Book Review- The Lazy Genius Way: Embrace What Matters, Ditch What Doesn’t, and Get Stuff Done

As someone who is constantly bombarded by the constant noise of societal expectations and pressure to do more and be more, I was in desperate need of a guide to help me navigate this overwhelming maze. That’s why I was drawn to “The Lazy Genius Way: Embrace What Matters, Ditch What Doesn’t, and Get Stuff Done“. And let me tell you, it was a game changer!

From the first chapter, Kendra Adachi’s relatable and humorous writing style had me hooked. She breaks down the idea of being a “Lazy Genius” – not about doing more or less, but about doing what matters to you. Her thirteen Lazy Genius principles are a breath of fresh air, giving you permission to let go of the “shoulds” and focus on what truly matters to you.

One of the principles that really resonated with me was “Decide Once”. Kendra explains how making decisions once and sticking to them can save us so much time and energy in the long run. It’s a simple, yet powerful idea that has changed the way I approach my daily tasks and responsibilities.

I also appreciated how Kendra emphasizes the importance of rest and self-care. In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to forget about taking breaks and taking care of ourselves. But as Kendra points out, rest is just as important as work, and when we prioritize it, we’re able to perform at our best.

“The Lazy Genius Way” has transformed the way I think about productivity and living a fulfilling life. Kendra’s writing style is approachable and easy to follow, making this book accessible to anyone who needs a break from the chaos. If you’re looking for a guide to help you simplify your life and focus on what matters, I highly recommend this book!

If you have eight people coming for Christmas lunch and six matching plates, you do not automatically need a new dinner set.

You need two more useful plates and a way to make the table feel connected.

Mismatched crockery can look wonderfully welcoming. It can also bring a little family history to the table, especially when inherited pieces are involved.

The key is repeating a few details around the dishes so the differences look considered.

That is a much cheaper solution than buying tableware you may only use once a year.

Sort your plates before deciding what is missing

Lay out the plates you own and check their condition.

Choose pieces suitable for serving the meal, with comfortable eating space and no damage that makes them unsuitable for use.

Then look for connections:

White and cream backgrounds.
Similar blue patterns.
Floral designs with shared green details.
A mixture of plain and patterned dishes.
Similar shapes or a relaxed vintage feel.

You do not have to use everything. Select the combination that works best.

Make a sample place setting

Put one plate, one napkin, the cutlery and a glass together.

Try a second plate beside it rather than judging each dish separately.

Often, crockery that looks unrelated in the cupboard works surprisingly well once the same napkin treatment is repeated.

Take a quick photograph if you are struggling to decide. The overall balance can be easier to see on a screen.

Repeat the napkin fold

Use the same fold at every seat.

Even slightly different napkins feel more connected when they have a consistent shape and position.

These festive napkin-folding ideas offer inspiration, but a simple rectangle is enough.

If the plates are busy, keep the napkin treatment plain. If the plates are mostly neutral, a ribbon bow can provide the Christmas colour.

Use identical name cards

Cut cards to the same dimensions and write each name in the same style.

You do not need perfect handwriting. Clear names and consistent placement do the work.

Kraft cards are useful with mixed vintage crockery. White cards can work well with colourful dishes.

Position the cards above the plates or in the same place beside each napkin.

Arrange the differences deliberately

If you have two floral plates and four plain ones, distribute the floral plates across the table.

If everyone has a different plate, connect the settings through the napkins and cards instead.

Avoid adding extra layers purely to hide a mismatch. Stacking several plates at every seat takes space and creates more washing.

Use the pieces required for the meal.

Keep the centrepiece simple

Your dishes already provide visual interest, so the centrepiece does not need to compete.

A bowl of ornaments inspired by our Christmas bauble centrepiece can repeat one colour from the crockery.

Alternatively, use a few small greenery jars or a bowl of whole fruit.

Keep the arrangement low and leave room for food.

Make the matching detail yourself

If you enjoy a little Christmas crafting, our napkin-holder ideas include ways to create a repeated finishing touch.

Choose one design that suits your supplies. Plain paper bands are useful when time or materials are limited.

If napkins are genuinely the missing practical piece, compare plain cotton napkins on Amazon. Choose something you can use throughout the year and check washing instructions before buying.

Borrow before replacing

Family or friends may be able to lend plates, glasses or serving dishes.

Photograph borrowed pieces and keep a note of whose they are. Return them promptly and handle special items according to the owner’s advice.

Your Christmas table does not need identical crockery to look lovely.

Repeated details can bring different plates together, and there is something rather satisfying about making a good table from a collection you already own.

Have you read?