Not great. ( )

I learned of this book when Marc Maron interviewed Barry Michels on the WTF podcast. From this interview I also heard about Denial of Death by Ernest Becker. These two books, and this The Tools books in particular, have changed my life. The Tools contains certain emotional practices that will change your approach to fear. The one tool I've used fairly consistently since learning about it is the one where you practice compassion for people who bother or annoy you. I'm far from perfect, I still get irritable and angry at "annoying" people, but I'm at least now aware of the fact that I have a choice in the matter. ( )

I just skimmed it but the lessons are provocative. How to face fear, how to express your inner authority, bringing love into your life. As the authors point out, it is difficult to keep practicing the exercises. Perhaps I'll pick up the book again for refreshing. ( )

What's really great about this book is the detail provided in using and applying 'the tools'. I'd describe this book a practical - not beautifully written, but very useful. ( )