A book about adult behavioral change – and how hard it is by Jeffrey A. Kottler

Reflections and Random Thoughts

I started this book in May 2022 and finished it last night, September 16th, 2023. It took so long not only because the beginning bored me but also because I tried to read too many books simultaneously. Especially if I’m bored – but that is a story for another time. I’ve recently committed to reading* one or at most two books at a time, so I finished, finally. But back to the book.

It’s well-researched, and there are several engaging stories of personal transformation and change. I am hung up on the subject of change. The conflict between the never-ending desire to change and the equally persistent resistance fascinates me. So I read a lot about it. Perhaps that is why I felt I didn’t find anything new here. But if you’re interested in the subject matter and haven’t read a lot about it you’ll probably find it worth the read.

“evolution hasn’t set us up for the attainment of happiness, merely its pursuit.”” (Jeffrey A. Kottler, Change)

Well, this one makes me feel a little better about never feeling like anything is quite good enough!

Notes from my Zettlekasten

“One of the most interesting mysteries related to change efforts is how small steps often lead to huge gains.” (Jeffrey A. Kottler, Change)

For more on this concept, read One Small Step Can Change Your Life – Robert Maurer Ph.D

“all behavior persists because it is doing something that is useful for the person,” (Jeffrey A. Kottler, Change)

What Everyone Else Thinks

You can read the reviews here. You can buy it here.