This month’s book review covers Larry Winget’s book, That Makes Me Sick (there is also a subtitle “Shock Treatment for your Life”). If you aren’t familiar with Larry, I will tell you that “shock treatment” is no understatement for his style. Actually, he is known as the Pitbull of Personal Development. His writing (and speaking) style is very real and “in your face”. His style is definitely not for the faint of heart, and if you are looking for a book with sugary-sweet encouraging words this isn’t the book for you. If you are looking for someone to shoot straight with you, you may enjoy this quick read. If you “make lame excuses” (Larry’s words) and don’t take responsibility for the state of your life (and business), you may not like what Larry has to say as this may be a bitter pill to swallow.
If you aren’t happy with where you are personally and/or professionally and would like some straight talk served to you … and you would actually be willing to do something about it, this may be the kick in the pants you need. Early in the book Larry quotes Werner Erhard by saying “The truth will set you free, but first it will piss you off!” (and then says that his book has probably already done that). Larry also says that if you have faced adversity and made something of yourself in spite of it, you will probably read this book and stand and applaud - and as someone who has, I did.
You will quickly find that making excuses and laying blame isn’t acceptable. You’ll learn the difference between reasons and excuses. And Larry will tell you flat out that if you aren’t happy with your life, it’s no one’s fault but your own, and that it comes down to three things: 1) you are stupid, 2) you are lazy, 3) you just don’t give a damn. While it’s ok to have any of these things in your life, you must deal with them. This requires action, and as Larry says, action changes things.
I won’t spoil anymore of the book, but as someone who did stand and applaud while reading it, I highly recommend this book if you feel stuck in your life and/or are unhappy with your life and just need that kick in the pants to get you going (but only if you’re actually going to do something about it to change your situation). Again, it’s not a sappy, sweet book - and it may make you mad - but if you want straight talk, then this is a must read.