The Dip

The book is praised for its clear and simple message, offering a fresh perspective on the conventional wisdom of "never quitting." Reviewers found its core concepts, particularly the idea of "strategic quitting," to be interesting and potentially helpful for navigating life's challenges. The book introduces different types of situations, such as "The Dip," which is presented not as an obstacle but as an opportunity for mastery, and contrasting it with "Cul-de-Sacs" or "Cliffs" that represent dead ends. Many appreciated the emphasis on focusing resources on endeavors with true potential, and the courage to quit paths that are not leading to significant rewards, thereby freeing up energy for more meaningful pursuits. The book's brevity was also seen as a positive by some, delivering its central idea efficiently.

Despite its concise nature, a recurring criticism is the book's repetitiveness, with some feeling its core message could have been conveyed in a much shorter article or blog post. A significant point of contention among reviewers is the book's central philosophy that one should only pursue activities if they can realistically become "the best in the world" at them. This stance was deemed unrealistic and even "laughable" by some, particularly when applied to personal hobbies or recreational activities where the goal is enjoyment, not necessarily mastery. Critics also questioned the practicality of easily identifying whether one is in a valuable "Dip" or a fruitless "Cul-de-Sac," and felt the book lacked concrete, actionable steps. Additionally, some reviewers found the examples used to illustrate points to be weak or unconvincing, leading to a general sentiment that it was not the author's strongest work.

Overall, the book offers a thought-provoking challenge to the ingrained belief that persistence is always paramount. While its core message resonates with many seeking to optimize their efforts and avoid wasted time, its extreme "best in the world" philosophy and repetitive delivery may not appeal to all readers. This book would particularly benefit individuals who find themselves constantly persevering without clear progress, or those who struggle with the decision to abandon unpromising projects, careers, or relationships. It serves as a concise guide for anyone looking to strategically re-evaluate their commitments and focus their energy on paths that truly align with their aspirations for significant achievement, even if they disagree with some of its more absolute assertions.