Better Than Normal

Better Than Normal – Dale Archer

Many people have personality traits that are often seen as problems, such as being easily distracted, anxious, perfectionistic, impulsive or prone to intense moods. In Better Than Normal: How What Makes You Different Can Make You Exceptional, psychiatrist Dr. Dale Archer argues that, in moderate amounts, these traits can actually be strengths.

Archer explains that many characteristics associated with conditions such as attention deficit, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, anxiety, bipolar tendencies, narcissism and social sensitivity exist on a spectrum, and that most people have some degree of them. He suggests that society too often treats any difference as a disorder to be eliminated, when many people would benefit from understanding and harnessing their traits instead.

For each trait, Archer describes its potential advantages, such as creativity, energy, attention to detail, ambition and sensitivity, as well as the challenges it can bring. He includes self-assessment quizzes to help readers understand where they fall on each spectrum, and offers practical advice on how to use their traits to succeed in work, relationships and life while managing the downsides. Stories of successful people and of his own patients illustrate the ideas.

Archer emphasizes that some people do have conditions that require diagnosis and treatment, and that the book is about traits that fall short of clinical disorders.

Encouraging and thought-provoking, Better Than Normal is an interesting read for anyone who has felt different. It is not a substitute for professional evaluation, and readers who are struggling should consult a qualified mental health professional.