The Art Of Non-Conformity audiobook cover - Set your own rules, live the life you want and change the world

The Art Of Non-Conformity

Set your own rules, live the life you want and change the world

Chris Guillebeau

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The Art Of Non-Conformity
Discovering Purpose+
Conquering Fear+
Redefining Security+
Challenging Authority+
Building a Following+
Financial Independence+
Time Management+
Creating Legacy Work+

Quiz — Test Your Understanding

Question 1 of 9
What does the author identify as a primary reason people fall into an 'unremarkably average' and unfulfilling life?
  • A. They lack the financial resources to travel or start a business.
  • B. They do not have a clear idea of what they want out of life.
  • C. They are overly ambitious and burn out early in their careers.
  • D. They rebel too much against authority figures and gatekeepers.
Question 2 of 9
According to the book, what is an effective strategy for mentally preparing to conquer the fear of making a major life change?
  • A. Ignoring the fear until it naturally fades away.
  • B. Asking yourself, 'What is the worst that can happen?' to put the decision in perspective.
  • C. Seeking constant reassurance from friends and family members.
  • D. Waiting for a time when the fear is completely gone before taking action.
Question 3 of 9
Contrary to popular belief, the author argues that true job security is derived from what?
  • A. A reliable paycheck from a large, established corporation.
  • B. Your own personal competence, skills, and abilities.
  • C. The size of your professional networking circle.
  • D. Having a backup career path in a highly demanded industry.
Question 4 of 9
How does the book suggest you deal with 'gatekeepers' who try to limit your choices?
  • A. Challenge them by finding alternative approaches and changing the rules of the game.
  • B. Accept their authority but politely ask for an exception to be made for your case.
  • C. Avoid them entirely by only pursuing goals that have no barriers to entry.
  • D. Work your way up their organizational ladder until you become a gatekeeper yourself.
Question 5 of 9
What is the fundamental requirement for recruiting your own 'small army of followers' to support your goals?
  • A. Investing heavily in marketing and social media advertising.
  • B. Focusing exclusively on your own personal achievements to inspire awe.
  • C. Figuring out how your work can help them get what they want or need.
  • D. Appealing strictly to their sense of charity and goodwill.
Question 6 of 9
What does the author suggest is the true key to finding happiness with your finances?
  • A. Earning well above the $40,000 threshold to ensure absolute comfort.
  • B. Defining your personal values and aligning your spending habits accordingly.
  • C. Investing all disposable income into high-yield stocks and bonds.
  • D. Never taking out a loan, including mortgages or student debt.
Question 7 of 9
To make room for the things you've always wanted to do, what practical step does the book recommend regarding time management?
  • A. Multitasking to complete your daily obligations in half the time.
  • B. Delegating all of your personal responsibilities to paid assistants.
  • C. Sleeping two hours less each night to create more productive time.
  • D. Applying a filter to everyday responsibilities and eliminating unnecessary ones.
Question 8 of 9
What is the defining characteristic of 'legacy work' as described in the book?
  • A. It is work that guarantees financial security for your descendants.
  • B. It is work that will outlive you and make a lasting, positive impact on others.
  • C. It is work that is recognized by major awards and global media coverage.
  • D. It is work that builds upon the exact career path of your parents.
Question 9 of 9
Which of the following is a specific actionable strategy recommended in the book's final summary to free up your time?
  • A. Creating a 'to-stop-doing list' for tasks that drain your time without providing fulfillment.
  • B. Creating a 'five-year plan' to map out your corporate promotions.
  • C. Implementing the 'Pomodoro technique' for all household chores.
  • D. Hiring a life coach to track your daily schedule and habits.

The Art Of Non-Conformity — Full Chapter Overview

The Art Of Non-Conformity Summary & Overview

Based on the author’s blog and online manifesto, “A Brief Guide to World Domination,” The Art of Non-Conformity (2010) deals with ways of pursuing unconventional living and offers tools for setting your own rules, succeeding with your passions and leaving a legacy.

Who Should Listen to The Art Of Non-Conformity?

  • Anyone who wants to lead a more unconventional and fulfilling life
  • Anyone who is interested in creative self-employment

About the Author: Chris Guillebeau

Chris Guillebeau is an expert on creative self-employment and international travel who recently accomplished his goal of visiting every country in the world. He is also the author of the New York Times’ bestseller The $100 Startup and a regular contributor to CNN.com, Business Week, the Huffington Post and other outlets.

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