A review by richardrbecker
Unfuck Yourself by Gary John Bishop

informative inspiring lighthearted fast-paced

4.5

Closer to 4 1/2 than 4, and one I'll be grifting my children who might be a little less familiar with the content than me, someone already in the choir. So much of Bishop's advice mirrors my own; the most profound aspect of the book is how succinctly he states it. 

The best of it is how Bishops addresses that we're all wired to win (even when we pick a losing path), that uncertainty is the only thing certain, and that you aren't what you say but what you do. However, I might add that I shared his inner voice advice as part of my closing remarks to the high school softball team I coach. Too many of these kids listen to a negative inner voice (and sometimes allow it to become their outer voice), affecting their play. I suspect it affects some of their lives in other aspects, too. In addition, I was happy to hear Bishop address how expectations often precede our biggest perceived failures, with the problem being we might not be failing at all. 

I originally picked this up because I wanted a nonfiction audiobook for my next listen (I have four other print and electronic books going right now) and enjoyed the Scottish accent. His no-nonsense, anti-self-help book talk was addictive enough; I put off finishing my other audiobook (also excellent) because Bishop's prose can be a bit addictive. I wouldn't be surprised if I pick it up again anytime I want a reminder of my own belief system. 

Seriously, the only reason I don't feel obliged to give Bishop five stars is that there really wasn't anything new here for me, and it might even be a little too short for its own good. But, at the same time, I do see this as being profound content to talk about with those closest to me. Bishop might be a fresh perspective they need to succeed or, at least, avoid the chronic trap of complacency.