How to Stop Worrying and Start Living

“Our trouble is not ignorance, but inaction. The purpose of this book is to restate, illustrate, streamline, air-condition, and glorify a lot of ancient and basic truths—and kick you in the shins and make you do something about applying them.”

Throughout the book, Dale Carnegie emphasizes that his strategies are not revolutionary. To underline this point, he frequently intersperses his ideas with quotations from ancient philosophers. Here, the author explains that his authorial purpose is to present “ancient and basic truths” in an innovative way that will prompt readers into taking action and improving their lives.

“The best possible way to prepare for tomorrow is to concentrate with all your intelligence, all your enthusiasm, on doing today’s work superbly.”

Here, Carnegie introduces a key concept of his methodology: day-tight compartments (See: Index of Terms). The author recommends approaching each day as a fresh opportunity. Worrying about the past or the future is a waste of energy.

“When we have accepted the worst, we have nothing more to lose. And that automatically means—we have everything to gain!”

Acceptance is another technique the author encourages readers to develop. Carnegie clarifies that acceptance is not the same as defeatism or resignation. Once an individual has “accepted the worst,” they can stop worrying and focus on improving their situation.