Thanks so much to Robin Sharma for writing such a beautiful foreword in celebration of twenty years of the Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff books.
It is an honor and a privilege to carry on the series for my late husband, Dr. Richard Carlson, and to speak on behalf of his legacy—a legacy born from his keen observations of mental health and well-being and also from the chapters of our lives. He had a gift for taking profound ideas and stating them so simply, but in a way that powerfully resonates as truth with all people, regardless of their culture, religion, language, politics, and gender.
Life’s minor annoyances can become kindling to a fire, and crisis can become the melting point for many not knowing where to turn for help.
Over the years the letters and testimonials have kept coming, and the one thing that is commonly said over and over is, “This book helped me through a crisis. It’s my Bible for living. I’ve been reading it many times over, and it always calms me.” Or as Oprah once said of the book, “It’s next to the bed.” Or, “this small book with easy-to-read chapters sits in the bathroom.” Many others have said also, “I carry it with me.”
I believe the reason why Richard’s words elevate awareness and alleviate anxiety, helping people to feel better, is because he knew how to give people the confidence and the tools necessary to access their mental health. Before the rise of “Positive Psychology,” Richard was pioneering its concepts, writing under the premise that most people are generally healthy minded but get off track easily. He would say, “no person is happy all the time, but you can get back on track faster with small adjustments to your thinking and attitude, with practice.”
This book will bring you back to your core values of gentle kindness. As you read along, you’ll remember your natural state of well-being and what it means to live compassionately and truly in the present, mindful and engaged in your life.
Life is a practice and what you practice grows like a seedling that gets water and sunlight. What you practice grows stronger.
This book will guide you beautifully in how to partake of life simply and in how to deepen your understanding of what it means to be a truly happy person, fulfilling your potential while having a positive impact on others.
I can personally say, no matter what, that after reading this book and embracing the wisdom here, you will have the tools to choose not to sweat the small stuff, and to live the big stuff—with greater happiness, peace, and big joy!
In honor of my late husband, Dr. Richard Carlson, I carry on with the legacy that has changed millions of people’s lives for the better. Every generation needs Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff for better living.
Treasure the gifts of life and love,
Kristine Carlson