| Reviewer: Mark Lamendola
Have you ever seen someone with a case of the
"shoulda couldas" or had a case, yourself? That's where you
should have done something you could have done, and now regret never
having done so. It's a consequence of wasting an opportunity. Sometimes,
age shuts the door of opportunity permanently. It's just this kind of
situation that Phil Keoghan will help you prevent. This
book goes beyond just giving you inspirational examples (such as the nun
who, in her 70s, competes in triathlon events--and wins). The subtitle
of this book is "8 Ways to Create a List for the Life You
Want," and the book delivers on that promise. The
first chapter does what first chapters are supposed to do--it explains
the premise of the book. But, it starts with a frightening near-death
diving experience--the one that launched Keoghan on his
opportunity-making, opportunity-taking lifestyle. This chapter then goes
on to chronicle Keoghan's own "List for Life" and how it
evolved as he matured, in addition to getting the reader hooked on the
idea of creating a "List for Life." Chapters
2 and 3 talk about getting rid of excuses (such as not having time or
money) and facing your fear, respectively. This isn't rah-rah stuff, but
practical advice. One particular account show this very clearly. Koeghan
works with a woman who is scared of heights. She eventually rappels down
the highest bridge in the USA--and wants more. Keoghan uses many
interesting examples to illustrate his principles in action. Chapters
4, 5, and 6 deal with getting lost in the moment, testing your limits,
and taking a leap of faith (respectively). I group these together,
because they address getting out of your comfort zone. Again, Keoghan
uses many interesting examples to illustrate that he's not just spouting
theory or "new age talk." He's speaking from experience. Chapter
7 gives perhaps the main reason for doing any of this in the first
place--rediscovering your childhood. Keoghan has a way of making,
enjoying, and sharing special moments. He also recognizes this ability
in others--people like 89-year old skier Banana George. Chapters
8 and 9 discuss shedding inhibitions and breaking new ground,
respectively. Here, Keoghan talks about taking an honest look at
self-imposed rules and limitations. Are those really helping you? Is
there something better? Dare to explore. Chapter
10 shows how rewarding it can be to help others realize their dreams,
and it gives you practical advice on how to do so. It's rather
motivating. Chapter 11 gives example after example of "Dreamers all
around us"--folks who have broken through their own constraints and
reached for new opportunities. The book ends with Chapter 12, which
provides a methodology for getting from point A (where you are now) to
point B (where you want to be). I think Keoghan took exceptional pains
to make the line between those points short. So
if you want to be able to look back on your life and feel good that you
lived it to the fullest, this book is a "must read." It's
inspirational, informative, and entertaining. Get one copy for yourself,
and a second one for somebody you really care about. |