How to Maximize Time, Minimize Waste and Enjoy More by Mike Murray (Book Review #2276)

The book Lean Life: Maximizing Time, Minimizing Waste and Enjoying Life to the Fullest, written by author Mike Murray, offers readers practical tips on how to be more productive and purposeful using Lean and Lean Six Sigma concepts from his education as a chemical engineer. It is both structured (SoF) and flexible (Lean), prompting readers to look at how they use their time, how they use their resources and how to gain more enjoyment from both.

The concept that makes this book different is that it uses tools that have been designed for use in industry and process improvement and provide tools for personal development. Author Mike Murray has over ten years of experience in manufacturing as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, so is well aware of the way systems work as well as how they can be simplified. Murray’s desire to help people to achieve their greatest potential is a major theme throughout the book as he applies many of the concepts of Lean Six Sigma to many of the challenges faced by readers every day.

The overall theme of the book is that all waste (time, energy, and opportunity) creates a barrier to fulfillment. Just as factories produce better quality products and service through successfully streamlining processes using the principles of Lean Six Sigma, individuals can identify where waste exists in their routines and redesign them to create balance and happiness. The book provides a clear explanation of the theoretical concepts and also uses relatable stories to help readers identify and recognize areas in which they can improve their efficiency.

Unlike many other self-help books, Lean Life contains actionable strategies designed to help individuals remove distractions from their day-to-day lives and stay focused on achieving their goals. Lean Life has: clearly defined priorities and proven techniques for building new habits that should reduce the amount of time spent managing distractions. Additionally, it promotes the idea that life is not just about efficiency for efficiency’s sake; it is about providing opportunities for one to pursue their passions, develop relationships, and enjoy every experience that enhances the human condition.

Mike Murray’s writing style is direct, straightforward, and encouraging. As a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, he is highly qualified to provide the technical information required for readers to maximize their success. His engineering background has provided him with a diverse background to develop structure and clarity in his writing; however, Murray’s approachable style will allow readers from all backgrounds and levels of experience to read and use the information from this book successfully.

Ultimately, Lean Life is not simply a productivity guide; it is a blueprint for aligning one’s purpose with efficiency. For anyone who feels overwhelmed by their busy life or is looking for more meaningful intentionality in the way they spend their time, this book is a welcome addition to the growing number of resources available to help people live more productive lives. The author’s insights and experience will assist readers in removing the things that do not serve them while creating more of what truly matters in their lives.

Written by Jeyran Main

“Want your book featured in our magazine? Feature an editorial book review in our Book Review Magazine or submit an article in our Book Article Magazine.”

“Support the writing community—purchase our magazines today!”