As I think through how I want to present the insights I gained from reading this book, I start to second guess myself. After all, the title of the book uses what many consider to be foul language. Then, I re-read the title of the book, recall the principle message being conveyed in this book, and realize that I am caring to much about what others think of me. In essence, I am being self-absorbed instead of staying focused on what is really important.
I would not necessarily label this book as a leadership or business book. The message is about simplifying the garbage that can clutter our minds, which in turn will help us focus on what is really important. For example, when I focus on improving in my profession as a way to gain more material goods (nice house, new cars, fun boat, etc.) then when I achieve those goals, I am left with nothing else to pursue. If my focus is to improve so that I can have more expertise and help others to grow, that is a goal that does not have an end and helps me understand that there will always be room for improvement.
I often fall into the trap of my insecurities. Usually, it is because I am comparing myself to others, playing the “victim”, or wanting to be the center of attention. If I seek to lean on someone else (lover, friend, family member, coworker, etc.) to assuage my insecurities I am placing an undue burden on them. This is the foundation for an unhealthy relationship. I need to cope with my insecurities in the light of understand that they are usually a result of caring about things that should not be on the radar of real-life concerns.
Not too long ago, I recently published a self-discipline blog post. This book falls into the realm of teaching us one way we can implement self-discipline with our thoughts and concerns. It is often our thoughts, based on insecurity which fuel bad decisions. Am I angry with my boss? Perhaps it is because I am focused on my own insecurities which clash with the what is being asked of me. Am I jealous because my lover/spouse will not give me the attention I think I deserve? Perhaps, I am being a narcissist, self-absorbed, entitled, petulant child in my own mind and ignoring the pressures my lover/spouse is facing in their mind.
The point here is, we all deal with this garbage in our minds and in our lives. Learn to push through unnecessary things that consume our thoughts. Set aside the, “entitled brat”, in your own mind and learn to focus on things that really matter. It is a freeing experience and helps you lead a more fulfilling life.