Trying Not To Try: 2 Minutes Summary

1 SENTENCE SUMMARY: In Trying Not To Try, Edward Slingerland explores how to tap into our natural, effortless state of mind and unlock our potential without the need to strive or overthink.

“Once we understand the power of trying not to try, we can learn to see the world in a new way, as a place to explore and experience, rather than a place to control and conquer.”

Quick Info

Overview

Trying Not To Try by Edward Slingerland is a book that explores the concept of wu-wei, or effortless action, and its implications for modern life.

Wu-wei is a Chinese term that refers to a state of effortless action, where one is so immersed in the task at hand that they are not aware of the effort they are putting in.

In the book, Slingerland examines how this concept can be applied to everyday life, offering readers practical advice on how to cultivate a state of effortless action in their own lives.

The book also provides a fascinating insight into the history and philosophy of wu-wei, as well as its relevance to modern life.

4 Key Lessons from Trying Not To Try by Edward Slingerland

1. Let Go of Attachment to Outcomes

One of the key lessons from Trying Not To Try is that it is important to let go of attachment to outcomes.

This means that instead of trying to achieve a certain result, it is better to remain open to whatever the outcome may be.

It is important to remember that the process of trying to achieve something is more important than the desired outcome.

This lesson helps readers to focus on the journey instead of the end goal, allowing them to better enjoy the process.

2. Accept Uncertainty

Another lesson from Trying Not To Try is that it is important to accept uncertainty.

This means that it is important to understand that life is filled with unknowns and to accept that no one really knows what will happen.

This lesson is beneficial to readers as it helps them to be more comfortable with the unknown and to become more resilient in the face of adversity.

3. Take Action

A third lesson from Trying Not To Try is that it is important to take action.

This means that it is important to actively pursue your goals and to take the necessary steps to reach them.

This lesson is beneficial to readers as it encourages them to take action instead of waiting for something to happen.

4. Cultivate Awareness

Finally, the book Trying Not To Try also emphasizes the importance of cultivating awareness.

This means that it is important to be mindful of your thoughts, feelings, and actions.

This lesson is beneficial to readers as it helps them to become more self-aware and to better understand their own thoughts and feelings.

This can help them to make better decisions and to lead a more fulfilling life.

Who Should Read It

This book would be of interest to those interested in philosophy, psychology, self-help, and Eastern religious studies.

It would be most beneficial for readers looking for an interesting new perspective on the pursuit of personal growth and well-being.

Where to Get It

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About Edward Slingerland

Edward Slingerland is a professor of Asian Studies at the University of British Columbia and the Canada Research Chair in Chinese Thought and Embodied Cognition.

He holds a Ph.D. from Stanford University and has written several books, including Trying Not To Try, which examines the concept of “wu-wei”, a Chinese philosophical concept about effortless action.

He has written for The New York Times, The Atlantic, and Harper’s Magazine, and he has been featured on NPR and in The New Yorker.

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Other Happiness Books you may Like:

• Best Books on Happiness
• Wherever You Go, There You Are by Jon Kabat-Zinn
• 10% Happier by Dan Harris
• A Life in Light by Mary Pipher
• A Short Guide to a Happy Life by Anna Quindlen

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Over to You

If you already read Trying Not To Try by Edward Slingerland, please take a moment to rate it and maybe write your feedback in the comments. You’ll help other readers make the best choice.

Thanks a lot,
Simon

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