The Napkin, The Melon & The Monkey - Book Review

Book Synopsis:

As a customer service agent, Olivia has been trained to handle irate customers in a calm, professional manner. But one day she loses control and yells back. Terrified that she’ll be fired, she seeks out Isabel, the call center’s sage.

The advice she receives from her wise mentor changes her life:
• SODA (Stop. Observe. Decide. Act)—a sure-fire formula for remaining calm in any situation
• Unplugging—a centuries-old practice to reduce anxiety and promote creativity
• Aha!s—22 practical insights that become the framework for living a happy life

This modern-day fable shows us that the best way to reduce stress is to cultivate mindfulness. While we cannot control much of what happens, we can get better outcomes if we stop to see situations clearly and calmly.

This book serves as both a powerful resource for business professionals looking for practical, easy-to-use tools for dealing with difficult people and an inspirational tale for those who want better relationships and a happier life.

My Review:

I work in an environment where I have to speak with frantic and irate people quite often. I have been complimented on the fact that I am able to keep calm most of the time and help diffuse stressful situations. Nonetheless, that does not mean that I do not get stressed or short tempered. My main flaw is overthinking internally and letting things build up.

The Napkin, The Melon & The Monkey: How to Be Happy and Successful at Work and in Life by Simply Changing Your Mind gave a lot of tips and techniques that I can apply to my life to handle whatever life throws my way. Granted, the tips and techniques take time and will not transform your life overnight. But there are helpful insights and references that guide you in changing your outlook.

One technique that I've been using is taking a break from my brain, meaning that I've been using breathing exercises and taking mental vacations to keep stressful thoughts from occupying my mind. This book is great for anyone who needs a little help de-stressing.

I received book for review from Meryl L. Moss Media Relations, Inc. The opinions within this post are of my own and I was not influenced in any way. Please do your own research before purchasing products, as your opinion may differ.