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A Place of Yes 10 Rules for Getting Everything You Want Out of Life
The New York Times bestselling author of Naturally Thin and The Skinnygirl Dish, Bethenny Frankel takes us on an empowering journey to A PLACE OF YES
BETHENNY FRANKEL’S no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is personality won over countless fans, and made her a nationally bestselling author and the star of her own hit Bravo show Bethenny Getting Married? Now Bethenny opens up and shares the obstacles she overcame and the great success she has enjoyed while discovering how to approach life from “A Place of Yes.” Bethenny’s path was not always clear as she overcame a difficult childhood, failed relationships, entrepreneurial efforts that never quite got off the ground, and lifelong money struggles. To deal with these challenges, Bethenny developed ten rules for pursuing her goals with authenticity and drive, including:
FIND YOUR TRUTH: Dig deep inside and figure out what is authentic for you, not anybody else.
ACT ON IT: You don’t have to have a master plan. But unless you do something, you’ve done nothing.
EVERYTHING’S YOUR BUSINESS: Treat every job, person, and experience as if it could lead to your next big opportunity.
OWN IT: If you do it, say it, think it—then own it. Stand up for yourself and fully acknowledge who you really are.
Each rule is illustrated with compelling, sometimes funny, sometimes outrageous examples that are pure Bethenny. It’s easy to say no, to say “I can’t,” to expect the worst, and to doubt yourself. But your life can be better than “not bad” or “good enough.” It can be amazing. And by putting Bethenny’s rules together, you can use them to be more successful, more fulfilled, healthier, and happier than ever before.
324 pages, Hardcover
First published December 28, 2010
212 people are currently reading
1772 people want to read
About the author
Bethenny Frankel
20 books248 followersBethenny Frankel has a knack for making healthy food taste delicious. That knack, which started out as a hobby and was enhanced with formal training, has elevated her to national prominence as a celebrated natural food chef, the creator of the phenomenal new Skinnygirl Margarita, and The New York Times best selling author of Naturally Thin.
Frankel, who calls herself a "health foodie” and attended the National Gourmet Institute for Health and Culinary Arts, focuses on sharing with others her knowledge and passion for healthy living. In addition to her monthly column in Health Magazine, she is regularly featured in national publications from The New York Times to the weekly entertainment magazines. She’s also a sought-after guest on national news and entertainment television, where she brings her expertise and irresistibly candid and funny take not only to food segments but to any conversation about living healthy and living well.
Frankel’s wit, wisdom and humor came to national attention when she was named first runner-up on NBC’s “The Apprentice: Martha Stewart.” Network executives saw a personality they couldn’t ignore and put her center stage weekly on Bravo’s hit series “The Real Housewives of New York,” now in its third season. Though technically not a “wife,” she has emerged as the star of the series, with a huge network of fans, a job as national spokesperson for Pepperidge Farm's Baked Naturals® and Deli Flats(trademark), and her own spin-off series now in production.
Naturally Thin: Unleash Your Skinnygirl and Free Yourself from a Lifetime of Dieting debuted this year on The New York Times Best Sellers list and stayed for an astonishing for 18 consecutive weeks. Frankel’s second book, The Skinnygirl Dish: Easy Recipes for Your Naturally Thin Life will be released January 5, 2010, just in time to support “new year, new me” resolutions with delicious, practical, effective recipes and lifestyle tweaks. Skinnygirl Dish showcases Frankel’s renowned “fix-ology” . . . her ability to take calorie-rich foods and revamp them to create healthier versions without compromising flavor.
Her skill as a fixologist applies to cocktails too . . . she has just this fall launched The Skinnygirl Margarita, a bottled, pre-mixed beverage made with clear tequila, lime juice and only a splash of citrus liqueur, which drastically reduces the calories of the traditional cocktail. All natural and lightly sweetened with agave nectar, it has only 100 calories in a full 4 oz. serving.
As the go-to blogger for all things reality and lifestyle, Frankel wields her pen like a sword, ensuring that readers will get the unvarnished truth along with common sense, expertise and a healthy – always healthy – dose of humor. She is on a mission to democratize healthy living, making information available to everyone she can reach through her appearances, books, columns and blogs.
Frankel lives in Manhattan with her dog Cookie. She will be marrying her other love, Jason Hoppy, this spring and they will welcome their first child in early summer.
From her website
Frankel, who calls herself a "health foodie” and attended the National Gourmet Institute for Health and Culinary Arts, focuses on sharing with others her knowledge and passion for healthy living. In addition to her monthly column in Health Magazine, she is regularly featured in national publications from The New York Times to the weekly entertainment magazines. She’s also a sought-after guest on national news and entertainment television, where she brings her expertise and irresistibly candid and funny take not only to food segments but to any conversation about living healthy and living well.
Frankel’s wit, wisdom and humor came to national attention when she was named first runner-up on NBC’s “The Apprentice: Martha Stewart.” Network executives saw a personality they couldn’t ignore and put her center stage weekly on Bravo’s hit series “The Real Housewives of New York,” now in its third season. Though technically not a “wife,” she has emerged as the star of the series, with a huge network of fans, a job as national spokesperson for Pepperidge Farm's Baked Naturals® and Deli Flats(trademark), and her own spin-off series now in production.
Naturally Thin: Unleash Your Skinnygirl and Free Yourself from a Lifetime of Dieting debuted this year on The New York Times Best Sellers list and stayed for an astonishing for 18 consecutive weeks. Frankel’s second book, The Skinnygirl Dish: Easy Recipes for Your Naturally Thin Life will be released January 5, 2010, just in time to support “new year, new me” resolutions with delicious, practical, effective recipes and lifestyle tweaks. Skinnygirl Dish showcases Frankel’s renowned “fix-ology” . . . her ability to take calorie-rich foods and revamp them to create healthier versions without compromising flavor.
Her skill as a fixologist applies to cocktails too . . . she has just this fall launched The Skinnygirl Margarita, a bottled, pre-mixed beverage made with clear tequila, lime juice and only a splash of citrus liqueur, which drastically reduces the calories of the traditional cocktail. All natural and lightly sweetened with agave nectar, it has only 100 calories in a full 4 oz. serving.
As the go-to blogger for all things reality and lifestyle, Frankel wields her pen like a sword, ensuring that readers will get the unvarnished truth along with common sense, expertise and a healthy – always healthy – dose of humor. She is on a mission to democratize healthy living, making information available to everyone she can reach through her appearances, books, columns and blogs.
Frankel lives in Manhattan with her dog Cookie. She will be marrying her other love, Jason Hoppy, this spring and they will welcome their first child in early summer.
From her website
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 301 reviews
February 24, 2012
I love Bethenny Frankel! But unfortunately, having said that, I am here to tell you that this book is not great. It is too bad, really, because there is a lot of material here that could make for a worthwhile read, but it is all told and not shown. It is all scattered by this weird formatting of having to formulate self-help rules. O for the chance to get together with Bethenny and re-write this book! So many stories with so much potential. And I would promise not to be afraid of her and to be a tough editor! You hear me, Bethenny? PM me if you have another book in the pipeline.
So, there is this thing that a lot of married couples, smug or not, do, that I find kind of disingenuous, and I am under the impression that it is the premise of this book. The male version of it goes something like this [real story from a friend’s parents]: “When I saw her, I knew she was the one, but I lived in New Jersey and she lived in Manhattan. I was so poor that I could only afford to go into Manhattan and take her out for a nice dinner about once a month, so I would save and save, and then drive in to the city, pick her up at her doorstep, buy her dinner, and then drop her off on her doorstep again. That is how you know a man respects and loves you.”
The female version of it goes something like this [from the book p. 109-10]:
“Our meeting wasn’t fairy-tale. It was ultimately modern, just like us. It was us. I wouldn’t trade it for ten Prince Charmings on ten white horses.
“As people often say when they tell the story of meeting the right one, I wasn’t looking for a man. That night, I was running around with a group of friends from out of town going from one event to another. One of our stops was at a nightclub, and when we tried to go inside, they said I could go in, but my friends couldn’t – I guess they looked like they weren’t from New York. I was furious. I knew the owner of this club, so I decided to call him and complain. He told us to come back, and that we could all go in. . . .
“This confrontation had fueled the attitude I already had – I walked into that nightclub as an independent woman who frankly didn’t give a damn, and it showed.
“And there he was, my beautiful-inside-and-out future husband, working his magic. I was posing for a photo, smiling when the cameras were up and going back to my usual smug face when they were down. He took one look at me and said, ‘Are you ready to get that stick out of your ass now?’ . . .
“He was actually working some other girl that night, and he did go on a date with her after we first met. I went on a few dates with other guys after that night, too. But somehow, in retrospect, it was always all about the two of us, more than either of us realized when we danced that night . . . .”
So, I am not against this type of story as a rule, but I feel that these are the two stories I hear over and over from a man or a woman selling romance to me. And, frankly, I find them to be weird and off-putting. The male version sounds to me like, “She had boobs; I spent money; *chestpound.*” The female versions sounds to me like, “Daddy hits mommy because he loves her, and mommy was a very bad girl.” So, that is obviously not actually what is going on for the teller in either of these stories, but there is something fundamental about them that I do not find romantic. I do not understand why a man would think it is romantic to put such a high price on a date that he never actually gets to talk to the girl he thinks he likes. I do not understand why we women think a dude being an asshole means he thinks we are special. Actually, no, that is a lie. I understand why we all think those things, but I think if we give it two seconds’ consideration, we do not think those things anymore.
The thing I think people are really trying to convey in these stories is the sense of their own coolness: the man who is a hard worker and a high roller; and the woman who is not perfect, but still has people. And, I think that is totally valid and the reason we love the stories. It is the reason I would sit at the feet of any couple, or any single, telling a story about some kind of triumph: because it is hopeful, and hope is wonderful. But the male version still sounds to me like he is talking about an iPad he camped out for at BestBuy on Black Friday. And the female version sounds like love = humiliation for women. So, actually, both of them kind of sound like that, which is why it is depressing to hear people’s “love” stories. I would rather hear about what the man did if he ever realized the woman wasn’t an iPad, and I would rather hear a woman tell about someone who openly admired her as a human.
Anyway, the book is mostly about how Bethenny has been alone and a failure for a lot of her life, but now she has it all because she stopped believing that she was a bad person. In a lot of ways I like that. I’ve seen other people complain that her advice isn’t valid because she doesn’t have a very accurate concept of what it means to be poor. On the one hand, I think that is a legitimate complaint, but on the other hand, I don’t really feel that people have issues with money based on an accurate scale of poverty to wealth. Rich people feel poor all the time and I don’t think we have no right to discuss it just because our concept of wealth is inaccurate.
Basically, I don’t think that people fail or win based on their positive or negative thinking. That makes no sense. But, I do think that people self-sabotage and that unless self-criticism is constructive, it is probably destructive. I think that a lot of women opt out of life because we think badly of ourselves, so I like that Bethenny speaks against that. I think she speaks as someone who started with a really damaged self-image and who has been slowly patching and repairing that self-image into something productive and interesting and even beautiful. In that way, I think her message is effective and positive.
Just, not in this book.
_______________________
The publisher provided me this copy of the book, but not in exchange for any goods or services.
So, there is this thing that a lot of married couples, smug or not, do, that I find kind of disingenuous, and I am under the impression that it is the premise of this book. The male version of it goes something like this [real story from a friend’s parents]: “When I saw her, I knew she was the one, but I lived in New Jersey and she lived in Manhattan. I was so poor that I could only afford to go into Manhattan and take her out for a nice dinner about once a month, so I would save and save, and then drive in to the city, pick her up at her doorstep, buy her dinner, and then drop her off on her doorstep again. That is how you know a man respects and loves you.”
The female version of it goes something like this [from the book p. 109-10]:
“Our meeting wasn’t fairy-tale. It was ultimately modern, just like us. It was us. I wouldn’t trade it for ten Prince Charmings on ten white horses.
“As people often say when they tell the story of meeting the right one, I wasn’t looking for a man. That night, I was running around with a group of friends from out of town going from one event to another. One of our stops was at a nightclub, and when we tried to go inside, they said I could go in, but my friends couldn’t – I guess they looked like they weren’t from New York. I was furious. I knew the owner of this club, so I decided to call him and complain. He told us to come back, and that we could all go in. . . .
“This confrontation had fueled the attitude I already had – I walked into that nightclub as an independent woman who frankly didn’t give a damn, and it showed.
“And there he was, my beautiful-inside-and-out future husband, working his magic. I was posing for a photo, smiling when the cameras were up and going back to my usual smug face when they were down. He took one look at me and said, ‘Are you ready to get that stick out of your ass now?’ . . .
“He was actually working some other girl that night, and he did go on a date with her after we first met. I went on a few dates with other guys after that night, too. But somehow, in retrospect, it was always all about the two of us, more than either of us realized when we danced that night . . . .”
So, I am not against this type of story as a rule, but I feel that these are the two stories I hear over and over from a man or a woman selling romance to me. And, frankly, I find them to be weird and off-putting. The male version sounds to me like, “She had boobs; I spent money; *chestpound.*” The female versions sounds to me like, “Daddy hits mommy because he loves her, and mommy was a very bad girl.” So, that is obviously not actually what is going on for the teller in either of these stories, but there is something fundamental about them that I do not find romantic. I do not understand why a man would think it is romantic to put such a high price on a date that he never actually gets to talk to the girl he thinks he likes. I do not understand why we women think a dude being an asshole means he thinks we are special. Actually, no, that is a lie. I understand why we all think those things, but I think if we give it two seconds’ consideration, we do not think those things anymore.
The thing I think people are really trying to convey in these stories is the sense of their own coolness: the man who is a hard worker and a high roller; and the woman who is not perfect, but still has people. And, I think that is totally valid and the reason we love the stories. It is the reason I would sit at the feet of any couple, or any single, telling a story about some kind of triumph: because it is hopeful, and hope is wonderful. But the male version still sounds to me like he is talking about an iPad he camped out for at BestBuy on Black Friday. And the female version sounds like love = humiliation for women. So, actually, both of them kind of sound like that, which is why it is depressing to hear people’s “love” stories. I would rather hear about what the man did if he ever realized the woman wasn’t an iPad, and I would rather hear a woman tell about someone who openly admired her as a human.
Anyway, the book is mostly about how Bethenny has been alone and a failure for a lot of her life, but now she has it all because she stopped believing that she was a bad person. In a lot of ways I like that. I’ve seen other people complain that her advice isn’t valid because she doesn’t have a very accurate concept of what it means to be poor. On the one hand, I think that is a legitimate complaint, but on the other hand, I don’t really feel that people have issues with money based on an accurate scale of poverty to wealth. Rich people feel poor all the time and I don’t think we have no right to discuss it just because our concept of wealth is inaccurate.
Basically, I don’t think that people fail or win based on their positive or negative thinking. That makes no sense. But, I do think that people self-sabotage and that unless self-criticism is constructive, it is probably destructive. I think that a lot of women opt out of life because we think badly of ourselves, so I like that Bethenny speaks against that. I think she speaks as someone who started with a really damaged self-image and who has been slowly patching and repairing that self-image into something productive and interesting and even beautiful. In that way, I think her message is effective and positive.
Just, not in this book.
_______________________
The publisher provided me this copy of the book, but not in exchange for any goods or services.
March 5, 2012
You know how sometimes it's raining and cold outside and you're drinking hot chocolate and you need a nice comfort book but you've run out of English murder mysteries set in the countryside? This is the book I chose to fulfil this need and it did it just perfectly. Like Bethenny's other books, once you get past the terrible editing and the generous helping of crazy there are some useful bits of information there if you are the kind of person who is reading this book for the self-help rather than for the reality TV trashy aspect, like me (of course). For example, she says when you're doing something, actually do it - give it all of your attention. Don't watch TV and do it, don't be out at dinner and playing on your iPhone, but give whatever you're doing your full attention. Or, as I say to my little sister every single time we have dinner, PUT DOWN THE IPHONE WE'RE AT DINNER WERE YOU RAISED BY WOLVES?!? And then my dad looks up from his iPhone to remind us to behave ourselves and I realise yes, we were actually raised by wolves. But that's another story!
I heart Bethenny Frankel, crazy person that she is, but if you are particularly sensitive to bad editing and really really awful typesetting, DO NOT READ THIS BOOK. I'm not a typesetter or a graphic designer nor do I play one on TV but even I could tell the layout and typesetting of this book was terrible and clearly done by a monkey or the work experience kid. But all editorial nitpicking aside, this book was good as what it was - a nice, easy way to spend a rainy afternoon.
PS. Sorry about the hot chocolate stains to the person who borrows this from the library after me. Oops.
I heart Bethenny Frankel, crazy person that she is, but if you are particularly sensitive to bad editing and really really awful typesetting, DO NOT READ THIS BOOK. I'm not a typesetter or a graphic designer nor do I play one on TV but even I could tell the layout and typesetting of this book was terrible and clearly done by a monkey or the work experience kid. But all editorial nitpicking aside, this book was good as what it was - a nice, easy way to spend a rainy afternoon.
PS. Sorry about the hot chocolate stains to the person who borrows this from the library after me. Oops.
November 27, 2011
My daughter suggested I read Bethenny Frankel's A Place of Yes. My daughter has followed Bethenny's career and on some level admires her, but thought the book just "okay" and wanted my opinion on it.
While I agree with Bethenny that we should all be aware of when saying "yes" is the right thing to do, even if it's a bit scary, I was put off by her trying to place herself as a woman who's overcome a lot of obstacles. While it's true that her parents were less than mature and not always loving, Bethenny grew up with money and if her parents were unable to provide her with the material possessions she wanted, then her stepfather and/or boyfriends stepped in, even when she was in her 30s.
When someone is given $10,000.00 for being the runner up on Martha's Stewart's show, Apprentice, by a former boyfriend, no less, then I see no need to act as if one has had a tough life. Plus, Bethenny has the personality of a baby rattlesnake. The mere fact that people have wanted to love and help her despite this, is something of a mystery to me.
I applaud Bethenny for working hard and not giving up. But, I think it's easier to continue forward when someone is always there for you, giving you money, supporting you while you start a business, or giving you the chance to be on TV. This is not to say that Bethenny hasn't had some great ideas - Skinnygirl Margarita - brilliant. So, Bethenny deserves praise and money for her ideas. Now, if she could just realize that she probably would't be where she is today had she been poor, plain, or nice.
A Place of Yes is a decently written book and might be interesting to some. However, I just found myself annoyed. But, some of the advice is good; hence, the four stars vs the three stars I really feel like the book deserves.
While I agree with Bethenny that we should all be aware of when saying "yes" is the right thing to do, even if it's a bit scary, I was put off by her trying to place herself as a woman who's overcome a lot of obstacles. While it's true that her parents were less than mature and not always loving, Bethenny grew up with money and if her parents were unable to provide her with the material possessions she wanted, then her stepfather and/or boyfriends stepped in, even when she was in her 30s.
When someone is given $10,000.00 for being the runner up on Martha's Stewart's show, Apprentice, by a former boyfriend, no less, then I see no need to act as if one has had a tough life. Plus, Bethenny has the personality of a baby rattlesnake. The mere fact that people have wanted to love and help her despite this, is something of a mystery to me.
I applaud Bethenny for working hard and not giving up. But, I think it's easier to continue forward when someone is always there for you, giving you money, supporting you while you start a business, or giving you the chance to be on TV. This is not to say that Bethenny hasn't had some great ideas - Skinnygirl Margarita - brilliant. So, Bethenny deserves praise and money for her ideas. Now, if she could just realize that she probably would't be where she is today had she been poor, plain, or nice.
A Place of Yes is a decently written book and might be interesting to some. However, I just found myself annoyed. But, some of the advice is good; hence, the four stars vs the three stars I really feel like the book deserves.
September 17, 2017
A quick read by business phenom and Real Housewives of New York star, Bethenny Frankel. She lists and expands on the 10 steps to go get what you want out of life, not making excuses or dragging your feet along the way, by coming from a Place of Yes. She is honest in all her mistakes and lessons learned along the way. I greatly admire her tenacity and work ethic! I had no idea she had tried so many other business ventures until her big break with the Skinny Girl brand. I know some find her abrasive and lacking warmth, but I enjoy her wit and humor and find her hilarious and very smart. She delves a bit into her childhood, which explains a lot about her persona today, and you can't help admire the strength and endurance it has taken her to find her Place of Yes. 4 stars.
September 24, 2011
I'm a fan of Bethenny Frankel though not an undiscerning one. I openly admitted that I wasn't a fan of her Skinny Girl Margarita mix - bad headache after drinking it. I enjoyed this book more than the last one I read by Bethenny. It was nice to hear her talk about things in her life that had been depicted on her Bravo shows: Real Housewives of NYC, Bethenny Getting Married? and Bethenny Ever After. It was refreshing to hear her spin from behind the scenes. Plus, she's just so damn candid, and that always works for me. She's an acquired taste, I guess.
In terms if advice and empowerment I think this book works. I wanted to hand it to my teenage step daughter. There's a lot in there that's relatable and clear for young women like "breaking the chain" i.e. not allowing your family or parental issues to dictate who you become and how far you go. Also, the idea that you have to work to make yourself stand out and "go for yours". There's lots of advice about not listening to the critics, following your own goals and making things happen. I also like her advice on "coming together", though that phrase is a bit awkward; too many self help books with career advice are singularly focused and ignore the obvious by not giving credit to the people around you who can help you attain your goals. She encourages us to connect with our family and loved ones and to be conscious of their needs, hopes, dreams, and goals. Everyone matters. Though she admits that this doesn't come naturally to her as she's used to fending for herself and flying solo. Coming together allows you to share in your accomplishments and failures - both are a little sweeter when you're not doing it all on your own.
There's a lot more there, and I think her fans will appreciate the book and the advice she gives. I personally think it's a great book for Gen Y women heading out on their own making their way in the world. I wish I had read something like this at that age. The closest I got to this was Dale Carnegie's "How to Win Friends and Influence People", solid advice but a book like Bethenny's, from a woman's perspective, would have been a lot easier to connect with!
In terms if advice and empowerment I think this book works. I wanted to hand it to my teenage step daughter. There's a lot in there that's relatable and clear for young women like "breaking the chain" i.e. not allowing your family or parental issues to dictate who you become and how far you go. Also, the idea that you have to work to make yourself stand out and "go for yours". There's lots of advice about not listening to the critics, following your own goals and making things happen. I also like her advice on "coming together", though that phrase is a bit awkward; too many self help books with career advice are singularly focused and ignore the obvious by not giving credit to the people around you who can help you attain your goals. She encourages us to connect with our family and loved ones and to be conscious of their needs, hopes, dreams, and goals. Everyone matters. Though she admits that this doesn't come naturally to her as she's used to fending for herself and flying solo. Coming together allows you to share in your accomplishments and failures - both are a little sweeter when you're not doing it all on your own.
There's a lot more there, and I think her fans will appreciate the book and the advice she gives. I personally think it's a great book for Gen Y women heading out on their own making their way in the world. I wish I had read something like this at that age. The closest I got to this was Dale Carnegie's "How to Win Friends and Influence People", solid advice but a book like Bethenny's, from a woman's perspective, would have been a lot easier to connect with!
April 5, 2011
I watched "some" of the Houswives series,but could not take the encouragement of these ladies to live beyond their means (so many facing court and foreclosures due to overexpenditure.) The book was pleasant as a quasi-autobiography. Her self-help principles are sound, but I would quibble they are "not for all." But what is? I think this might be most helpful for women in their late twenties to late forties. For an older woman? For someone in dire poverty? The shifts she expounds are hopeless. Something you aren't suppose to say...your "no" voice according to this book. I've seen one too many biochemical engineers bagging at Walmart lately. Tell them to turn to their dream when they just want to get the electric bill paid. Nonetheless, I'd put her a step above those carping harpies on the show with her.
I should add her "rules":
1. Break the Chain. This has a lot to do with family and your past. Let it go.
2. Find Your Truth. What do you want from life. What works for you i.e. not trying to please others.
3. Act On It. Make things happen. Use your instincts.
4. Everything's Your Business. Remain open to all learning, experiences and opportunities. You never know.
5. All roads lead to Rome. You will get there if you are focused.
6. Go For Yours. Clarify your goals and go for them.
7. Separate From the Pack. To find your calling, sometimes you have to step out and away from the crowd.
8. Own It. Hold to your principles. Keep your word. You did it. It was hard. Stick to the truth.
9. Come Together. Life is about connection. Be out there and part of the world.
10. Celebrate! Celebrate life. Seek happiness.
August 10, 2011
I don't know who is Bethenny Frankel - before or after reading this book and I don't get the purpose of this book.
In the lengthy and bland Introduction which takes 29 pages, I read about her perspective on law of attraction (coincidentally, I was reading Rhonda Byrne's The Power last week) and her opinion is that thinking positive is not the only tool to achieve success. OK, I kinda' agree with that. And then, as the introduction goes on and on about what a place of yes is and da la da dee...I was asking myself "Why can't she go straight to the point?"
I decided to just skip the introduction and move on to Chapter 1. Oh fark. 76 pages in a chapter. I'm sure from my previous reviews (if you've read them), you know that I am one that credits simplicity and no-nonsense.
A Place of Yes is really...more like a biography than a motivational book. Is it funny? Well, IMHO, it's not.
In the lengthy and bland Introduction which takes 29 pages, I read about her perspective on law of attraction (coincidentally, I was reading Rhonda Byrne's The Power last week) and her opinion is that thinking positive is not the only tool to achieve success. OK, I kinda' agree with that. And then, as the introduction goes on and on about what a place of yes is and da la da dee...I was asking myself "Why can't she go straight to the point?"
I decided to just skip the introduction and move on to Chapter 1. Oh fark. 76 pages in a chapter. I'm sure from my previous reviews (if you've read them), you know that I am one that credits simplicity and no-nonsense.
A Place of Yes is really...more like a biography than a motivational book. Is it funny? Well, IMHO, it's not.
May 29, 2012
Who is this lady?? I rented this book and found the whole introduction to be so repetitive I set the book down and googled her and found her show on Bravo which was having a rerun marathon. This lady has so many issues there's no way i am taking life advice from her. Shes got power issues at home and at work. Doesn't know her role in the relationship and talks over and belittles her poor husband. He has no control and no voice in the relationship. Its her way and thats it and she doesnt let issues go. She keeps stirring the pot and thats why they keep fighting and bickering constantly. Take life lessons from her? No thank you!! But I will take advice on her skinny girl drink and food choices because thats one topic in which she might know what shes talking/writing about. This girl needs therapy on how to be a wife and life partner....not controller.
September 6, 2012
I have appreciated Bethenny's quick wit and her one-liner humor from the bits I have seen of her on TV. This is the first book that I've read of hers. I origianlly got it because it was on sale and the cover states: "10 rules for getting everything you want out of life." ...and let's face it, who doesn't want to get everything they want out of life?!
I really liked the beginning of the book. It was strong and very concise.
Overall the quality of the writing was only okay, but she's not a professional writer. Her thoughts, stories, and "rules" were good; though they were mostly the good reminders that we occassionally need to hear, but we already know.
That is not to discredit the book overall because I think Bethenny has some very good and very strong points to make.
I really liked the beginning of the book. It was strong and very concise.
Overall the quality of the writing was only okay, but she's not a professional writer. Her thoughts, stories, and "rules" were good; though they were mostly the good reminders that we occassionally need to hear, but we already know.
That is not to discredit the book overall because I think Bethenny has some very good and very strong points to make.
March 10, 2013
I could not finish this one. I was hoping when I bought this that she would share the scoop on her Real Housewives stint, but I was disappointed. The brief passage where she covers that sounds like a politician's canned speech. Her advice is sometimes contradictory and it's all common sense stuff everyone knows if they're out of college. The one part I found interesting was her background - she worked on Saved By the Bell, who knew? Otherwise, the book feels like an excuse to use the phrase "now that I'm a mother" repeatedly.
October 19, 2014
For a more detailed review, please check out my review below:
Debra's Book Cafe
Debs :-)
Debra's Book Cafe
Debs :-)
February 13, 2014
Idiotic, and frankly insulting. I skimmed the last few chapters because I really didn't think I could tolerate any more of Bethenny's preaching about how her life was so amazing and I could do it too.
September 7, 2011
Let me first say this: I have a huge girl crush on Bethenny. I think she’s a funny, smart and successful woman that serves as a realistic role model for someone like me. I admire her work ethic and her dedication to herself, her family and her brand.
I was really excited to read this book because, frankly, I wasn’t super in love with her other books. I thought Naturally Thin was a naturally thin disguise of her (admitted) problems with food packaged as a non-diet healthy approach to eating. I felt it took food neurosis to a whole new, obsessive level. Not my favorite. The Skinnygirl Dish was better, as it featured a lot of her famous, healthy recipes and less “several bites is all you need to feel full!” advice.
The best chapters of this book were the first few. I think that’s because the rather long introduction and the first few chapters are distinctly Bethenny’s voice and words. After that, it becomes painstakingly clear when it’s Bethenny doing the writing or her “contributor” Eve Adamson.
With that being said, this book is super quotable. It’s full of sound byte advice and it’s inspiring to read about Bethenny coming full circle into the success and happiness she enjoys today. But, do I feel that some of this reads like textbook “You Are Awesome!” promotional speaker cliches? Yes. Is it still worth reading? I think so.
Despite its shortcomings, I read through the book quickly and enjoyed my time doing so. The sections of the book discussing Bethenny’s personal life and upbringing were the most engaging and, as a fan of her shows, I liked hearing behind-the-scenes tidbits as well.
On the flip side, while I know that Bethenny’s empire is built upon weight loss, Skinnygirl margaritas and healthy eating, I was irritated to find her neurotic food voice coming through often. Again. At the risk of angering a lot of fellow Bethenny fans, she briefly touches on what sounded like an eating disorder but does not fully address it. Later, she talks about how she loves and appreciates tasty food: ice cream, frosting for breakfast, hot dogs. Then, she backtracks and starts speaking about the dietary restrictions she has in place for herself. It all seems very contradictory. Ironically, a main feature throughout the book is something she calls “noise.” Loosely defined, it’s a voice inside your head encouraging you to self-sabotage or distracting you from things that really deserve your focus and attention. She mentions how she had lots of food noise in her life growing up, but honestly? It seems like she has a lot of food noise now.
Like I mentioned briefly at the beginning of this review, it’s also easy to tell when Eve Adamson, Bethenny’s book contributor, is piping into the conversation. The further you go in the book, the more contributor-based the advice seems to become. Perhaps deadlines for the later chapters with the publisher came at a time when Bethenny was busy filming one of her TV shows, or maybe she just ran out of steam. The advice at the beginning was more sound, but once I neared the end of the book, I definitely started to get a “filler copy” vibe.
Despite my few qualms with the book, I honestly did enjoy it and found lots of sound bytes applicable to things I have gone through or am going through. It’s worth trying to come “from a place of yes” in life, and her steps to achieve that place are realistic and attainable.
If you’re a Bethenny fan, it’s a no-brainer: you’ll really enjoy this book. If you like promotional-speaker type books, you’ll likely love it as well.
Here are a few of my favorite tidbits from the book:
“Sometimes you do have to start again, and you can do it over and over. When you find you are off track or your actions aren’t in line with your true nature, you change course. You start again. It’s never wrong. It’s just what it is.”
“Coming from a place of yes isn’t just having a positive attitude, being an optimist, or being cheerful all the time.”
“This book isn’t about being perfect, or even about being nice. It’s about getting through your life in the best possible way for you, and learning how to stop getting in your own way. It’s about making your life better, no matter what kind of person you are naturally.”
“Self-doubt is a bad habit. Fear is an excuse and a shield. Irritation is a sign of stress.”
“A few more things a place of yes is not: A place of yes is not the power of positive thinking or the law of attraction…Coming from a place of yes is about getting right down to business. It’s active, not passive. Yes gives you something to do: a mission, a purpose, a goal.”
I was really excited to read this book because, frankly, I wasn’t super in love with her other books. I thought Naturally Thin was a naturally thin disguise of her (admitted) problems with food packaged as a non-diet healthy approach to eating. I felt it took food neurosis to a whole new, obsessive level. Not my favorite. The Skinnygirl Dish was better, as it featured a lot of her famous, healthy recipes and less “several bites is all you need to feel full!” advice.
The best chapters of this book were the first few. I think that’s because the rather long introduction and the first few chapters are distinctly Bethenny’s voice and words. After that, it becomes painstakingly clear when it’s Bethenny doing the writing or her “contributor” Eve Adamson.
With that being said, this book is super quotable. It’s full of sound byte advice and it’s inspiring to read about Bethenny coming full circle into the success and happiness she enjoys today. But, do I feel that some of this reads like textbook “You Are Awesome!” promotional speaker cliches? Yes. Is it still worth reading? I think so.
Despite its shortcomings, I read through the book quickly and enjoyed my time doing so. The sections of the book discussing Bethenny’s personal life and upbringing were the most engaging and, as a fan of her shows, I liked hearing behind-the-scenes tidbits as well.
On the flip side, while I know that Bethenny’s empire is built upon weight loss, Skinnygirl margaritas and healthy eating, I was irritated to find her neurotic food voice coming through often. Again. At the risk of angering a lot of fellow Bethenny fans, she briefly touches on what sounded like an eating disorder but does not fully address it. Later, she talks about how she loves and appreciates tasty food: ice cream, frosting for breakfast, hot dogs. Then, she backtracks and starts speaking about the dietary restrictions she has in place for herself. It all seems very contradictory. Ironically, a main feature throughout the book is something she calls “noise.” Loosely defined, it’s a voice inside your head encouraging you to self-sabotage or distracting you from things that really deserve your focus and attention. She mentions how she had lots of food noise in her life growing up, but honestly? It seems like she has a lot of food noise now.
Like I mentioned briefly at the beginning of this review, it’s also easy to tell when Eve Adamson, Bethenny’s book contributor, is piping into the conversation. The further you go in the book, the more contributor-based the advice seems to become. Perhaps deadlines for the later chapters with the publisher came at a time when Bethenny was busy filming one of her TV shows, or maybe she just ran out of steam. The advice at the beginning was more sound, but once I neared the end of the book, I definitely started to get a “filler copy” vibe.
Despite my few qualms with the book, I honestly did enjoy it and found lots of sound bytes applicable to things I have gone through or am going through. It’s worth trying to come “from a place of yes” in life, and her steps to achieve that place are realistic and attainable.
If you’re a Bethenny fan, it’s a no-brainer: you’ll really enjoy this book. If you like promotional-speaker type books, you’ll likely love it as well.
Here are a few of my favorite tidbits from the book:
“Sometimes you do have to start again, and you can do it over and over. When you find you are off track or your actions aren’t in line with your true nature, you change course. You start again. It’s never wrong. It’s just what it is.”
“Coming from a place of yes isn’t just having a positive attitude, being an optimist, or being cheerful all the time.”
“This book isn’t about being perfect, or even about being nice. It’s about getting through your life in the best possible way for you, and learning how to stop getting in your own way. It’s about making your life better, no matter what kind of person you are naturally.”
“Self-doubt is a bad habit. Fear is an excuse and a shield. Irritation is a sign of stress.”
“A few more things a place of yes is not: A place of yes is not the power of positive thinking or the law of attraction…Coming from a place of yes is about getting right down to business. It’s active, not passive. Yes gives you something to do: a mission, a purpose, a goal.”
March 24, 2014
Bethenny Frankel, ‘A Place of Yes’
I’m hesitant to even write a review about this book, knowing that no words I use could possibly do justice to describing how amazing, uplifting, and inspirational it is. The introduction alone was all it took to make me completely hooked. I was instantly inspired. I felt immediately stronger and more self-assured. And I wanted to keep reading so this feeling would last.
Of course, this book helped teach me that *I* control my feelings—so I could choose to remain inspired and happy even when I had to put the book down and get back to my life.
But that’s the thing: this book, Bethenny’s 10 rules, taught me how to find my inner strength and live the best life I possibly can. I was excited to keep reading and learning; but at the same time, I was excited to get back to my life and practice what I had learned. People in my life have already noticed a difference in my attitude as I’ve practiced these rules. I’m more positive, stronger, truly coming from a place of yes. And I know I can continue to be that way. Bethenny provided me with all the advice and tools I need to live my life coming from a place of yes. Everything I need is within me. It just helps to have that voice—that additional support—from someone who has been through similar life experiences and who truly is practicing her own advice.
“If you are wasting time and energy trying to be as much like everyone else as you can, you are throwing away something precious: your individuality. When you embrace your difference, your DNA, your look or heritage or religion or your unusual name, that’s when you start to shine.”
I ended up keeping a highlighter and sticky notes by my side every time I picked up this book. I knew I’d be highlighting or underlining another inspirational quote, using notes to make pages that were especially helpful. I treated this book like a journal. I’d capture my own thoughts and highlight bits and pieces that meant the most to me. Bethenny’s words and advice have truly lifted me up and inspired me. I fully plan to live my life according to these 10 rules. I am choosing to live a full life and a happy life. To learn and grow and smile. Knowing someone else can do it makes me feel connected—helps me know I am not alone. And Bethenny has been through so much—but her experiences have taught her the skills she needs to make her life the best life possible.
“No matter what you’ve done, even if you regret it, even if you don’t know what the hell to do next, every single thing that happens to you has the potential to open new doors. It happened for a reason—and it’s still taking you somewhere, even if you can’t see it right now.”
Even now, years after this book was first released, and during a time when Bethenny and her husband, Jason, are in the middle of a divorce, the book holds its strength. Because Bethenny’s words hold their meaning. Sure, it makes me sad to think that things have so drastically changed for her; but at the same time, reading this book makes me know that Bethenny is not only making a choice that is necessary and right for her, but that she has the strength and possesses the skills she needs to get through this tough time. And now, thanks to her, so do I.
I have already torn out the last page of this book—a summary of the 10 rules—to carry with me at all times. So that I will always have what I need right with me—and within me—to come from a place of yes.
This book is positive, heartfelt, honest, passionate, uplifting, real, and inspirational. Whether or not you know Bethenny Frankel—even whether or not you like her—you still have something to gain from reading this book.
“Take it or leave it—you take the good and build on it; you leave the bad, in favor of a new idea. Most important, you keep moving forward, never settling for what doesn’t work.”
Let it inspire you to live life to the fullest and come from a place of yes. Now… celebrate!
“It’s about love, in the end, the ultimate message at the end of the journey to yourself.”
I’m hesitant to even write a review about this book, knowing that no words I use could possibly do justice to describing how amazing, uplifting, and inspirational it is. The introduction alone was all it took to make me completely hooked. I was instantly inspired. I felt immediately stronger and more self-assured. And I wanted to keep reading so this feeling would last.
Of course, this book helped teach me that *I* control my feelings—so I could choose to remain inspired and happy even when I had to put the book down and get back to my life.
But that’s the thing: this book, Bethenny’s 10 rules, taught me how to find my inner strength and live the best life I possibly can. I was excited to keep reading and learning; but at the same time, I was excited to get back to my life and practice what I had learned. People in my life have already noticed a difference in my attitude as I’ve practiced these rules. I’m more positive, stronger, truly coming from a place of yes. And I know I can continue to be that way. Bethenny provided me with all the advice and tools I need to live my life coming from a place of yes. Everything I need is within me. It just helps to have that voice—that additional support—from someone who has been through similar life experiences and who truly is practicing her own advice.
“If you are wasting time and energy trying to be as much like everyone else as you can, you are throwing away something precious: your individuality. When you embrace your difference, your DNA, your look or heritage or religion or your unusual name, that’s when you start to shine.”
I ended up keeping a highlighter and sticky notes by my side every time I picked up this book. I knew I’d be highlighting or underlining another inspirational quote, using notes to make pages that were especially helpful. I treated this book like a journal. I’d capture my own thoughts and highlight bits and pieces that meant the most to me. Bethenny’s words and advice have truly lifted me up and inspired me. I fully plan to live my life according to these 10 rules. I am choosing to live a full life and a happy life. To learn and grow and smile. Knowing someone else can do it makes me feel connected—helps me know I am not alone. And Bethenny has been through so much—but her experiences have taught her the skills she needs to make her life the best life possible.
“No matter what you’ve done, even if you regret it, even if you don’t know what the hell to do next, every single thing that happens to you has the potential to open new doors. It happened for a reason—and it’s still taking you somewhere, even if you can’t see it right now.”
Even now, years after this book was first released, and during a time when Bethenny and her husband, Jason, are in the middle of a divorce, the book holds its strength. Because Bethenny’s words hold their meaning. Sure, it makes me sad to think that things have so drastically changed for her; but at the same time, reading this book makes me know that Bethenny is not only making a choice that is necessary and right for her, but that she has the strength and possesses the skills she needs to get through this tough time. And now, thanks to her, so do I.
I have already torn out the last page of this book—a summary of the 10 rules—to carry with me at all times. So that I will always have what I need right with me—and within me—to come from a place of yes.
This book is positive, heartfelt, honest, passionate, uplifting, real, and inspirational. Whether or not you know Bethenny Frankel—even whether or not you like her—you still have something to gain from reading this book.
“Take it or leave it—you take the good and build on it; you leave the bad, in favor of a new idea. Most important, you keep moving forward, never settling for what doesn’t work.”
Let it inspire you to live life to the fullest and come from a place of yes. Now… celebrate!
“It’s about love, in the end, the ultimate message at the end of the journey to yourself.”
July 18, 2012
I just finished reading Bethenny Frankel's "A Place of Yes" and I have to say that it was a slow read.
I found myself having a hard time finishing it.
She repeated herself a lot in the book and it felt like she just skipped all around and it didn't flow well.
Having said that, I did still find some great quotes and I will share them below:
If you don't get out there and let people know who you are and what you want and what you can do, you may never find the job or house or relationship or whatever else you want.
Never assume that everybody else knows more than you or is better or smarter than you are.
Being a mother is a lot of work, but it's the work of your life, and you chose it.
What you need to succeed in your life you already have inside you.
You are the mother.
If something doesn't feel right to you for any reason, even if you don't know why, then you have to trust that.
Sometimes what seems like too late if right on time because you are only just ready.
When you operate just outside your comfort zone-
whether it's taking on a new responsibility at work,
or a whole new job, or signing up for a class you know nothing about, you wake up and pay more attention to your life.
And you grow.
Just push the envelope of your own experience until you feel
slight discomfort. That's when you separate from the pack.
That's when the magic happens.
Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate
version of somebody else.
-Judy Garland
It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.
-e.e. cummings
There are 2 types of people:
The ones who give you 50 reasons it can't be done...
and the ones who just do it.
-Hoda Kotb
If you are wasting time and energy trying to be as much like everyone else as you can,
you are throwing away something precious: your individuality.
When you embrace your difference, your DNA, your look or heritage or religion
or your unusual name,
that's when you start to shine.
I have a clear picture in my mind of who the Skinnygirl is:
she's the girl we all want to be,
whether size 2 or 12,
the girl who is comfortable with herself,
who feels good in her body and loves her life.
I found myself having a hard time finishing it.
She repeated herself a lot in the book and it felt like she just skipped all around and it didn't flow well.
Having said that, I did still find some great quotes and I will share them below:
If you don't get out there and let people know who you are and what you want and what you can do, you may never find the job or house or relationship or whatever else you want.
Never assume that everybody else knows more than you or is better or smarter than you are.
Being a mother is a lot of work, but it's the work of your life, and you chose it.
What you need to succeed in your life you already have inside you.
You are the mother.
If something doesn't feel right to you for any reason, even if you don't know why, then you have to trust that.
Sometimes what seems like too late if right on time because you are only just ready.
When you operate just outside your comfort zone-
whether it's taking on a new responsibility at work,
or a whole new job, or signing up for a class you know nothing about, you wake up and pay more attention to your life.
And you grow.
Just push the envelope of your own experience until you feel
slight discomfort. That's when you separate from the pack.
That's when the magic happens.
Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate
version of somebody else.
-Judy Garland
It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.
-e.e. cummings
There are 2 types of people:
The ones who give you 50 reasons it can't be done...
and the ones who just do it.
-Hoda Kotb
If you are wasting time and energy trying to be as much like everyone else as you can,
you are throwing away something precious: your individuality.
When you embrace your difference, your DNA, your look or heritage or religion
or your unusual name,
that's when you start to shine.
I have a clear picture in my mind of who the Skinnygirl is:
she's the girl we all want to be,
whether size 2 or 12,
the girl who is comfortable with herself,
who feels good in her body and loves her life.
March 10, 2012
Having been a fan of Bethenny Frankel's for awhile now, I really wanted to check out her "ten rules" for tackling life. For anyone who has watched her reality shows, you know that Bethenny is pretty much an open book about her past and present. She has shared her career, relationships, and family with her audience. Now, she digs in to share what she has come to realize and records it in her semi-autobiographical book, A Place of Yes: 10 Rules for Getting Everything You Want.
Many of the rules Bethenny shares in her book deal with personal honesty and hard work. You do have to somehow be brave enough to say yes to things in your life that are scary or difficult; however, I wonder if some "self help" suggestions really just fit the person who realized them. I really appreciated learning about what drove her to become the person that she is, but I don't know that they always fit every person. There was one rule about not doing work that is unsatisfying, and attempting things that scare you and help you achieve your best self. I'd love to say that I could drop my job and find that "blissful" fit, but I think there is a fine line between doing what you do best, by which you feel fulfilled, and doing what you do best but not necessary liking work for all its stresses. My parents always reminded me that work is called work for a reason. I don't know how realistic it is to toss over ones "real life" for the hopes of a better one. I will admit that it takes great courage when you do realize you need to find a better path.
All right, so let me cut to the chase. I thought Bethenny's book gave some good information about how she achieved greater success and joy in her life. While not all the "rules" she listed might fit every person--in my opinion--I appreciated the journey she took us on and was rather interested in what she learned.
Many of the rules Bethenny shares in her book deal with personal honesty and hard work. You do have to somehow be brave enough to say yes to things in your life that are scary or difficult; however, I wonder if some "self help" suggestions really just fit the person who realized them. I really appreciated learning about what drove her to become the person that she is, but I don't know that they always fit every person. There was one rule about not doing work that is unsatisfying, and attempting things that scare you and help you achieve your best self. I'd love to say that I could drop my job and find that "blissful" fit, but I think there is a fine line between doing what you do best, by which you feel fulfilled, and doing what you do best but not necessary liking work for all its stresses. My parents always reminded me that work is called work for a reason. I don't know how realistic it is to toss over ones "real life" for the hopes of a better one. I will admit that it takes great courage when you do realize you need to find a better path.
All right, so let me cut to the chase. I thought Bethenny's book gave some good information about how she achieved greater success and joy in her life. While not all the "rules" she listed might fit every person--in my opinion--I appreciated the journey she took us on and was rather interested in what she learned.
July 14, 2012
I will start by saying that I really did not know who Bethenny was in when I picked up this audio book. I'm not a Housewives fan, I don't really drink and I've never seen her on any of her many other television shows. But she has a new fan in me. This book, while not amazingly well written, is a fun and inspiring almost-autobiography about how believing in your abilities and yourself can get you pretty far.
This is not really a self-help book, though it is marketed as such. It's really Bethenny's biography written in vaguely themed chapters. At the end of the book, I felt like I knew her story pretty well and understood where she was coming from. I didn't care for the way she acted like her life has been all struggle, because the money she was obviously privileged to have helped a lot more than she would probably like to admit, but I do get that money doesn't buy happiness and I recognized some of the more personal struggles from my own childhood.
I recently made a decision to go back to school and get a degree that is COMPLETELY different from my original Bachelor's. I'm scared shitless. I'm worried about what everyone will think. I'm very aware of the financial struggle that is ahead of me and of how hard I'm going to have to work to get to where I want to be in this new field. I found Bethenny's "go and get it" attitude to be really helpful in calming some of those doubts. I can't say that this book is something that everyone will enjoy, but if you're at a hard place in your life where you're just not sure if going for your dreams in the "right" choice, this book might give you a little motivation to go for it.
This is not really a self-help book, though it is marketed as such. It's really Bethenny's biography written in vaguely themed chapters. At the end of the book, I felt like I knew her story pretty well and understood where she was coming from. I didn't care for the way she acted like her life has been all struggle, because the money she was obviously privileged to have helped a lot more than she would probably like to admit, but I do get that money doesn't buy happiness and I recognized some of the more personal struggles from my own childhood.
I recently made a decision to go back to school and get a degree that is COMPLETELY different from my original Bachelor's. I'm scared shitless. I'm worried about what everyone will think. I'm very aware of the financial struggle that is ahead of me and of how hard I'm going to have to work to get to where I want to be in this new field. I found Bethenny's "go and get it" attitude to be really helpful in calming some of those doubts. I can't say that this book is something that everyone will enjoy, but if you're at a hard place in your life where you're just not sure if going for your dreams in the "right" choice, this book might give you a little motivation to go for it.
September 16, 2011
This was our book club's latest selection, so I have to be honest in my review here that this (or any other self-help type of book) would not have been my personal choice for reading. I was interested regardless because the Housewives series is one of my guilty pleasures, and I have been able to see Bethenny Frankel's remarkable transformation from the snarky housewife who wasn't a wife, to the happily married, mother-of-one Skinnygirl megamillionaire she is today. I probably wouldn't like Bethenny in person (she admits she has a rather negative personality), but I thoroughly enjoy her antics on screen, and her hilarious, tell-it-like-it-is frankness. As a self-help/career guidance type of book, this is pretty standard stuff: common sense advice like "follow your instincts," "separate from the pack" and "make everything your business." But what I actually liked best was the autobiographical information, learning how she worked at so many different various projects in her life, working her way from a natural foods chef to reality star. Bethenny has made herself into a brand, and reading about how she created that type of acclaim purely on the strength of her persona is fascinating. And I appreciate that she doesn't sugarcoat the harsh reality of what made her accomplished life what it is: a lot - and I mean a LOT - of hard work. Success isn't handed to us; Bethenny reminds us that we have to go out there and claim it for ourselves.
September 3, 2011
As a self help book, this was not the greatest. Sometimes, her rules didn't really go with the theme of the chapter. And I don't really get the "act on it" chapter. She spends the whole chapter telling you how you need to act on your dreams but she never really did much with her dream to become an actress. Some of it is pretty repetitive too. However, I truthfully bought the book for the autobiographical content. I wanted to know how she got to the point where she was selling the Skinny Girl brand of cocktails for millions of dollars. I believe this book was published right before she made her multi-million dollar deal so that's not quite in the book. But Bethenny's career trajectory is all in the book and it's fascinating. She's had at least 4 businesses and she seems to be pretty darn good at spotting a trend and finding a niche. Her career isn't baking or cocktails or event planning. Her career is Bethenny Frankel. SHE is the product that she is selling and she's really good at it. I think her best advice is to have as many irons in the fire at all times as you possibly can. And she doesn't pull any punches about the amount of work that goes into launching a new project. It might seem like she got lucky with Skinny Girl Cocktails but it took 20 years of hard work to get that kind of luck.
April 8, 2016
This book is part self-help and part biography. It's a great book for anyone who is a fan of Bethenny, if you aren't and are just buying it for the self-help part, I don't think you'll really like it because she talks about her life a lot. But I find her interesting. And considering how crappy her childhood was, its quite impressive of where she is now. Most kids now days who's parents got divorce while the child was at a young and then were never around would probably end up in jail or knocked up at 15. But Bethenny managed to overcome that and build a business and 'come from a place of yes.'. This book goes though how to break the chain of your past, understand what you dislike about you life and find ways to fix it, how to act now on the things you want, learn to except that it's ok to be different, pretty much everything that you've learn from every other self help book, but I think it was a little bit easier to understand because it was coming from someone who has their own reality show, so you kind of get the feeling that you know them a little. At some points I kind of felt like she was using this as a chance to talk about herself instead of using it to help people. But all in all, it had some great advice which I hope to keep in mind as I go through life.
May 23, 2011
awww, Bethenny, I love you. There are so many reviews out there hashing it out but really, I never had these grand expectations that this was the next great American self-help book or Pulitzer winner, but its good. Its good like sitting with a friend, laughing and crying, relating-to-one another---good. I had fun and reveled in her successes. Rather than provide another glossed over nod to the girl who planned everything right since day one, Bethenny gives us the news so many women want and need to hear. Hey, at any time in your life, you can rewrite, renegotiate, reimagine your life...and she did. At 39/40 she has become a wild success in her career, found the love of her life and has a new daughter. Her story raises hope and gives promise, it lends a hand to the "I can do anything I put my mind to stories" but shows us that its still perfectly fine to fail along the way. Bethenny is frank, touching, hilarious and real. Corny as it may be, after reading this, I'm definitely coming from a place of yes. haha!
August 22, 2012
Okay, okay....this book was an impulse checkout from la biblioteca.
Theeeen I let it sit and gather dust in my browsing bin as I hit the auto-renew button on my CPL account (most dangerous button ever...keeps me from ever finishing any books on schedule....but I digress....).
Finally, I pick it up today. Then I take it to the gym as I do cardio downstairs. Then I read it as I walk home from boxing. Then I devour the rest of the book now, before bed.
I'm ashamed. I really liked it, guys.
I mean, Bethenny isn't spewing any philosophical gems or profound musings...nor is she really pretending to. It's just real talk--and I liked that. Randy was making fun of me because I was talking back to the book, oftentimes shouting out a "truth!" or "preach it!" AHEM. I couldn't help it.
This was another super-quick read and it was a great way to get my mind re-focused on my career goals and aspirations without being so serious it stressed me out.
But anyways, I gotta go.....I'm going to go drink some Skinnygirl Sangria now. :)
Theeeen I let it sit and gather dust in my browsing bin as I hit the auto-renew button on my CPL account (most dangerous button ever...keeps me from ever finishing any books on schedule....but I digress....).
Finally, I pick it up today. Then I take it to the gym as I do cardio downstairs. Then I read it as I walk home from boxing. Then I devour the rest of the book now, before bed.
I'm ashamed. I really liked it, guys.
I mean, Bethenny isn't spewing any philosophical gems or profound musings...nor is she really pretending to. It's just real talk--and I liked that. Randy was making fun of me because I was talking back to the book, oftentimes shouting out a "truth!" or "preach it!" AHEM. I couldn't help it.
This was another super-quick read and it was a great way to get my mind re-focused on my career goals and aspirations without being so serious it stressed me out.
But anyways, I gotta go.....I'm going to go drink some Skinnygirl Sangria now. :)
December 9, 2012
I found myself immersed in this book in the beginning, but as I got more than half way through, it started slowing down for me. If you watch her show, a lot of her phrases are repetitive, and the writing gets very wordy, so I found I was getting annoyed and bored. I did enjoy reading about her experience from Martha Stewart Apprentice, the reason why I became a fan of Bethenny's in the first place. This book should not have been marketed as a self-help book, but more of an auto-biography, as a lot of it was "me, me, me." The most awkward part of the book was when she discussed Jason and his religion, as she quotes, "I practice yoga." Yoga is not a religion and should not be categorized in that way. My advice to Bethenny- attend services as family, if not for yourself, for your daughter. Jason is obviously much more grounded, a quality you should want to pass on to your daughter. Although I am not a fan of this book, overall, I remain a fan of Bethenny, as her business success is inspiring.
June 7, 2011
I'm a huge fan of Bethenny, I think she is a phenomenal business woman and I find her hilarious and enjoy watching her reality series. I suppose it's my own fault for not researching the book before I bought it. I guess I was expecting to get a better glimpse into her life and her past, having similar issues with my own Mother I was really curious to learn more about her childhood. While this book did provide some of her background and struggles it's really a self help book, which I was not expecting at all.
There were for sure parts of the book that were interesting but I found a lot of it to be repetitive, I get what she is trying to do with the book, but I guess if I had understood that before I probably wouldn't have read it.
If you are curious about her life and you are interested in how she became so successful and you're into self help books, you'll probably enjoy this. I enjoyed the glimpse into her background but that was about it.
There were for sure parts of the book that were interesting but I found a lot of it to be repetitive, I get what she is trying to do with the book, but I guess if I had understood that before I probably wouldn't have read it.
If you are curious about her life and you are interested in how she became so successful and you're into self help books, you'll probably enjoy this. I enjoyed the glimpse into her background but that was about it.
October 2, 2012
I do enjoy Bethenny as a reality TV star. The book offered a few interesting glimpses into her past and behind the scenes of the shows she has been on. Unfortunately, most of it is a trite, poorly written, corny self help book. The best self help books and the best autobiographies have very little in common, and there is a reason for that. The book was well intended, but comes off as preachy, even patronizing (if you're a housewife, be the best housewife you can be!) and lots of hackneyed, easier said than done advice. She has led an interesting life and is a successful, bright, witty person. A detailed autobiography without the self help format would have been inspiring in its own right, and much more enjoyable to read.
On a side note, the new mom "my child will never" comments gave me a chuckle. We're all perfect parents when we have one easy baby!
On a side note, the new mom "my child will never" comments gave me a chuckle. We're all perfect parents when we have one easy baby!
November 6, 2013
I would really give this book 3 1/2 stars. It has some really good general rules to live by. I am a fan of Bethanny and her sharp sense of humor. I think the book shows what a hustler she was and her tenacity. She worked hard until she achieve her success. She provides relevant, practical examples of her life to show a lot of her lessons learned especially in business. Where we disconnected from author to reader is her turbulent childhood and her issues with men. She had a different journey than I did and it was difficult for me to relate. Her journey nonetheless was interesting. It was also sad to read all about how happily married she was and her fans know she is now getting a divorce. It makes the part where she is describing her marriage as cringe-worthy because I felt bad for them that it did not work out. It goes with the saying that is very difficult to have it all.
November 7, 2013
Listening to this on audiobook in my car.
Don't judge me - I grabbed it on impulse at the library while waiting for a few other audiobooks to come in. It's entertaining enough so far.
UPDATE:
I don't watch the Housewives show but I know who Bethenney Frankel is from tabloids. I expected absolutely nothing from this book, but it honestly wasn't bad. I think if I had read this in print form I wouldn't have liked it, but listening to her read her life story was fairly entertaining. She even made me laugh out loud a few times!
I found her constant praising of Jason to be sad, since she is currently on the cover of my People magazine going through a brutal divorce. I'm curious how that happened only a year or two after she wrote this book.
I would probably listen to more of her books, if for no other reason than to entertain me in traffic.
Don't judge me - I grabbed it on impulse at the library while waiting for a few other audiobooks to come in. It's entertaining enough so far.
UPDATE:
I don't watch the Housewives show but I know who Bethenney Frankel is from tabloids. I expected absolutely nothing from this book, but it honestly wasn't bad. I think if I had read this in print form I wouldn't have liked it, but listening to her read her life story was fairly entertaining. She even made me laugh out loud a few times!
I found her constant praising of Jason to be sad, since she is currently on the cover of my People magazine going through a brutal divorce. I'm curious how that happened only a year or two after she wrote this book.
I would probably listen to more of her books, if for no other reason than to entertain me in traffic.
December 13, 2011
Since this came in from the library (I forgot to put a freeze on the request), I guess I'll read it now. I don't think I've ever read a self-help type book so we'll see how it goes.
Huh. I was expecting this book to be better written and not full of so many cliches. If you want to read this book because you like Bethanny Frankel and are curious about her life (like me), don't bother. Yes, she shares some parts of her life, but everything seemed so guarded and generalized that I came away not learning much at all. She's owned a few of her own businesses, been engaged to some rich guys and had a crappy childhood. That about sums it up. If your reading this book for the self-help aspect, just skip to the last chapter where she reviews her 10 "rules" in about two pages.
Huh. I was expecting this book to be better written and not full of so many cliches. If you want to read this book because you like Bethanny Frankel and are curious about her life (like me), don't bother. Yes, she shares some parts of her life, but everything seemed so guarded and generalized that I came away not learning much at all. She's owned a few of her own businesses, been engaged to some rich guys and had a crappy childhood. That about sums it up. If your reading this book for the self-help aspect, just skip to the last chapter where she reviews her 10 "rules" in about two pages.
August 12, 2016
I rated this book 5 stars because it's one of few books (including nonfiction and fiction) that has stuck with me. Bethenny Frankel's book does an amazing job at motivating you to DO SOMETHING! If you learn to become conscious of yourself, much of the advise in the book will come to replace that NOISE in your head that has probably lead you to this book. Although some of the autobiographical stuff may seem more suited for fans (I'm one), the experiences she describes only add to a better understanding of her 10 rules. I carry a copy of the 10 rules in my phone. Whenever, I need a pick-me up for whatever life situation that may be getting to me, I often turn to Ms. Frankel's advise.
Like her personality, the advise is real.
Like her personality, the advise is real.
June 9, 2011
Bethenny Frankel continues to amaze me with her down-to-earth views and realistic situations that leave most of us out of breath. Well, they leave her out of breath too but that doesn't mean she doesn't know how to handle herself.
This book provides that "light at the end of the tunnel" to conquer many of life's greatest challenges from motherhood, to daughterhood, to wifehood, to professionalhood.
I really enjoyed Bethenny's sense of humor throughout all and really reminded me to stay positive and happy and calm whenever life was at its most stressful. Also, she reminded me that it's OKAY not to be "normal" and be proud of who I am. We all only get one life: make it worth it.
This book provides that "light at the end of the tunnel" to conquer many of life's greatest challenges from motherhood, to daughterhood, to wifehood, to professionalhood.
I really enjoyed Bethenny's sense of humor throughout all and really reminded me to stay positive and happy and calm whenever life was at its most stressful. Also, she reminded me that it's OKAY not to be "normal" and be proud of who I am. We all only get one life: make it worth it.
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