The Not So Big Life: Making Room for What Really Matters

By Sarah Susanka

Book Overview

Have you ever found yourself asking, "How did my life get so out of control?" Or wondering if this bigger life you have created is actually a better life? Most of us have lives that are as cluttered with unwanted obligations as our attics are cluttered with things. The bigger-is-better idea that triggered the explosion of McMansions has spilled over to give us McLives-leaving us with chaotic, overcommitted schedules and no time to do what we want to do. In The Not So Big Life , architect Sarah Susanka expands her revolutionary philosophy on inhabiting space to show us how to better inhabit our lives. Through simple exercises and inspiring stories, Susanka reveals that all we need to do is make small shifts in our day-subtle movements that open our minds as if we were opening windows to let in fresh air. The result- We quickly discover that we have all the space and time we need for the things in our lives that really matter. These small changes can yield great rewards. In her elegant, clear style, Susanka convinces us that less is truly more-much more.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0812976002
• ISBN13: 9780812976007
• Release Date: December 2007
• Publisher: Random House Publishing Group
• Length: 304 Pages
• Weight: 1.26 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.7" x 8.0"

Customer Reviews

A Fresh Approach

I've read self help books, anti-clutter books, the meaning of life books, how to take control of everything books. Sarah sensibly and sensitively directs our attention from what we think the problem is to the source of the solution that is not as apparent as it may seem. I enjoyed the simple exercises that are, yes, all about me. In particular, her take on love is stunning.

sound advie, practical and easy to follow

Sarah was able to use visual examples to accurately portray more abstract "life make over" challenges. She nailed the examples. From this book I created my "to do" list - specific life style "remodeling" for me to implement in my life.

A blueprint for your life

Susanka has written an accessible and logical book outlining how to begin to really know yourself. "The Not So Big Life" is full of practical wisdom that everyone can put to use to create for themselves a richer and more rewarding inner life. If you believe that life is a journey of personal evolution, you will love this book!

Building and constructing a quality life

Susanka creates a life for herself with the insight of the sensitive architect that she is. Recommending a notebook to collect thoughts, she instructs the reader go through exercises that will assist him/her with making changes and improving their existance. Take the time to read this book...it is enjoyable, well executed and will make you look at things differently. I recommend this for all ages, teenage, middle-age and older.

My life - ONLY BETTER

This is such a beautiful book and comes at the perfect time for me... I am an executive with tons to do and frankly I have lost touch with what is really important to me... this book reminds me and gives me tools to make small shifts in my day and my thinking to bring in the much needed fresh air!