#Review: The Average Advantage by Utsav Malhotra

The Average Advantage 
Author: Utsav Malhotra
Publisher: Rupa Publications 
Rating: 4/5

The Average Advantage by Utsav Malhotra is a refreshing counterpoint to the relentless culture of ambition, productivity and “extraordinary” success that dominates contemporary professional discourse. Rather than glorifying hustle, the book examines the hidden costs of chasing exceptionalism—from burnout and performative productivity to excessive meetings, personal branding and the pressure to constantly “do more.” Chapters such as The Passion Trap, Ambition Is Overrated, The Burnout Myth, The Power of Boring and Guardrails for the Long Game make the book’s central argument accessible and relatable.

One of its strongest features is its conversational, irreverent voice. Malhotra uses humour, corporate anecdotes, metaphors and punchy observations to make familiar workplace problems feel newly visible. The short sections and boxed takeaways, such as “Survival Tips,” also make the book easy to dip into and revisit. The writing is particularly effective when it challenges seemingly unquestionable ideas about ambition, average performance and career success.

However, the book occasionally leans too heavily on its central premise, and some arguments feel repetitive. Readers already familiar with contemporary workplace critiques may find parts of it more affirming than revelatory. The abundance of examples and references can also occasionally interrupt the flow.

Visually, the clean typography, generous spacing, clear hierarchy and restrained use of boxes make the book highly readable. The paperback production is functional and comfortable, although the relatively plain interior design does not always match the wit of the writing.

Overall, The Average Advantage is an engaging, witty and timely read—especially for anyone exhausted by the idea that a meaningful career must constantly look extraordinary.

Find the book here.