3 out of 4 stars
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If Life Stinks, Get Your Head Outta Your Buts by Mark L. Wdowiak is a self-help book that teaches readers how to make changes in their lives by assuming responsibility for themselves.
I appreciate how this book lays out the author's opinion in a straightforward and simple manner. Wdowiak does not waste time by flattering his readers. Instead, he explains that the main reason people have trouble achieving success is that they do not recognize their own part in their problems. Additionally, they do not want to put in the effort to make changes happen. Wdowiak recommends a crawl, walk, run strategy to help people make changes in their lives. In the crawling phase, he counsels readers to take responsibility for themselves and their actions. When readers have acknowledged their responsibility, the walk phase encourages readers to take control of their thinking and change their mindset to look for success. Finally, in the run phase, readers learn to take action and be ready to accept the opportunities as they arise.
At times, Wdowiak's approach and language can feel somewhat abrasive. As someone who has traveled this path, he understands that sometimes it takes a firm statement for someone to finally recognize his or her part in the situation. Throughout the book, Wdowiak speaks about his own path to understanding his part in his problems and making the necessary changes to realize his dreams. He credits some of his mentors with speaking firmly to him and finally helping him change his life. In return, he offers readers this same voice so that they may also recognize their own responsibility and change their lives.
While I support the ideas contained within this book, I found at times that it seems somewhat repetitive. This repetition may be important for readers that struggle with the idea of taking responsibility for their actions, though. Despite the repetition, I did find some stories and helpful words of advice throughout the book. For example, I appreciate how the author differentiates obligation and responsibility by saying, “Obligation is something you owe, responsibility is something you do.” Another of my favorite quotes states, “an excuse is just a reason based on a lie - so stop lying to yourself!” Quotes like these helped me find value in the book and made me appreciate the words of wisdom from the author.
In the end, I give this book 3 out of 4 stars. I found the book was edited well and contained only a few minor errors. While the content is both practical and valuable, the “wow” factor that I find necessary for the fourth star is missing. I recommend this book to readers looking for a no-nonsense guide that will help them take ownership of their situation and make lasting, positive change. Readers looking for a “feel good” self-help book may wish to look elsewhere.
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If life stinks get your head outta your buts
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