It will come as no surprise that, as a coach, I am a LITTLE bit intrigued by why we do what we do. That’s not the royal “we”, but why people behave the way we do. Whilst we like to think we are particularly sophisticated, we are in all intents and purposes, verbal animals. We study the world around us, the cosmos and our history in a way of finding out a little more about ourselves. Ruby Wax’s latest book, How To Be Human: The Manual,* calls upon the perspectives of a Neuroscientists and a Monk, to help expand a little on finding out why we do what we do! So it was a no brainer for it to end up on the book club list!
Now, I’m going to make a confession, I was so enthused about this book, that I have learnt it out before I had the chance to write the blog. So, the review is from memory and will, in a roundabout way, show you a little more about what it is to be human.
Having already reviewed “Frazzled” as part of the book club, I was enthused about the new offering. It was an interesting idea to bring together two ends of a similar spectrum – the science behind our feelings and behaviours with the ancient philosophy and practical application of mindfulness from a monk. In a world where we seem driven to upgrade, want more, be more, yet still feel unfulfilled and stressed, this is promising.
It covers all the topics that you would hope a handbook on humanity would cover: Emotions, Relationships, Addiction, Kids and Forgiveness, amongst others. Like Frazzled, it is part autobiographical and extremely relatable and practical; we get a range of mindfulness exercises to apply ASAP into your life.
For those that found Frazzled a little heavy on the science (Ruby has a Masters in Mindfulness based Cognitive Behaviour Therapy from Oxford University) or prefer a more spiritual view on life, then the interview transcripts that end each chapter allow for an easy to understand explanation and debate; we hear from both the Monk and the Neuroscientist on the topics.
So, what did I learn about being Human?
Unsurprisingly we are complicated beings. We are driven by habits and long-standing behaviours that are created to protect us and to make sure we stay alive. Yet, the world and its technology are developing at a pace that we can’t keep up with. No wonder we are stressed.
The best way to be Human?
Reflect rather than React. Switch off (YES, including YOUR PHONE). Find a way to calm your brain and your body.
I’ve simplified this book to a few lines, so if you want to go a little deeper, then the resources list at the back will open up your mind to a whole range of different reading. But, if this is the only book you ever read on the subject, it will feel like more than enough.
What do you think? Have you read “How to be Human?”. What is the biggest thing that you have learnt about your humanity?
*This is an affiliate link. If you click and buy, I may get a few pennies, but it won’t impact the cost for you!
Read more of the personal development book reviews here.
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Clara Wilcox is a straight talking, practical and experienced coach helping clients navigate the tricky waters of returning to work, career changes and professional development. The Balance Collective is a social enterprise focused on improving the lives of parents, by working together to build inner confidence and promote a healthy work/life balance.
