This book took me a LONG time to finish—and it’s only 216 pages.

As someone who coaches others on productivity, Making Time sounded like it would be right up my alley. But I quickly realized this book isn’t about productivity in the traditional sense. It’s not about optimizing your to-do list or getting more done. Instead, it’s about shifting your mindset from producer to maker—focusing on creating something meaningful rather than just checking tasks off a list.

At times, I found myself rereading paragraphs, unsure of what I just read. I don’t consider myself a philosopher, but the author clearly is. The writing often felt abstract, almost like it was talking in circles.

That said, there are some golden nuggets throughout the book—especially for those who want to make an impact rather than just be another cog in the wheel. The emphasis on human BEING versus human DOING was a refreshing perspective. Instead of asking, “How do I fix this?” the book encourages you to first ask, “Who am I being?”

If you enjoy deep philosophical discussions, this book might resonate with you. If you're looking for a way to break free from the "producer" mindset and tap into your creativity, you’ll likely find value here. But if you're after practical productivity tips and strategies, this isn’t the book for you.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. I was under no obligation to provide a review, and the opinions expressed here are my own.

This is a book with content to think about. Bowler encourages us to re-establish a relationship with our natural creative self. She wants us to be aware of our inner knowing, live in harmony with our soul, who we are. This is a good book for those tired of the emptiness of productivity. It is a book for those who want to feel alive again, who want to feel like they are living their true self. The chapters are short. They can be read one a day as a jumping off point for reflective thinking. This is a personal book as Bowler shares many of her own experiences and reflections. It's a good book to think about who you are being. It will help you unlearn productivity as a way of life and rather be who you are on the inside.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

A wise, thoughtful, slightly quirky book on what it means to be productive vs. to be a maker. Maria’s ability to see through the constructs of time and capitalism is unique and eye opening. I really enjoyed it!

We are constantly fed the line that more productivity will bring more ease, satisfaction, and meaning to our lives. But what if all the gold stars and checkboxes are just a distraction? What if we could stop project-managing life and act from our being instead of all our doing?
This really blows my mind about how make use of time that really boost my effectivity and productivity a lot.

THIS BOOK! It has made me PREGNANT with pause, presence and a depth of rootedness to wander in wonder. It has inspired me to be in congruence with my self. It has awakened me to the truth that I am not trying to be a diamond, and therefore, pressure is no longer my chosen approach to life.

This was an excellent book. Unfortunately, just like a lot of people, I have checked all the boxes and still didn't find the peace I was looking for. This book will help readers do just that.

I wish I could get something new out of this book.
Not for me. Hope others find value in it. It may be a good and insightful read for those who are reading a book on the topic of making better use of time for the first time.