Time Anxiety: The Illusion of Urgency and a Better Way to Live by Chris Guillebeau is an eye-opening exploration of how modern life has led us to believe that we’re always running out of time. Guillebeau effectively unpacks the pressure we place on ourselves to be constantly productive and how this sense of urgency is often an illusion that leads to stress, burnout, and an endless cycle of guilt.

What I loved most about this book is its practical approach. It’s not just another time management guide filled with overwhelming advice. Instead, Guillebeau encourages us to rethink our relationship with time, focusing on what truly matters and giving ourselves permission to step back from the rest. The book is well-structured, with clear and concise sections that are easy to follow, no matter how hectic your schedule might be.

A standout theme is learning to let go of guilt, particularly when it comes to work and managing our overflowing inboxes. Guillebeau’s advice here is refreshing and realistic—he emphasizes the importance of doing what’s meaningful, not just doing more.

For anyone who feels like they’re always behind or struggling to keep up with endless to-do lists, Time Anxiety offers a judgment-free, insightful perspective on how to live a more intentional and less stressful life. It's also a fantastic complement to the work of Cal Newport, as it delves even deeper into the idea of managing your time and focus in a way that aligns with your values, not just your obligations.

When I saw this book I just knew I had to read it. As a busy mum of 3 and working full time, time anxiety is something I struggle with.

This book was laid out really well and was broken down into easy to read sections. It had loads of great tips on how to manage time more efficiently and how to see what was important and what could be left for another day.

It gave great advice on not feeling guilty and I especially enjoyed the advice on working and the dreaded inbox as this is where I struggle most.

It also gave advice on hobbies which has encouraged me to set aside a bit more me time and take an hour lunch break each day rather than rushing a sandwich in 10 minutes.

Thanks to NetGalley, Chris Guillebeau and Pan Macmillan for an advance copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.