Essentialism – Greg McKeown (Review)
Do less but better: Greg McKeown’s essential guide to focusing on what truly matters.

Summary
Essentialism is a guide to doing less but better — focusing on what truly matters and eliminating the rest. Greg McKeown introduces a disciplined approach to saying “no” and prioritizing essentials in both work and life.
Who This Book Is For
- Professionals feeling overwhelmed by too many commitments
- Leaders aiming to prioritize high-impact activities
- Readers seeking simplicity and focus in daily life
Key Takeaways
- The Way of the Essentialist: Focus energy on what matters most.
- Trade-Offs: Accept you can’t do everything — choose what’s vital.
- Boundaries: Saying “no” is key to creating space for priorities.
- Focus: Create time to think and clarify purpose.
Strengths
- Simple, memorable message: less but better
- Practical tips for setting priorities and saying no
- Combines mindset shift with actionable practices
Weaknesses
- Some ideas feel stretched to book length
- More conceptual than detailed for complex projects
Verdict
A refreshing counter to busy culture. Essentialism provides a mindset and tools for focusing on what truly matters — a must-read for anyone seeking clarity.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)