A handbook for happiness by Idler editor Tom Hodgkinson – available to order now

My new book An Idler’s Manual is now just back from the printer and is available to order direct from us. It’s a short pocket-sized handbook for all idlers and contains 24 ways to do nothing, plus illustrations from Alice Smith.

It’s my first book for five years, and in it I’ve attempted to present some idle thoughts which I hope are life-improving and will help you on your quest to slow down, have fun and live well.

Dr Johnson wrote that “every man is, or hopes to be, an idler”. Being idle brings untold benefits both to individuals and to the planet. But how do you do it? Doing nothing is actually quite tricky, because the world is always telling you to be busy.

An Idler’s Manual brings you 24 easy ways to do noting, from keeping a diary to sitting on a bench. These idling tricks can be done here and now, by nearly anyone, and for little or no cost.

Follow these simple steps and you’ll find that anxiety will evaporate, your life will become more enjoyable, and you’ll start to live well, just as Epicurus intended.

“An Idler’s Manual is the wittily distilled, richly presented, wisdom of years. Tom’s thoughts on, and experiments in, idling will make you laugh and could transform our lives,” Mark Vernon

Order now and get it direct from us with discounts for multiple purchases. RRP is £8.95, and we’re selling two copies for £15.95 and three for £21.95. UK delivery is free.

Subscribe to the Idler hereand get 26% off the cover price plus a free copy of An Idler’s Manual.
Order single issues here.