, this book is very challenging yet fulfilling when you have done something worthwhile for others, it gives you a great motivation to act on something more meaningful for others than focusing & wallowing in negativity.

Jesus said that ‘there is more happiness in giving than in receiving.’ This book fleshes out that profound concept in a way that’s easy to understand as well as motivating. A tremendous amount of positive encouragement in a small investment of your time. Must read!

Reading this left me with a feeling of encouragement during the most stressful times in our country that I have experienced in my 67 years. It reminds me of the bigger picture in humanity and in my own life. I have always felt in my heart that it is so much better to give than to receive. It also reminds me of how much I appreciate the encouragement I have received from family and friends and sometimes strangers when I desperately needed it.I would call this a feel good read.

I really enjoyed reading It's Not About You. It's a fairly quick read with a lot of great information to make you stop & think about how you are living your life & just how little things can impact other's. Great book!

Never take for granted that tomorrow will happen--live life to the fullest by helping others. Tom does a wonderful job of telling his life story and the people who helped shape him and his outlook on life. A really great read.

A lovely reminder to be grateful and thank those around you. We tend to forget that helping others is very rewarding. We so caught up in our daily lives that we sometimes lose focus.

This was an excellent book with aa mixture of old-school and fresher advice. You can listen to it while working out, eating breakfast, and shaving/putting on makeup...you can finish it all in one morning. It will make you thirsty to read the author's new book. Let me tell you, I miss his Grandpa and I never met him! Everybody needs someone like that in their life...not just when they are growing up, but in their young adult life as well. It just goes to show that family annd friends, though irreplaceable, are often left for granted. Remember your elders! You can learn a thing or two from them...

FYI: I'm 65 years old and I have been through A LOT of different experiences and situations; if these things had happen to someone else I would not believe it was true ! Life IS stranger than fiction. THIS BOOK is so vague that it just wasted my time! If you want to know how to live READ THE BIBLE!

This is a concise book that lives up to its name. Blending personal story, anecdotes, and clear learnings on the meaning of life, the author shows how helping and doing for others creates a lasting legacy and a meaningful life. Very inspirational and motivational.

As one goes through life, people and experiences impact one’s choices and directions. This book reframed how to look at each experience toward a more rewarding life. My life has been better as a result of doing many of the pointers the author provides. Do take the short time needed to read this book and take to heart!

I started listening to the book, being "weekend lazy" and hoping to breeze through the it. I have already used, "Strengths Finder 2.0" and found it helpful, but still needed a push. By the end I turned off the voice and just read it myself. The voice was obviously computer-generated and had none of the needed personality this topic demands. As I said in the headline, I've been a teacher and public speaker for 30 years....I'd do it for free just to get rid of this awful recording!

I loved this short book me begin to look being me. I have gone through a rough time over the last year and had drifted into a self preservation mode. This book has helped me to refocus my attention. To not look so much in the mirror, but out of the window at others. This book was like a Z-Pack for life. I encourage others to read this book if you are in a place in your life where you are thinking too much about yourself. Your healing may be in what you do for others. Praise the Lord!!!

I was amazed that this book caught my eye, in particular today of all days. I have been struggling with trying to raise children who put other people’s needs as priorities. I am asking my 18 year old son to read this book today, take notes, and present me with his thoughts when I return home from work tonight. Thank you!!

this is a book for beginners and is rather generic ... it’s advice I understand is based on a compelling story to do an analogy with for others to live their lives yet the application between his life story and general volunteering was not concrete for me ... to me volunteering is four things - time talent resource and cash ... they can be used in any combination - the point is to give.

I give this book 5 because I also share a belief that life should be about what an individual can contribute to others. Rich or poor, every person can make meaningful contribution to the world. This book is a brief example of ways this author was able to contribute despite severe hardships. It is work reading to gain new mindset for making life count!

I found this book to be meaningful and inspirational. I highly recommend it. Contributing your efforts to your fellow man and living a more fulfilling life, who doesn’t want to get behind that?

This is a really quick read/listen. This is a wholesome reminder that chasing self-absorbed happiness results in disappointment. Real gratification comes from looking past your own wants and needs and focusing on the helping others and the world as a whole.

I love that this book was direct and did not spend time teasing. I plan to share this book with my college age son so that he can start out on the right foot.

I’m a big fan of Tom Rath’s work and Strengthsfinder has been a game changer for me personally. I’ve used Strengthsfinder in my work with leaders for many years. There isn’t anything new here, other than his personal stories which I found quite inspiring. I enjoyed the autobiographical parts and the reminder to be mindful of how we can contribute to others.

Meaning is found in developing our own talents into strengths that help others, impacting others with our strengths. This simple concept has taken Tom others a lifetime to master it. This book clearly points into that direction and starts a next one to shorten that realizations for others.

I truly believe this book deserves a high rating, for it reaffirmed my own personal beliefs. He put into words what I have struggled to explain to others and now...I can recommend this book. It was easy to read . Recommending this to many people in my social group

Great Read! Especially for the End of the year! I am looking forward to reading his other books! I would recommend this book to anyone who is comparing themselves to others and anyone who is caught up on the rat race. Life is so much more then working a job trying to make more and more money and this book is a reminder of that.

I read the serious “Have You Filled a Bucket Today?” To my students for countless of years. Reading “It’s Not About You” was the perfect mindset that I needed to shift my gears to a more meaningful life. The easy read, relatable practices, and self-reflections were absolutely phenomenal. Definitely a read worth dedicating time to.

This book made me look deeper into myself and see what I can contribute to this world. For it's people, animals and nature. What am I going to leave behind for the next generation? What wisdom will I pass on? I recommend this book very much. Quick and easy read.

Inspiring and writes from his perspective where poverty fortunately never been his problem. We need more people whom teach us how with action words and keep inspiring us though regardless of their social background and status. But besides beautiful words how you contribute to others we need how to gain strength ourselves to do it! Maybe the answer is you are yourself the beneficiary by helping others.

My title says is all. A couple of phrases that resonated with me were “You can’t be anything you want to be, but you can be a whole lot more of who you already are.” And “...understand how your daily efforts (can) enhance the lives of others.”

Line after line of profound truths, this is a quick read and a call to action for everyone. Highly recommended.

It’s not about you, it’s about what you do for others. This is the path to a more fulfilling life.

Most people who read this book know the truths in it about service and sacrifice. The part that sets this short read apart is the human stories and testimony of MR. Rath. Amazing. Thanks for making earth better.

A short read that was simply eye opening. The smallest actions can sometimes have the biggest impact on someone’s life. I felt even more connected to some experiences mentioned in this book when he revealed to be a Michigan Alumni. Go Blue!

Made me feel better!! Love the concept of living like you are dying since we all are!!! Very good read!!

As much a memoir as it is any helpful techniques or tools to lead a meaningful life. Enjoyable if a bit sad at times.

I found this a very interesting approach to the outlook of life. I just finished a book co-written by the Dalai Lama ( The Art of Happiness) and both have similar but different paths to Happiness. An eye opener approach to life.

It was short and concise. Really helps you get a some things in perspective! Anyone looking to do some self development will do well with taking a look at this book. It was a quick read and I look forward to reading more from Tom.

Great quick read with practical advice! You can put these principals to work immediately without any additional programs. All you basically have to to is ensure to think of others before yourself.

Well written for a self help type of book. It spans the life events one truly remarkable life fortunate to live beyond a deadly disease and share his inspiring stories and experiences.

I really enjoyed this book. There is some great stuff I'm it and I think the only thing missing is the element of faith. Pouring into others buckets is really only life changing when you are doing what God intended you to do.

I chose this rating because this book moved me. It made me view my life and surroundings more clear. It's very positive and makes you wonder what more you could do for others.

I recommend this book to everyone. We live in a me first world. We have achieved more and make more money than ever before yet we feel empty. That's because it's time to focus on others instead of ourselves.

This should be a "no trainer" for most caring humans. We all need help sometime in our lives, so learn to share.

Great read! Comprehensive and speaks to some of life’s truest meanings. Investing in others is key. It’s not about you is a phrase many can benefit from and do not even know it yet!

This is a quick read full of inspiration on how to improve attitude and spread positivity. A must read for everyone.

An easy to read reminder of what’s important. Bravo Tom Rath. I especially like the reminder to communicate appreciation ‘before someone realizes’ they will die. Brilliant.

Parents read this book now! The thing that stuck with me the most is that our home, our family is the first place where we can make the greatest contribution and impact. And there’s nothing wrong with seeing a bigger contribution to society but oftentimes we get lost in the rat race and forget the individuals we have an opportunity to impact within our own immediate circles on a daily basis. This book does not disappoint and offers many little nuggets to think about and also ways to actively put the concept into practice stating today.

Clear understanding of life and what we can contribute. Tom Rath explains what Christianity believes... it's all about Jesus on the cross and what He did is what lives on. That's what matters!

Great motivational book, and a good fast read book. It was very easy and inspirational. I loved how the Author used his family and friends as mentors

I enjoyed reading this . In today's world we are getting caught up with just thinking about ourselves which is why I think we are heading in the wrong direction. This book opened my eyes because we do feel better giving rather than receiving .It's better to make an impact on one's life rather than just making in impact in ours.Impacting ourselves won't live on once we are gone . Great read highly recommend

It was good for me to realize that other people are suffering, too, but still manage to help others and lead productive lives. The satisfaction I seek from my life will come from reaching out to my family, neighbors, and community to meet needs and add quality time to family relationships.

I was expecting more. It makes an interesting point, but doesn’t fully offer the tools/guidance I thought it would. It’s more of an article than a book.

What a tremendous positive shift we could have if more people read and followed this. The book has given me much to think about and I'm looking forward to making the changes included here.

This book brings focus on what is important in life and that we do not have unlimited time in this world.

This book is a short and easy read but has such a strong lasting affect. This will be on my book list to reread whenever I lose focus on life!

In today’s contentious me first society, the authors “ What can I do for others?” attitude is beyond refreshing. Even as he battles debilitating diseases, he has not sunk into a woe is me approach to life.

This book pushed me to not feel so sorry for myself and to getup and do something with my life. To what this man went through and what he is doing for people now is just amazing. I just wish I can be at least half as amazing as he is.

Quick and Great Read , with the powerful message. It narrates through author’s life experience and observations, which definitely have impact on the reader’s mind!!

I have loved everything I have ever read from Tom Rath, and this book may be his most impactful yet. A needed reminder to not live our lives for ourselves, but for others. A life lived for self is a wasted life.

This is a quick read. It is effective in shifting my mindset from inward focus to a more outward focus. I highlighted a number of sections that helped motivate me to move past hanguos about myself. It is one I will likely go back to.

Very relatable and informative. I enjoyed hearing the audible version. I definitely learned some ways to improve my life and the lives I encounter online and in real life.

Tom presents an uncomplicated version of a complex story...his humility is an extra bonus while he shows you a very simple but life changing paradigm. Get this and give to your kids.

Through life stories and personal experiences, Tom Rath describes that a life well-lived is one that invests in people. Examine your own life every day and ask, “how can I contribute to a person’s life today?” Your life has an expiration date, but your contributions to others do not. Short and easy-to-read, but the book lacks practical steps on how to invest in and contribute to others to make the kind of lasting impact he encourages.

A short but sweet story about a man who, facing his own mortality from a diagnosis received at 16 years old, decided to beat the odds and leave this world just a bit better whether he had just a little or a lot of time left.

If you’re trying to find purpose in life, the core ideas in this book are a great place to start. Even if you’re not, this is a short read and it’s the kind of thing that will simmer in the back of your mind until I accidentally starts helping you improve your life.

Short , to the point and very practical! Upon completion of this book, one may ask what can he/she do for others as life is finite. We must live and celebrate life as we live not after one’s death. Loved this book!!!!

In this book, a model for how to contribute to others is found. The author tells the story of his life with a gene mutation and how one can contribute to others.

Short and well written. Examples are poignant. Thesis is noteworthy. Just it’s not really a book. But then again Amazon promoted it for free.

A writing highlighting how we are meant to live. Our significance can only be measured in our positive social footprint that lives on after we pass into history.

Written from the authors personal experiences with the reality of a potentially terminal genetic disease and multiple types of cancer. This book informs about what we should already know regarding helping others in need, but it also suggests that by assisting others we also help ourselves to live the most gratifying life possible. Recommend this book for anyone need a little attitude adjustment and reminder of what we have and that there are always others worse off that need our help.

Generic platitudes. The main idea of the book is that you should do good things. No idea why it's a popular book because it could have been said in a pamphlet.

Very good quick read. I like the concept of looking beyond ones self to figure a way to contribute to others. Selflessness can lead to a more satisfying life.

This is a short read that is positive, uplifting and uncomplicated. Is the only guide needed. Follow these few simple steps and be amazed where they take you.

This is a quick read, but powerful and honest. It reminds me of the simple but profound advice given by the greatest teacher who ever lived, Jesus Christ, when he said, there is more happiness in giving than in receiving.

I like that the book is a quick and easy read. It's easy to put yourself in the author's postion, with the death of a loved one. I like the idea of letting people know how they have contributed to your life while they are alive. This book should be included in all school curriculum!

Thank you for sharing your story and the message. I really like the quote “You can’t be anything you want to be, but you can be a whole lot more of who you already are.”

This is a short book that focuses on the author's life experiences. The lessons he shares are not unique to him, but a powerful reminder to the reader.

A fantastic read and message. The author really helps you put in perspective what really matters and to make positive contributions to the world starting by getting past your own intrinsic lens. I read it very quickly and was able to connect easily. Everything written was well put.

I would recommend this book to anyone needing to focus on the world around them rather than themselves. The author’s courageous tale sparks an interest in looking outside of our needs.

This is a great book to inspire you to do more for others and your community! Give back! Serve! Get over yourself and have a heart for serving others!

Wow! Truly, life isn’t about us but how we do love and contribute toward others: love your neighbor as your self—a must read, thank you, Tom Rath!!!

Very insightful. Opens up the floor to ask yourself how you can contribute to others daily lives and leave a legacy for your family, and friends.

Literally. Be. An. Heir. This person is an heir. Just helpin' ya out.

Really good book. A perspective on how to be better and make a better world. Definitely inspiring and open the door to a new vision on how to be bigger in the whole picture of life. Loved it.

Although cleverly written to lead to his next book, the author reminds us that life is short and to do good things for others while you're here. His storytelling brings that to life. It ends abruptly, but I think he still makes his point well. It was worth the brief time to read it.

It's a lovely read, with many inspirational messages, but little guidance to fulfilling them. The summation is buy the next book...

Not really a book... more like a long essay, but the message is just as important. I actually like how he was very straight to the point.

A simple suggestion to improve your life and emotional state. Just forget about you and focus on others. Life is sweeter this way.

I really enjoyed this book. It really reinforced my belief in the importance of contributing to the world and giving it your very best.

I really loved the message this book gives, life is contribution of what others give to us and what we give to others. What will live beyond us.

A book to make you stop and think. We all know what is important in life, but life has so many distractions. KISS remains golden.