You could be forgiven for thinking that The Extra One Per Cent, not so originally promising to be “a great guide to high achievement”, is another self-help book packed with clichés but having very little connection with reality. After all, there are just so many out there. I was understandably skeptical when I first picked it up, but soon enough I found myself engrossed, reading through the pages while doing what the book told me to: reflect on myself.
Written by psychologist Rob Yeung, PhD, who trained in sport and exercise psychology and has since established a career as a life coach, author and commentator, the book is well structured and easy to follow. The eight chapters explore different sides of the human psyche, from centredness and the ability to cherish, to courage and sense of citizenship. None of the ideas brought up in the 263 pages is groundbreaking, but where the book succeeds is how it brings out from our subconscious what we have always known and connects it with real-life cases.
The stories are interwoven with boxes called either “Over to you” or “Becoming your best”. The former offer quick opportunities for readers to assess themselves and the way they do things, while the latter are deeper exercises that might help you get more organised, think more clearly and find your direction. These can be mnemonics, tests, asking you to draw a chart or suggested techniques to apply on situations that we encounter daily.
Dr Yeung does sometimes overdo the “be positive” spin a little, but if you are not the type of person who enjoys inspirational speeches, you will never pick this title up anyway.
This is not a one-time read but a handbook that you might want to keep around and review from time to time when you need some new energy and stimulation.
Reggie Ho
