Just Be: How to Tame Your Overthinking Mind and Live Fully in the Present by Glenn N. Levine

Just Be: How to Tame Your Overthinking Mind and Live Fully in the Present by Glenn N. Levine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Just Be by Glenn Levine is a warm and accessible introduction to mindfulness that manages to be both informative and easy to digest. Levine starts by defining mindfulness in clear, straightforward terms, drawing attention to how often we dwell on the past or stress about the future—habits that pull us away from the present moment. His premise is simple but powerful: if we can better understand and tame our minds, we might just live richer, calmer lives.

What sets this book apart is how it blends scientific insight with relatable anecdotes. Levine does an excellent job explaining complex topics like “negativity bias”—the brain’s evolutionary tendency to focus on potential threats—in a way that feels relevant to everyday life. These moments ground the book and lend it real credibility; you get the sense that Levine has done his homework and genuinely wants to help readers find a better path forward. Many of the concepts in this book reflect various philosophies, religious practices, and great thinkers from Buddhism to Christianity.

One of the strengths of Just Be is how approachable it feels. The tone is never preachy, and Levine offers plenty of concrete, actionable strategies for staying present. Whether it’s a breathing technique or a simple shift in perspective, the tools here feel useful and realistic—ideal for anyone new to mindfulness or struggling to stay consistent.

That said, the book includes several illustrations intended to reinforce key ideas, and while they’re well-intentioned, they come across as somewhat amateurish. Still, something is charming about them, as if a friend sketched them out just for you. They add a personal, homemade touch that some readers may find endearing, even if they’re not exactly polished.

Overall, Just Be is a thoughtful and practical guide to mindfulness that doesn’t overwhelm or overpromise. It’s a great starting point for anyone hoping to be a little more present in a fast-moving world.

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