101 Things NOT to Do Before You Die FOR MOST OF US, life can become routine, even if it is rewarding and satisfying. So well-meaning people write books that are intended to motivate us to seek greater happiness in unusual activities. The guidance usually takes the form of lists of 10 or 50 or 100 things that we should attempt because they are more stimulating or enlightening than day-to-day activities. All we have to do is spread our wings and seize the day. But, in reality, most of us are too busy and too committed to family and job to spread our wings and seize the day. We probably are not going to try bungee jumping, or running with the bulls, or getting close to an exploding volcano. Most of us have limited amounts of time, money, and courage, and a too-well-developed sense of self-preservation. So how can we find greater happiness in our routine lives? Where is the guidance for the rest of us? 101 Things NOT to Do Before You Die is a different sort of life guide. It is based on the idea that there are plenty of situations in everyday life that present opportunities for either gratification or frustration. We simply need to learn to make the right choices; that is, the ones that create the most satisfying and meaningful experiences. Making those choices often can be a challenge because we are led to believe that things that are widely accepted, conventional, endorsed, or praised are the best things. But they might not be the best. Our value judgments easily can be shaped by movie producers, advertisers, bureaucrats, celebrities, and charismatic “experts.” So in this book I challenge conventional wisdom and self-evident truths. I encourage you to view routine situations with fresh eyes and to evaluate the options that are available to you. In its pages, you’ll find helpful tips on nutrition, travel, communication, art appreciation, and many other topics. In some cases I suggest that you make general changes to your thinking; in others, I encourage you to make specific changes to your behavior; and in others, I’m just having fun. So learn if you choose, expand your horizons if you dare, and laugh if you must. I did, and I feel okay. What Others Are Saying “It’s a self-help book, disguised as a self-preservation manual, written in the light tone of a Dave Barry column.” — Chicago Tribune “...loaded with helpful hints...” — Boston Globe “...Harris proves a keen observer...” — Publisher's Weekly “...strangely uplifting advice...” — Barnes & Noble   Easy reading is damned hard writing.    — Nathaniel Hawthorne