What do you think?
Rate this book
Sovereign: Reclaim Your Freedom, Energy, and Power in a Time of Distraction, Uncertainty, and Chaos
The acclaimed author of The Happiness Track maps a bold and fresh, science-backed path to break the bonds of self-destructive patterns and beliefs and live a fuller, more authentic life.
"Sovereign is one of the most influential books I have read in years. It's loaded with ideas that will recharge your life and change the way you think and act right away. By far the most highlighted book in my library!"
— Tom Rath, #1 New York Times best-selling author of How Full Is Your Bucket? and Strengthsfinder 2.0
In the post-pandemic era of war, polarization, and economic and environmental challenges, is it any wonder that we’re questioning a lot of things we thought we knew? We’re ready to reevaluate what’s important and rethink how we are living our lives. We need a new perspective—and acclaimed psychologist Emma Seppälä offers one.
Sovereign delivers a radically new and enlightening message, made for this age of suffering and confusion. It’s a manifesto that awakens us to all the areas in our life where we have subjugated ourselves to self-destructive beliefs and tendencies. And it’s a roadmap to reclaim our full psychological sovereignty so we can live free, happy, and authentic lives.
Seppälä’s voice is raw and honest, laugh-out-loud funny, and deeply reflective, delving into topics ranging from the nature of self-loathing to the nuances of relationship as she shows us how to unbind ourselves in every
In our working life and our family life In our physical health and our emotional well-beingIn our minds, our spirits, and our connection to our very selves
Backed by psychological data, neuroscience, and empirically validated methodologies, Sovereign takes us further along the path of personal transformation than we may ever have ventured before—and gives us the true freedom to live life to our fullest potential.
"Sovereign is one of the most influential books I have read in years. It's loaded with ideas that will recharge your life and change the way you think and act right away. By far the most highlighted book in my library!"
— Tom Rath, #1 New York Times best-selling author of How Full Is Your Bucket? and Strengthsfinder 2.0
In the post-pandemic era of war, polarization, and economic and environmental challenges, is it any wonder that we’re questioning a lot of things we thought we knew? We’re ready to reevaluate what’s important and rethink how we are living our lives. We need a new perspective—and acclaimed psychologist Emma Seppälä offers one.
Sovereign delivers a radically new and enlightening message, made for this age of suffering and confusion. It’s a manifesto that awakens us to all the areas in our life where we have subjugated ourselves to self-destructive beliefs and tendencies. And it’s a roadmap to reclaim our full psychological sovereignty so we can live free, happy, and authentic lives.
Seppälä’s voice is raw and honest, laugh-out-loud funny, and deeply reflective, delving into topics ranging from the nature of self-loathing to the nuances of relationship as she shows us how to unbind ourselves in every
In our working life and our family life In our physical health and our emotional well-beingIn our minds, our spirits, and our connection to our very selves
Backed by psychological data, neuroscience, and empirically validated methodologies, Sovereign takes us further along the path of personal transformation than we may ever have ventured before—and gives us the true freedom to live life to our fullest potential.
243 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 23, 2024
110 people are currently reading
647 people want to read
About the author
Emma Seppälä
11 books99 followersEmma Seppälä, Ph.D., is a faculty member at Yale University, a bestselling author, and an international keynote speaker. She teaches leadership at the Yale School of Management’s and is bestselling author of The Happiness Track (2017) and Sovereign (2024).
She is also Science Director of Stanford University’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education.
Seppälä’s work and research have been featured in top media and television outlets like The New York Times, The Washington Post, and ABC News. She is a repeat guest on Good Morning America, a TEDx speaker, and a frequent contributor to Harvard Business Review, the Washington Post, and Psychology Today.
Her research on yoga-based breathing for military veterans was highlighted in the documentary Free the Mind. She is also featured in a number of other documentaries like The Altruism Revolution and What You Do Matters.
She graduated from Yale (BA), Columbia (MA), and Stanford (PhD). Originally from Paris, France, she is a native speaker of French, English, and German and conversant in Spanish and Mandarin Chinese.
She is also Science Director of Stanford University’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education.
Seppälä’s work and research have been featured in top media and television outlets like The New York Times, The Washington Post, and ABC News. She is a repeat guest on Good Morning America, a TEDx speaker, and a frequent contributor to Harvard Business Review, the Washington Post, and Psychology Today.
Her research on yoga-based breathing for military veterans was highlighted in the documentary Free the Mind. She is also featured in a number of other documentaries like The Altruism Revolution and What You Do Matters.
She graduated from Yale (BA), Columbia (MA), and Stanford (PhD). Originally from Paris, France, she is a native speaker of French, English, and German and conversant in Spanish and Mandarin Chinese.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
April 23, 2024
In "SOVEREIGN: Reclaim Your Freedom, Energy, and Power in a Time of Distraction, Uncertainty, and Chaos," the author (who has a Ph.D in psychology from Stanford and works as a faculty director at Yale) delivers a transformative message that resonates deeply in our current era. This book isn't just a guide; it's a lifeline for those feeling adrift amidst the waves of distraction, uncertainty, and chaos that seem to define our times.
What sets "SOVEREIGN" apart is its empowering perspective on reclaiming one's life and finding genuine freedom amid external pressures. The author masterfully weaves together practical wisdom, insightful anecdotes, and actionable steps to guide readers towards rediscovering their inner strength and autonomy.
The chapters on energy management are particularly enlightening, offering invaluable strategies for preserving and harnessing our energy in a world that often feels draining. Moreover, the book delves into the psychology of distraction and chaos, helping readers understand the root causes and providing tools to overcome them.
But what truly sets this book apart is its unwavering optimism and belief in the human spirit's capacity for resilience and growth. I was left incredibly inspired. It reminds us that even in the face of adversity, we possess the power to shape our destiny and live a life of purpose and fulfillment. Such a strong reminder like that is worth gold in this day and age. Often times I found myself either wanting to laugh from the humor or cry tears of gratitude at the immense resonance I was feeling.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, lost, or simply seeking guidance on how to navigate life's complexities with grace and intention, "SOVEREIGN" is the book you've been waiting for. It's not just a read; it's an invitation to embark on a transformative journey towards reclaiming your freedom, energy, and power.
All in all, I was very glad to read this amazing book and to continue along my journey towards a more empowered and sovereign self! Grateful to this author and her team for the boldness in aiming to open us all up to such a world!
What sets "SOVEREIGN" apart is its empowering perspective on reclaiming one's life and finding genuine freedom amid external pressures. The author masterfully weaves together practical wisdom, insightful anecdotes, and actionable steps to guide readers towards rediscovering their inner strength and autonomy.
The chapters on energy management are particularly enlightening, offering invaluable strategies for preserving and harnessing our energy in a world that often feels draining. Moreover, the book delves into the psychology of distraction and chaos, helping readers understand the root causes and providing tools to overcome them.
But what truly sets this book apart is its unwavering optimism and belief in the human spirit's capacity for resilience and growth. I was left incredibly inspired. It reminds us that even in the face of adversity, we possess the power to shape our destiny and live a life of purpose and fulfillment. Such a strong reminder like that is worth gold in this day and age. Often times I found myself either wanting to laugh from the humor or cry tears of gratitude at the immense resonance I was feeling.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, lost, or simply seeking guidance on how to navigate life's complexities with grace and intention, "SOVEREIGN" is the book you've been waiting for. It's not just a read; it's an invitation to embark on a transformative journey towards reclaiming your freedom, energy, and power.
All in all, I was very glad to read this amazing book and to continue along my journey towards a more empowered and sovereign self! Grateful to this author and her team for the boldness in aiming to open us all up to such a world!
June 10, 2024
The author summarizes psychology research, along with many personal anecdotes and brief case studies in this short book. Some good reminders are included and the book is written with great compassion. There's nothing new here in the sense that we all know what we should be doing, it is the doing that is difficult. There's a big push on the Art of Living organization and their workshops/teachings. Buddhist concepts are mentioned. Meditation is heavily recommended in this book.
Some notes--
Sovereign self: Reclaim your right to exist as you. Everyone has the need to belong but it can make you shape-shift and deny your true self to be more acceptable. Feel seen, heard, valued and appreciated by yourself and you will stop seeking external validation and recognition. Some tools- meditation, make time for yourself, set boundaries
Sovereign emotions: We are emotionally underdeveloped, undertrained, and undereducated. Feel the emotion to heal it. Be aware of emotions without identifying with them.
Sovereign mind: We are imprinted by life experiences and media messaging and sometimes these can hold us back. Be a content creator for good rather than a content consumer. Consciously release daily imprints by rewinding and reviewing each day.
Sovereign Relationships: The healthiest and happiest relationships are ones where both people feel a high sense of personal power. We don't need another person to complete us.
Sovereign intuition: Intuition is an instinctual form of cognition that can improve your decision making. Create opportunities for contemplation and make room for quiet.
Sovereign Body: Our body is the root of all our experiences and it is fundamental to first exercise sovereignty over your body before extending it to other domains. Relate to your body as your best friend and tune into your body’s needs.
Some notes--
Sovereign self: Reclaim your right to exist as you. Everyone has the need to belong but it can make you shape-shift and deny your true self to be more acceptable. Feel seen, heard, valued and appreciated by yourself and you will stop seeking external validation and recognition. Some tools- meditation, make time for yourself, set boundaries
Sovereign emotions: We are emotionally underdeveloped, undertrained, and undereducated. Feel the emotion to heal it. Be aware of emotions without identifying with them.
Sovereign mind: We are imprinted by life experiences and media messaging and sometimes these can hold us back. Be a content creator for good rather than a content consumer. Consciously release daily imprints by rewinding and reviewing each day.
Sovereign Relationships: The healthiest and happiest relationships are ones where both people feel a high sense of personal power. We don't need another person to complete us.
Sovereign intuition: Intuition is an instinctual form of cognition that can improve your decision making. Create opportunities for contemplation and make room for quiet.
Sovereign Body: Our body is the root of all our experiences and it is fundamental to first exercise sovereignty over your body before extending it to other domains. Relate to your body as your best friend and tune into your body’s needs.
August 30, 2024
Almost but not quite…
Great start with lots of helpful and practical information, but the last two chapters are extremely disappointing. I had been looking forward to the “sovereign intuition” chapter in hopes that it would help people reconnect with their gut instincts after situations of abuse/gaslighting. Instead it’s a pamphlet for ESP.
Same with the “sovereign body” chapter. It could have been a tremendous opportunity to help victims of assault and abuse reclaim their physical sovereignty. Instead it’s a polemic about how many chemicals are in our daily lives.
Great start with lots of helpful and practical information, but the last two chapters are extremely disappointing. I had been looking forward to the “sovereign intuition” chapter in hopes that it would help people reconnect with their gut instincts after situations of abuse/gaslighting. Instead it’s a pamphlet for ESP.
Same with the “sovereign body” chapter. It could have been a tremendous opportunity to help victims of assault and abuse reclaim their physical sovereignty. Instead it’s a polemic about how many chemicals are in our daily lives.
April 25, 2024
As someone who has often grappled with self-doubt and the echoes of past traumas, discovering Dr. Emma Seppälä's "Sovereign" felt like a breath of fresh air. This book delves into the concept of psychological sovereignty, which Dr. Seppälä describes as a powerful, empowering relationship with oneself. It's about tapping into our fullest potential, and it resonated deeply with me as I navigated my own journey toward self-understanding and empowerment.
One of the book's core arguments is the detrimental effect of suppressing emotions. Dr. Seppälä advocates for embracing our feelings fully to allow them to dissipate, a healthier approach that fosters emotional release and healing. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of a sovereign mind, which can be nurtured by limiting negative influences, clearing the mind regularly, and tapping into our innate intuition.
The social aspect of sovereignty is also explored. Positive relationships are shown to be energizing, while negative ones can deplete our energy and sense of self. The book encourages readers to evaluate their relationships and foster connections that support their sovereignty.
Perhaps the most inspiring aspect of Dr. Seppälä's work is the encouragement to discover and express one's unique 'song'—an individual's gifts, talents, and purpose. She portrays this expression as an ultimate act of sovereignty, crucial for personal fulfillment.
Lastly, Dr. Seppälä discusses the internal barriers that hold us back, such as ingrained beliefs and past trauma. She emphasizes that awareness and courage are key to overcoming these barriers and reclaiming our power.
Dr. Seppälä's insightful guidance provides the tools needed to navigate the path to self-sovereignty with grace and courage—a highly recommended read for anyone on a journey to self-discovery and personal growth.
I received the ARC from the publisher.
One of the book's core arguments is the detrimental effect of suppressing emotions. Dr. Seppälä advocates for embracing our feelings fully to allow them to dissipate, a healthier approach that fosters emotional release and healing. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of a sovereign mind, which can be nurtured by limiting negative influences, clearing the mind regularly, and tapping into our innate intuition.
The social aspect of sovereignty is also explored. Positive relationships are shown to be energizing, while negative ones can deplete our energy and sense of self. The book encourages readers to evaluate their relationships and foster connections that support their sovereignty.
Perhaps the most inspiring aspect of Dr. Seppälä's work is the encouragement to discover and express one's unique 'song'—an individual's gifts, talents, and purpose. She portrays this expression as an ultimate act of sovereignty, crucial for personal fulfillment.
Lastly, Dr. Seppälä discusses the internal barriers that hold us back, such as ingrained beliefs and past trauma. She emphasizes that awareness and courage are key to overcoming these barriers and reclaiming our power.
Dr. Seppälä's insightful guidance provides the tools needed to navigate the path to self-sovereignty with grace and courage—a highly recommended read for anyone on a journey to self-discovery and personal growth.
I received the ARC from the publisher.
April 23, 2024
I have taught evidence-based wellness classes at a couple of universities, most recently while I was a postdoctoral researcher at Stanford University. Dr. Seppälä’s book, The Happiness Track, was the one required reading. So, when I saw she was releasing a new book, I pre-ordered it without any hesitation.
And Sovereign delivers. It is a thoroughly researched yet highly practical guide to happiness, purpose, and fulfillment at all levels in life. Like The Happiness Track, Sovereign draws upon many fields from psychology, spirituality, mindfulness and even military science to provide a map to sovereignty over one's self, emotions, mind, relationships, intuition and body.
What I especially appreciated was how Dr. Seppälä combines compelling stories, scientific research and ancient wisdom to make her points. For example, she cites neuroscience showing how breath influences brain function to regulate attention, memory and emotions. At the same time, she highlights the power of intuition, noting how "sovereignty is getting back in touch with the innate intelligence derived from our instinct, gut feelings, and intuitions."
As a meditation practitioner, this line resonated with me. "Sovereignty introduces greater ease to your life, clarity to your mind, and peace to your heart. As you live in greater alignment with yourself, you feel energized, integrated, whole, healed, and complete."
Her scientific grounding combined with a deep appreciation for spiritual traditions makes the book's message all the more compelling.
Sovereign is ultimately a guidebook for human thriving. I think you will have a hard time putting it down.
And Sovereign delivers. It is a thoroughly researched yet highly practical guide to happiness, purpose, and fulfillment at all levels in life. Like The Happiness Track, Sovereign draws upon many fields from psychology, spirituality, mindfulness and even military science to provide a map to sovereignty over one's self, emotions, mind, relationships, intuition and body.
What I especially appreciated was how Dr. Seppälä combines compelling stories, scientific research and ancient wisdom to make her points. For example, she cites neuroscience showing how breath influences brain function to regulate attention, memory and emotions. At the same time, she highlights the power of intuition, noting how "sovereignty is getting back in touch with the innate intelligence derived from our instinct, gut feelings, and intuitions."
As a meditation practitioner, this line resonated with me. "Sovereignty introduces greater ease to your life, clarity to your mind, and peace to your heart. As you live in greater alignment with yourself, you feel energized, integrated, whole, healed, and complete."
Her scientific grounding combined with a deep appreciation for spiritual traditions makes the book's message all the more compelling.
Sovereign is ultimately a guidebook for human thriving. I think you will have a hard time putting it down.
Read
April 27, 2025Another book full of obvious ideas and solutions by scarcely indicting the structural forces that gave rise to the problems the book strives to solve. Notably uncomfortable mixture of anecdotes featuring Ivy League and military tragedy-to-success stories and a guru led meditation and breathing regimen/institution.
But I guess I really do know why I keep reading this schlock. It’s because I’d really like to write the white trash version of these books. Here’s my pitch:
Life and death are all around you, doing what they do, but it’s hard to notice because just noticing that is the opposite of making money for rich people. So they don’t want you to notice. You’re probably never going to join their ranks, and even if you did, what then? Rich people suck - why would you want to be someone who sucks? So if you really want to be happy, and incidentally, to flip them the bird - with the small sphere of influence that you, as a life form, possess; namely, yourself as a locus of the fabric of life, rather than a distinct entity with its own princely desires - then quit doing shit. No need to get a meditation app. Take a nap. Quit filling your head with nonsense rich people want you to think about The World so you’ll keep towing the line for them. Sit around and do nothing, and give your kids as close to nothing as you can, and after a while if you finally get un-tired enough, you’ll remember all the things you actually liked to do 30 years ago, and you might start doing them. Et voila.
But I guess I really do know why I keep reading this schlock. It’s because I’d really like to write the white trash version of these books. Here’s my pitch:
Life and death are all around you, doing what they do, but it’s hard to notice because just noticing that is the opposite of making money for rich people. So they don’t want you to notice. You’re probably never going to join their ranks, and even if you did, what then? Rich people suck - why would you want to be someone who sucks? So if you really want to be happy, and incidentally, to flip them the bird - with the small sphere of influence that you, as a life form, possess; namely, yourself as a locus of the fabric of life, rather than a distinct entity with its own princely desires - then quit doing shit. No need to get a meditation app. Take a nap. Quit filling your head with nonsense rich people want you to think about The World so you’ll keep towing the line for them. Sit around and do nothing, and give your kids as close to nothing as you can, and after a while if you finally get un-tired enough, you’ll remember all the things you actually liked to do 30 years ago, and you might start doing them. Et voila.
April 24, 2024
I knew this book would be worthwhile and impactful. I don't think i fully realized that this is what I NEEDED, so very much at this time in my life. Since my mother suddenly passed away due to the c0vid vacclne, my life has been turned upside down. Slowly coming back to figuring out this new me has been a journey. The practices Emma mentions in this book have prepared me for this life altering event and saved me during and afterward. This book hits like a brick in all the areas i've been stuck and inspires me to put all of it into action to find my own sovereignty. Challenging at times, of course, but so its everything that makes us better and ultimately more free. And for that I am grateful.
Her poem at the beginning of the book brings me to tears as I know I am made for something more.. to truly feel like I am living in my unlimited potential and joy and zest and all the freedom!
This book is worth the read for yourself and for all others you encounter. I will continue to recommend this and share with friends and family. Sovereign is a savior. Emma is a true gem. I can feel her big heart and love exploding from each word. She has created a safe space to explore within the areas we may be falling short or not addressing. Thank you for sharing this in such a way with the world Emma!
Everyone... happy reading.
May we all live free, energized and in our own power.\
– Kelsi Lynde
Her poem at the beginning of the book brings me to tears as I know I am made for something more.. to truly feel like I am living in my unlimited potential and joy and zest and all the freedom!
This book is worth the read for yourself and for all others you encounter. I will continue to recommend this and share with friends and family. Sovereign is a savior. Emma is a true gem. I can feel her big heart and love exploding from each word. She has created a safe space to explore within the areas we may be falling short or not addressing. Thank you for sharing this in such a way with the world Emma!
Everyone... happy reading.
May we all live free, energized and in our own power.\
– Kelsi Lynde
May 13, 2024
Never in all of history did the world shut down for 3 years. This landmark event sent us reeling into a a new Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous and many times Irrational world where many of the concepts we had, faith we had trusted, and confidence in our world was shaken to the very core. Everything became a research project, where friends, families, and colleuges were divided, and it took immense courage to stand up for what you believe in no matter how cruel and assaulting the scrutiny, and reaction. It was a constant barrage of stress from all angles. For many it felt like there was no footing stable enough to establish ourselves. The saving grace for many of us is the wisdom, and powerful breathing, and meditation tools from the ancients that find their peak of relevance in these chaotic times. Emma Seppälä's book, Sovereign: Reclaim Your Freedom, Energy and Power in a Time of Distraction, Uncertainty, and Chaos is a powerful book that will connect you with these powerful techniques of self regulation, so that you may connect with that deep peace, joy, love, and indeed sovereignty that exists with in you, that no one can touch no matter what they do. Through her unique wit, heart warming stories, fascinating scientific research, and laugh out loud humour Emma has created an avenue for so many that are searching to find their sovereignty, and a powerful tool to re-establish and re-connect for those that have.
April 23, 2024
Perfectly timed for the current age, Dr. Seppala's book is a powerful reminder to live a more intentional life.
Sovereign is filled with practical advice, humor, and reflections on truly 'sovereign' people. This book is not just a gentle wake-up call but a practical guide to open our eyes to the cultural currents around us and remind us to be 'sovereign' and make our own choices, lest those choices be made for us.
Useful, entertaining, and filled with science, in Sovereign, Dr. Seppälä is your Morpheus, gently taking you on a journey to recognize the matrix around you. Expect it's not an all-or-nothing choice. Every day presents opportunities for us to live intentionally despite a culture and world built on making our choices for us. Dr. Seppälä's humor and gentle storytelling keep the reader engaged while walking them through several alarming areas where we can give up our sovereignty. The author does not overly nudge or suggest the decision for us, but like Morpheus, the author only wants to "free your mind" to the possibilities.
Well-written and researched, this book is an essential read for our times.
Sovereign is filled with practical advice, humor, and reflections on truly 'sovereign' people. This book is not just a gentle wake-up call but a practical guide to open our eyes to the cultural currents around us and remind us to be 'sovereign' and make our own choices, lest those choices be made for us.
Useful, entertaining, and filled with science, in Sovereign, Dr. Seppälä is your Morpheus, gently taking you on a journey to recognize the matrix around you. Expect it's not an all-or-nothing choice. Every day presents opportunities for us to live intentionally despite a culture and world built on making our choices for us. Dr. Seppälä's humor and gentle storytelling keep the reader engaged while walking them through several alarming areas where we can give up our sovereignty. The author does not overly nudge or suggest the decision for us, but like Morpheus, the author only wants to "free your mind" to the possibilities.
Well-written and researched, this book is an essential read for our times.
May 7, 2024
I am very picky when it comes to non fiction, and I LOVED this book! It is so well written you could easily read it in one sitting, but I highly recommend taking your time and letting it sink in. I thought I would read the book out of interest, and didn't anticipate that I would witness myself making different, more "sovereign" choices throughout my day as I read the book. I cannot say enough about Seppala's humour and accessibility. Seppala is so transparent she become instantly relatable, and you feel like you are sitting across the kitchen table having a deep conversation with a trusted friend who has been through so much of what you have been through, and has equal amounts of wisdom and compassion. Each chapter drew on research, case studies, and her own personal experience to illuminate her points, and this combination (along with her voice) made the book very inspiring.
April 18, 2024
If there is a book that can change your life, it is SOVEREIGN✨.
Emma shares personal stories, and inspirational stories of friends and colleagues she has worked with and their journey towards SOVEREIGNTY.
The stories are real, and relateable of people in the current times. The book doesn't just share a list of "this is what you should do for a better life".. But everything she claims is backed with 20+ years of research! 🤍✨ And, most importantly, she breaks it down into actionable steps through the toolkits she shares at the end of each chapter!
I finished reading it in just a few days, and I keep going back to it for the nuggest of wisdom she shares throughout. Please grab yourself a copy if you haven't already. This book should be the manuscript of life.
Emma shares personal stories, and inspirational stories of friends and colleagues she has worked with and their journey towards SOVEREIGNTY.
The stories are real, and relateable of people in the current times. The book doesn't just share a list of "this is what you should do for a better life".. But everything she claims is backed with 20+ years of research! 🤍✨ And, most importantly, she breaks it down into actionable steps through the toolkits she shares at the end of each chapter!
I finished reading it in just a few days, and I keep going back to it for the nuggest of wisdom she shares throughout. Please grab yourself a copy if you haven't already. This book should be the manuscript of life.
April 24, 2024
Sovereign provides a spectacular roadmap to building the highest, happiest and most rewarding relationship with ourselves and those around us. As a research scientist in the field of Mind/Body medicine, I applaud her great skill at interweaving cutting edge science with her personal journey. This provides a highly relatable approach to building ourselves up to our highest potential and STAYING there. Just yesterday, I was astonished to see my old self talk emerge
after making a considerable blunder. Seppala's personal examples gave me the reminder to quickly build myself back up. And did I say that reading Sovereign reads like a warm and intimate discussion with a wise and loving friend?
after making a considerable blunder. Seppala's personal examples gave me the reminder to quickly build myself back up. And did I say that reading Sovereign reads like a warm and intimate discussion with a wise and loving friend?
July 28, 2024
Reading Emma’s words was like remembering. Remembering who I was and have always been. Emma put words to so many things I haven’t been able to articulate. I wish this book existed while I was growing up, but so grateful it’s here now to be a reference and guide to people in their journey to be more sovereign. There are so many practices and tips to guide you. It will be a book I return to remember and remind myself my ability to reach, live and love my greatest potential can be find within if I can get quiet and truly listen. And in being sovereign it will allow me to be more loving, giving and in service to others and amplify the ripples of being sovereign so that others may find peace, joy, love and energy.
May 5, 2024
A book written with heart and honesty about the situation we are facing as a humanity - and it comes with a way forward. A text that is deeply personal and thus, will make you feel like you have a benevolent guide with you. Sovereignty is cook-book for individual growth, healing and exploration of our most fantastic expression. To the point, practical, no fluff and will give you real tools for life. Thank you, Emma from the bottom of my heart for writing this!
This will be one of the books I will gift to friends who are ready to go beyond suffering and see what we can co-create when we shift our mindset.
This will be one of the books I will gift to friends who are ready to go beyond suffering and see what we can co-create when we shift our mindset.
May 9, 2024
An empowering reminder that we do, in fact, have choice. I finished this book feeling ready to stand up for myself, feeling deserving to stand up for myself, and wanting to share that YOU can stand up for yourself. I'd say the author's goal was reached in that sense. You will want to express your freedom and feel energized when you realize how distraction has really kept us small.
The weaving of story with wisdom is done in an easy-to-read/listen way that empowers the reader to want to take action. You'll be inspired to self-reflect and use others' success as a guiding light to do the same. Definitely recommend adding this to your list.
The weaving of story with wisdom is done in an easy-to-read/listen way that empowers the reader to want to take action. You'll be inspired to self-reflect and use others' success as a guiding light to do the same. Definitely recommend adding this to your list.
April 30, 2024
This book is the solution-oriented wake-up call we all need! In a world where our lives and brains often feel pressured and cluttered, Seppala gives us an understanding of the challenges we're up against while empowering us with the tools necessary to reclaim our inner peace, agency, and happiness. The stories woven throughout illustrate her points beautifully and are a pleasure to read! I can't recommend this book more highly!
May 2, 2024
Confront your obstacles- unleash your potential.
Dr. Seppälä's book is so well written- packed with research, funny relatable stories and tips that encourage me to live up to my best self. I particularly enjoyed her section on Boundaries - something I find to be so important, yet, I can't help but wonder why I didn't have straightforward tools before to grasp how to establish and uphold them. I give Sovereign 5 starts for its beautifully written, non-preachy delivery. A must read!!!
Dr. Seppälä's book is so well written- packed with research, funny relatable stories and tips that encourage me to live up to my best self. I particularly enjoyed her section on Boundaries - something I find to be so important, yet, I can't help but wonder why I didn't have straightforward tools before to grasp how to establish and uphold them. I give Sovereign 5 starts for its beautifully written, non-preachy delivery. A must read!!!
May 7, 2024
I found this book provides refreshing perspectives on all aspects of life: caring for ourselves, handling our emotions, cultivating better relationships with others, and nourishing our beautiful mind and body, so we can be intune to the wisdom intrinsic in each one of us. Overall, the book provides science-backed, tangible practices to help us live the life our Soul is meant to live in this world.
June 14, 2024
She did it again!
After her success book The Happiness Track, Emma Seppälä, Ph.D. has published Sovereign, which really is sovereign, as the title tells us.
I've already read it twice, and when it’s coming from a"bookaholic" in areas of leadership, wellbeing and positive psychology, says a lot.
Several simple everyday stories mixed with the science of wellbeing.
-Reclaim your freedom, energy and power in a time of distraction, uncertainty and chaos.
Read it!
After her success book The Happiness Track, Emma Seppälä, Ph.D. has published Sovereign, which really is sovereign, as the title tells us.
I've already read it twice, and when it’s coming from a"bookaholic" in areas of leadership, wellbeing and positive psychology, says a lot.
Several simple everyday stories mixed with the science of wellbeing.
-Reclaim your freedom, energy and power in a time of distraction, uncertainty and chaos.
Read it!
June 15, 2024
A fresh twist on several pyschological tenets of happiness and well-being. I especially enjoyed the first chapters on expressing our real emotions and finding the one true self. The last part of the book (intuition, the sovereign body) didn't elicit the same enthusiasm from me, and I found it rather vague. Overall I'll recommend it if you want a new perspective about personal betterment and finding happiness and freedom.
July 8, 2024
Own your life--and love it!
Not the usual "be your one best friend" pop psych but a science backed, anecdote -illustrated invitation to become truly free. The author examines all the ways we sabotage our chances to live fully, with creativity, zest, and love. Moreover, she provides great evidence-informed strategies to liberate ourselves. I especially appreciated the chapter on the body--and the importance of a vegetable forward diet and abundant time in nature
Not the usual "be your one best friend" pop psych but a science backed, anecdote -illustrated invitation to become truly free. The author examines all the ways we sabotage our chances to live fully, with creativity, zest, and love. Moreover, she provides great evidence-informed strategies to liberate ourselves. I especially appreciated the chapter on the body--and the importance of a vegetable forward diet and abundant time in nature
October 5, 2024
Lots to come back to in this one. A sticky note/highlighted text for sure for me. Simple but powerful reminders to put myself first and not stay bound to external noise and imprints. I’ll have to muse on this as there are so many sections that resonate. A perfect read with 30 days before the election. We need quiet. Peace. Reconciliation. 🙏
April 26, 2024
I enjoyed the tone of the writing, as well as the combination of scientific research, humour, and practical insights. It was a good read, well-spaced out, and like her last book, very engaging. Would heartily recommend.
May 16, 2024
Sovereign
You were created to be great whole and sufficient. Anything that conspires to make you weak dependent whether habit external environment needs to be overcome. The author shows how this can be achieved giving inspiring examples.
You were created to be great whole and sufficient. Anything that conspires to make you weak dependent whether habit external environment needs to be overcome. The author shows how this can be achieved giving inspiring examples.
April 23, 2024
A how-to guide for how to live a self-empowered life - highly recommended!
April 23, 2024
This book changed my life!
Seriously.
It freed me.
You should totally read this asap if you haven't already - it will rock your world and open your mind, heart, soul.
Seriously.
It freed me.
You should totally read this asap if you haven't already - it will rock your world and open your mind, heart, soul.
May 18, 2024
Great Book for Self Care
This author provides tools for reflection on how we treat ourselves and how we can awaken to more self love and care.
This author provides tools for reflection on how we treat ourselves and how we can awaken to more self love and care.
November 19, 2024
Tuttua juttua, tietäähän nämä vaan ei toteuta.
May 2, 2024
Inspiring, seen some of these ideas before and presented more powerfully.
November 25, 2025
Only thing in life we can control is ourselves- goes over how to be sovereign over your emotions, reactions, frame of life, etc. loved this read. Incredibly helpful towards self growth and inner work!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews