Have you read Amy Poehler’s first book: Yes Please? If you haven’t, stop what you’re doing right now and go get it. Seriously, like right now.

A little back story…I got hooked on Serial a while back and have been looking for a new podcast or book to help get me through my two hours a day in the car. (At least commutes are good for something.) I’ve gone through a few episodes of TED Radio Hour and This American Life, but could never get all that interested. So I decided to buy Amy Poehler’s audio book.

I can’t say enough about it. It was fabulous! And if you’ve never listened to a “book on tape” before, I would highly recommend it. I’m sure the book is hilarious in its own right, but hearing Amy narrate is just engrossing. Plus, she has special guests chiming in, like Seth Meyers, Patrick Stewart, and even her parents!

I began keeping a list of my favorite lines from the book, and it grew to a pretty long archive. Here are my top lessons learned from Leslie Knope.

1. Make “no” a complete sentence. I’ve really taken this one to heart. I’ve been clearing some room on my plate lately, and becoming more and more ok with saying NO. I’m learning that I don’t need an excuse, and I don’t need to feel guilty. #FOMO y’all — it’s an ugly beast.

2. You don’t always have to win to get the pudding. There’s a lesson in every challenge. Sometimes finding that lesson is how you actually win the battle.

3. You have to be where you are to get where you’re going. In other words, start somewhere. It doesn’t matter where you are, or how long it takes you to reach your goals. Just get started!

4. And my absolute favorite of all…

Good for her, not for me. It’s so simple, right?

It’s easy to get caught up in what everybody thinks. To try to keep up with the Jones’. To constantly compare yourself to others. We all do it, and women are the worst offenders. So stop comparing, and do what works for you!

What books are you reading/listening to lately? 

PS- If you’re looking for some podcasts to improve your daily commute, click here. I’m excited to try some of these next!

PPS- Don’t forget to enter for your chance to win a gift card to Parima Studio!