Trying Not to Try

<p><b>A <i>Guardian </i>Best Book of 2014<br>A 2014 <i>Brain Pickings</i> Best Book on Psychology Philosophy and How to Live Meaningfully</b><br><br>Why is it hard to fall asleep the night before an important meeting? Or be charming and relaxed on a first date? What is it about a comedian whose jokes fall flat or an athlete who chokes? <br><br>What if contrary to what we have long been told spontaneity - not striving - is the answer to success? Through stories of mythical creatures and drunken cart riders jazz musicians and Japanese motorcycle gangs Slingerland effortlessly blends Eastern thought and cutting-edge science to show us how we can embody a spontaneous way of being and live more fulfilling lives.</p>