 Better Than The First Version By A Very Long Shot . . . Definitely Worth The Investment |
| Review Date: December 16, 2009 |
| Reviewer: Dave Lakhani, Boise, ID United States |
I reviewed the first edition of The Four Hour Workweek and was surprised by the content, it was a fresh look at a new idea (Lifestyle Design) and it offered some really practical, useful advice that virtually anyone could implement. I recommended the book to many people, most liked it some didn't.
I eagerly pre-ordered this version of the book when I first heard about it mostly because I was curious if it would really be better . . . and boy was it!
I sat down with this book and read until the wee hours of the morning. Sure a lot of the material is the same, but there are around 100 new pages of material and that material is what the first edition desperately needed. The new material is solid examples, case studies, new resources and it addresses how to navigate lifestyle design in a rapidly changing economy.
Tim includes a list of things learned in 2008 along with lessons learned, this section of the book was priceless. Here are a few of the things he talks about:
1. Don't accept large or costly favors from strangers - Exceptions, uber-successful mentors who are making introductions and not laboring on your behalf.
2. You don't have to recoup losses the same way you lose them - An interesting discussion of mortgages.
3. One of the most universal causes of self-doubt and depression: Trying to impress people you don't like (This one really hit home with me . . . hard)
4. Slow meals = life
5. Money doesn't change you; it reveals who you are when you no longer have to be nice.
6. It doesn't matter how many people don't get it. What matters is how many people do.
7. I should not invest in public stocks where I cannot influence outcome (Another hearty agreement from me).
The list goes on as does the new information in the book. This one is a must read for anyone who wants to break the slave-save-retire cycle and live on purpose now. |
Reading Comprehension is Key
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| Review Date: December 28, 2009 |
| Reviewer: Zoe Winters, USA |
I'd like to preface this review with something interesting about the Amazon reviews for this book. Many 1-star reviewers accused the 5-star reviewers of being "plants." Especially the ones who hadn't reviewed a book before on Amazon. How do they know that the person wasn't just so moved by the book they made their first Amazon review? We all had that first book we reviewed at one point or another. And extreme feelings about a book, either extreme love or extreme hate, tend to motivate one to share that view with the world.
What I found amazing was, most of the 1-star reviews were reviews of positive reviews, not the book, even though they claimed to be reviews of the book. With all that was taken out of context and twisted, it was clear that most of the 1-star reviewers either didn't read the book or don't have sufficient reading comprehension to be a critic of anything. I find this unfortunate since many negative-minded people read these reviews and respond with things like: "This was what I suspected, glad I didn't waste my money." I'm not sure what exactly the threat is in exploring new ideas whether you agree with them or not, at least allow your mind the opportunity to choose.
This book is not about being lazy. It's not a get-rich quick scheme. It's not about being dishonest or unethical. It became very clear that some people really truly believe that working few hours on work you hate to free up time for more productive and meaningful life activities is somehow "immoral." I guess the Puritanical mentality this country started out with (earliest settlers here) has seeped deeper into our overall culture than we once imagined.
I used to be very held back by the notion of "the other people in the world who are suffering." i.e. why should I seek to make my life situation better when it seems selfish compared to all the starving Ethiopian children, for example. But the crux of the issue is this... I am either helping, being helped, or breaking even. Breaking even would be when a person barely scrapes by enough to support and take care of their own family unit (people living in the house with them.) They are often in debt, middle-class generally, but living paycheck to paycheck or not far above it. They live from scarcity rather than abundance and so any little bit they have over they have to save rather than use to help someone else.
Others are constantly "being helped" by the government, by charities, by whoever. Now I'm not making a moral judgment against either of these groups of people. Living in a money-based instead of a community-based society is hard. However... people often rush to judge those who either HAVE money or WANT to have money as automatically immoral or bad people. And that's not true. Who do you think the helpers are? It's certainly not the people who need help, and it's not the people in that middle class prison that can't seem to get ahead. It's the people who have extra money TO help. And those are also the people who volunteer the most because surprise surprise they have more TIME to donate than any of the other groups.
So I think people would benefit themselves quite a bit if they changed their attitude about acquiring money. Yes, there will always be greedy people who acquire at the expense of others. There will always be people who are materialistic and just want more and more useless "stuff." But then there are others who acquire money and more personal freedom who use a good portion of both of those assets to help others. And contrary to what many readers seemed to get out of the book (or out of their reading of the reviews only), the author's message isn't about being greedy, but about acquiring freedom and then using that freedom for something that benefits both you and others at the same time.
Pointless drudgery and suffering for the sake of it is... pointless. It's not character building necessarily and it doesn't make you a better person necessarily. And especially if a lot of the suffering is self-imposed based on a refusal to think outside of a very limiting box.
The author's definition of the "new rich" is a sliding barometer. For example his view (and I agree) is that someone who makes $40,000 a year and is totally 100% mobile and can live ANYWHERE in the world, and go anywhere in the world, is far more rich than someone making $500,000 a year who hates their job, works 80 hour weeks and is trapped in one location (usually a very expensive American city like NY or LA.) This is very true. You'd be amazed by the variable in quality of life for your dollar depending on where you live, even just in the United States there is huge variability.
This book explores a lot of ways for you to simplify your life and get work done with as soon as possible so you can get on to other things. Timothy Ferriss is NOT saying that you can work 4 hours a week starting tomorrow. The goal of this particular book for this particular outcome is one of two things: either to work remotely for your employer and increase productivity to the point that you can work fewer hours (though probably more than 4 a week) from home or anywhere else you are, or starting a business with the goal of automation at the end. i.e. internet business, product-based businesses (online), information products. You do a lot of work on the front end to create a product and set up an infrastructure so you don't have to continue to micromanage the business forever. You can go on to doing other things, either another income stream or micro-business on another topic/idea/product, or some other activity that interests you.
This is the kind of track I'm on and have been on for a little while now. This book wasn't overly novel to me because I'd already been initiated into this type of "Freedom-based" thinking through books like: "Unjobbing: The Adult Liberation Handbook," "Making a Living Without a Job," and "How I found Freedom in an Unfree World," all amazing books and paradigm shifters that make you take stock of what YOU want and not what you're "supposed" to want and that also make you look at money and acquiring it in whole new ways. Every single one of them is valuable in their own right and reading those books probably made this book far less "out there" to me. Since apparently it seems pretty "out there" to a lot of people.
I've owned a service business before (wedding coordinating) and a craft business (candlemaking) and on both fronts I realized quickly that even if I was spectacularly successful, that there was a definite ceiling on the amount of money I could earn with either without adding significant complication into the mix (i.e. working long hours indefinitely and employees which I would then have to manage.) In the case of candles I could have gone an entirely different route into outsourcing manufacturing, but then it would cease being a "crafts" business and turn into just retail.
There is a common saying among entrepreneurs that they would rather work 16 hours a day for themselves than 8 hours a day for someone else. Well I don't even want to work 8 hours a day. It's not that I'm lazy, I just have other things to do, and if you enhance your productivity there really is no genuine reason to work that many hours a day. Most people in 9-5 jobs are getting about 3-4 hours of genuine WORK done a day. Well that's about what I do, but I just do it in a concentrated effort and don't get sidetracked by other things. Some days I work 6 hours especially when I'm in the new phase of a project, but that's about my max. Granted, we are talking about income producing activities here. This doesn't include cooking and cleaning which is also technically work, or exercise, which is a form of work. I enjoy exercise, but I enjoy most of what I do to one degree or another so liking or not liking the activity can't be the barometer for what is and isn't work.
Anyway this is an incredibly long-winded way of saying that I really enjoyed this book, and didn't find it that "out there." It's somewhat amusing to see the people who "do" find it that "out there" because I don't really think I'm an impractical person. But I will admit that it has probably helped that I'm so stubborn, I just pretty much refused to buy into many of the ideas I was "supposed" to buy into regarding work. So even with the first paradigm-shifting book I read in this category, I was open to the ideas. I'm not a lazy person but I also don't mistake "busyness" for productivity or accomplishment.
I was already familiar with a lot of the mentalities and ideas in the book from my exposure to the above mentioned books as well as learning experiences I've already had in business and things I'd figured out on my own, but I did learn a few new techniques and he also helped to boil down some things for me that will be useful in launching my next income stream which will hopefully eventually replace the freelance work I'm doing now. Because the goal eventually is automation so I can free up time to just write what I want (with or without big profit at the end of it), and focus on other pursuits. |
One of the top 3 influential books I have read!
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| Review Date: April 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Iron Shore Investments, Austin, Tx |
Brief Background: I owned and operated 4 bookstores in Austin, Tx for 13 years. I have read a lot of books and have sold many books on being successful in business and life. This is my first review.
I was given this book by a business partner and I was reluctant to read one more book on the secrets of a great life. I was fascinated and hooked after the first few pages. I am going to keep this simple. If you are clear that greatness is inside of you, then this book is for you. If you are clear that you have nothing to offer, then this book is for you. This book is a paradox as is Tim Ferriss. This is not a get rich quick book. It is a book that gives you all you need to have an amazing life. And along the way you may get rich. If you just do part of what he says your life will be great. If you attempt all of his recommendations...who knows. He gives you assignments at the end of every chapter to explore your limitations. Thanks Tim for pushing yourself beyond what experts said you couldn't do.
P.S.
Because of Tim's book I started 6 internet websites...3 made me zip and didn't cost me much except some time and a little money(under $100 each). The other 3 are making me a total of $2000 a month profit for the last 6 months. I also drastically reduced the amount of time I work at my other business'. |
Packed with Excellent Info for New Rich Wannabes
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| Review Date: July 23, 2010 |
| Reviewer: richsinglemomma, |
| Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R3DBCS94PODIXC This is my take on Tim Ferris' book The 4-Hour Work week. It's really changed my thinking about work and life balance. As a single mom life can be pretty crazy but with this book I see the light for a brighter future. |
Time to Paint
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Thomas, |
| I love this book. it helped me put my priorities in line and do the same if not more amount of work in less time giving me more time to do things i want to be doing like skiing or painting! |
Learn to Live Like the Rich and Other Tidbits...
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| Review Date: February 19, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Trevor J. Flannigan, |
The book of the week was 4-Hour Work Week by Timothy Ferriss. I love this book. I have been waiting for the expanded edition to come out so I could review it for this blog and now here it is. The ideas of this book are anything but traditional. Ferriss gives his readers the map to escape their 9-5 job and live anywhere and do anything. See... Anything but traditional...
There are two paths the reader can potentially go down to reach the aforementioned goal of the book. First, they could come up with a product such as a, herbal supplement, like the author did. After this product is made, you outsource everything. Production, Calls, Marketing, Sales.... Everything! This is done by using outsourced production companies, calling centers, using India-based virtual assistants, and website only sales. Ferriss does a tremendous job of laying out the "how-to," so keep your cynicism at bay until you have done the homework. It's not as crazy as it sounds. The second path the reader can go down is to negotiate a work-from-home career. He shows how most jobs can be done over skype, email, and [...]. I think that a lot of people think that it is impossible for them, but you may be surprised. After the reader negotiates to work from home, you may try to work from a trip and then before you know it... you are able to take mini-vacations and still work.
The focus of the book was not meant for me. I do not have a traditional 9-5 job and what I do have does not need escaping. But I know a lot of people that do not like their job or someone that is unemployed and would like something different. In that case, the focus of this book is something worth looking into.
The thing I like more than anything about this book is Ferriss has some of the most amazing ideas, not directly related to the main point of the book, that I have been able to incorporate into my life and make myself more efficient and happier. And these are the ideas I really want to focus on today...
Speed Reading- Yes, this is where I learned how. Since I read the "how-to" the first time I have gotten much much faster, but this is the book that gave me the foundation to increase my reading speed and gives me time to do this blog and everything else I have going on. I cannot tell you how advantageous this has been for me. The skills I have learned through the books I have read will be forever transferable.
The trick to speed reading is to think of reading like painting a picture. The mind is incredibly fast and you do not need to look at every single word to paint the picture. Just as when you look at a painting, you don't need to look at every single brush stroke to see what it is. When you read, just focus on every third word and you will naturally use peripheral vision to pick up the words in between. The whole sentence gets read with less eye movement. If you would like more information go to pages 89-90 within the book or Tim Ferriss' blog post on the subject [...]
Virtual Assistants- This would be very handy and it's very reasonably priced. You can get your own personal assistant and they will take care of everything you need them to... over in India. Make sure the tasks you give them are clearly defined and time intensive... you are paying for it after all. The rate is normally around $6.50/hr and the more specialized the task the more you will have to pay. What would you have them do? Well off the top of my head:
Make hotel reservations, book plane tickets, find a dealer to get your car fixed, schedule your appointments, screen your emails, pay your bills, chart a diet plan, get weather forecasts from 5 years ago for a specific area (Tim says this was used in a settlement case), send birthday flowers, pay tickets, post job vacancies of the web, or transcribe voice mails and email them to you.
It comes down to the value of your time, I love my time and I think I may get a VA (Virtual Assistant) within the next couple years. A good site to find one to work for you would be [...] (Hilarious web address)
Traveling- I have used a couple tips laid out in this book and it saved me hundreds of dollars. One tip I learned is when you are looking for a place to stay abroad don't look for hotels or hostels. Instead, look at apartments or houses. The cost of living in a foreign country isn't that much different from what we have in the US (the currency exchange is, but not the cost of living). So sign a month to month lease with a leasing agent and have an apartment overseas for $600-1000 for A MONTH instead of a hotel that would cost $200 A NIGHT or a hostel the would cost $100 A NIGHT.
Another tip that can be applied to your everyday routine is to wake up with a kitchen timer instead of a alarm clock. You can set it for the exact amount of sleep you want (6, 7 ,8 hours) and you get the rest you need and don't waste time. If you start this in your everyday routine then you can experiment with caffeine use and find what is the best practice to get you energized.
When you are looking for the cheapest airfare or hotels use [...] It searches a database of travel websites to give you the best rate and you can also opt to search other travel sites at the same time. Also, when purchasing your plane tickets, do it either months before or minutes before. Minutes before is preferred because you can get amazing deals. An empty seat on a plane brings in $0 for the airline, so this is your opportunity to get a great price.
Happiness- In our society it seems that people have a negative connotation with happiness techniques. I think that is ridiculous. Happiness something just as controllable as your personal finance and deserves your time. And if you want some incentive, companies are much more likely to promote a happy person than they are a continuously melancholy person. Ferriss recommends that every morning when you wake up to go for a brisk 30 minute walk and bounce a tennis ball. This will pump your endorphins, making you beam with happiness for the rest of the day.
Ferriss also recommends some helpful emailing habits... Batch your emails and never check them first thing in the morning or last thing at night. Batching them will make you more efficient because you won't be checking them every 20 minutes eating up all your time. I recommend checking them at 10am and 4pm. And also he recommends not checking them first thing when you wake up or last thing before you go to sleep because emails have a potential to give "bad news"... or at least something you have to "deal with." There is no reason to get yourself worked up about these things and potentially lose sleep or set your day off on the wrong foot. Real emergencies rarely happen and if they do, someone will be calling, not emailing.
This book is very good and Tim Ferriss has a lot of great information. He is a great role-model. And he isn't just a writer, he has done a lot with his life and continues to push himself to learn and do new things. He now speaks 6 languages (self-taught), runs a multinational firm wirelessly, he is a Princeton Lecturer, holds a Guinness World Record for the Tango, National Chinese Kickboxing Champion, he is a horseback archer, MTV breakdancer in Taiwan, Hurling Competitor in Ireland, and an Actor on a hit TV series in China and Hong Kong- Human Cargo. I have heard a lot of people be skeptical of this book for the last 2 and half years that it has been on the New York Times Bestsellers list, but I urge you to give it a chance. The thing I like most about this book is that it has so many great take-aways not directly related to the main focus of the book. If you have any questions on the book don't hesitate to ask. I would be more than happy to help anyone that wants it. |
a glimpse of the self-sufficient mobile new rich
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| Review Date: December 25, 2009 |
| Reviewer: photondn, Florida, USA |
Timothy Ferris' "The 4-Hour Work Week" is a how-to book on how to create personal time in order to build a self-sufficient business and to pursue personal goals.
The title is not a typo. There is no zero missing. 4-Hour Workweek. This book is a self-motivational, self-improvement, and time management book, mainly a time management book. What the book strives is to enjoy life now by being very time efficient and to use the freed-up time to start-up a self-sufficient business. The book contains about 380 page book. Much of book contains resources of where to go in order to get your 4-hour week underway.
My takeaway and the book highlights were the following:
- The idea is to be as mobile as possible and not be encumbered with personal tangibles and fears of potential loss of employment.
- the key is to free-up time from time wasters which the book describes.
- encourages the use of virtual assistants to free-up personal responsibilities that could be outsourced.
- encourages mini-retirements instead of life-deferred retirements.
- encourages working remotely, not just at your own home but in far-away places.
This book is not really a how-to get rich book. The focus is on self-enjoyment now, not on becoming a millionaire.
I have read the first edition and the second edition was a good reread.
One of the terms that I remember is the life-deferment plan, which is deferring life by working 9-to-5 for 20 or so years and then enjoy life at retirement assuming that the person lives long enough and physically-able to enjoy it. Instead, the book recommends a mini-retirement which is enjoying a time-limited retirement now instead of later.
If you're sick and tired of the 9-to-5 rat race, consider this book. The title, by itself, is hard to believe but consider reading it anyhow. This book is targeted to both employees and owners who are shackled down by work and who want to spend more time pursuing personal goals. Given that the economy is in the dumps, some of the ideas may be risky to implement especially for people need work now and short on disposable income.
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Life-style design 2.0
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| Review Date: December 15, 2009 |
| Reviewer: D. Caperton, Columbus, OH USA |
If you were one of the millions around the world who bought the original version of Tim Ferris's ground-breaking guide to lifestyle design in 2007, you might wonder whether the new edition provides enough additional value to justify buying it again. The answer: you bet. Although the new 4HWW is essentially the same basic book, it has been augmented with so many additional tips and resources, that it is more of an upgrade than an update (The Four Hour Workweek 2.0). Like many readers of the original, I was blown away by the 4HWW because it was much more than a guide for aspiring entrepreneurs. In it Ferris provides the how-tos for creating automated income but treats that system as secondary to considering the bigger questions of defining dreams, simplifying (his chapter, E Is for Elimination inspired a chapter in my own bookHappiness Is a Funny Thing), and contemplating your purpose in living . Income is not the point, life is. When the new version was announced, I set my Kindle to get it in the moment it was released and spent this morning devouring the new content. What's new? Testimonials and real-life stories collected from the [...] that demonstrate Ferris's principles applied in ways that he admits he never would have thought of himself. One reader details how he saves enough money on dental work in Thailand to offset the cost of airfare from his home in Austrailia. Although a vacation built around root canal might not be everyone's cup of tea, it demonstrates the innovative ways that Ferris's work is being applied by people to remove obstacles to living their dreams now rather than waiting for a someday that may never arrive.
Besides the philosophical value of the book is the addition of lots of little-known web sources and services to simplify and streamline productivity like [...] for managing email and [...] (now GoogleVoice) for creating a phone number that forwards to any line you choose. For the less-than- cyber-savvy, these resources alone are worth the price of the book.
Finally and most importantly, the 4HWW is now perhaps even more relevant now than it was in 2007 when the author needed to make the case for taking a chance on abandoning the grind. "When everything and everyone is failing, what is the cost of a little experimenting outside the norm?" he asks, adding, "What's the worst that could happen?" For many readers in 2009, that question has already been answered.
Dave Caperton, authorHappiness Is a Funny Thing |
A great book just got better.
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| Review Date: December 15, 2009 |
| Reviewer: William A. Higgins, Decatur, GA USA |
| I read the first edition 4HWW almost 2 years ago when I was on vacation at the beach with my family. I remember it well, because I kept reading parts of the book to my wife, bothering her to no end. I was giddy with enthusiasm because so much in this book resonated with me personally and professionally. I decided then and there that I was going to put the 4HWW principles to work in my own life. And that is exactly what I did. In fact, this book made such a profound impact on me I wrote a personal case study for Timothy Ferriss about how I used the principles of his book in my own life. That case study is now included in this new expanded and updated version of The 4-Hour Workweek on page 367! I won't spoil anything here because I encourage you to buy the book and read all the great reader-generated case studies. They add even more substance and proof that Tim's 4HWW logic can work. |
T. Ferriss and College
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| Review Date: February 20, 2010 |
| Reviewer: K. Coapman, New Jersey |
| This book may at first sight seem inapplicable to you depending on your situation (e.g. age, employment,...) However, as a freshman in college this book has changed how I do everything. I know longer see obstacles as brick walls, rather they are opportunities to capitalize upon. This book will definitely revolutionize your life incredible, no matter what your age is. In fact, I wish I had integrated some of this philosophy into my own schema during high school. |
My favorite book ever! The title is misleading....
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| Review Date: July 31, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Spunk Brophy, Southern California |
I held off from buying this book for a couple years, because the title made me think it was something other than what it is. Finally, I broke down and bought it during one of my travels, and it is now my absolute favorite book. (I buy 20-30 books a year).
It's not really about working only 4 hours a week, but rather, making the decision to LIVE NOW, rather than later when you're old and decrepit. The info and examples are extremely helpful in showing you how.
I've been a member of the New Rich since I quit my high-paying cubicle job to rep my husband's art career. At the time, it seemed CRAZY to do that... but my life has been RICH ever since, as we've traveled the world extensively at our leisure. All on a small income...
This book has helped me take my New Rich habits to the next level - instead of just traveling our usual 8 weeks out of the year overseas, I'm now planning a 6 month trip to Spain with husband and child. It's been a dream of mine, and though I've always known it's possible, this book has helped push me to do it sooner rather than later.
After all, who wants to wait until they're 70 to hike and surf around Europe?! |
The Entrepreneur's Guide to Bootstrapping Up a Business
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| Review Date: December 31, 2009 |
| Reviewer: Kathelen L. Weinberg, Marine On St Croix, MN |
| This book is outstanding for the person who wants a "how to" of bringing up a business in today's high tech world. Whether you can do it in 4-hrs is irrelevant - what is relevant is the assembly of resources to help an entrepreneur truly find a successful life. Love it... |
Fantastic!
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Lisa M. Pietsch, Denver, CO |
This book was positively fantastic! I am so motivated to start applying myself in a more productive manner. This book has given me the opportunity to take a look at where I am, where I want to be and reevaluate how I expect to get there.
As a writer I expect to work more than four hours a week but when you're doing what you love, is it really work?
Tim Ferriss is brilliant! |
Great addition to an already great book
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Timothy J. Walsh, Eau Claire, WI |
| The first 4-Hour Workweek was great and now the expanded explanations, extra charts and added case studies make this book even more valuable than the first! |
but it now and study it
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: S. Ward, |
im not doing a video review yet i have a few things to do first before that, i really enjoyed the books i bought the first copy and it was spot on. since then i have worked slowly to understand and implement these idea's into my way of life.
Step II
E is for Elimination
is great, selling/giving away or the best one to trade for something you want/need is really great over all that is one of my fav chapters in the book the way it breaks down how to get rid of a lot of stuff you dont use so you can make way for stuff you will use is the end result people should be doing.
As the quote says at the start of the chapter:
One does not accumulate but eliminate. it is not daily increase but daily decrease. the height of cultivation always runs to simplicity.
Bruce Lee |
enlightening perspective, applicable to everyone, instantly valuable
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Brian Doll, San Francisco, CA USA |
You can't please everyone, and thankfully Tim doesn't try. Take a hard look at your life story. Spell out the story you tell yourself about how it's going to be a few years from now. How about twenty years. Fifty? Don't blindly repeat the same story the Jones' have been telling about how you're luxurious retirement will be... just after you slave yourself away for your entire life before you get there.
I've personally seen three people this year alone (2009), who are smart, financially responsible and had a glorious retirement plan, fully funded, who died before they got to enjoy it. What are the odds your fantasy retirement story will happen the way you plan it?
You miss the point entirely if you focus exclusively on some details you pick out of Tim's recommendations that you think don't apply to you. The point isn't that his suggestions do or don't seem to immediately apply to you. The point is that your retirement story sucks, and there are other ways to play the game. Tim provides great suggestions, and leaves his readers with no excuse not to start planning their new life.
How does your story go? |
The reason I quit my job
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| Review Date: January 8, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Christian Holmes, San Francisco, CA |
This is an incredible book. I first listened to the audio version while working for a tech company, and listened to it every night on repeat over and over for the rest of the year. I eventually was forced to quit my job because my expectations of a remote working agreement weren't met. I started my own web design business as well.
Tim is authentic, a true revolutionary entrepreneur. You won't be disappointed by this book. |
Mental Smörgåsbord of Invaluable Information
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| Review Date: January 8, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Dante V. Crescenzi, Washington, DC |
The 4-Hour Workweek both original and expanded version is THE most invaluable book I have read in my adult life. Tim does an excellent job of connecting with his readers and hitting on many points that people have secretly known and wanted to change about themselves but never had the guts to voice or act upon. I would have to say that The 4-Hour Workweek is an essential read for anyone who wants to dream big and follow through with those dreams. Plain and simple? Tim cuts through the fog of life and gives you a new found focus and meaning moving forward through your own personal journey! Best New Years Resolution you can make for yourself in 2010 is picking up this book and reading it!
The 4-Hour Workweek, Expanded and Updated: Expanded and Updated, With Over 100 New Pages of Cutting-Edge Content. |
This Book Contained The Final Piece of the Puzzle for Me
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| Review Date: April 5, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Linda D. Hollowell, NC USA & Limburgh, NL |
| This book has taken all my culminated theories about liberating myself from the 9-5 jet setting million miler BS and living the life that I've always dreamed. For the first time in my life, I now have an actionable list that I'm working my way through, thanks to the REAL resources embedded in this book that I can feel confident will support me on my journey. This book is way more than a motivational or mindset book - it contains tangible actionable how to content and challenges you at your core! Thank you so much! |
The real deal.
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| Review Date: May 1, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Jason S. Co, |
| This is my first review. I've had many doubts about this author's authenticity and they slowly fad away with each no-nonsense life hack he describes. This guy is just too cool to be true! Then with actual video clips showing all this accomplishments like the tango world record, I realize he's true in all this claims. |
AWESOME
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| Review Date: May 21, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Mr. Gareth P. Morgan, Swansea |
I read this book when I was at a point in my life where I knew that if I didn't do something different I would be stuck in the same cycle for the rest of my life.
The book help give me the fire and realisation to pursue the adventurous life I have always wanted
So I am working on my automated business, and with a bit of luck will achieve my goals.
I recommend everyone read this book to open your minds to a different way of living. |
Better than advertised
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| Review Date: June 7, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Joe W, Georgia |
This book's received only a few negative reviews, but I don't understand why it's received any. Its organization makes it easy to follow and reference, and its content is comprehensive. It gives you an "outside the box" idea for taking advantage of the unique opportunities available in the Communications Age. It supports the idea by listing every imaginable source of help for putting it into effect, and by giving clear examples of how to use these sources. I don't know what else any author could have done. You'll notice, however, that the 10 one-star reviews are offset by more than 800 five-star reviews and by 100 four-stars. There's a reason for that. This is an excellent book that has undoubtedly been a positive life-changing experience for many, and will improve the lives of many more thanks to the new revised edition. I bought copies for my grown-up son and daughter and would advise anyone else to do the same if you want get out of the "rat race," improve your business, or expand your communication skills.
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Amazing information - worth every penny
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| Review Date: June 8, 2010 |
| Reviewer: T. Sully, Toronto |
| If you are thinking of getting out of the nine to five (six, seven or eleven) day, this book has plenty of ideas of how to make the transition. If you're thinking of starting your own business, this book will provide you with so many tips it will save you years of trial and error (and research). Amazing cutting edge, brilliant, easy and a fast read - what can I say -Tim shows us how not to fail! Great book. |
Seeing great results already--outstanding resource
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| Review Date: July 3, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Deanna Davis, Spokane, WA, USA |
| My husband and I read the first edition of this book and really liked it. We recently read the new edition and I have to say that the added content really strengthened it a lot. There are tons of great resources for automating your business and for finding what you need to do your work more effectively. To me, this is the best part of the new edition. I really liked the case study/stories about people's own experience implementing what they learned (as well as how they shared additional ideas and resources that helped them become more effective business owners). While not everything Ferriss says or does will be a fit for every reader, the bulk of his content provides great insights and accompanying information to try new business strategies on for size. I took tons of notes and have made several key changes in our business that are saving huge amounts of time and money and are allowing us to devote our time to more high leverage activities (such as implementing remote banking, which has been a Godsend). While we have no intention of adopting the 4 hour workweek lifestyle that Ferriss lives (though more power to him!), we have found a goldmine of great steps to take to cultivate the exact kind of business and schedule we want and are seeing great results already. |
Wished it was longer...
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Abe Niederhauser, Provo, UT |
| After reading the original, I bought this book the day it came out. I was a little disappointed that there wasn't more new material, but the additional resources were worth it. If you want the content, the original book will suffice, but if you want the extra resources, get this book! |
Profoundly Impactful
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Chris Patterson, |
Let me start off by saying that I have read hundreds of business books. I am not saying this to brag, rather to give some context for this review.
The 4-Hour Workweek has taken up permanent space in my head and it is making me crazy in a good way. This book doesn't just tell you that it is possible, but it is a step-by-step blueprint along with corresponing websites to help you in your quest. I have not only read it, footnoted it, and re-read it, but I am putting together a group of people that are also reading it or have recently read it to implement the strategies. We meet for the first time this week and everyone that was invited recently purchased the book and many read it in a week or less. Each and every one of them is having the same brain space experience that I have. The energy around this topic is contagious.
Tim's writing style is easy to read and full of real world advice. I'd highly recommend this book. |
I've Read Both Editions, And Am Putting Them To Use!
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Thomas J. Quinlan, McLean, VA USA |
Many of the negative reviews here seem to focus on the author's ego or his writing style. That's unfortunate, because the first is well-deserved, and the second is hilarious. (There's an old saying - "It's not bragging if it's true.")
I read the first edition when it came out, and now I've read the second edition. Obviously, the second edition has a lot of the first edition - but that's the point! What makes it new, however, is that the author, Tim Ferriss, took the time to poll his community of like-minded followers and find out what it is that they wanted in the new edition.
I know what I wanted in the new edition. No more abstract case studies for his concept of muses (income generators) - I wanted the real thing.
He delivered.
The new edition contains more than 100 pages of new material, most of it submitted by readers who read the first edition and put it into practise. They provided real case studies of how useful his methods are - how they were able to transform their lives by using his book. When was the last time that you read a book wherein the *readers* contributed in the space of just two years? Combined with the various things that Tim himself learned in the space between the editions, it makes for a powerful second edition to an already amazing book.
And that's the key - the first edition is great, and the second even better. I'll admit I'm biased, and my New Year's resolutions (which I started early, mind you) all centre around putting these ideas to work for me. It's much easier now, though, since I've read that other people have done the same and have had great success. That was the missing piece in the first edition, and we got it in the second, and you can't ask for more. |
Outside the box advice on how to get by in todays world
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: D. Nabavian, New York, NY |
| It is now 2010. 2010! We are now in the "future" we all fantasized about growing up. Yet, we are still holding on to our traditional methods of living that have been ingrained in us all since childhood (and pretty much the past century). This book shows you how to break out of this mold and exploit all the modern tools available to us today to hack your life for the better. To all those leaving negative reviews, I fully understand; It is difficult to conform to the lifestyle the book is endorsing and I too was skeptical at first. I also agree that the author does go off on tangents and gets too wordy at times. But who cares! Go read Shakespear if that's your concern. Grab a highlighter and some post-its and start digging out the treasures in this book. |
Inspirational and practical...
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Soulhuntre, |
After reading the 4HWW I was energized and very intrigued. Granted as someone who has been self employed 99% of my live and always experimented with my lifestyle the concepts inside were less shocking to me than many, but it is still awesome to see how far someone can take these ideas.
Since it was published I have given more than 8 copies of this book (in both this and the first edition) to friends and each and every one of them has put some aspect of it to use in their lives - usually just a small bit, but enough to be happier and that is all that I wanted.
To those who feel that Tim Ferris is arrogant, or spinning a line of bull here I would simply suggest that you get to know a bit more about him. Read his blog, follow him on twitter. He is far from arrogant... but he IS confident and self assured; qualities that these days are rare enough they must seem like arrogance to many folks. I am pretty sure you will see he is a good guy who genuinely gets a charge out of talking about his experiences.
As for the book itself? Buy it. If you don't use it or like it hand it to someone who will - you won't regret it. If nothing else it is funny as hell! If you have the first edition and like it, I would suggest you pick up this expanded edition - good stuff has been thrown into the mix.
Enjoy! |
1 of my top 10 biz books of the last 10 years
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: J. Waters, Cumberland, RI |
I'm pretty sure I've only written an Amazon review of 1 other product in my life. So, I hope you understand how much this one counts. Tim hits on some mind-blowing points here. Don't let the get-rich-quick-sounding title turn you off.
And, don't think you have to apply everything all at once. If nothing else, learn how a virtual assistant can make your life richer and more meaningful. |
Looking forward to implementing many of the ideas in this book
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Joseph Ferrara, Seattle, WA United States |
I have a friend who has been a fan of this book for over a year. He has managed to outsource his business and is now living in Hawaii. I am gradually starting to use his ideas to streamline my life. Tim provides lots of actionable concepts. The one I am starting out with is to be aware of when I am doing the most important stuff for my job versus just keeping busy.
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Surprised at the naysayers
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Jeffery Patch, Huntington Beach, Surf City USA |
This is a great book and will help most people who are looking at changing their life and business around. Is it for everybody? No, of course not.
There are a few negative reviews here and I can only assume they're from people who expect simple step-by-step rules to follow in order to quit their lives and start a successful business. That's not going to happen for the vast majority of people who ANY book, let alone this one.
What the 4-Hour Workweek WILL do is motivate you to take your life and business into your own hands and give you the concepts to succeed. Much of it is common sense, but it's the kind of teaching that you need to read in order to realize that you're not utilizing these principals.
I JUST bought and finished the book this week and I'm already completely changing the way I run my business.
If you have an entrepreneurial spirit and especially if you already run your own business, this book is invaluable. If you're a lazy bum who hates the 9-5 life and wants to leave it all behind to travel the world and never use your brain, well you're going to have your work cut out for you. |
Get out of the Rat Race and pursue your heart's desire!
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: A. Fisher, sacramento,ca |
This book, if applied wholeheartedly , will change your life. Updated version contains newer resources and real life examples of people who have applied the content. When I first read this book 3 years ago my soul came alive. And this updated version does the same.
Get this book, apply it and change your life! |
Much to think about
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Charles Holton, Mid-Atlantic |
Not everyone will appreciate what this book has to offer - even though everyone could probably benefit from the precepts espoused by the author. That's because there is pain in change - and this book will change the way you look at your life. For some people, that hurts too much.
But if you never saw yourself renting your youth to someone else to make them rich, but wanted instead to someday be master of your time and effort - this book is for you. |
A delicious explanation of the "New Rich"
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| Review Date: January 8, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Shane A. Brewer, Canada |
Ok, I admit it. I bought the book because of the title. I mean "4 Hour Work Week"? Who doesn't want that? But then again, who can possibly have that? So I read this book with a optimistic pessimism (Yes... I mean that).
Tim Ferriss does an amazing job of questioning the well ingrained beliefs that plague society today. Why do we work 40 hours/week? Who decided on that number? Why not 80? Why not 10? Tim gets you to start looking at your life not in terms of hours per week but results. If I can create 40 hour results in just 4 hours, why wouldn't I work just the 4 hours? However, since most of us have 40 hours, we fill the rest with meaningless shuffling of paper and meetings.
The part that I enjoyed the most was the differentiation between "efficiency" and "effectiveness". Efficiency is doing something well. Effectiveness is doing the right things. While society tends to reward efficiency, effectiveness is far more important to getting results and limited the amount of time you work.
The book is an excellent read; filled with humor and stories, it will be hard to put it down, but I highly recommend putting it down to complete the questions and actions at the end of the chapter. I rarely give a book 5 stars, but since I've just started reading this book for the 3rd time, it's one of those rare books. 5 out of 5. |
I liked it so much, I purchased 70 copies
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| Review Date: January 8, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Keith Abraham, Gold Coast, Australia |
| I loved this book. It has taken me on a pathway to change the way I think and do my business. To date I have given over 70 copies away to friends and my clients.Thanks Tim. |
Unstick that rut!
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| Review Date: January 9, 2010 |
| Reviewer: herb enthusiast, Newcastle, UK |
It started as holiday reading with the last edition - I bought it along with Tom Hodgkinson's "How to be Free". In the heart of the beautiful Scottish Highlands, with happy, busy children and inspirational reading I was all set.
4HWW explores how to rethink your attitude to work and sets out clear practical steps to create a business infrastructure whereby you are not a Director but an owner. In day to day working life there can be a lot of ego involved in looking busy; this book enables you to step back and work smarter, replace efficient actions with effective ones and ditch the notion that multi-tasking like crazy is the answer to get things done.
The toughest aspect of setting up your own business is in the words of Timothy Ferriss "Finding your muse" - there are tasks within the book that help with this but ultimately exploring what you are interested in and the size of that market is a good starting point. I have bought this second edition as it is updated and has further "fulfillment options" for how to deliver. My notice is in and I'm on my own from March! Good luck with unsticking your rut too.
The 4-Hour Workweek, Expanded and Updated: Expanded and Updated, With Over 100 New Pages of Cutting-Edge Content. |
Changed my life!
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| Review Date: January 11, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Liam Mccarroll, |
| I spent 6 months travelling the world after reading this book and during that time worked an average of 2 hours per week. I earnt more money the 6 months while I was travelling than I did the 6 months I was working at home full time. I came home with more money than I left with and I didn't pay a cent for airfares. All thanks to this book. |
Time to Take Stock of What Life is About
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| Review Date: January 12, 2010 |
| Reviewer: D. Hart, NZ |
I've worked hard in my own business since I was 21, and worked hard for my first employer for several year before that.
That was well over 20 years ago.
18 months ago I gave up what many would consider a "dream job" - corner office, 6 figure salary, 6 weeks annual leave etc etc.
However, deep down I was unhappy - I knew there was something more.
I just wish I'd found Tim's book before I quit my job - I probably would have played things a little differently, however,
not even half way through and I'm already a long way towards understanding why "corporate busyness" can feel so unfulfilling.
I'm working on my own lifestyle business now and very much thankful for the concepts that Tim
presents in this excellent book - thank you Tim!
The 4-Hour Workweek, Expanded and Updated: Expanded and Updated, With Over 100 New Pages of Cutting-Edge Content. |
Be Careful. Reading this causes radical life change.
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| Review Date: January 12, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Nathan C. Murray, My cube. |
I bought the original version of this book and within thirty days I'd sold or given away most of what I owned and
I was on my way to Europe, followed by Costa Rica and the China.
For two years I traveled the globe in constant peace and happiness following the principles Tim outlined.
Due to my own refusal to adapt to changing economic conditions I found myself back in the US and in the corporate
world.
Now this version of the book has come out and I bought it immediately. I fear my days in this cube are limited.
The principles work great, but the biggest change for me was my mindset on completion of this book. I became much
less interested in acquiring and much more into experiencing.
It's worth the read. It may save you from the fate of the fat man in the red BMW. |
So worth the read and money
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| Review Date: January 14, 2010 |
| Reviewer: cllanders, |
| I debated about buying this book for months - literally - and after I finally broke down and bought it, I could kick myself for waiting. This book renewed my passion for life and taught me to listen to that nagging voice in the back of my head. You know, the one that's saying, "You mean I have to get up and do this for next 25 years??" Ferriss has remarkable insight and wisdom beyond his years. |
This book changes the way you percieve business and life
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| Review Date: January 16, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Elena S. Gann, Leavenworth KS |
| I've bought this book for a few people because I consider it a must read for the free spirited. It's not enough to recommend it. It's an incredible how to guide with detailed information, formulas and plans for implementing business ideas and re structuring the way you think about work and life. For anyone who has ever felt guilty about not being "responsible, mature or productive" because you did not embrace the 9-5 professional culture and agree to work your life away so you could die in comfort, this book is a piece of relief, even hope. For years I have been able to live reasonably without a regular job. A lot of people joke about how useless my college degree is because I never followed it up with a conventional career. In truth, I've had a few careers. I have owned a coffee shop, Art Gallery, All ages Music venue, a bilingual magazine and have an art studio. After reading the Four Hour Work Week by Tim Ferris, I plan to restructure and automate some ideas I have had bouncing around for a while. The information and resources in the book make the success of any good idea seem possible. |
28 years old, Semi-Retired and Living in a Tropical Paradise thanks to Tim Ferris and the 4-hour Workweek
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| Review Date: January 17, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Johnny Jen, Lanta Island, Thailand and San Francisco, CA |
I'm currently sitting in my beach bungalow on the tropical island of Koh Lanta, Thailand. I spend my days scuba diving, training in Muay Thai boxing, and sipping Pina Coladas with my beautiful Scandinavian girlfriend.
18 months ago - Before I read "The 4-Hour Workweek" I was working 40+ hours a week, checking email 10 times a day, and stressed out beyond belief. I traveled, but only for business, and never actually got to see the world.
I had nice stuff, sure...a Porsche, a nice apartment, and designer clothes.
But now I can say that I'm much much happier. How I did it:
1. I read Tim Ferris' book "The 4-Hour Workweek" and became inspired. - If he could do it, I could as well.
2. I went on a mini-vacation to Thailand - just for 3 weeks to see if my world would fall apart...it didn't.
3. I practiced his chapter on Automation and Elimination - My goal was to free myself from stress and material things. I don't regret it for a second.
4. I planned a mini retirement for 3 months - Which has turned into 18 months so far, and I have more money in my savings account than when I first started.
I HIGHLY recommend this book. It changed my life, and all it took was me reading it three times and implementing each section step by step.
P.S. His two page article in the book about "How to become a professional in anything" worked like a charm, I am now an official Guest Lecturer at Harvard University.
Also thanks to the book I am now also a Professional Muay Thai Fighter and a Certified Scuba Divemaster. |
The 4 Hour Work Week... the gateway drug
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| Review Date: January 18, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Spencer Shaw, SLC, UT |
| Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R118GUV9TNQ734 This book got me hooked to a complete new lifestyle, my gateway drug you could say. I changed my profession, started some websites and information products Paidin14days - How to Make Money Online in 14 Days or Less (Complete set including 2 DVDs and 3 Cds) and began to travel the world more and all of those steps are inside the book. It's not your typical self-help that ends up being shelf-help but actual exciting real life stories and ways to live the unspoken life. |
An Important Book
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| Review Date: January 18, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Richard S. Barid, Savannah, GA |
| Whether you're a cubicle dweller, business owner, or just thinking about where you want your life to go - this book offers insights and perspectives you won't find elsewhere. |
A must for employees and entrepreneurs alike
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| Review Date: January 19, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Eli Szasz, |
| There's not much I can say about this book that hasn't been covered by all the other reviews. Even though I had not yet applied even half of the principals of the first book, I bought the expanded edition for the testimonials alone. They are motivating to say the least, and all offer powerful lessons. I now check in on Tim's blog to stay inspired and catch some new ideas now and then. |
Life changing
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| Review Date: January 19, 2010 |
| Reviewer: ThurzNite, Irvine, CA United States |
| I had the 1st edition, and this one rocks even more. There are lots of real world people that he writes about as examples. Plus some new websites are covered. I regularly read his blog, and this book is beyond just what he blogs about. I mention that because I just read another book by a personal finance blogger who just re-hashed their block. Not the case with Tim. There's real information here that's life changed. |
Lifechanging
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| Review Date: January 19, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Get Washed, |
I picked this book up at the beginning of 2009, and it has literally been changing my life ever since. I am currently 22 years old and a senior marketing major. This book changed the way I thought about my life and my goals after graduating. A year later after reading this book, I just recently purchased the expanded addition and I love that too!
This book will tell you secrets about business and life that MILLIONS of people could only dream about. This book will help you escape the life template and start to enjoy the life you have been given. This isn't some crappy motivational book that talks about everything But how to succeed. This book delivers inspiration and knowledge that will lead to your success in business and in your personal life.
Since purchasing this book I have created an LLC and have created a similar model since mentioned in the book and am making money while practically doing nothing! Sound like b.s.? Spend the $15 or less and purchase this book or tell your friend to purchase it and borrow it!
p.s. Timothy Ferris isn't just a "one book wonder" or he isn't just sitting in a mansion somewhere collecting book royalties. He is STILL doing what the book talks about and you can follow him on his blog at [...]. This blog is like a weekly continuation of the book which he gives great tips, advice, and knowledge.
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A Book for Everyone
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| Review Date: January 20, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Keiran Halcyon, Chiba, Japan |
The Four-Hour Work Week is a great book for everyone. Despite the critics, despite the title, and despite even Tim's directed audience, this book can be used by anyone looking to improve their life, find more time for their activities, and just plain understand what they want.
I'm a 24-year-old who graduated college 20 months ago. I followed a dream of mine, and started teaching English in Japan almost immediately after graduation. While I still love living in a foreign country, I had begun questioning myself and the path I took. What about the career I left behind? (architecture, if you're wondering) Would I rather go to grad school for a new/related major? How many years do I want to spend in Japan?
I bought Tim's book last week at just the right time. I had to tell my employers whether I wanted to sign a new contract for a third year. While debating my options I sped through 4HWW and had a minor epiphany. I'm doing what I want already! Now, I just have to spend some free time setting up a muse or two (if I want to), and I'll be ready to continue the lifestyle when my contract runs out.
Finally, I don't like a lot of the negative criticisms I've read about the book. Every book's title advertises the best/most intriguing/silliest/etc. part of the book. If someone reads this book expecting a path towards 4 hours a week paved for them they will be sorely disappointed. Yes, the book includes great ideas, tips, and resources for getting there, but you still have to be innovative and put energy into it. Tim's not saying you have to hate your job and avoid it like a plague. He's just trying to give you the opportunity to spend more time on other enjoyable parts of your life. Each section of the book has a different goal. You don't have to follow all of them, or even in the order he did. (although, his order does make sense for the majority of situations) I, for one, don't plan on using his muse/business advice/resources in the near future. My point is, read the book as a lifestyle guide, not as a how-to manual. You'll be much happier, and benefit a lot more from this great resource!
(note: I bought and read the updated version of 4HWW. While I had heard about the original, I have never read it, and cannot compare the two. However, I can say that I am incredibly happy I bought the updated book. There's very little I can imagine would need improvement as a lifestyle guide.) |
One Word: Amazing
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| Review Date: January 20, 2010 |
| Reviewer: A. Harbin, Michigan |
| Absolutely life changing book. Looking forward to the next stage of my life- the one where I relax with my family while my automated income rolls into the bank account. Yeah.... soon enough, soon enough. Just need to implement a few procedures that Tim so kindly divulged in his genius tome. Thanks Tim! |
the 4-hour workweek
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| Review Date: January 20, 2010 |
| Reviewer: shedenb, denver,co |
| This book is awesome. Really changed the way I look at life, work, money. Got me thinking creatively about my work. Very specific and very useful. Also great to hear the author read it on audiobook. |
Amazing
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| Review Date: January 21, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Tyler Priest, NZ |
| I think this book is an amazing read and have just bought the expanded edition to read again I plan to in 7 years call up Tim Ferris ask him where in the world he is jump on a flight there and show him how much his book influenced me to be as successful as I will be then |
Must Read!
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| Review Date: January 21, 2010 |
| Reviewer: F. Martinez, Cincinnati, Ohio |
| I read the first book and loved it. The new edition is worth getting. Plenty of new material to justify the purchase! |
Effective, not solely chasing efficiencies!
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| Review Date: January 21, 2010 |
| Reviewer: sean senos, |
| i've spent a career out of filling a work week to the brim...feeling if i could improve efficiencies i would create more success. As Tim illustrates, my increased efficiencies only created more opportuniuties to work even harder..not necessarily smarter!! Tim's fresh outlook has allowed me to reprioritize what matters most and be focussed on effectiveness along with efficiencies...huge upside to that one concept alone. i feel that this book can help everyone who reads it..regardless of their personal place in life. |
"Boredome is the enemy, not some abstract failure" - T.F.
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| Review Date: January 21, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Eugenia Koulizakis, Tampa, FL |
| In a word, inspiring. Everything he talks about works...as long as you have the hutzpah to actually DARE to dream that you deserve to create the ultimate, no-working-for-others cashflow machine. There's a shift when you make the jump, and it's undeniably scary. Although I have never jumped out of a plane, I imagine that when one does, the time between falling out of the plane and the parachute actually opening makes one feel the same way - "thank god I jumped, but I wonder if my parachute will actually work here in a minute or two". It works more often than not, but there is always that chance. But risk, whether in business or in parachuting, is mitigatable. Is that even a word? Anyways, buy the book. It's good. And Tim, if you're reading this, you're welcome for the review, and thanks for pushing me out of the plane. As we've discussed before in your blog, see you on the island of Crete at the ruins of Knossos. I'll be giving tours soon thanks to you and your book:) Look out for [...] pretty soon ( MMA gear and stepping out clothes for MMA dudes and dudettes). I hope to also walk away with 100K of your pocket change in June to expedite the process. Happy travels :) |
An true eye-opener, life saver and a definite must read !
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| Review Date: January 21, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Kristine Nudina, Latvia |
This is the most important book I've read in years ! I highly recommend to everyone! Read ASAP !
What a great source of inspiration ! This has changed my life and I am eternally grateful to Tim Ferriss for sharing his experience !
Well done ! |
Amazing!
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| Review Date: January 22, 2010 |
| Reviewer: R. MORT, Los Angeles, CA |
| I wish you would have written this 20 years ago. At 44, I'm escaping the "box" I've been stuck in. Thanks for showing me the door to my lifestyle! |
The 4-Hour Work Week
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| Review Date: January 22, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Anthony Canning, Gold Coast Australia |
| I read the first edition and it was excellent. The ideas are great yet basic, why didn't I think of this previously. Now I have read the second and updated edition, more great ideas and real life examples. Keep up the great writing. I am about to jump in and test the waters. Thanks Anthony C |
Great Book Unorthodox lifestyle but it opens your mind!
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| Review Date: January 30, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Arthur Veal, |
I loved this book it was not what I really expected when I started reading it but it was the beginning of opening my mind up to why do things have to be a certain way. Why do we have to stay at a hotel on vacation?, Why do we just go on a 2 week vacation and not a month long adventure?
This book is very good for getting you to think outside the box on a personal level, which many do not do until later in life. |
A better way of living!
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| Review Date: January 31, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Tim Collins, MURRELLS INLET, SC, US |
| This book really lets you know there is a better way to live than the normal work your ass off and then die. Not only does Tim gives examples of how people have changed how they live by working smarter/less. The expanded version provides detailed examples of how to work these ideas into your daily life. I read the first version 3 times and I am working on finishing the expanded addition. This book has been worth 10's of thounsands of dollars to me, but most importantly, has helped me to start to grab control of my own life. Buy the book! Read it! Do it! |
Thank you Tim
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| Review Date: February 1, 2010 |
| Reviewer: J. LeFebvre, Austin, TX |
| I am still feeling my way on this new way of looking at life but each time I get stuck there is an answer in the book. I've read that if you want to change your life, change your day. This book is a way to do just that. |
A great read
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| Review Date: February 1, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Robert C. Steele, Stratford, CT United States |
| This book was a great read because he causes the reader to take a step back and to focus on their life. The concept of the work day is up ended when you look at what you are doing while you are at the office. In essence, Tim points out the opportunity cost of inaction and being a drone. Not every one of his suggestions can be done by everyone but it should give those who say "I can't go out on my own or do that" pause because you can. |
life changing
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| Review Date: February 10, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Audrey L. Callahan, las vegas, nv |
This book was recommended to me by my cousin. I don't read books ever, but he said it would change my life and it did. It seems as if 4hww was designed specifically for how I would like to live my life, and now that I have read this book, getting to that point is going to be a lot easier.
If you want life to have meaning, read this book and you will thank me later. |
Lifestyle Changes for Fun and Profit
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| Review Date: February 10, 2010 |
| Reviewer: jeffeis, Goin' Mobile |
| I was skeptical of the 4HWW title - many of us know folks who have achieved an enviable work/life balance but how practical is it for me? The funny thing about this book is that as outrageous as many of the stories and instructions seem, they are completely practical too. If you begin to implement any of Tim's experiments your life will become more interesting and previously unconsidered options will open up. I just purchased the book and I'm only halfway through, but today I'm making plans to open an online store - total startup cost $250. There's a ton of methods in this book to improve your quality of life, most of them are immediately accessible to you, there's no excuse to not give this book a try. |
Redesign Your Life Now! Tim is right
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| Review Date: February 11, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Thomas Harrell, Miami, FL |
I visited Tim's website blog today (Thursday February 11, 2010): [...] and he mentioned this review page. I've had the first edition of 4HWW since early 2009 and it blew me away. I too, like other reviewers, have many books on wealth building, becoming a better person, business intelligence etc. But Tim's prose struck a deeper cord that made me say "See, I knew I wasn't crazy! It is possible!"
The world that we live in I see as The Matrix (yes, like the movie). Generally speaking we have been brainwashed to see things a certain way and go after those things in a certain way. But, many of us have known for a long time--whether we could articulate it or not--that something is wrong with this picture: slave at my job(s) for most of my adult life; retire on pennies; and die...that cannot be right (just like Neo in The Matrix, he knew something was awry though not sure what exactly). This book has galvanized my unplugging from The Matrix.
Get this book and read it. Get this book and study it. Get this book and put the redesigning of your life into hyper-drive. I will buy the newest edition.
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Great book filled with useful information
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| Review Date: February 12, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Leslie L. Lawson, |
| This book is filled with lots of information to help you streamline your life. It has links to find more information (as if the book isn't filled with enough)! I would recommend the book to anyone wanting ideas to not only inspire their lives, but give them ideas of business avenues as well. |
Great read, inspiring advice
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| Review Date: February 12, 2010 |
| Reviewer: David, San Diego, CA |
| I borrowed the 1st version of this book an read it while on vacation in Hawaii. I loved it, but I didn't follow through on his advice and message when I got back to the mainland. month later his updated version of 4hww came out and I decided to buy it and see the differences. The advice was followed up with real world examples and for me it was a very inspiring read. I am now on the road towards my own version of 4hww. I am in the middle of my "elimination" phase. Even if you take 1 thing from this book and apply it to your life, you will improve the quality of your life ten fold. Great book - funny, easy to read and full of inspiring advice. |
Excellent Book!!!
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| Review Date: February 13, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Michael C. Mazzella, Detroit, MI |
| I read this book on the way home from Australia - I couldn't put it down. I've worked in Asia for many years but never thought to use it personally. I've walked away with some very solid ideas... Thank you Tim. |
Very Inspiring for Recent Grads!
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| Review Date: February 14, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Marissa Brassfield, |
| A very inspiring read for recent grads. Why waste the best years of your life in a cubicle trying to get ahead when you could live the life you've always wanted to RIGHT NOW? This book shows you how. Even if you're already in a career that you truly love, like me, the insights on luxurious yet inexpensive travel, living abroad and mini-retirements are invaluable. |
Love this Book!
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| Review Date: February 19, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Lauren Snedeker, USA |
| Absolutely everyone should read this book. It is truely inspiring. I finished it during my trip to Thailand and while having breakfast at my hotel I overheard a women telling her husband about how they would buy a house in Thailand today but they couldn't live in it for 12 years, until she turned 62 and retired from her job in the USA. They were both very upset by this converstation which also included talk of divorce. I wrote down the author and title on a piece of paper and I went over to their table and told them to read the 4HWW because it's amazing. I recommend it to everyone. Australia is my next desination. Yee haw! |
Inspirational and thought-provoking for the hungry entrepreneur
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| Review Date: February 19, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Steve Pavilanis, Chicago, IL USA |
I've always considered myself an entrepreneur and have started two companies in the past five years. After reading 4HWW, it greatly influenced how I formed my second company from the beginning - focusing on outsourcing and automation by leveraging technology and thinking well downstream.
Tim provides concrete examples of ways to cut out the fat and make the most of your time. He introduces the concept of "mini-retirements," instead of having the end goal of working hard for years, selling a company or for a huge cash sum, and THEN retiring and living the good life. Tim clearly has the approach of living in the moment and enjoying life now, not postponing following your dreams until a traditional retirement age.
Does Tim too his own horn a bit about his worldly travels and personal accomplishments? Yes.
Does his story inspire and make me want to follow my passion? YES!
Tim's writing style is entertaining yet still thought-provoking, and more than once I found myself laughing out loud. If you're looking for an entrepreneurial book to fire you up and regain your passion, you cannot pass this one up. |
Still Hot!
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| Review Date: February 20, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Marilyn Harding, Ontario, Canada |
Within weeks of its first printing I heard of 4-Hour Work Week at a seminar, went directly and bought several copies. I still refer to it myself- still recommend it - and still follow Tim on RSS! The information is bite sized, meaningful, helpful, relevant and fun to read. I have used many of the recommendations and while I still aspire to the 4 hours - this book has transformed how I do business.
It has made me competent and through that - confident in my own ability to manage my websites and build my online business. My web designers - many of them pirates of the new century - could run but they couldn't hide from my acquired knowlege, proof and skill! I fired them and started over using open source platforms, Elance and many other of Tims' sound recommendations. This book desmystifies the online business world and opens it to many aspiring but trepidatious entrepreneurs. I am free and I am autonomous - thats success! I also appreciate Tim's candor, intelligence, and sincerity in the book and his blog. Thanks and kudos to Tim. |
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
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| Review Date: February 22, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Chi-town student, Chicago, IL |
This book has been such an inspiration to me. Tim Ferriss' straightforward manner of writing is easy to follow. I really appreciate that he is willing to share all the resources and gives you a step-by-step approach to creating freedom in your life. I think the people who are attracted to this book are those who aren't necessarily seeking to be millionaires, but rather are those who want to create a lifestyle of their own design and choosing. Freedom to do the things that excite me, freedom to enjoy life the way I want to, freedom to be myself and be my own boss are what I look for. The book literally breaks down all of my fear of doing exactly that. More importantly, it is like a gentle hand that is giving me support through both my personal and business development.
Thank you, Tim, from an entrepreneur-in-development.
Sincerely,
Xixi |
Most Exciting Book In Years
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| Review Date: February 23, 2010 |
| Reviewer: S. M. Fisher, Keene, NH |
This book seriously changed my life -- and not because it hit me with anything radically new (OK, so it did have some of that as well!), but rather because it emphasized and confirmed all of the things I had believed so long. Namely, that it was insane to spend your life working yourself to death, for a precarious, unknowable "retirement" when you're too old to really enjoy it. And that it makes no sense to beat yourself into the ground with 100-hour work weeks, if you could simply invest time up front in building systems that ultimately free you of 80% of the tasks that used to stress you out and waste the hours of your day.
My own take on the Ferriss method has been to build a freelance sales career, where I work entirely remote (from anywhere in the world), entirely off of laptop and cell phone, making my own hours and calling my own shots. I have an extraordinary life, and this book has been one of the greatest motivations (and greatest guide books) in making it all happen. |
LIFE CHANGING!
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| Review Date: February 25, 2010 |
| Reviewer: R. L. Caruso, Sacramento, CA |
| Wow! I can't say enough about this book and the impact is it having on my life. It's completely life changing. The principles that Tim outlines, so smoothly and logically, make me wonder why I never thought of it myself! LOL My partner and I are already implementing the steps and planning our future based on truly enjoying life, travel/cultural explorations, and having a great time with our children. Thank you Tim Ferriss! We'll keep you posted on our adventures! |
My outlook on myself has changed
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| Review Date: February 25, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Kurtis Sasso, Windsor, Ontario |
A good friend of mine put me onto this book. Normally I'm not one to read these but he was very insistent an I'm glad he told me about it. I'm in the process of starting my own business and without Tim's guidance in this book, I really don't think I'd have the 'Konjo' to go through with it.
It's practical, easy to implement and if you haven't read this, what are you waiting for. People say to me: "Oh, I'd love to have a 4-hour work week." My response: "Read this book. Only you are stopping yourself." |
great ideas, insights, and book
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| Review Date: February 26, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Richard R. Jahn, Brooklyn, NY |
i was skeptical when i first picked up the first copy, but was surprised at what a quick easy read it was... even while giving lots of great information.
what I feel the book does is give you an idea of what is possible. Most people go to school and get a job and work. I feel this book gives you a way to build a life you want, while still being very productive.
Like many other readers, I discovered I was spending way too much time on trivial tasks that didn't get my any closer to my goals, and then never having any time for the things that were important.
its still a work in progress, but I am trying to apply some of the principles I have learned into my own business, to be able to reach more people, help more people, while still growing personally and professionally.
pick up the book, you are guaranteed to learn from it. |
Gotta have it!
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| Review Date: March 1, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Neil Sawyer, STERLING, VIRGINIA, US |
Every now and then you read a book that stops you in your tracks and opens up possibilities in your life where you didn't see them before. This was that kind of book for me. I'd spent years of vague bitterness over how life (in the workforce) was playing out. Mr. Ferris put my unrest into words then gave me ways out of it.
Not every option presented is exactly for me BUT.. there's enough in there for anyone to find useful ways of getting out of that career rut. I think the best part for me was that he not only painted the picture of how it could look but he gave (in sometimes numbing detail) the steps of how to make it happen. I highly recommend this book! |
Awesome
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| Review Date: March 3, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Jacob Gambaccini, Philadelphia, PA |
Awesome book.
I only wish I had read it before I started my MBA program....
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Life changing
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| Review Date: March 30, 2010 |
| Reviewer: B. Halladay, |
| The Four Hour Work Week is truly a life changing book, if you follow the principles described within. I am a self-proclaimed hater of self development/business books. They are all the same, just different metaphors. In Tim's book however, I found a totally different and refreshing outlook on life and how to live it. This is not a book of "what if's" and flowery metaphors for work/life balance. Quite the contrary. In the Four Hour Work Week, Tim literally teaches you how to get out of your daily hum-drum life and live for today! No work/life balance here, it's all life! With great action items and to-do lists scattered throughout the book, you can't help changing the way you see things. Now, whether or not you actually do something with your life is up to you, but kudos to Timothy Ferris for showing us a step by step plan to breaking free and taking control of your time and wallet. Thanks Tim! |
Changed my Life COMPLETELY
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| Review Date: March 31, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Matthew Shea, Warren, MA |
Okay, there are hundreds of comments here so I'll add mine. "The 4-Hour Workweek" by Timothy Ferriss has totally changed my life and habits for the BETTER of myself, family, friends, and everyone I come in contact with. Tim lives the life most of us dream of- but the key is to STOP dreaming and just DO! Stop making excuses as to: How will I ever quit my job? How will I provide for myself and family? (No family input in this book, but you can easily tweak it to your situation). Once you eliminate all the time wasters in your life (email, phone, internet use, gaming) you will be able to use your time for the pursuits you love. Even if you don't even currently have any hobbies or interests (we all do by the way, just make your lists), you will discover them when your mind is not over-flowing with unnecessary JUNK as I call it.
Get this book, read it once through like a regular novel first; then, re-read it slowly and steadily- digest all of the information you can, and you just may reach your epiphany. Get this newer version too as the additional 100 pages of information are well worth your investment. AWESOME, thanks TIM! |
The best book I've ever read
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| Review Date: April 1, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Charlie Francus, cincinnati, ohio |
| This book can change your life. If you've ever questioned the default, mundane and monotonous lifestyle that everyone seems to fall into - this book is for you. Not only does Tim confirm your suspicions (there is a better way to live life) but he offers step by step instructions to escape and plenty of real world case studies (with numbers) to back it up. |
Should be required reading for everybody!
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| Review Date: April 1, 2010 |
| Reviewer: S. King, |
I eagerly awaited the release of the original 4 Hour Work Week in 2007, and read it in a matter of hours. When I finished, I went back to the first page and started reading it again. In the years since I've read the book at least twice each year, and have also bought the audiobook version which is a permanent resident on my iPod. You wouldn't believe how excited I was to hear an updated and expanded edition was being released. I got the book the day it came out, and read it over the next several days. (hey, it was Christmas holidays, I was busy!) I was not disappointed!
This book is pure gold... Tim is brilliant, creative and very passionate about these ideas, and it really shows in his writing. This is not a revised edition in the sense that the original ideas don't work anymore, it's expanded and updated to include even more case studies, tools and resources, and insights into how the original book changed the life of the readers, as well as Mr. Ferriss himself.
On one hand, I think this book should be required reading for everyone who is (or might be) getting bored with their life... but on the other hand, maybe it's best to keep these incredible secrets to ourselves! ;)
Thank you Tim Ferriss, this book is amazing. |
A "No Brainer"! Absolutely Priceless! A MUST Read!
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| Review Date: April 6, 2010 |
| Reviewer: John Boyles, Missouri, USA |
Plain and simple... YOU need this book.
I will probably never accomplish what Tim has with his business or his life as my personal goals are completely different... however with that said, I will, and am currently, implementing much of the concepts for self evaluation and am finding POWERFUL results.
You CANNOT afford to skip this book. If you are so well trained that the content here is old news to you then good for you, but for the rest of us who are first generation successes or are the first in our lineage to pursue a different course, the specific "how to's" contained herein are absolutely priceless.
Put simply, if you pass this book because it costs too much, then you cannot afford to walk away... I would let the electricity go without being paid for the money to get my hands on the information in this book! Within 2 weeks this book paid for itself. After that it became one of the best investments I ever made, paying beautifully!
If your reason is because of a negative comment you heard or read, you deserve to be a failure all of your life. And NO, I won't apologize for that.
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It's quite possibly the encouragement you need to do something with your life For Your life!
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| Review Date: April 11, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Adrian P, Sthlm |
I'm going to be less than politely humble. I'm one of those with no miraculous accomplishments, but who still manages to be way out of the heard. In a company where stress and overwork is the norm, and strict control and deception is the norm of the higher management, I managed to make my own hours, work from home as I pleased, generally never get remotely close to 40h, and yet get paid for overtime when I did it, but most importantly be appreciated by those I worked with/for (when I did eventually work). The best days were my last two ones: second to last at the client, and the last in my company's office. Yes, two days ago was my last time there. They were the best days for other reasons than you might think: I had a good time, with people who respect and appreciate me, and for some of whom the feeling is mutual. I was on both occasions able to see first hand, together with them, that I'll be missed. Both professionally and as a human presence.
Why am I writing a review for this book? I did not start to cut hours after reading it, I did not "negotiate" work-from-home arrangements because of it, I definitely did not quit or realise I should after reading it. However, I felt immensely better after reading it. For those of you who might already be doing it, and especially for those of you who don't, and who think that showing up constantly late, staying home when you feel like it, and generally working less are all bad things, condemnable, and with no possible long term benefit to your professional, private and financial future, this book is for you. For some of you at least.
The book is amazingly encouraging, but it doesn't stop there. Nowhere near it. It gives examples, so many that I don't believe even Tim remembers all of them. Examples of all kinds of people who got out of 9-to-5 and changed their lives for the better, but also many other lives through the businesses and products they created. It also gives amazing practical tips and examples, from companies that stand out from the crowd and can help you do the same, to free (on-line) products all around you that you might otherwise never find on your own (not all of them, that is). And then it keeps you win the loop with the fourhourworkweek blog.
Quite possibly the best book I've read, for the impact it had and continues to have on my life. Thanks Tim!
PS: Tim, in case you're reading, good luck with the friendly feud and hope the count reaches the tipping point soon if it hasn't already. |
Eye opening. Gets you thinking about how to do anything you want to do
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| Review Date: April 29, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Charlie, Charleston, SC |
| Because of this book, my family and I are going to live in San Francisco for six weeks. And we are going to make money while we do it. Be warned: this book will get your wanderlust and your dreams all stirred up and make you want to go and DO IT. The one word review: "awesome" |
Life Changing Book. Sink Into A New Perspective!
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| Review Date: May 5, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Nicholas S. Sevier, Nashville, TN |
| Simply one of the best books I've ever read. Timothy Ferriss is a lifestyle design expert who specializes in breaking things down, re-thinking them, and streamlining them. Not just a great read, but a blueprint. A must read. |
This book is fantastic
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| Review Date: May 9, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Mr. Simon J. Paine, Southampton, UK |
| This catalysed and made sense of many thoughts I've been having for years and simply tipped me over into action. There are many books out there that are a good read but Tim Ferris' stuff is about taking action not sitting back and nodding. This is an absolute tonic for the dull, unimaginative working culture that we all endure. Seriously buy it - but don't if you satisfied with the status quo (not the band :-)) |
A Must Read
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| Review Date: May 11, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Fernando Macias, Austin, TX |
Several friends had to recommend this book before I actually agreed to read it. The title made me think of some get-rich-quick scheme, probably in real estate, and I'm not into any of that. When the pressure mounted I finally picked it up, and I am glad I did.
If I had to summarize the book it would be like this: you don't have to be a genius and you don't have to be rich to start some kind of business that will detach you from the trade-time-for-money approach that generates income for most people. The book is full of examples and resources of all types to get you started. If you ever thought of starting a business, large or small, you must read this book.
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Amazing, amazing, amazing!!!! Never read anything like this!
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| Review Date: May 14, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Andrea Spissinger, Southwest Florida |
I am 53 yo, disabled, and about to lose my home...but none of it matters because this book and Tim have changed my outlook and my life. I am going to live out my dreams; this book has given me the courage and push to do what I've always wanted.
Technically speaking, the writing style of this book kept me captivated and I found it unique. I have nothing but praise for the book, its contents and its author.
I listened to the book on tape first; found I wanted to read it in print; now I am looking at in the web. Never has anything captivated me as much. Next year, I hope to be writing to you from the Amalfi Coast! |
This book will change your life.
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| Review Date: May 19, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Chris F. Paternite, Cleveland, OH |
I'm only 2/3 through this book, and have read it based upon my brother's recommendation. It's one of the best books / life guides Ive ever come across. Tim puts together a plan for Lifestyle Design that actually seems within reach, and culls out the negative fears that people have latent within themselves.
After reading, you realize you are capable of everything he's done. Your dreams of leaving the 9-5 ARE attainable, and he gives you so many resources to make that possible that you really cant blame anyone but yourself at the end.
Fascinating anecdotes like the 80/20 rule and how to outsource your life are good not just for those trying to be economically self sufficient, but for folks trying to better themselves socially, academically, and in other facets of life.
I cant wait to finish this read (blazing through it!) and I want to personally Thank Timothy Ferris for helping to better so many lives. |
Not Necessarily a Four Hour Work Week
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| Review Date: May 20, 2010 |
| Reviewer: M. Kaminsky, |
'Four Hour Work Week' makes for a catchy title, but even Ferriss admits that he puts in more hours than this. The title and cover are somewhat misleading. The book is more a call (and guide) to action than it is a prescription for lazy days in a hammock.
4HWW is perhaps best suited to those who are thinking of starting (or already run) their own businesses, but most of his suggestions can also be applied to many different areas of work/business/life. For example, he offers some excellent ideas for those who want to ease out of the 9-5 world.
His remedies for time management challenges are liberating. From curing email/twitter addictions, to killing the multi-tasking habit, Ferriss bucks the trend of other productivity books and gives readers the chance to be effective rather than efficient. Another aspect of the book I appreciated was his focus on 'filling the void' through what he calls 'service for the right reasons' - philanthropy with a twist.
Ferriss is obviously a natural salesman, and his style is loved by some and a turn-off for others. Whatever side you fall on, 4HWW can be an inspiration to transform your work life. This is as much about gaining a new mindset as it is putting the book's concepts into practice.
M. Sean Kaminsky, Author Naked Lens: Video Blogging & Video Journaling to Reclaim the YOU in YouTube |
A Godsend
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| Review Date: May 26, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Brent Crowell, Vancouver, BC |
| I had seen the 4HWW on a local bookstore shelf many times and thought it was just another one of 'those' books. The cover kept speaking to me. I loved the man on the hammock. I know you can't judge a book by its cover, but this one spoke to me. The testimonials and blurbs on the cover and inside pages were intriguing too, but was it worth the $26.95 (Canadian)? Since our dollar is almost at par, I asked the store if they would give me the US price and if they would, I would buy it. Well they did, and after reading the book I realized I completed one of Tim's tasks! I started reading the book but decided that I wouldn't do the end of chapter Q&A and all that other stuff until I found out if this was real or not. As I kept reading, quickly I might add, I kept falling in love with its principles. I actually understood what Tim was saying. I am now on my second reading and will be completing the end of chapter business. I have started my first company to earn that monthly income which you can check out soon on [...] and look forward to my NR lifestyle! I highly reccomend this book and if they had a third star, it would be checked off as well. |
Entrepreneurship For Smart People
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| Review Date: May 27, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Bradley Bevers, Brenham, TX |
I have read more than my share of business books, most of which seem to repeat the others in new, less-interesting ways. The information in these business books is valuable, but repetitive and, ultimately, less rewarding the 18th time you read the same thing by a different author. The 4-Hour Workweek, on the other hand, was completely original, fresh, and even groundbreaking with some of the ideas presented. It is one of the best books I have ever read on business and probably the first one I will recommend to any one asking me for advice on a business book. It is excellent and 90% of what is talked about can be used right away.
Tim Ferris, after taking the traditional route in business and coming up wealthy but empty, reshapes his thinking about business and calls it Lifestyle Design. The entire concept is revolutionary for many readers, but is breath of fresh air in a society obsessed with work for work's sake.
Some of the key concepts that I took away from this book:
- The 80/20 Rule in Life - 80% of what you do is unproductive, so get rid of it.
- Focus on quality of work, not quantity.
- Enjoy life. Take a vacation.
- Rethink technology. Are the constant Blackberry interruptions necessary?
- Spend time doing what you love.
- Take a long vacation.
- Create jobs for others. Doing everything yourself is bad for everybody.
- Rethink retirement. Work and vacation should be a rhythm set throughout the
course of your life.
As a Christian, all of these are great ideas, all things that I definitely support. This will be the first business book I recommend to others with two caveats in mind: One, recognize the goal is not cut your work down to where you have more time to waste. The goal is to have more time to be more productive, doing fulfilling work. Two, work is not a bad thing. Work is a gift from God, given to man pre-curse, not post-curse. Work elimination should not be the goal, but rather work redistribution. You can be much more effective and stop wasting time, period.
On a side note, I think this book would be really interesting for Christian Missionaries to read. The ideas of long-term international travel and how it is accomplished could easily be applied to missions and create more independent, sustainable organizations. |
Life Changing
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| Review Date: May 30, 2010 |
| Reviewer: E. Bailey, |
| This book ranks up there with Rich Dad Poor Dad. A must read for those who plan to live financially free. |
Inspirational
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| Review Date: May 31, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Y. G. Porres, Barcelona, Spain |
| The author (his book, his blog, his presence) is full of great ideas and tons of motivational tips. I've felt inspired by his philosophy. Kudos for the guy! Thanks, indeed. |
I NEEDED this book twenty years ago ... but now is good too.
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| Review Date: June 6, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Sue Maghielse, Grosse Pointe, MI |
| Read this book. If nothing else, you will get at least twenty great ideas for changing your life in a positive, small way. And you just might be inspired to make big changes in your life. I do wonder though, what Timothy Ferriss can do for us in his next book. Fire up. |
Original ideas!
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| Review Date: June 7, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Andrea Novotny, CA |
| Tim Ferriss has such great ideas that go against what you would think but is so witty and smart! That is true intelligence. |
Insired me to think about life in a new way.
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| Review Date: June 13, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Aaron Gertner, |
Before I read this book I was like probably 95% of people in the world who thought that they had to get a great corporate job out of college and then climb the corporate ladder for 25-30 years at least in order to obtain financial freedom. Not after reading Tim's book I have a new goal, to start and automate at least one business before I graduate from college...I only have 1 semester left so we will see if his advice will allow me to fulfill my dreams.
P.S. If you couldn't tell from what I just said the book is definitely the best nonfiction book I have ever read about business. |
An Inspiring Read Guaranteed to Change Your Life
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| Review Date: June 22, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Ryan John Baudoin, Rome, Italy |
I read the first version over a year ago and just had to see what the expanded edition had in store. It's so inspiring to see that other people (not just Tim) can do exactly what he says. Let's face it, Tim's the man so it kinda seems like he is supposed to be living the life that he writes about. But the new content with the testimonials just goes to show that anyone who puts forth the effort can really do it. Hey, even I did. After reading the first edition I quit my job and headed to Europe for a 3 month mini-vacation and shortly after I got back to the states I decided to move to Rome which is where I currently live and work. All of my friends and family are jealous and they have good reason. I mean, I'm living the dream. I'm actually on a ferry now headed back from a week in Greece. Jealous yet?? You can do it too. It's all here in the book. Thanks Tim!! I owe it all to you and The 4 Hour Work Week!!
Ryan
Check out my blog to see my Roman Adventure
[...] |
amazing!
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| Review Date: June 25, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Charlotte Smith, New York, NY United States |
| amazing book that gives you a lot to think about...how to streamline your life...how to taek advantage of everyday and not wait until "offical" after 65+ retirement to do the things your enjoy or love. Can anyone even retire these days?? Love the booka nd highly recommend. |
Wonderful Eye-Opening Approach to Life
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| Review Date: July 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: J. Walsh, |
| Tim Ferriss has written a book primarily focusing on creating a business and minimizing working time, but has actually beaten out every self-help book that I've ever read in also helping the reader to gain a sense of control over their life choices, and excercise their independence in creating a life that they really want to live. An easy read, a marvelous compendium of options, and a humorous approach to an otherwise seemingly daunting task--Ferriss has really contributed something important to today's modern life. |
WOW! Such ideas.
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| Review Date: July 5, 2010 |
| Reviewer: ric neidhardt, |
| Reading Tim's book has opened up so many ideas in my head and all leading to a free lifestyle. Tim has made me realize in order to realize my dreams I must escape the 9-5. Thanks Tim |
A MUST HAVE for Everyone!
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| Review Date: July 17, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Karen E. Gould, |
If you have to work for a living you NEED this book. I read constantly, almost obsessively, and I had always avoided this book. It seemed too good to be true, and frankly- I actually like what I do for a living. I don't want to work just 4 hours a week. But I bought it anyway- figuring it would at least be good for a laugh. It's changing my life- again.
I've read at least 200 different business books. At best, most of them are forgettable. Some of them are downright useless, or filled with ideas and theories that are just plain wrong. Others provide some decent theories, but very little actionable information.
The 4 Hour Workweek provides a map to getting what you want out of life. There's a goldmine of information, including lists of resources. It's smart, well written and filled with tips and tricks that help you get where you want to go. It's filled with great, specific, how-to information that can truly benefit everyone.
Even if you have no plans to change your present job it's great for helping boost your overall daily productivity, reduce stress, and live a better life. Everyone needs it. I liked it so much that I bought 5 copies for a few of my friends.
I'd suggest skipping the Kindle version. I bought it on Kindle and came back to get the hardcover version. It's just so packed with information that the book form is just easier to mark-up, dog ear, and use as a reference while you're building your muse or automating more of your work flow. |
Changed my life
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Julie Elaine Brown, San Francisco |
I decided to be an entrepreneur after reading the first version of this book. It changed my life with the philosophy of live for today, not for 40 yrs from now. It helped me understand that, while financially my job at the time was extremely lucrative, I was unable to cultivate relationships with friends, keep many of my current friends--and it contributed to a breakup.
I simply worked all the time. I needed materialistic goods to pacify my misery and at least give me some satisfaction for my 80-hr workweeks.
After reading this book. I became an evangelist. I bought it for friends. I told every person I knew: read this, it will change your life. And then I decided to take the plunge myself, and start a company. Quitting my job and creating something from scratch was very scary, but it has been the best decision I have ever made. Starting a company has introduced me to amazing people, opened doors for events/conferences/experiences, and given me the flexibility to truly have work-life balance and do things like travel more often. No, I do not work 4 hours a week (sometimes it is close to 80 hours a week)...but the difference is, I love what I do, and I have a freedom I did not have when working for someone else.
That is what the book advocates--a new lifestyle, and that is what Tim teaches. The new version of the book has multiple case studies, of people from all walks of life, who have followed the principles of lifestyle design, and are living truly content lives as a result. Does the book show you how to do it? Yes. Does it empower people to actually take the leap? Yes.
Some people read the book and expect 1) hand held advice and steps on exactly how to run a business or be the "new rich" and/or 2) to have a guide to literally work 4 hours/week. The book isn't about that, it is about taking a different approach to your thoughts, the way you look at work, and the way you look at money. I have read the criticisms and in my opinion, they are written by people who haven't quite decided to take the leap and truly change their lives--so the book in fact, is threatening to them and their current choices.
I have since had the pleasure, since reading the first book, of getting to know Tim as a friend. He has been an enormous help with my business; all of his advice is sound, if not outright brilliant. I also think that his principles of life may come across as selfish, but he is, in fact, the type of person that would be there for you in an emergency. That sort of loyalty and integrity might not come across in the book, for, after all, the book is about building lifestyle efficiency. But as the video posts on the blog show, and as the case studies show, those who subscribe to the 4HWW principles have truly mastered their lives, are happy and content, and are ready to start a movement. That kind of thing doesn't just happen. Buy the book.
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I am a real world example
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| Review Date: January 12, 2010 |
| Reviewer: B. Johnson, dallas |
Im not big on reviews - this is actually my first.
I could not put this book down and finished it within 2 days.
Since then I have re-read it several times always finding addiitonal thoughts for highlighting and notes.
Within (1) year of reading this book I went from being bankrupt and living with my parents at 31 yrs old to owning my own business and making over 200k/year from "home". I am not a tim ferriss "freak" and I do not back pack through Japan. His thoughts are exactly that - his. Its your action as the reader that turns these thoughts into a better reality for yourself. Go climb your own mountains - you now have no excuse.
I've given copies to every loved one I have and it truly resulted in a life changing experience. |
Great BOOK!
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| Review Date: December 27, 2009 |
| Reviewer: Victor Scott, Online |
I was very skeptical about Tim and his book, I first heard about him and his book a few years ago and dismissed him as shallow and **car-sales-man-like**, I could not have been more wrong.
After I saw Tim speak on [...] It changed my mind about him and I checked out his blog.
Tim Ferriss gives great advice for Life, The Universe, and Everything.
Read this book if you want to Live Life To The Fullest. |
A Life Changing Book - Very Motivating, Highly Detailed
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| Review Date: December 29, 2009 |
| Reviewer: Robert Bogetti, Chicago, IL |
| An excellent book that makes you think about where you're at in your life, the path you're taking, and are you really happy with everything; if not, then change it - NOW! He tells you in great detail how to immediately make changes to free up your time and allow you to follow your life's desires. This book covers a lot of territory including: removing clutter from your life; reducing stress; eliminating time wasters, automating task to free up quality time, how to produce automated revenue streams, etc. There is truly too much to list in this review. If one where to nitpick at all, I could only find two possible areas: one is the assumption that the most preferred activity you want to do with your free time is travel - many do but some may not, and as far as investments his strategy is to use simple fixed income investments. This is fine but many may wish to have a more diversified investment strategy. Overall this book is full of wonderful ideas, tips, stories, tools, and advice to help you make changes in your life to make you truly happy. Highly Recommended! |
It Works! I am Living Proof
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| Review Date: February 6, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Terrance, St. Louis, Missouri |
| I read a ton of magazines and books each week. I have traveled and used online methods that allowed me to quit my job in August of 1999. I learned that you can indeed follow your passions and have fun doing what you love then you you will never feel like you actually worked a day in your life . I started a business providing travel information to certain groups and because I helped others, it helped me achieve a life of having fun every day. Tim's ideas work. He embellished everything that I believe it. If you have any doubts, it can be done just ask me and I will show you proof. Good Job Tim |
Invaluable advice you cannot get elsewhere
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: D, United States |
When I first read this book, I thought the same as some of the negative reviewers. Unless you can outsource your work to India, this does not apply to you.
A year later, I can see how anyone can do what he does. You can't do it if you think you can't though, so don't bother.
You can set up a business and have the fulfillment taken care of by someone else. There are lots of companies that do fulfillment. You can even have your merchandise drop shipped from the manufacturer.
This book is a blueprint for how it can be done. If you want to have an interesting life, travel a lot and not be tied down to your desk job, this is the book for you.
He has a lot of info on how to go mobile. I've always wanted to do this. I did not know how it could be done until I read this book.
I highly recommend this book. There is a wealth of information on every page.
Yes, Tim can get a little antsy at times. Telling people to not bother returning phone calls and leaving it on your recorder that unless it is an emergency, do not expect a call back is not the norm for business. However, how much time do we waste in life doing things that are not necessary?
I've seen reviews where people are complaining that he says not to watch TV because it is a time waster. I DO know people who do not have TV's and you know what? They are smart people. TV DOES dumb you down. It is just entertainment. You really do not remember half the crap you see. You can see the same show a year later and it is all new again. Entertainment is OK, but in America we use it far too much and allow ourselves to be brainwashed by the powers that be.
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Worth its weight in gold!
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: M. Barnes, Raleigh, NC |
I read the 1st edition cover to cover in one day. Some people just don't get it or seem to get caught up in jealousy and decide to declare Tim "egotistical." He is telling his story, from his very own well-documented, tested, and (obviously) scrutinized experience. The new edition is certainly suitable for the new reader or anyone familiar with the 1st book. The case studies are added to further prove how people can implement his brilliant concepts in their own lives. You can see more in video form here: [...].
Tim is one of the smartest, intuitive, and *giving* men on this planet. We need more like him. |
Putting all emotions aside...
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| Review Date: January 4, 2010 |
| Reviewer: A. Pardo, Texas |
| Tim does a great job in presenting the reader with some unconventional yet viable information to make "living" a possible and joyous means to an end. He supports the material with his own tested experiences as well as the those who have had similar or unique testimonies. Now, time to get off my arse and out of my comfort zone to make the most of this 2010 year-good luck to all! |
Useful update to excellent book
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| Review Date: January 5, 2010 |
| Reviewer: G. W. Gramling, |
| This new updated version offers new spins on the original ideas and new tools to help implement your plan. I am an avid reader of Tim's blog and Twitter and I still learned of new tools and tricks. I recommend for anyone wanting to break free and have control of their own destiny. For those uninitiated to the 4HWW, it's not just about quitting your job. It's about creating choice in your life. If you love your job, keep your job. Tim shows you how to create systems to make you better and more productive in the job you love. I haven't quit my job. however, he also shows you how to start simple low time requirement side businesses that will offer you the choice of work. Easy to read and understand. Follow his blog as well as it has many lifestyle hacks that will help you live better today. |
One Of The Best Books I've Ever Read
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| Review Date: January 8, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Dejan Antic, Dekani, Slovenia |
This book is so full of practical advice that you really need to read it, if you find yourself to be "fooling around", wasting time. It helped me!!!
Buy it! |
Read it, apply it, share it and live your dreamlife
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| Review Date: January 8, 2010 |
| Reviewer: M. J. F. Siebinga, Texel, The Netherlands |
This book changed my life and I know many other people their life as well!
And maybe there are many books who are lifechanging.
I only think that in the times we are living, this book is the best to make the most out of this time and your own time!
Be bold |
Life Changing
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| Review Date: January 8, 2010 |
| Reviewer: R. Minton, Ohio |
A friend of mine sent Tim's first book to me a year or so ago. I devoured it, but didn't think it was possible to apply his ideas to my business. However, the more I thought about it, the more I realized I was making incorrect judgments. In 2009, I began to implement Tim's strategies with force. I realized I was working hard simply to cover payroll and overhead for my business. By streamlining, I could dramatically reduce the number of hours worked, eliminate my office and enjoy life more. If you're over worked and stressed out, you must read Tim's book.
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Worth Getting Even If You've Got The Original
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| Review Date: January 8, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Maverick Wil, Malaysia |
If you've gone through the original 4-Hour Work Week, this expanded and updated version is worth the re-read with more than 100 pages of new content that supplements the original material. There are a lot of handy tips and gold nuggets of information that are relevant to 2010. What I like best though about this version is reading all the motivating case-studies of people from all types of backgrounds that have successfully applied the 4HWW principles into their work and personal lives. Who would've thought Tim published the original less than 3 years ago?
I chose this as the first book to read in 2010 and its already rejuvenating my spirits to join ranks with the New Rich. Well done on a life changing book! |
Its not about working less, its about living more
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| Review Date: January 8, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Lukas S. Rieder, |
This is one of the best and influential books I read lately. It's writing in a very refreshing style and easy to read.
I'm looking forward to read more from Tim Ferriss in the Future.
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Metamorphosis!
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| Review Date: January 8, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Andrew Johnston, |
| I jest not! This is a game changer. I'm self-employed and prior to reading this had never given myself permission to behave differently than when I worked for someone else. I had literally lost the plot regarding the original purpose of becoming self-employed - i.e. Time, freedom, autonomy over my own schedule and passive income. My business had all the right intrinsic architecture to make this happen - I was just an empowerment bottleneck and failed to leverage what was there. 4HWW was absolutely liberating for me and for my employees because I got out of the way! Tim helped me do a "Michael Angelo" and release the Angel that was trapped inside a block of marble! |
Life-Changer
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| Review Date: January 8, 2010 |
| Reviewer: LiveTruly, CA USA |
There's a house song called "Transition" and the lyrics tell you that one day you'll ask yourself a series of questions, the most important one being, "Do I have a life or am I just living?"
That's what this book is all about. It's about truly living life. Not some hand-wavy new age stuff, but a realistic, down-to-earth, practical, fun-to-read shake-up to what most folks consider an inevitable reality, a shake-up that will change your life for the better. From your goals to how you work, the 4-Hour Workweek helps you make the most of your life. It's super inspirational and practical at the same time. Hard to put down. Most of all, it gets you ready to go--one of those kicks in the backside that we all need every once in a while.
The new version has lots of new content and case studies and updates to some of the sites. Even if you have the original version, it's worth getting the new one and rereading it. |
It got me thinking about my business ... and my life!
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| Review Date: January 8, 2010 |
| Reviewer: R. B. Cubbon, London, UK |
First up - nobody really thinks The 4-Hour WorkWeek is actually about only working 4 hours a week!
The book is a great way of re-assessing your life without putting money or prestige in the center. What is it that you really want? Do you really want to be traveling into a corporate office miles away from where you live everyday, working 80-hour weeks and spending most of that work time doing essentially irrelevant activity?
Tim shows us how automation, outsourcing and basically cutting out unnecessary cr*p can free us up to concentrate on other things. And, this is the real interesting area, Tim prompts us to put our spare time into more sustainably satisfying things (education, helping others) rather than blowing time and money living it up in Vegas (for example). |
Ignore the Haters
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| Review Date: January 8, 2010 |
| Reviewer: David Turnbull, www.davidturnbull.com |
This is not a get rich quick scheme. This is not about manipulating others. This is not about being selfish, or taking the easy road in life, or using slave labor or any other absurd accusation featured in other reviews.
I first read The 4-Hour Workweek when I was 17 years old (a few months after the first edition was released) and it completely changed my view of the world. At this time I'd already been building businesses online as a hobby, and wasn't doing too badly for myself. But at the same time I was still working towards a life of monotony. The plan was to just make a bunch of money, buy a house, take a couple of vacations every now and then, and continue that until I fell off the planet.
Sure, that isn't a "bad" life by any stretch of the imagination, but 4HWW made me realize I could do amazing things and that the marathon to a million dollars or become the next Bill Gates was a race I didn't want to participate in.
Since I first read the book I've delved into hundreds of other books relating to travel, philosophy, Buddhism, self development and countless other topics. I was always an avid reader but after reading Tim's work I couldn't help but consume as much as I could about the world we live in.
At this point in time I spend my days writing about things I love and am currently building a "muse" (as Tim calls an automated business in the book) that I feel could make a difference in peoples lives (as it's closely tied to my own experiences).
I think what I really got from 4HWW was the nature of possibility. It made me understand that I didn't need to stick with a set plan. I could mix up my life however I wanted. :-) |
I'm 41, and enough is enough.
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| Review Date: January 8, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Ben D. Durall, Front Royal, VA |
FANTASTIC Book.
I'm 41 years old and have clearly been spinning my wheels for most of it.
Tim's 4-Hour Workweek has inspired me to take the jump into my own business that I've been mulling around in my head for way too long. I've taken the ELIMINATE mantra to heart. I've been secretly throwing stuff away at home for the past few weeks, stuff I haven't TOUCHED in years.
And, the wife hasn't noticed a single thing missing.
My order of BodyQUICKEN arrived in the mail yesterday. I'm mega excited.
Thanks Tim. If I survive these changes that I'm making in my life, I'll owe you one.
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4 Hours a Week - Really?
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| Review Date: January 8, 2010 |
| Reviewer: David Hoffmaster, Hendersonville, NC United States |
When I first saw this book in the store (1st edition) I was almost irritated by the title. I nearly just walked on by, but my irritation at the title got my attention and drug me back. You can't work 4 hours and get anything productive done! was my thought.
I have read this book 4 times now - one of my favorite books ever. Definitely my favorite "business" title. Here I discovered Lifestyle Design - the art of living Your Life On Purpose. It does not promise pie in the sky, get rich quick schemes. It shows you how silly many of the habits we have in daily life are, and simple "life hacks" to shave off many hours of unproductive, life wasting activities per week.
Most importantly though, Tim is Endlessly entertaining! Some of his stories and case studies are legendarily funny. Get this book - it will change the way you see life! |
Amazing Book - Thanks Tim!
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| Review Date: January 8, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Allan Paul Raicher, São Paulo, SP, Brazil |
This is one of the most amazing books in my shelf. Thanks Tim for sharing your information and knowledge with us!
I'm a huge fan!
Allan Paul Raicher |
So much good advice
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| Review Date: January 8, 2010 |
| Reviewer: JG Davies, |
| Even if you're not looking to radically redesign your life there is a huge amount of information in here to make your current life more enjoyable, more effective and more constructive. I read and enjoyed the original 4 hour work week and rereading it after a period of a couple of years, I still get those 'oh yes!' moments at all of the brilliant insights within the book. I've bought a copy for my son as he struggles with the 9-5 lifestyle. |
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