The Inward Outlook: Conscious Choice as a Daily Practice

I enjoyed reading The Inward Outlook by Dr. Laura Basha. Focused on timeless principles and philosophies surrounding thought, Basha helps take these heavier topics and break them down into understandable lessons that can be applied by the everyday person. A doctor, teacher, and coach herself, Basha acts as a perfect medium to convey to the reader these truths and the importance of incorporating them for a happier, healthier life.

In a very brief summary, The Inward Outlook concept is essentially becoming aware of the importance of your daily thoughts. From this awareness, Basha challenges the reader to distinguish when they are paying attention to their memories (analytical thinking) versus being the present (free-flow thinking). As she points out, neither is necessarily “good” or “bad” but needs to act in a balance that best suits the reader’s peace of mind and happiness. Too much focus on the past, previous struggles, and sufferings (analytical thinking) is problematic and can lead to boredom, judgment, and lack of joy. However, some analytical thinking is necessary; without this type of thought, you would not have the memory of how to complete daily tasks. Likewise, free-flow thinking is our natural state of thinking in the “Now.” From this present moment thinking, we are less emotionally moved and more stress-free. However, it is essential to have both of these types of thoughts to live a healthy and content life.

Throughout the chapters, Basha covers these concepts in depth, really educating the reader on the power of their thoughts. However, my favorite part of this book was the practice study guide included, breaking down each chapter into workbook-type questions to answer. Perfect for a book club, study group, or just personal meditation, I think this section really helps the reader digest the chapters and actually think about ways to apply the principles to their life. Admittedly, as an avid reader, I love self-help books and philosophy-type literature such as this. However, one of the most difficult challenges I have is the application of the concept and ideas from the book into my daily life. This is why I think this study guide is such an asset to Basha’s teachings. By allowing the reader to reread as needed and focus on implementation outside of just teaching, she adds a lot to her audience’s experience and potential life transformation.

Overall, I enjoyed this book and took away many ideas on how to transform my own thoughts. I would recommend this book for all ages who enjoy philosophy, self-help or want to learn more about thought transformation.