Book Review: “The Practice of Groundedness” by Brad Stulberg

In our hyperconnected world where hustle culture often reigns supreme, Brad Stulberg’s “The Practice of Groundedness: A Transformative Path to Success That Feeds—Not Crushes—Your Soul” arrives as a refreshing counterpoint to the endless pursuit of more.

Published in 2021, this book presents a compelling framework for achieving meaningful success without sacrificing your wellbeing in the process. Drawing from his background as both a performance coach and a struggling achiever himself, Stulberg offers insights that feel both deeply researched and personally lived.

Core Concepts

At the heart of “The Practice of Groundedness” lies a revolutionary approach to personal and professional growth that challenges our culture’s obsession with constant productivity. Stulberg introduces six key principles that form the foundation of grounded success:

1. Acceptance and presence in the current moment
2. Healthy striving versus perfectionism
3. Patient practice and deep focus
4. Community and genuine connection
5. Movement and physical wellbeing
6. Starting where you are

These principles work together to create a sustainable approach to achievement that doesn’t require burning yourself out in the process.

Chapter-by-Chapter Review

Foundation of Groundedness

The book opens by exploring why traditional approaches to success often leave us feeling empty and burnt out. Stulberg shares compelling research and personal stories that illustrate the costs of constant striving without a solid foundation. Through vivid examples from athletes, executives, and artists, he demonstrates how the relentless pursuit of achievement without groundedness inevitably leads to diminishing returns.

The Six Principles

Each subsequent chapter deeply explores one of the six principles, offering both scientific backing and practical applications. Particularly powerful is the chapter on healthy striving, which helps readers distinguish between productive goal-pursuit and destructive perfectionism. The section on community and genuine connection stands out for its nuanced exploration of how meaningful relationships contribute to sustained success and fulfillment.

Movement and Mindfulness

The chapters focusing on physical movement and presence are especially well-crafted, providing concrete practices that readers can implement immediately. Stulberg draws fascinating parallels between physical and mental resilience, showing how mindful movement can enhance our capacity for focused work and emotional balance.

Integration and Practice

The final sections focus on implementing these principles in daily life, with specific strategies for managing technology, setting boundaries, and maintaining consistency even during challenging times. Through carefully structured exercises and reflection prompts, readers are guided in creating their own personalized approach to grounded success.

Key Strengths

• Combines cutting-edge research with accessible, actionable advice
• Offers a refreshing alternative to toxic productivity culture
• Provides concrete practices and exercises for implementation
• Balances scientific rigor with engaging storytelling
• Acknowledges the complexity of changing ingrained habits

Potential Drawbacks

• Some readers might find the pace too measured for their taste
• Certain concepts may feel familiar to those well-versed in mindfulness literature
• The emphasis on slowing down might challenge those in high-pressure environments

Who This Book Is For

This book particularly resonates with:

1. High-achievers struggling with burnout or feeling disconnected from their work
2. Professionals seeking a more sustainable approach to success
3. Anyone feeling caught in the cycle of constant striving without satisfaction
4. Leaders looking to create healthier workplace cultures

Alternative Books

If you found value in “The Practice of Groundedness,” consider these related books that explore similar themes: