September Book Report

No one likes a book report on a half-consumed book.

But that's what you guys are getting.

Much like I can't quite finish a foot long sub, but the half size is too short, Terry Orlick's In Pursuit of Excellence was more than I could chew in one month. The book isn't terribly long. It is, however, laden with volumes of useful information that sometimes require serious consideration for digestion. Wait, is this a sandwich or a book?

I picked up In Pursuit after searching around the interwebs for a highly recommended sports psychology tome. Orlick's work repeatedly emerged from the searches, so I decided it might be a good choice. I often feel I defeat myself mentally on the bike, as a parent, and in life in general, so a little positive pop psych couldn't hurt me any.

Sometimes I feel like I'm weeding through a jungle, thick with sights to see, as I read In Pursuit. The pages and words occasionally present as slightly text bookish. This is not to deter you, just to warn you. Still, find a copy and read this book. I can't say it has magically made me faster. Orlick has encouraged me to examine my psychological approach to all walks of my life, though, and I can say I feel better about most facets of my athletic performance, parenting skillset, wife life, and even authorship.

I happen upon concepts in the book that sometimes feel a little hokey. Like snake oil. I figure I may as well drink the kool-aid, though, and am even trying his self-hypnosis methods. (Really just intensified focused meditation...) His ideas go past simple positive psychology, and encourage the reader to remember we are in control of our minds, and our body will follow where the mind leads. Seek positive thoughts about who you are and what you do, and your actions will follow. Which, even my constantly skeptical husband agrees, is a good place to start.

Would I recommend this book to a friend?
Yes. If you are a person who breathes and lives, you should read this book. With an open mind.

Any warnings?
Enter into this reading with an open mind. No language warnings for this one. My grandmother would be proud.

Physical or E-book?
I am reading In Pursuit of Excellence on my Kindle. I suggest finding a physical copy, for easier reading and reference.