The Four Agreements
Don Miguel Ruiz
17 people recommended it in 10 threads, 2007–2026.
1 commenter pushed back on it — worth reading the threads.
What people on Hacker News said
It's a short and simple book about four rules of life which you can use anywhere.
In the last five years, this was the most important book for me. Whenever I'm having troubles with someone, reading this book helps me get through it.
Consciously choosing not to say negative things about others put in stark contrast how frequently and casually I, and others, were negative about those around us.
This book advocates personal freedom from beliefs and agreements that we have made with ourselves and others that are creating limitation and unhappiness in our lives.
In my humble opinion, these two books alone, have the ability to change one's life.
The Four Agreements freed me from the self help book cycle. They are the building blocks that all other advice is rooted on.
Where it comes up
- Ask HN: What book have you given as a gift? 2016 · 6 recommendations
- Ask HN: Which non-technology book has influenced you the most and why? 2017 · 3 recommendations
- Ask HN: What book have you given as a gift? 2026 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: Do you recall any book or course that made a topic finally click? 2022 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: What are the best books for professional effectiveness? 2021 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: Mind bending books to read and never be the same as before? 2020 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: Books you read in 2016? 2016 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: What is the most mind blowing book you've ever read? 2015 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: What book changed your life in 2014? 2014 · 1 recommendation
- What books would you recommend reading? Why? 2007 · 1 recommendation