Rate: 7/10
Pages: 288
Format: Paperback
Genre: Non Fiction/Self Growth
Published: March 2016
Acquired from: Harper Collins Australia
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are entirely my own*
There were so many things I loved in this book and so many things I didn't. Melissa kind of doesn't bother too much with politically correct or red tape. She says it how it is. She admits that sometimes she chucks tantys or picks fights with her husband. She is really honest and real, and I liked that! The whole gist of this book is to explore the role our "mean girl" plays in our life. In Melissa's words, our mean girl is "the sneaky voice inside our head telling you that you're not good enough, smart enough, skinny enough, whatever enough". I guess that voice is definitely something we can all relate to. Throughout the book Melissa shares her struggles with her own mean girl and recounts the life she was living, or more like the life she wasn't living. She tells how she conquered and still does conquer her mean girl's voice and how you too can live free from the voice's dictation. The book itself is very, very pretty and there are colours, quotes and pictures throughout which certainly make it aesthetically pleasing. There were also heaps of pictures of her laughing too. Like take what you think is a lot and times it by ten, say. This irked me a bit, and I often felt she was a bit preachy, like she had found the light because she had beaten "rock bottom" as she continuously said over and over again. Now don't get me wrong in thinking I didn't like the book, because I did, and I learnt a fair bit. But my reviews are just that, my reviews. They're a way for me to express how a book made me felt, and I'm not really comfortable silencing my writing voice. When I write, I do so without a filter. I let it flow, and I love it. Anyway, back to the book. What I learnt most was not to silence my mean girl, actually sorry I am going to get off topic again, because I really hate the term mean girl. I'm not mean, and that voice in my head that tells me I'm not good enough isn't snarky or mean on purpose. She is afraid and instead of beating her up and giving her an unkind title, I be gentle with her and shower her with love and kind words. I tell her that its all going to be okay, and that its okay to be scared, but not to worry because I've got this babe. So yeah, what I learned most was to let the little voice inside me who wants to be brave have little more volume and to trust her more. And thats that. Time to go to work, in a bookstore where I'll tell people about this book and sell it too. Success all round I'd say. :)
Rate: 7/10 Pages: 288 Format: Paperback Genre: Non Fiction/Self Growth Published: March 2016 Acquired from: Harper Collins Australia *I received this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are entirely my own*
0 Comments
​Miranda's first book Treasure Yourself was the first self-growth book I ever read. It was about six years ago, and my best friend lent it to me after telling me how special it was. Now Tay, (who has been my bestie since pre-school times) has a Mum who was always very into Universal powers. As a result Tay was unusually optimistic and upbeat. She knew about the power of words and how believing something made it true. Back then, I did not, and I thought she was a little crazy (she is, and me too). Anyway, I read it and absolutely fell in love. I had to have a copy straight away so I could read it over and over. It was the first true wake up call to how life is a choice. And so I began choosing. It's been a long journey to where I am now, but I still hold such a huge amount of love for Miranda and her book. Hence, why I was so excited to get her latest book, Empower Yourself. This book is quite different though, and is predominantly just affirmations and tips for living a life of love, joy and harmony. I find what works best for me is to pick a random page and let its contents speak to me, which they do, regularly. There are gorgeous bird illustrations throughout and a sense of calm and sweetness within the pages of this lovely little purple book. Definitely a book to have sitting on your bedside counter! :) xo
Rate: 6/10 Pages: 264 Format: Paperback Genre: Non Fiction/Self Growth Acquired from: Hay House Australia *I received this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are entirely my own*
Gala Darling. Now there is a name that stick's in your head. And it was for that reason, and because she loved it, that the author changed her name to just that. ​Radical Self Love is a self-help book that is about as bold as they come. The girl herself is radically unique, and can I use the word bold again? She says all the things that most people want to tiptoe around, and covers topics from how to shake hands properly to how to maintain a life-long romance. Nothing was too big or too small, and I loved how she got into the nitty gritty of every situation and explained just how to do the task/get the guy/wear a hat. The book itself is broken into 3 sections; Loving Yourself, Loving Others and Daily Magic. These were then broken into smaller chapters, each of which was accompanied with tonnes of info, homework and cute illustrations. I was truly quite impressed, and even though some of the things she said, I found cliche or irritated me, I admired her for having the courage to say them anyway. I mean, who cares if we disagree on certain social situations? Not me, an not her I'm guessing. That is what life is about, taking what you can and leaving what you don't want. Now go ahead and take that gem into your day, and I promise it will shine much brighter. xo
Rate: 7.5/10 Pages: 206 Format: Paperback Genre: Non Fiction/Self Growth Acquired from: Hay House Australia *I received this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are entirely my own*
I have so many wonderful things to say about this book! I started listening to it through my phone/car on my way back to the Coast last week. I was so intrigued, and engaged in all Bertolucci was saying. Unfortunately my phone battery died and I had to spend the last hour of the trip listening to Vance Joy (poor me :P). I listened to it some more on a grand walk I took a few days ago, a walk which lasted 1hr30mins, it was so good. And then last night, when I just wasn't ready to commit to sleep yet, I finished it off.
S O F L I P P I N G I N S P I R I N G ! ! Basically the "book" is broken into ten keys: 1. Take charge 2. Let it go 3. Live for now 4. Expect the best 5. Back yourself 6. Get out of the way 7. Be grateful 8. Give all you can 9. Keep it up 10. Be brave Each key has a specific focus and Bertolucci goes through step by step how you can achieve each, no matter where you are in life at that point. The advice is all so straight forward and real, Bertolucci doesn't beat around the bush, but rather tells it like it is. She teaches you how to be brave and how to believe in yourself. Being a life coach, she has so many incredible examples of how people aren't fulfilling themselves or their lives. She shares how she worked with her clients to overcome their obstacles and ultimately start living the life they want. B has a tonne of other Self-Growth books out and I can't wait to read/listen/learn some more. The audiobook was read by B, and it truly was a ripper! Rate: 8/10 Pages: 212 Format: Audio Book Genre: Non Fiction/Self Growth Acquired from: Borrow Box (Library App)
I will admit that I was dubious about reading this book. I haven't been into sport since high school and have never followed AFL. The author of this book is an A-grade AFL (Australian Football League) player, and sporting culture is just really something I cannot relate to at this point in my life. I guess I was a bit judgy too, thinking that it would be about a footy star trying to tell the kids to "be cool, don't take drugs". Once I got over that and thought about the fact that I don't know this guy, and who knows, maybe I'll actually enjoy his book, I was able to step out of my comfort-box and learn.
As it happens, and generally does, I really liked the book! Harry, born Harritia moved to Australia with his family as a child. His mother always taught him to believe in himself, which is what he says allowed him and gave him the courage to pursue his dreams. The book is broken into four pillars, and in each he shares personal stories, teachings and facts about how we can be more mindful. It's Cool to be Conscious does an excellent job of outlining how we can be more mindful in everyday life and why it is so essential to be. I truly learnt a range of skills, and I'm even trying one out today; live as though today was your last. Harry also goes a lot into the importance of trying new things and stepping out of the familiar. Ironically, that is exactly what I had to do in order to give myself the chance to read and learn from his book. Rate: 6.5/10 Pages: 160 Format: Paperback Genre: Non Fiction/Self Growth/Biography Acquired from: Hay House Australia *I received this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are entirely my own*
My first read for 2016! I truly think that there is no better way to start the year than with the spiritual goddess that is Louise L Hay. I hadn't read anything of Robert Holden's yet, but I loved reading from dual perspectives, as while most of his and Louise's spiritual beliefs aligned, not all did. This was such an interesting dynamic to witness, as they just accept their differences without judgement or trying to change one another. Such a practice is truly rare and beautiful in this world. Together, Louise and Robert share wisdom accumulated over their lifetimes and journeys, stories and advice they have picked up over that time. The book focuses around 7 main practices; "looking in the mirror, affirming your life, following your joy, forgiving the past, being grateful now, learning to receive and healing the future". Each chapter included specific practices and techniques which can be used to apply them to every day life. Once again, I have been inspired and encouraged to live a life true to myself and acknowledge the universal truth that life loves me, and you!. :) xo
Rate: 7/10 Pages: 272 Format: Paperback Genre: Non-Fiction/Self-Growth/Spirituality Acquired from: Hay House Australia *I received this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are entirely my own*
This book encompases quite a magnitude of content, and opportunities for growth. Megan is a self-confessed, ex work and stress-aholic. She has worked in multinational corporate companies, had a marriage break down and now raises her son as a single-parent, all whilst working, teaching, inspiring and playing all of the other important roles we take on as women. That is probably the main point of this book, to touch the lives of normal women who are taking on far too much, give them a good shake and say, "hey, you're amazing and you need to look after yourself". Topics regarding work, exercise, mindfulness, mothering, nutrition, positivity, self-care, and so much more are covered. It is like a literal guide book for how to live a full and happy life. I really quite enjoyed reading through it quite slowly, and absorbing all of the wisdom she was sharing. There are so many golden gems and truths within the pages which really struck into the core of who I am, who we all are as women. For too long we have been shouldering the burden of everyone around us, and there is literally no need. Again, it all comes back to self-love and nurturing ourselves. Everything seems to just take care of itself after that.
Rate: 7.5/10 Format: Paperback Genre: Non-Fiction/Self-Growth Acquired from: Hay House Australia *I received this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are entirely my own*
Talk about powerful stuff! Bronnie's book has quite literally changed my life. Each paragraph, each chapter, each regret had me reeling with an overwhelming amount of growth, understanding, compassion and tears. I cried a lot throughout this book. There were happy tears, delightful sobs, and heart-aching gasps for breath. To be touched on such an emotional depth truly highlights the wonder of a good/excellent/life-changing book.
Bronnie has spent her life ever growing, changing and adapting to life's processes as she navigates her way through the the journey we must all take. For many years Bronnie worked with and in the homes of those taking the inevitable final task; dying. Throughout the book she shares not only her own memoir, but the beginnings, middles and ends of many people who have so much insight to give. It is not only the regrets that they recite to her, but also the joyous lessons and personal growth they have learned. There are so many incredible life lessons to be heard, and learn them you do. The amazing thing though, is that you do not have to wait until your final moments to discover and start practicing them. We have the opportunity to embrace and begin living the life we desire and deserve. Bronnie expresses how she herself did this, and shares how you too can do it. This is an inspiring and immaculate book which I honestly feel every single person in the world should read. The 'fixer' in me, who I am learning to heal, wants to shove it in everyone I know faces'. I want to put it in school libraries and talk about it over every meal I have. And yet, I remember and hold dear this quote from the book " You also want to help others clean theirs [muck] off. But they have to do it themselves, as no one but them knows just how fragile they are underneath". I have truly taken on so many wonderful advice and strategies from The Top Five Regrets of the Dying, but the acknowledgment that the growth is ever present and ever lasting gives me hope and joy for all that is to come. Rate: 10/10 Format: Paperback Genre: Non-Fiction/Self-Growth Acquired from: Hay House Australia *I received this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are entirely my own* Q&A with author Bronnie Ware: 1. Living a mindfully happy life is a life-long journey. What do you think is a good first step? To accept that it is actually a step-by-step process. In doing so, the focus becomes on the present step rather than always striving to a future date and missing the potential bliss of the moment. The more present we become, the happier life is. 2. What is your favourite book? Are there any you would recommend to your readers? There have been some significant books that have shaped my journey. But my favourite, and the most influential, has been ‘Footprints on the Path’ by Eileen Caddy. I’ve had it for years and still get more from it any time I open the pages. I absolutely love that book. 3. Reading your book exposes us to a life time of learning and growth in matter of 245 pages. There are so many life changing thoughts we are able to take on. What would be the one lesson you want your readers to take away from your book? Give yourself permission to truly enjoy your life. Time is a gift. Use it incredibly well.
This woman is changing my life; and I know that I am only one of millions growing beyond my wildest dreams because of her. This book was first published in 1984; over twenty years ago! I think that fact in itself is enough to show just how much truth it holds, that all this time later it is still hitting home; and not just with older people of Louise's generation, but with me; a young whippersnapper as my Pop would say. There are five parts to this book, and it is broken down into a further sixteen chapters focusing on a range of sensitive and spiritual topics and issues. Louise doesn't shy away or try to be politically correct, she is just honest and tells it like it is. Louise goes through how our negative beliefs, thoughts and actions have been shaped by others and how they in turn have shaped our own lives in a million little and large ways. She then goes onto describe how we can change them; how we can change any and everything really. The power truly is within us, we just have to have the courage to reach out and take it. Louise is a huge self-love advocate and explains how almost all negative experiences and issues are a result of us not treating ourselves with the love and care which we deserve. Louise shares in the book her own incredible story of self-growth and the turmoil and adversity she once faced. The thing I loved most was that she doesn't just tell you what is wrong and give you some vague speech on how you can fix it; she actually teaches you how, with simple and structured examples, activities and affirmations. I don't agree with every single thing she says and believes; but I certainly connect with 95% of it. I am learning how to be my own goddess, and how to truly treasure and nurture myself and my life. It is so refreshing to find a lifestyle approach which tells you that you are in-fact a whole and perfect being; capable and deserving of everything our hearts desire. I finished it this morning and will be literally starting again tonight, plus getting my own copy sometime soon.
Rate: 10/10 Format: Paperback Genre: Non-Fiction/Spirituality/Self-Growth Acquired from: Mobile Library
I really treasure this little book of light. It is filled with gems of wisdom and knowledge and I have learned so much from within its pages. It includes 12 chapters; most of which focus on specific topics such as money, forgiveness, critical thinking, friends and more. It also goes through step by step how to use positive affirmations and how to incorporate using them into your everyday life. There are activities and tasks which help you to see which areas you need to focus on and how to overcome your negative beliefs and thought patterns. The book also came with a CD which has a 70 minutes worth of positive affirmations on the same topics as the book. It is something that I will be putting into my car and listening to on a regular basis.
I now feel so much more comfortable using affirmations and do them twice, if not more times a day; and I am already reaping the rewards (yes I see you fixed car, HD and happy soul). Rate: 8/10 Pages: 128 Format: Hardback/CD Audio Genre: Non-Fiction/Spirituality/Self-growth Acquired from: Hay House Publising *I received this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are entirely my own*
This was either the third or fourth time I've read this book. I first discovered this beauty when my best friend lent it to me about five years ago. It is a short and simple book where Kerr shares the journey of her life, and the foundations she has built it on. These centre around positive thinking and the ultimate choice we have to have make each and every day; to be happy. The second half of the book consists of a large number of positive affirmations, surrounding happiness, health, career, relationships and other areas in aid of self love. I remember juts how deep an impact Treasure Yourself had on me when I was fifteen, and in the process of finding myself as a woman and trying to figure out just where I fitted in the world. It is perfectly suited in my opinion for young women, and helps them to see the enormous light and love that they have, and are able to share with the world.
It is another book to be kept on ones bedside table, to flick through at leisure and draw on in moments of the need. Rate: 8/10 Pages: 284 Format: Paperback Genre: Non Fiction/Self-Growth/Spirituality Acquired from: Brother and (now) sister-in law - Christmas Present (2011) This book is the most powerful I have ever read. Just let that sink in, I still am. Considering you know, that I have legit read over a thousand books during my twenty years on Earth... And yet here we are. I honestly cannot remember where I picked this book up from, I think that it was probably from a bookfair or something. I have recently been dealing with some pretty heavy stuff and was really looking for a way to cope and just, deal with it. I of course, turned to books. I ordered a bunch which related to situations I had been from BD, but wasn't sure what to do while I waited for them to arrive. Then one day a video by Teresa Palmer on her Your Zen Life channel popped up on my YouTube feed. She talked about a lot of the stuff I kind of knew, but had been mostly ignoring or not implementing. About how happiness is ultimately a choice, and only one we can make. She also went on to talk about the fact that we can only change our own lives, and we are all in control only of that. This spoke to me a lot, as I have an almighty tendency to try to fix people, and I end up so devastated when I can't. So there I was, thinking about some deep, deep stuff, when I wandered into the rumpus room and pulled this book off the shelf. And there I was, getting my life ultimately turned upside down, in the best possible way ever. You can see below a picture of my copy of the book. Notice how many tabs there are? I literally tabbed anytime something really grabbed me, and as you can see, that was nearly every page, and sometimes, multiple times a page. Louise acknowledges so many truths which so many of us refuse to accept. That our minds and our spirits have complete control over so many things. That we are powerful beyond belief, but most of us never take the chance to get anywhere near our purpose or potential. I just cannot properly express the impact that TPISWY has had on so many different aspects of my life. My mindset, my attitude, my health, my diet, my relationships with others and with myself. My mind, body and spirit is growing in a way that I adore, and cherish and I am so very excited for the incredible journey that I am undertaking. I would truly recommend this book to every living person on the planet. But like Louise says, thats a job for you to take on, not me. xo Rate: 10/10 Pages: 238 Format: Paperback Genre: Non-Fiction/Spirituality/Self-growth Acquired from: Bookfair? |
|