The Power of Meaning: Crafting a Life That Matters Emily Esfahani Smith

The Power of Meaning: Crafting a Life That Matters

Emily Esfahani Smith

Crown

2017

The Power of Meaning: Crafting a Life That Matters

Smith has put together an interesting array of material to point her reader toward a life that matters, borrowing from her title. Through her research work she finds several common factors that in the end become necessary to living a life that a person can claim as important in some way whether its feeding giraffes, turning a well-honed illicit drug business into a legitimate business venture, or surviving a concentration camp. Yes, she covers that much ground in this short book. And it is all to illustrate how meaning and a satisfying life emerge.

The worth of this book isn’t necessarily that Smith has found some new silver bullet approach, but it’s readability. The ease with which she leads a person through the various discussions helps the reader relax and absorb what she says. Change doesn’t come easy for any of us so a soft, gentle approach cushions the ride. I’d say anyone that is even remotely questioning meaning, purpose, or how to make their life matter this would be a good first read. And re-read. There’s plenty of wisdom built into this book.

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for a review.

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