The Little Book of Otter Philosophy

Author: Jennifer McCartney

These intelligent, adorable, water-dwelling mammals have a lot to teach us about the way we live. So, kick back, grab a pal, dive in and reconnect with your playful side, just like you otter!

(Excerpt from blurb of The Little Book of Otter Philosophy)

The Little Book of Otter Philosophy on the other hand was not something I was very interested in, as the premise of the book was basically to play more - something I felt that didn’t really resonate with me as I was someone who would rather use my free time to do something productive.

However, it was precisely due to the fact that I felt that this book did not suit me that I dived into reading it, as it provided me with a perspective that was quite the opposite of what I had.

The Otter Philosophy (PLAY)

Plunge into it

Laugh about it

Ask why

YOLO

Very much like it’s Alpaca counterpart, the book featured many cute otter 🦦 quotes and designs!

Here are some quotes from the book that particularly resonated with me!

Did you know? Both speaking and hearing positive words could increase cognitive reasoning, strengthen our frontal lobes and motivate us to repeat the behavior that inspired the affirmative words.

• While something like this might be common knowledge for many of us. Say good things = promotes good behavior. It was interesting to learn about the scientific background behind a process like that.

The book also reminds you that while animals as cute as otters might seem perfect, they do have a more deadly side to them as they are natural predators. This reminds readers that while your partner might seem perfect they are still inherently human and would make mistakes. While some mistakes are minor and accidental, some mistakes might be done out of spite to harm us, it is up to us to discern if our partners are genuine.

The book encourages us to find your water slide - which is to find something in your life that makes you happy. This thing did not need to be expensive nor exclusive. Something as simple as going to the gardens or taking a walk can be your water slide, something that brings you joy.

Another thing that the book teaches us is to Stop comparing yourself to others! The book draws similarities to otters and how they do not let things like jealousy bother them. While I do believe that animals do not usually experience feelings like jealousy, the advice itself is timely especially for people who have very high standards for themselves and have a tendency to compare their achievements to others.

Last but not least, the otter philosophy is about knowing that sometimes that happens and it doesn’t really matter all that much. This is one of the philosophies that I could not really wrap my head around as it seemed to contradict what I’ve been told. However, the longer I think about it the more it makes sense to me. Sometimes things just do not matter as much as we perceive them to.

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Interested in reading The Little Book of Alpaca Philosophy or the Otter Philosophy? Purchase them at NUS Co-op@Central Forum or here at 15% OFF*

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