To be honest, the cover of the book didn't really appeal to me at first and I likely would have skipped right over it if I had seen it on the shelf at a bookstore. Fortunately, a close friend of mine lent it to me and urged me to read it, I am now urging you. It is worth the read.
The book is a very quick read and focuses on Four Agreements based on ancient Toltec wisdom. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toltec The agreements discussed in the book resonated with me and each day I try to keep a conscious effort to follow the advice they offer. Simply stated, the Four Agreements are as follows:
1. Be impeccable with your word
"Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love."
2. Don't take anything personally
"Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a protection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you wont be the victim of needless suffering."
3. Don't make assumptions
"Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness, and drama. With just this one agreement, you can completely transform your life."
4. Always do your best
"Your best is going to change from moment to moment, it will be different when you are healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self- judgement, self-abuse and regret."
In order to make a difference, I have had to really think about these agreements on a regular basis. I suppose that is why I decided to share them as they are never far from my mind. I have noticed that when things aren't going my way or I am faced with a difficult situation, these agreements have helped me work through it. Even if you aren't able to read the book right now, continue to re-read the Four Agreements and apply them to specific opportunities/challenges in your life. It seems to be helping me to gain different perspectives, and I am certain that it can help you as well.
