'The Dip' by Seth Godin

by Reviewed by Elizabeth Bezant

If you're one of those people who starts things, but never quite gets around to finishing them, whether they be courses, books, businesses or anything in between, then this book is definitely for you.

It may be slim, but like most of Seth Godin's books, it's one that's hard to read in one sitting because you'll have to stop to reflect on how what he?s said. It's almost impossible not to stop reading and ask yourself, 'Do I really do that?' 'Is he right?' 'How can I use that piece of information in my life/business?'

Written in his familiar, thought-triggering style this book reflects on 'the Dip'. The Dip is that moment when an exciting new project changes into a hard, tedious slog. It can happen to everybody at some time, in any pursuit we take up; it can be at work, in projects or in pastimes. However, the important thing is recognising it and deciding how to react to it; to some people it's a deterrent, to some it's what makes them the best they can be.

In this book Seth clearly challenges long-held beliefs on the quitting. He shares the thought that, giving up on something is not always bad, and that sometimes not quitting is all that's stopping us from succeeding. The problem is recognising the indicators that show us when it's good to quit and when it's best to stick at it.

The whole concept of 'The Dip' is one you may be familiar with, or something you've at least recognised as being a trigger to familiar patterns of behaviour. But for me, I've never found it written in such a clear, insightful style that doesn't fail to cause contemplation on how it reflects on my own life.

For anybody who feels they spend more time avoiding than committing, is wavering over the direction their life should take, or wonders why there are so many unfinished projects left in their wake, I recommend you read this book.

It certainly had an impact on me. I'm now looking at my life and business differently, but perhaps more importantly understanding why I behave the way I do.

Why not read it and tell me what you think?

***




The Dip, the extraordinary benefits of knowing when to quit (and when to stick)
By Seth Godin
ISBN: 9780-7499-2830-8