So I was recently at my local B&N browsing and enjoying my child-free morning when I spotted Anthony Bourdain’s Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly. I had read great reviews and decided to pick it up.
Prior to purchasing this book, I had only watched a handful of episodes of his globetrotting show on both the Food Network and Travel Channel. But after reading the book in one sitting, I became fascinated with the stories of his adventures. And his unique way of telling it.
I enjoy his matter of fact and unapologetic way in which he speaks his mind. And as I read his book, I couldn’t help but stop midway and begin highlighting key points that would echo outside any kitchen and into anyone’s inner reality.
These are just some many Bourdain-isms that I found myself nodding my head to in agreement.
- “Your body is not a temple, it's an amusement park. Enjoy the ride.”
- “No one understands and appreciates the American Dream of hard work leading to material rewards better than a non-American. ”
- “Skills can be taught. Character you either have or you don't have.”
- “Don't lie about it. You made a mistake. Admit it and move on. Just don't do it again. Ever”
- “Assume the worst. About everybody. But don't let this poisoned outlook affect your job performance. Let it all roll off your back. Ignore it. Be amused by what you see and suspect. Just because someone you work with is a miserable, treacherous, self-serving, capricious and corrupt asshole shouldn't prevent you from enjoying their company, working with them or finding them entertaining.”
- “I learned to recognize failure.”
Anthony Bourdain's experience, as detailed in his book is one that is relatable to us all. Life is not meant to be easy. Difficulties will arise, but it is in the course we decide to take that will determine our fierceness and courage.
