62 of 62 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Look back with no regrets, January 1, 2005
This review is from: No Opportunity Wasted : Creating a List for Life (Hardcover)
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.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
32 of 33 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
A Challenge!, December 2, 2004
This review is from: No Opportunity Wasted : Creating a List for Life (Hardcover)
I have read and reviewed countless self-help books during my reviewing career. They all can pretty much be summed up in this; follow my directions and your life will change. Most times, you are not going to follow their directions and the only change in your life has been the thirty somewhat dollars that you lost. And so it is.
However, there are times when the author is so enthusiastic about his concept that it oozes off the pages and you sit up alert thinking, maybe he has something here?
You sense in the words screaming at you from the pages that this author truly has something that he has seen work, believes in, and wants to share it with you. Refreshing!
That is what happens in this book by author Phil Keoghan, host of the Discovery Channel's "NOW."
As with other books in this category, he gives you steps to take to reach the life goal that you have pushed aside for so long. He shares stories of others that didn't think they could, but plunged ahead and found their victory. He doesn't hide the fact that there will be obstacles to face and that perhaps there will be some failures, but his zest for life and his encouraging words make you think, perhaps I can! It's worth a shot at trying. And he also gives you tips to help overcome the many obstacles that would keep you from your victory. Including many of his own victories.That is refreshing in a self-help book.
All of us have a hidden desire, an accomplishment that we long to achieve but perhaps have given up on ever having that goal met. This work will challenge you to rethink that goal, to look at the obstacles that have kept you from it, and perhaps give you enough courage to take the leap. Well worth your read and your consideration.
Shirley Johnson
Senior Reviewer
MidWest Book Review
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Inspiring Book, November 10, 2004
This review is from: No Opportunity Wasted : Creating a List for Life (Hardcover)
Even though I already had a list of things I wanted to accomplish, within six pages this book already had me adding more. Not only adding, but mentally trying to find ways to actually getting to them rather than just thinking - 'oh, that would be nice one day'. With inspiring stories and interesting websites, Phil has managed to capture the soul of adventure living.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
