Review: 'In Praise of Wasting Time' by Alan Lightman

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

'In Praise of Wasting Time' by Alan Lightman, 90 pages - Instagram @c_reads_books

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In Praise of Wasting Time by Alan Lightman argues, as the title states, in favor of wasting time. He suggests that “wasting time” by letting your mind wander and unplugging from the grid isn’t really a waste of time at all, but actually vitally important. In a world that insists “time is money,” Lightman encourages us to step away, for as little as 30 minutes a day, and relax by meditating, going for a walk, listening to music, reading, or simply sitting and letting your mind wander. He argues that letting your mind wander without worrying about everything you could or should be doing leaves time for creativity and self-reflection, two things that are vital to a person’s happiness and sanity.

I really loved this book. I essentially agreed with everything that Lightman said and argued for. In the intensely fast-paced world we’re living in, it’s more important than ever to “waste time.” Letting your mind wander can lead, as Lightman illustrates with multiple examples, to some of the most creative and vital thoughts. From writing a great novel to discovering a new scientific principle, idleness is often the key. Although it’s undoubtedly hard sometimes to stop working and relax, this book has definitely made me want to try much harder to do just that. Overall, I absolutely loved this book, and would recommend it to everyone!