Book Review: An Enemy Called Average by John Mason

“You can’t fulfil your destiny on a theory, it takes work”

Listening to this audio book is an experience I can only express by saying I would definitely read this book again in the near future. It was also quick as it only takes one hour, fifteen minutes to listen to the entire audio book.

‘An Enemy Called Average’ is a book filled with many nuggets of wisdom on how to rise above mediocrity. Being part of a society that applauds mediocrity, it is easy to feel that you are doing something great when you are actually just average. It teaches you to take a step back and realistically assess your “achievements” whether they are actually where you and the people around you think you are or you have an overblown impression of your accomplishments. This is not a book to make little of what you have done but one that challenges you to do more and aim for the best instead of settling for less especially when you know there is more to achieve.

My two biggest take-aways from this book are:

1. The fact that “change is the most constant thing in life”. I have always known this fact but Mason brought in a perspective I have never really thought about which is preparing for the change ahead in every situation. Expecting it and being mentally ready for that change.
2. The second is “having the power to say ‘NO’ to many good ideas”. A jack of all trade is a master of non, therefore focusing on the most important things at a given time is key to your success. ‘No’ may mean, not right now because I have to finish what I am doing no matter how great the idea or venture is. This piece of wisdom, I will always keep fresh in my head.

There  were so many others and I will definitely go back and listen again because I would love to ponder on some of the points raised in this book and see how I can apply more of the principles taught in this book to my life.

I can’t think of anything I didn’t like about this book. It was that good.

I rate this book a gorgeous 4 stars and I recommend it to anyone looking for positive and practical ways to improve his/her life. In fact, everyone needs to read this book at one point in their lives.

Published: August, 2011 by Simple Truths LLC

Pages: 127

Genre: Non-Fiction/Self-Help

Purchase @ http://www.amazon.com or get audio book @ the SRIBD App on Andriod or iPhone app stores.

The Author: John Mason is a national best-selling author, noted speaker, and executive author coach. He is the founder and president of Insight International and Insight Publishing Group. He has authored twenty-five books including “An Enemy Called Average,” “You’re Born an Original Don’t Die a Copy,” and “Know Your Limits—Then Ignore Them” which have sold nearly two million copies and are translated into thirty-eight languages throughout the world. These books are widely known as a source of sound wisdom, genuine motivation, and practical principles. His writings have been published in Reader’s Digest along with numerous other national publications. And seven of his books have reached the #1 spot on Amazon best-seller lists. Known for his quick wit, powerful thoughts, and insightful ideas, he is a popular speaker across the U.S. and around the world