Book Date // 8 reasons I fell for “ The Art of Non-Conformity” by Chris Guillebeau

Embarking on a year-round-the-world solo trek last month, I could only squeeze three books in my backpack. Chris Guillebeau's “ The Art of Non-Conformity” felt fitting.
I devoured his 11 thoughtful chapters within 48 hours of reading the first page. It’s one of those books that breathes wind into un-actualized potential and catalyzes creativity within oneself. Each chapter drops practical breadcrumbs of encouragement guiding the reader through their own thick forest of imposter syndrome and fear. Few authors provide as much vulnerability, transparency, and education as Chris achieves and that seems to be the secret to his longevity.
After much underlining + highlighting , below are my own top 8 take aways.
- 1. “Creating your ideal day + radical goal setting.” Take this exercise seriously and it acts as a North Star for figuring out what you really want out of life.
- 2. “ World Domination is where you live a life of adventure and focus on leaving a legacy that makes a radical difference for people. There’s no need to settle or accept anything less.”
- 3. “ When faced with a choice between abundance and scarcity, choose abundance […] Scarcity involves hoarding, and abundance involves sharing.”
- 4. “ Asking ‘ What’s the worst thing that can happen if I don’t do this?’ may help you feel better about eliminating an obligation.
- 5. “ You don’t need years of preparation. It’s called life. Whatever has led you to where you are today is good enough to launch you…”
- 6. “ Motivation comes in three forms: inspiration, education, and entertainment.”
- 7. “ Your goal as a leader is to challenge people without insulting them.”
- 8. “ When you start to attract vampires, congratulations: you’re well on your way. Just don’t give in. The rest of us are counting on you to keep going.”
Today, after 8 years of struggling to write an abstract, a 13 chapter outline poured out of me… in an hour. Something finally clicked; undoubtedly reading about Chris’ own unconventional life path set fire to mine.
One day, when I become a published author with my first book, I’ll remember this moment. Thank you in advance, Chris, for giving all of us permission to tap into our inner creative genius led by your example.
For the full experience, buy “ The Art of Non- Conformity” or gift it to a friend who would benefit. https://www.amazon.com/Art-Non-Conformity-Rules-Change-Perigee/dp/0399536108
Facebook.com/artofnonconformity
@chrisguillebeau // twitter
Bonus: Chris has a knack for finding apt quotes, featuring several in each chapter.
“ I’d like to live as a poor man, with lots of money” — Pablo Picasso
“ The question is not who is going to let me, it’s who is going the stop me.”-Ayn Rand
“ Some people get an education without going to college; the rest get it after they get out.” -Mark Twain

