The Not-To-Do List：The Surprisingly Simple Art of Success

We systematically overestimate the role of success factors; but at the same time, we systematically disregard the role of failure factors. Why? Because successful companies, projects and people make it into the media. Flops, on the other hand – no one wants to hear about them. Deadbeats don’t usually write autobiographies. And in the rare event that they do, they fail to find a publisher or at the very least an audience.

So, we study these shining examples and delude ourselves that success is the result of a series of carefully orchestrated success factors, when it’s really about avoiding the things that kill success. Tip: Why not visit the graveyards of failed companies, projects, people, marriages and families instead? That’s where you’ll learn the most – namely, what to avoid.’

Just as some people collect vinyl, video game consoles or vintage clothes, for years Rolf Dobelli has been accumulating stories of failure – botched attempts at work, family life, marriage and life in general. Using information gleaned from some of the world’s most innovative and curious minds, as well as from his own experience as a writer, businessman, entrepreneur and philosopher, Dobelli skilfully distils the 52 most important habits to avoid if you want to live a successful, and ultimately happy, life.