Just Don't: Lessons on the Art of Doing Nothing

An engaging tour through pivotal moments in history, business, and culture that teach us that the best strategy is often doing nothing

Are you tired of being told you should act fast, do more, and constantly improve every aspect of your life? Good news: History advises otherwise—in fact, it tells us that many of life’s most vexing problems can be solved by simply waiting things out.

In this lively and far-ranging book, journalist Johan Anderberg recounts real-life moments spanning centuries and covering history, economics, sports, politics, and more—all illustrating a simple idea: Those of us who can resist the urge to act are often the most likely to succeed.

In these over-maxxing times when we’re told to optimize everything, patience is no longer seen as a virtue, and being circumspect is practically a character flaw. But as these surprising stories illustrate, there is power in inaction—to avoid costly mistakes, meaningless effort, tactical errors, and other irrational missteps.

So sit back and enjoy these inspiring stories of great idlers over the centuries—everyone from Ancient Romans to Warren Buffett, from military geniuses to chess champions, and more.

And if you get the urge to take action, remember: Just don’t.