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When You Stop Fighting: The Road You're On is Your Own Asphalt
Do you really want to change? Are you ready?
The journey of change can be difficult, intimidating, and filled with myriad emotions.
It can also be the momentous adventure of a lifetime, complete with fulfillment, wonderful relationships, and incredible discoveries.
My first book, WHEN I STOP FIGHTING, detailed my journey from addictions, self-destructive behaviors, and failings to a life I never, ever dreamed was possible.
In WHEN YOU STOP FIGHTING, it’s your turn!
It’s about your story. A much deeper dive into the journey of life and how it can be difficult and devastating or breathtaking and gratifying. How difficulty and uncertainty can be transformed into a life you hadn’t before dreamed possible. It will also show you that the decision is entirely yours.
You can experience successes you were not expecting, beyond your wildest imagination!
Your life can begin to open into a breathtaking panorama that you no longer feel the need to control or change.
You will understand that from this palette, you can paint what you’d like.
At some juncture, your fight will stop, and you will truly behold this enchanting experience called Life!
This is my hope for you.
The journey of change can be difficult, intimidating, and filled with myriad emotions.
It can also be the momentous adventure of a lifetime, complete with fulfillment, wonderful relationships, and incredible discoveries.
My first book, WHEN I STOP FIGHTING, detailed my journey from addictions, self-destructive behaviors, and failings to a life I never, ever dreamed was possible.
In WHEN YOU STOP FIGHTING, it’s your turn!
It’s about your story. A much deeper dive into the journey of life and how it can be difficult and devastating or breathtaking and gratifying. How difficulty and uncertainty can be transformed into a life you hadn’t before dreamed possible. It will also show you that the decision is entirely yours.
You can experience successes you were not expecting, beyond your wildest imagination!
Your life can begin to open into a breathtaking panorama that you no longer feel the need to control or change.
You will understand that from this palette, you can paint what you’d like.
At some juncture, your fight will stop, and you will truly behold this enchanting experience called Life!
This is my hope for you.
- GenresSelf Help
221 pages, Paperback
Published September 1, 2024
13 people are currently reading
7 people want to read
About the author
Daryl Dittmer
2 books5 followersAfter a humble and often tumultuous beginning to his life, Daryl Dittmer has worked relentlessly on himself for almost 40 years.
Having hailed from a blue-collar family and upbringing, work-ethic was instilled early and often. Daryl was put to work as a farm hand at an early age, at $1.50 per hour, and learned the immense value of hard work and long days.
Since those days, Daryl has been a carpenter, sales professional, business owner, builder, landlord, real estate investor, and consultant. Now, we’re able to add “author” to that list.
Daryl feels very fortunate to have had mentors assist him with his life’s journey and wants nothing more than to pass on what was so graciously given to him. He considers it an honor to be in a position to do that.
Having had ownership in several business ventures, Daryl has been as retired as he's wanted to be since the age of 48. Now he is focused on writing and telling his story, in order to give back.
With their sons grown and moved on, Daryl lives with his wife, Kristina, in the mountains of beautiful and peaceful North Georgia. They spend their rime hiking, hanging out with their Labs, and appreciating the mountain views and each other's company.
Having hailed from a blue-collar family and upbringing, work-ethic was instilled early and often. Daryl was put to work as a farm hand at an early age, at $1.50 per hour, and learned the immense value of hard work and long days.
Since those days, Daryl has been a carpenter, sales professional, business owner, builder, landlord, real estate investor, and consultant. Now, we’re able to add “author” to that list.
Daryl feels very fortunate to have had mentors assist him with his life’s journey and wants nothing more than to pass on what was so graciously given to him. He considers it an honor to be in a position to do that.
Having had ownership in several business ventures, Daryl has been as retired as he's wanted to be since the age of 48. Now he is focused on writing and telling his story, in order to give back.
With their sons grown and moved on, Daryl lives with his wife, Kristina, in the mountains of beautiful and peaceful North Georgia. They spend their rime hiking, hanging out with their Labs, and appreciating the mountain views and each other's company.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
September 15, 2024
No frills. No Gimmicks. No Nonsense. Just Know Yourself.
Have you lost touch with your True North? Has your life gone “off course?” This is a practical guide for getting yourself back on the right track. Dittmer takes the hard-earned life lessons that he described in his first book and shows you how to apply them to create your own ideal life “wish-list.” The author doesn’t make any cheap promises of instant happiness or rapid success, but he does show you where to look and how to do the necessary work. This book is insightful and yet still balanced, unique and yet very relatable, idealistic and yet quite practical.
Have you lost touch with your True North? Has your life gone “off course?” This is a practical guide for getting yourself back on the right track. Dittmer takes the hard-earned life lessons that he described in his first book and shows you how to apply them to create your own ideal life “wish-list.” The author doesn’t make any cheap promises of instant happiness or rapid success, but he does show you where to look and how to do the necessary work. This book is insightful and yet still balanced, unique and yet very relatable, idealistic and yet quite practical.
September 25, 2025
This is just a really brilliant and easy-to-read little book. I really enjoyed this one.
The main points which again, somehow seem to be brilliantly linking to other books I’ve read, are:
- Live consciously
- “Keep your side of the street clean”
- Be grateful
There are more but these are my main takeaways.
I don’t really want to get into these points too much as he does such a good job at traversing these subjects in a simple manner.
I think he does his best to avoid coming across as “spiritual”, and just talks human to human, but it is evidently clear that he actually is, and the fact he’s avoided coming across as a “spiritual guru” is a job well done in my opinion. It makes the lessons much more accessible and it’s nice to see how close he comes whilst still managing to avoid it.
There’s also the (what I consider) the huge added bonus of a resources collection at the end with a list of books to read, many of which I have heard of and want to read anyway, which just means I have more trust in the rest of the list as well.
I would recommend this book to literally anyone - it deserves 5 stars.
The main points which again, somehow seem to be brilliantly linking to other books I’ve read, are:
- Live consciously
- “Keep your side of the street clean”
- Be grateful
There are more but these are my main takeaways.
I don’t really want to get into these points too much as he does such a good job at traversing these subjects in a simple manner.
I think he does his best to avoid coming across as “spiritual”, and just talks human to human, but it is evidently clear that he actually is, and the fact he’s avoided coming across as a “spiritual guru” is a job well done in my opinion. It makes the lessons much more accessible and it’s nice to see how close he comes whilst still managing to avoid it.
There’s also the (what I consider) the huge added bonus of a resources collection at the end with a list of books to read, many of which I have heard of and want to read anyway, which just means I have more trust in the rest of the list as well.
I would recommend this book to literally anyone - it deserves 5 stars.
October 21, 2024
"When You Stop Fighting" by Daryl Dittmer is a transformative guide to self-discovery and personal evolution. The author invites readers to step beyond the struggles of addiction, destructive behaviors, and life’s persistent battles and embark on a journey toward fulfillment, growth, and clarity.
He begins by acknowledging that the journey of change can be overwhelming and filled with setbacks. He uses his own life experiences to show how embracing failure is essential to growth. The key is to stop fighting against yourself and start living with intention and awareness. The book taking ownership and the idea that anyone can shape their own path.
Throughout the book, readers are encouraged to explore their own stories and how they can seek external validation or avoid their deeper truths. The author asks tough questions that will likely challenge and stir readers unexpectedly. But the book isn't just about identifying our flaws; it's about uncovering a more meaningful way of being. By reflecting on our decisions and the trajectory we are on, we can consciously choose a more rewarding and purposeful path.
One of the most powerful aspects of When You Stop Fighting is the emphasis on understanding that the journey is where transformation happens. Success and fulfillment aren’t destinations to be reached but are woven into embracing life’s challenges. The book provides readers with tools for navigating this path, tools that evolve as we grow and become more open to change.
The author shares enlightening lessons about letting go and allowing life to unfold naturally. The imagery of life expanding into a "breathtaking panorama" captures the essence of the freedom and peace that come when we stop fighting against the currents of life and learn to swim with them.
When You Stop Fighting is a profoundly insightful book that will inspire readers to take ownership of their lives and approach each challenge with courage and openness. It guides anyone ready to embrace a life of authenticity, wonder, and peace. Whether you're navigating addiction or destructive habits or simply looking for deeper meaning, this book provides the wisdom and encouragement to help you stop fighting and start truly living.
He begins by acknowledging that the journey of change can be overwhelming and filled with setbacks. He uses his own life experiences to show how embracing failure is essential to growth. The key is to stop fighting against yourself and start living with intention and awareness. The book taking ownership and the idea that anyone can shape their own path.
Throughout the book, readers are encouraged to explore their own stories and how they can seek external validation or avoid their deeper truths. The author asks tough questions that will likely challenge and stir readers unexpectedly. But the book isn't just about identifying our flaws; it's about uncovering a more meaningful way of being. By reflecting on our decisions and the trajectory we are on, we can consciously choose a more rewarding and purposeful path.
One of the most powerful aspects of When You Stop Fighting is the emphasis on understanding that the journey is where transformation happens. Success and fulfillment aren’t destinations to be reached but are woven into embracing life’s challenges. The book provides readers with tools for navigating this path, tools that evolve as we grow and become more open to change.
The author shares enlightening lessons about letting go and allowing life to unfold naturally. The imagery of life expanding into a "breathtaking panorama" captures the essence of the freedom and peace that come when we stop fighting against the currents of life and learn to swim with them.
When You Stop Fighting is a profoundly insightful book that will inspire readers to take ownership of their lives and approach each challenge with courage and openness. It guides anyone ready to embrace a life of authenticity, wonder, and peace. Whether you're navigating addiction or destructive habits or simply looking for deeper meaning, this book provides the wisdom and encouragement to help you stop fighting and start truly living.
September 27, 2024
This book, When You Stop Fighting, is an excellent road map for how you can create immense or modest alterations that will ripple through every aspect of your life. The Author, Daryl Dittmer, takes you on this journey, encouraging you to take stock of your life with a glaringly honest mirror. It challenges you to slow down, breathe and truly understand where you are in life and where you want to go. You’ll gain an understanding of how to truly take responsibility for everything in your life and in doing so, how you can effect change and experience freedom. As he states: “Simple? Yes. Easy? No.” As you explore each chapter, heed his advice and relate each aspect to your own life, you don’t feel alone. You’ll finish each chapter feeling like you have a personal guide that shows you how to take that first step, continue through the setbacks, the failures, successes and stay on track.
I highly recommend this book for everyone. Even if you don’t think you need to change or want to change, I promise you’ll walk away with at least a little nugget to incorporate in your life. For those who are on the path of improvement, this book is all you need to get you started and guide you every phase of your journey.
I highly recommend this book for everyone. Even if you don’t think you need to change or want to change, I promise you’ll walk away with at least a little nugget to incorporate in your life. For those who are on the path of improvement, this book is all you need to get you started and guide you every phase of your journey.
February 13, 2025
When You Stop Fighting by Daryl Dittmer is a powerful and transformative guide for anyone who feels stuck in their own cycles of excuses, limiting beliefs, or destructive habits. This book isn't just about motivation- it's about real, lasting change. With a raw and honest approach, Daryl unpacks the ways we hold ourselves back and provides practical steps to break free.
Daryl doesn't sugarcoat the truth, yet his words are filled with encouragement and wisdom. He shows how our own resistance-whether it's addiction, fear, or avoidance - is often the greatest barrier to success. And once we stop fighting ourselves, we can finally move forward.
This book isn't just theory, it's a call to action. Each chapter challenges you to take responsibility for your life and make the changes that will lead to real transformation. If you're tired of standing in your own way and ready to step into the life you were meant for, When You Stop Fighting is the book you need.
Daryl doesn't sugarcoat the truth, yet his words are filled with encouragement and wisdom. He shows how our own resistance-whether it's addiction, fear, or avoidance - is often the greatest barrier to success. And once we stop fighting ourselves, we can finally move forward.
This book isn't just theory, it's a call to action. Each chapter challenges you to take responsibility for your life and make the changes that will lead to real transformation. If you're tired of standing in your own way and ready to step into the life you were meant for, When You Stop Fighting is the book you need.
December 15, 2024
Dittmer writes from deep within his soul - a place that is unique and special to only him. His no-bullshit, “if my dumbass can do it, you can do it” mentality shines brightly. Daryl’s ability to drop seeds for the reader to take with them on their life’s journey is incredible as well. I cannot recommend “When You Stop Fighting” anymore more highly - whether you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, or you are trying to squeeze every last bit of juice out of life’s proverbial lemon. This is one of those potentially life changing reads that you come back to time and time again, with a new perspective, ready to learn more. I hope you enjoy the book and that it helps you as much as it has helped me. Hats off to Mr. Dittmer on a book well written.
March 23, 2025
A powerful and inspiring guide to transformation, inviting readers to let go of resistance and embrace life’s journey with openness and courage. With wisdom, honesty, and personal insight, Dittmer explores how releasing control and fear can lead to unexpected success, joy, and a deeper sense of fulfillment. Through relatable experiences and thought-provoking reflections, he illustrates how even life’s greatest challenges can become stepping stones to a future beyond our wildest dreams. Engaging, heartfelt, and deeply motivating, this book offers a roadmap for anyone seeking personal growth, overcoming setbacks, or simply wanting to live with more purpose and authenticity. A must-read for those ready to step into the life they were truly meant to live!
February 13, 2025
When You Stop Fighting came at the right time for me.
I truly enjoyed this read, this book encourages readers to release unnecessary resistance in their lives and embrace inner peace. With its gentle yet powerful message, the author highlights how surrendering control, rather than constantly fighting against challenges, leads to personal growth and emotional harmony.
The writing is engaging and easy to connect with, offering practical advice and relatable examples that make the concepts of acceptance and letting go accessible to everyone. The book’s calming tone invites readers to reflect on their own lives, gently encouraging a shift in mindset toward peace rather than struggle.
I truly enjoyed this read, this book encourages readers to release unnecessary resistance in their lives and embrace inner peace. With its gentle yet powerful message, the author highlights how surrendering control, rather than constantly fighting against challenges, leads to personal growth and emotional harmony.
The writing is engaging and easy to connect with, offering practical advice and relatable examples that make the concepts of acceptance and letting go accessible to everyone. The book’s calming tone invites readers to reflect on their own lives, gently encouraging a shift in mindset toward peace rather than struggle.
September 21, 2024
Love it even better than the first book!
This was a fantastic sequel to Daryl Dittmer's first book, When I Stop Fighting.
A must read for anyone looking to improve their life whether it be from substance abuse or from self abuse and self sabotage. When You Stop Fighting is real, raw, rich and beautiful. And loaded with life lessons for even the angriest and most stubborn of souls. Can't recommend this read enough. There's so much to be learned from the life lessons that are shared within.
This was a fantastic sequel to Daryl Dittmer's first book, When I Stop Fighting.
A must read for anyone looking to improve their life whether it be from substance abuse or from self abuse and self sabotage. When You Stop Fighting is real, raw, rich and beautiful. And loaded with life lessons for even the angriest and most stubborn of souls. Can't recommend this read enough. There's so much to be learned from the life lessons that are shared within.
October 4, 2024
In his latest book, "When You Stop Fighting," Daryl Dittmer continues the journey he began in his first book, "When I Stop Fighting." This time he flips the script and takes readers on an introspective journey of self-discovery and personal growth. If you're seeking lasting positive change in your life, I highly recommend immersing yourself in the wisdom and guidance offered within these pages. Daryl's unique perspective and insights will inspire you to explore your inner potential and unlock the keys to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
October 6, 2024
This book was a great read. I looked forward to every chapter, which offered a wealth of helpful information. Every chapter is a journey in assisting positive changes in one's life. It gives anyone seeking a better, more fulfilling life a sincere blueprint in accomplishing those goals. For those people that don't know where or how to start this people will be your guide. A great source of information, irregardless of where a person is in life. And fantastic knowledge to share with others. Highly recommend!
October 14, 2024
Daryl’s second book is a great follow up to his first. “When You Stop Fighting” will inspire you to get your life on the right trajectory by taking action and taking responsibility for yourself. While written for those seeking a path of recovery from addiction, it is an excellent, thought-provoking book that challenges all of us to abandon mediocrity and strive for doing and being better every day. Highly recommend for anyone needing inspiration and/or a kick in the pants to get your life on the right track.
October 21, 2024
This sequel to Daryl Dittmer's acclaimed "When I Stop Fighting" is truly fantastic! It's a must-read for anyone seeking meaningful life improvement. "When You Stop Fighting" is a real, raw, rich, and beautiful narrative, packed with profound life lessons that can resonate even with the angriest and most stubborn souls. The book delves deep into the human psyche, offering insights and strategies to help readers navigate their personal struggles. I can't recommend this book enough—there's a wealth of wisdom and transformative guidance waiting to be discovered within its pages.
November 16, 2024
2.5/5 STARS! I definitely think I would have enjoyed this more had I read the first book. Either way, I did like how easy this was to read & simple to understand. The writing is clear & uncomplicated, & the advice is definitely perfect for a mindset change. I think anyone post addiction/newly sober will really relate to this, & just anyone looking for a new way to not get stagnant in life/the way you are thinking through change. Overall, who doesnt like reading self help books to at least learn a little more positivity? We all need that.
September 18, 2024
"When You Stop Fighting" is a poignant book that delves into the profound nature of change and individual development. The author candidly recounts the highs and lows of personal experiences, inspiring readers to confront life's adversities with resilience. This emotionally stirring book possesses significant value and is certain to deeply resonate with all who delve into its pages. It is truly an exceptional and compelling read!
October 21, 2024
Learning to listen and be humble, and to value the journey. The author uses his experiences of recovering from addiction to help us all get from not-so-good places to having the life we want and deserve. Only read it if you want a good life both for yourself and those around you. It's well edited, to the point, and sprinkled with the author's own informative experiences - you'll thank yourself. (Note: This review is based on an advance copy of the book received from the author.)
April 1, 2025
Another great book from this author. I love the way he writes his books. He speaks from his own life experiences, good and bad. His message is very clear, take responsibility for your own actions. Once you learn that it’s ok to mess up, then you can start on the road to success. We must learn from our mistakes and make better choices. I can’t wait for book three in this series. I highly recommend reading this series.
September 20, 2024
This book makes you think about your path in life, whether it's where your'e at, where your'e going, and why are you going where your'e going. If you are not happy with your path in life, get out of your own addictions and make a change that makes you happier on your direction in life. If you want to stop fighting, read this book and start embracing life and create the road you want to walk on.
September 22, 2024
Without sounding preachy or anything like that, the author gives good advice in his second book about how to change the trajectory of your life path. Hence the subtitle to it, "the road your on is your own asphalt."
Recommended for you if you want a change in your life, and it will be ready for you when you are ready yourself.
Recommended for you if you want a change in your life, and it will be ready for you when you are ready yourself.
September 23, 2024
I grew up in a house on a dirt road, upgraded to asphalt & striving now for concrete. With the assistance of Mr. Dittmer's book, I feel I have the road map to direct me there. As with book #1, lots of insightful thoughts & stories. I've applied his principles into my workout routine, my diet and also my business philosophy. Definitely an entertaining & educational guide to life!
September 30, 2024
A profound and empowering read. It’s perfect for those seeking motivation, healing, or a fresh perspective on life's challenges. This book reminds readers that the journey of life is about learning to navigate our own unique paths with grace, acceptance, and strength.
October 9, 2024
“When You Stop Fighting” by Daryl Dittmer is a beautiful testament to the determination and resilience it takes to be successful in life. This book is beyond motivating; it is a true life story of success through adversity. It is a must-read!
May 3, 2025
That was so great!
It's easy to see where he's influenced by 12 step and not be annoyed. There are many gems i highlighted. If you want to change and are tired of the way things are, this book is all about focusing on what you can control: yourself.
It's easy to see where he's influenced by 12 step and not be annoyed. There are many gems i highlighted. If you want to change and are tired of the way things are, this book is all about focusing on what you can control: yourself.
September 24, 2024
Such a great read!
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October 3, 2024If you enjoyed the first as much as I did. You’ll love this one!!!
November 20, 2024
Excellent build to Daryl’s first book. The book finishes strong and provides guardrails on how to stay committed towards their North Star.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews