As society progresses, many individuals strive to prove themselves, with some equating constant busyness and round-the-clock work with personal value. However, being busy does not always equate to high productivity. Nguyen Thanh Long's book offers a lighthearted counter-argument, urging readers to "be diligently lazy." The author does not advocate for abandoning responsibility or waiting for luck, but rather encourages individuals to be "lazy" about meaningless tasks.

The book repeatedly states that diligence is not the ultimate goal; instead, it aims for individuals to create value, work effectively, and develop themselves. The author acknowledges effort but disagrees with working to the point of exhaustion. He uses the image of hamsters running continuously on a wheel, as if the world awaits the outcome, yet the animals remain stationary.

In the publication, Nguyen Thanh Long presents a different perspective on relaxation, arguing that rest is not merely an afterthought to labor but a prerequisite for better work. This could mean just 15 minutes of rest during a meeting, a short nap, or choosing not to cram in an extra online lesson in the evening just out of fear of falling behind. However, rest requires discipline, not indulgence.

The author also stresses the importance of self-care through exercise, running, meditation, or any other beneficial habit. This enhances mental and physical well-being, contributing positively to one's work.

The publication, a collaboration between Nha Nam and Dan Tri Publishing House, was released in early June. Photo: Nha Nam.

The book mentions the 80/20 method in running: running slowly for most of the training time, rather than always rushing as if pressured. Slow running requires discipline and patience. When others pass you, you maintain your pace. Even when capable of running faster, you choose to slow down. This principle applies well to work: Faster is not always better. For some tasks, you need to go slower, think carefully, and wait for the right opportunity.

From running, the work addresses artificial intelligence (AI) in the current context. According to the author, as AI rapidly advances, humans increasingly need to embrace slowness. Machines can handle repetitive tasks, and digital tools automate many operations, but humans should not compete with machines in speed. What each person needs to do is maintain the ability to think deeply, ask questions, and consider consequences before acting. Thus, "laziness" here means creating mental space for oneself, avoiding being swept away by the pace of the era.

The author dedicates a section to Generation Z, individuals who openly discuss workplace challenges, express their feelings, fatigue, or perceived absurdities. He observes that many young people today live amidst constant pressures to achieve early success, earn substantial money, quickly build personal brands, and cultivate a life beautiful enough to share on social media. According to him, one essential skill for everyone entering adulthood is knowing when to work and when to rest to avoid wasting energy on unnecessary tasks.

Nguyen Thanh Long (Long Lac Lu) graduated from Hanoi University of Science and Technology, specializing in Information Technology. He has over 25 years of experience in creating impactful technology products. Currently, he serves as a strategic consultant for digital transformation and growth for many large enterprises. The author also supports and invests in startups in the creative, publishing, and education sectors.

Phuong Linh