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The Beautiful No: And Other Tales of Trial, Transcendence, and Transformation
“Thursday morning. One hundred pounds overweight, no man in sight, and rounding the bend to 57 years old—a full-blown catastrophe.” What happens when you realize you’ve had the career of your dreams, but you don’t have the life of your dreams? This was the stark reality facing Sheri Salata when she left her twenty-year stint at The Oprah Winfrey Show, Harpo Studios and the OWN network. She had dedicated decades to her dream job, and loved (almost) every minute of it, but had left the rest of her life gathering dust on the shelf. After years of telling other people’s makeover stories, Sheri decided to “produce” her own life transformation. And this meant revisiting her past, excavating its lessons, and boldly reimagining her future. In these pages, she invites readers along for the ride—detoxing in the desert, braving humiliation at Hollywood’s favorite fitness studio, grappling with losses, reinventing friendships, baring her soul in sex therapy, and more. Part cautionary tale, part middle-of-life rallying cry, Sheri’s stories offer profound inspiration for personal renewal.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published June 4, 2019
252 people are currently reading
3096 people want to read
About the author
Sheri Salata
1 book42 followersSheri Salata is a writer/producer, co founder of thepillarlife.com and co host of the podcast The Sheri + Nancy Show. Her current ventures are the evolution of her 20-year career with Oprah Winfrey. Her action-packed days as Executive Producer of The Oprah Winfrey Show were chronicled in the acclaimed docuseries Season 25: Oprah Behind the Scenes.
Sheri also served as Co-President of Harpo Studios and OWN, the Oprah Winfrey Network. She has been named one of Fast Company’s 100 Most Creative People in Business, The Hollywood Reporter’s Women in Entertainment Power 100 and the 2017 Feminist Press Power Award winners.
Sheri is a proud Iowa Hawkeye and keeps English bulldogs.
Sheri also served as Co-President of Harpo Studios and OWN, the Oprah Winfrey Network. She has been named one of Fast Company’s 100 Most Creative People in Business, The Hollywood Reporter’s Women in Entertainment Power 100 and the 2017 Feminist Press Power Award winners.
Sheri is a proud Iowa Hawkeye and keeps English bulldogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
July 8, 2019
Meh. I really wanted to love this book but it was not great. To be honest, it was hard to get behind someone who wants to transform her life and has every possible advantage and privilege to do so.
July 6, 2019
Well-written/spoken/organized. Shit got real in there a couple of times and my heart got squished, but for the most part the book felt superficial. She gave a bullet-point version of all the things she wanted to change during her week of reckoning (wow, she got that covered in just a week?!). But I wanted to hear more. Why was/is she overweight? What was really eating her? What really went down in her relationships? What was going on with all that wine? Was that an issue for her? She made one tiny mention before moving on.
I got her list of issues. I got what she wanted/wants and some of what was holding her back. I liked learning a bit about who she was professionally (but didn't really learn all that much). I appreciate all her seeking and that we get an inside peek at some of the things she tried in order to transcend and transform. BONUS points for admitting her LA-privilege and how she was able to access some of these doctors/experts. BUT... did she really transcend and transform? Finishing the book and seeing recent interviews doesn't have me convinced.
I got her list of issues. I got what she wanted/wants and some of what was holding her back. I liked learning a bit about who she was professionally (but didn't really learn all that much). I appreciate all her seeking and that we get an inside peek at some of the things she tried in order to transcend and transform. BONUS points for admitting her LA-privilege and how she was able to access some of these doctors/experts. BUT... did she really transcend and transform? Finishing the book and seeing recent interviews doesn't have me convinced.
July 14, 2019
Recently, I attended a presentation about this book, and another woman said to me upon leaving, "That wasn't for me." I agree. Although I applaud anyone making positive life choices, doing whatever one needs to do to get healthy, Salata's transformation in her mid fifties was paved by her wealth and connections. While she had many of the same challenges facing women across time, I could not let go (because she referenced it so often) of her big life with Oprah, famous people whom she met, etc. I did appreciate her honesty about lessons she ignored in her youth, early work years, and relationships.
Here are some of my thoughts that resonated with me...
"In any given moment of our lives, we are deciding what matters most to us. We direct our attention and energy to whatever that is...All my time is free time - determined by my choices."
"When happiness is your compass, misery becomes impossible."
"Our lives present us with a never-ending supply of...the times when we get a chance to rise in love and be more than what we once thought of being...Decisions that create outcomes. Love. The biggest decision of all."
Here are some of my thoughts that resonated with me...
"In any given moment of our lives, we are deciding what matters most to us. We direct our attention and energy to whatever that is...All my time is free time - determined by my choices."
"When happiness is your compass, misery becomes impossible."
"Our lives present us with a never-ending supply of...the times when we get a chance to rise in love and be more than what we once thought of being...Decisions that create outcomes. Love. The biggest decision of all."
June 4, 2019
I would probably cut off four or five fingers to have had Sheri Salata’s career. I think we all look at someone like her and say “Wow—she nailed it.” But it turns out she doesn’t necessarily see it that way. It turns out even someone like Sheri has all kinds of unrealized dreams and places where her life has felt unbalanced. This book is about her journey to a more well-rounded type of success: one that includes taking care of her health, finding true love, nurturing her spiritual side, becoming more adventurous, and finding new and more satisfying ways to crush it in the working world. And the best part is that she shares many of the hot tips she’s picked up along the way so that those of us in a similar position can take a whack at this whole life betterment thing as well. It’s a great read—rich with valuable info, yet funny, sweet, and easy to digest.
Read
August 25, 2019Ok. Here’s the thing. When someone tells you they are consulting a pet psychic, there are pretty much three available takes:
1. Total rejection.
2. Bemusement. A willingness to be open to the idea, especially if presented with some humour and self-doubt, and to take something from the experience or conversation.
3. All IN.
This book is soundly for those in category 3.
I am 2.
So, not for me.
1. Total rejection.
2. Bemusement. A willingness to be open to the idea, especially if presented with some humour and self-doubt, and to take something from the experience or conversation.
3. All IN.
This book is soundly for those in category 3.
I am 2.
So, not for me.
August 10, 2020
Love Sheri; this book and her podcast.
June 21, 2019
I listened to this book while sitting in the sun for the first time in weeks in Ohio. I started to appreciate my own little soggy backyard paradise more and more as I laughed, cried, and enjoyed every part of the journey Sheri invites her readers to take.
I have loved listening to the Sheri and Nancy show since the very first episode and this deep dive with Sheri feels special, revelatory and like a long chat with an old friend. Her gratitude and appreciation for life is so inspirational and shines through each lovingly penned chapter.
The Beautiful No chronicles what worked and what didn’t and invites readers to show up for their own lives as wholeheartedly as Sheri does. Sheri, thank you for inviting us into your dream tribe and empowering people to dream bigger. This morning and all the rest of my mornings I will try a little harder to feel it all.
I have loved listening to the Sheri and Nancy show since the very first episode and this deep dive with Sheri feels special, revelatory and like a long chat with an old friend. Her gratitude and appreciation for life is so inspirational and shines through each lovingly penned chapter.
The Beautiful No chronicles what worked and what didn’t and invites readers to show up for their own lives as wholeheartedly as Sheri does. Sheri, thank you for inviting us into your dream tribe and empowering people to dream bigger. This morning and all the rest of my mornings I will try a little harder to feel it all.
June 2, 2019
Sheri Salata has been a true inspiration to me enter since her Oprah show days. But when I stumbled upon her podcast about reinventing oneself in midlife, I felt like I'd found a sister in spirit. This book, The Beautiful No, does not disappoint. It's full of inspirational bits of wisdom woven into stories of her loving family, amazing friendships and enviable career. You will find yourself saying YES! as Sheri brings us along on her mighty dreamquest reminding us that midlife isn't the beginning of the end at all.
Spoiler alert: She's just getting started.
Spoiler alert: She's just getting started.
May 17, 2020
3.5 stars
August 25, 2019
Face it--Sheri Salata got a book deal because she produced Oprah's TV show. That's the extent of what we're interested in, and she fails to provide any meaningful stories about her decades with Oprah.
Instead we get silly girly diary type stuff. (That's not sexist--it's the truth.) A chapter on her needing to lose a hundred pounds. Her pondering why she never found a man to marry. A chapter on her dogs, who she says are as important as having human children and even includes a list of tips from one of them. Seriously. (Namely, she's delusional.) A chapter on exploring her sexuality (incredibly boring). Meditation. Skin cancer. Her mother's death. And everything she blows up way out of proportion with nothing of real interest to back it up.
But I guess that's what TV stories are all about, right? Short, hyped, lacking real substance.
The little she shares about Oprah is insignificant and worshipful. Trust me, I spent many years researching Winfrey and she doesn't deserve this kind of lop-sided deity status. Salata may even be communicating a message via her relative silence about the talk show host because working with the woman could not have been easy and they made many mistakes together, both on the talk show and the OWN network.
In the book Sheri thinks very highly of herself, bragging about her grades being better than others, how great she is at organizing stories, and all the famous people she knows. But she glosses over the years she spent doing things like running a 7/11 and other small jobs. Her only claim to fame is working for Oprah, where she started very small and got promoted to the head producer job over others that were more qualified because, Oprah told her, "You know my heart." That's what qualifies an inexperienced woman to run the top talk show on TV?
The whole thing is a mixture of flighty and fluffy. It lacks substance or even any common sense advice. But even worse, Salata claims to be a master storyteller and this books contains very few solidly-written stories beyond the mundane.
She does make the point that because someone at a job she wanted said "no" to her she ended up having the chance to work for Oprah. But that's all there is to that story, and no reason to title the book over something that involves only a paragraph. Whatever there is to learn from this author, it could have been condensed into a short magazine article or online post. Say no to this not so beautiful book.
Instead we get silly girly diary type stuff. (That's not sexist--it's the truth.) A chapter on her needing to lose a hundred pounds. Her pondering why she never found a man to marry. A chapter on her dogs, who she says are as important as having human children and even includes a list of tips from one of them. Seriously. (Namely, she's delusional.) A chapter on exploring her sexuality (incredibly boring). Meditation. Skin cancer. Her mother's death. And everything she blows up way out of proportion with nothing of real interest to back it up.
But I guess that's what TV stories are all about, right? Short, hyped, lacking real substance.
The little she shares about Oprah is insignificant and worshipful. Trust me, I spent many years researching Winfrey and she doesn't deserve this kind of lop-sided deity status. Salata may even be communicating a message via her relative silence about the talk show host because working with the woman could not have been easy and they made many mistakes together, both on the talk show and the OWN network.
In the book Sheri thinks very highly of herself, bragging about her grades being better than others, how great she is at organizing stories, and all the famous people she knows. But she glosses over the years she spent doing things like running a 7/11 and other small jobs. Her only claim to fame is working for Oprah, where she started very small and got promoted to the head producer job over others that were more qualified because, Oprah told her, "You know my heart." That's what qualifies an inexperienced woman to run the top talk show on TV?
The whole thing is a mixture of flighty and fluffy. It lacks substance or even any common sense advice. But even worse, Salata claims to be a master storyteller and this books contains very few solidly-written stories beyond the mundane.
She does make the point that because someone at a job she wanted said "no" to her she ended up having the chance to work for Oprah. But that's all there is to that story, and no reason to title the book over something that involves only a paragraph. Whatever there is to learn from this author, it could have been condensed into a short magazine article or online post. Say no to this not so beautiful book.
Read
June 4, 2019Loved this book! It came to me at a great time--just when I needed it. This is great for anyone trying to rewrite the second half of their life--or any time in their life really. Sheri Salata shares her journey to creating the life of her dreams in an honest, vulnerable, and genuine way. She shares her trials and errors and successes. Love her writing style--it's friendly, funny, and relatable.
December 24, 2019
Loved it and plan to listen again. I felt like I was having a best friend conversation with the laugher, seriousness, and tears. There’s a lot of gems there to be mined from her experiences with failure, ordinariness, and enormous success too. I just love her.
June 6, 2019
I'm a huge fan (Dreamtriber) of The Sheri And Nancy Show podcast and was so anxious to read co host Sheri Salata's first book.
I just knew that if she approached writing this book with the same honesty and humor she does on the podcast, that I would throughly enjoy this book.
And yes, I loved The Beautiful No.
Just because you have one of the most coveted jobs in the world, surrounded by not only one of the most powerful women of our time, Oprah, but she had access to a revolving door of the worlds greatest thought leaders and teachers.
She should have been at the peak of happiness and fulfillment. She wasn't
Struggling with weight and not having the time to take care of herself, it wasn't until she gave it all up and began a transformation in midlife.
Sheri shares honest stories from her life with us. Family, her career, her dogs, nothing is off limits.
I felt a kinship with her as I read this book. So much of her resonates with me. People pleasing and non confrontational, you get to the point in your life where, your happiness needs to become number one priority.
Oh and since I'm a HUGE U2 fan I couldn't help but love the U2 reference when she wrote about Oprah's last show. :-)
I just knew that if she approached writing this book with the same honesty and humor she does on the podcast, that I would throughly enjoy this book.
And yes, I loved The Beautiful No.
Just because you have one of the most coveted jobs in the world, surrounded by not only one of the most powerful women of our time, Oprah, but she had access to a revolving door of the worlds greatest thought leaders and teachers.
She should have been at the peak of happiness and fulfillment. She wasn't
Struggling with weight and not having the time to take care of herself, it wasn't until she gave it all up and began a transformation in midlife.
Sheri shares honest stories from her life with us. Family, her career, her dogs, nothing is off limits.
I felt a kinship with her as I read this book. So much of her resonates with me. People pleasing and non confrontational, you get to the point in your life where, your happiness needs to become number one priority.
Oh and since I'm a HUGE U2 fan I couldn't help but love the U2 reference when she wrote about Oprah's last show. :-)
June 4, 2019
"Listen, this may be a bold statement, but if we could collapse time and recognize the beauty in a no right when it arrives, no matter how disappointed we might feel, I think we would have mastered something fundamentally important about living happily ever after".
-Sheri Salata, THE BEAUTIFUL NO
This is the first book I've read cover to cover in one sitting in a very long time. It felt like a long, deep into the night phone call with my bestie.
The quote above is one of my favorites from the book, but it's honestly filled with nuggets that will make you say to yourself, "Wow, there are others out there who think just like me!" And even more importantly, you might find yourself accepting those parts of yourself and not judging yourself for them after reading how Sheri is producing this next act in her life.
There are some laugh out loud funny moments and some tender poignant moments, and it's all of those and the things in between that kept me turning the page.
I've already purchased a copy for my sister and my BFF in Florida. And I probably won't stop there.
Thank you Sheri Salata, for sharing your stories and wisdom with us.
-Sheri Salata, THE BEAUTIFUL NO
This is the first book I've read cover to cover in one sitting in a very long time. It felt like a long, deep into the night phone call with my bestie.
The quote above is one of my favorites from the book, but it's honestly filled with nuggets that will make you say to yourself, "Wow, there are others out there who think just like me!" And even more importantly, you might find yourself accepting those parts of yourself and not judging yourself for them after reading how Sheri is producing this next act in her life.
There are some laugh out loud funny moments and some tender poignant moments, and it's all of those and the things in between that kept me turning the page.
I've already purchased a copy for my sister and my BFF in Florida. And I probably won't stop there.
Thank you Sheri Salata, for sharing your stories and wisdom with us.
August 10, 2019
This looked like it was going to a good summer read of a feel-good life transformation. Instead I got a weakly-organized, flakey, and navel-gazing meander. I appreciated most learning what a 56 year old might care about at that stage in her life, but the good stuff could have taken up no more than a chapter. A clearly rich woman in both money and family, I think Salata is probably a neat human being, but she ended up sounding deeply selfish except when it came to her love for her family. Additionally, I’m surprised my eyes stayed in my head for rolling on her comments about spirituality. Dr Phil and Dr Oz are not exactly the sort of people I’d look up to as spiritual masters and yet they make her top-ten list. Despite being raised Catholic she rejects that and tries to make up her own traditions and rituals and spirituality. I recognize that for some that’s the path they need to take but I could really do without the sermonizing on her part about “energy” “the universe” and how a psychic can talk for her dog over the phone. Would not recommend.
January 10, 2023
The author is 57, absolutely kills it professionally, but thinks other aspects of her life are lacking. The book is basically a memoir where she digs deep into different aspects of her life, health, family, work, relationships, spirituality etc. Parts of the book, about career and relationships, especially when she looks back to her younger self, felt like she could have been writing about me. 5 stars for that, it was very relatable! Other parts of the book where she explores (a little too much) pseudo scientific therapies to address issues with her health and well being did not sit well with me. Not sure if I saw much of a transformation either. So maybe a 3.25 overall!
June 6, 2019
The Beautiful No And Other Tales of Trail, Transcendence and Transformation by Sherri Salata is a Beautiful book. It touched my soul and lifted my spirit. It is a thoughtful, authentic, inspiring, transformational vulnerable, powerful, inspirational and impactful book. Wow I really love, love, love this book. Sheri shared her story with passion, generosity and love. It helped me to examine my life to determine where I have said No to myself. Examine, reflect and be grateful for all of the Beautiful No’s that I have received. Identify the areas in my life where I want to say Yes. I am grateful for this book. It spoke to my heart. As a result of the book I am committed to taking radical action to create the life of my wildest dreams. I would highly recommend this book. It could help you to shift from an ordinary life to an extraordinary life.
June 3, 2019
This book is a must-read for women in the middle of life. Sheri's expert story telling, honesty and sense of humor make "The Beautiful No" a truly enjoyable experience. I found myself crying in one chapter and laughing out loud in the next. I have followed Sheri since the beginning of her podcast and after reading her book, I feel like we are old friends. She comes across as so genuine and authentic to the core. Read and share this book with your best girlfriends. They will thank you for it.
June 4, 2019
Like other reviewers here, I just kept turning the pages, soaking it all in. Sheri's book is highly entertaining, deeply moving, and quite inspiring. And who isn't up for a little reinvention in life!
P.S. Sheri offers lots of resources in her podcast and on her site The Pillar Life -- including a free companion workbook to The Beautiful No. Highly recommend!
P.S. Sheri offers lots of resources in her podcast and on her site The Pillar Life -- including a free companion workbook to The Beautiful No. Highly recommend!
December 4, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
Although it was a good motivational story to listen to, it wasn’t eye opening like others I have listened to or read before. I always enjoy books narrated by the author themself because you can hear the emotions in their voices. I have to say, I could have listened to Sheri forever! She was a great narrator!
Although it was a good motivational story to listen to, it wasn’t eye opening like others I have listened to or read before. I always enjoy books narrated by the author themself because you can hear the emotions in their voices. I have to say, I could have listened to Sheri forever! She was a great narrator!
January 5, 2023
Lots of celebrity name dropping. Kept waiting for some tidbits of wisdom or details of her growth- she mainly just kept reiterating that she was taking a year off to grow. Without actually talking about what the growth was or really any insightful things at all.
June 13, 2019
3.5 stars-Sheri Salata is a great writer, and I enjoyed her enthusiasm. She's one of those people that you wish was one of your good friends, because you can tell she's got a magnetic personality. I enjoyed reading about her journey.
July 18, 2019
Inspiring and real.
June 10, 2019
Sheri Salata is a great storyteller. Her book reads like the podcast she co-hosts with her BFF, Nancy Hala: real, funny in spots while deep in others, and full of moments that make you think. I can relate to so much of what Sheri writes about, right down to the nearly identical menu it sounds like our families used to enjoy on Thanksgiving. Ladies, I can't recommend this book highly enough. Sheri's memoir-so-far is a treat with the added bonus of a free downloadable companion guide on the book site thebeautifulno.com.
November 6, 2023
Sheri Salata is a woman who will not give up on living a full and rich life. Her story and her fortitude are inspiring.
June 7, 2019
This book came out at just the right time for me. I've been pondering some of the same questions as Sheri Salata and loved how she just told it like it is and is so down to earth about everything. The Beautiful No is definitely inspiring, especially for women who may be "midlife" and wondering how to navigate the next few decades. I read it quickly and feel like immediately rereading it to make sure I get all the nuggets Salata shares.
June 5, 2019
I am a big fan of Sheri and Nancy's podcast so I was so excited to get a copy of this book. The book is written as if you are having a conversation with Sheri. She is able to weave the important stories of her life into the nuggets of wisdom she has gathered over the years. Her life experiences and the lessons she has taken from them are inspiring and grounding at the same time. A great book to kick off your summer reading.
October 11, 2019
Some nice nuggets in there, bu she lost me when she talked to the “animal
empath.”
empath.”
February 6, 2020
I became a fan of Sheri Salata the moment she was first introduced on Season 25: Oprah Behind the Scenes. I thought she was a powerhouse and was immediately interested in her and her story. Thankfully, she stepped out of the control room and into the world. I began listening to her "This is 50!" podcast (now known as "The Sheri and Nancy Show") as soon as it debuted so I was primed to love this book the minute it was released. I purchased it as both an audiobook and hard cover. I listened first and immediately and then read the book more leisurely to highlight ideas.
I've read other reviews and want to clarify how I see and use the book.
1) I see this as an origin story. Sheri gives us key stories from her life and life experience that she has identified as turning points and life lessons gained in the moment and through hindsight.
2) I think this book is best viewed as "Volume One". Sheri lives her early life, learns her lessons, Reflects, and BEGINS the process of being more intentional on creating the next half of her life.
3) I see this as a companion piece to the podcast. Sheri continues to grow and evolve and the publication of the book is the jumping off point as she begins her new adventure.
4) This is not a how-to guide for how to live your own best life. It is insight into how one woman is doing it based on her place in life, using her resources and listening to her own heart and soul. You can vicariously learn through her experiences but must do your own soul searching. I think Sheri's vulnerability will encourage you on your own path.
5) If you are sparked to begin your own journey, that is then where the podcast comes in and Sheri and Nancy's website. As they learn and grow, they continue to add items to their shop that will help you do the same. There are now several guides/manuals, journals and even a cookbook to help you on your path.
I have no doubt a Volume 2 will follow and perhaps one will be added for each new decade ahead. There's plenty of time, afterall.
I recommend this book because I enjoyed learning more about Sheri specifically. I further recommend it because I enjoy celebrating and supporting others on their journey. It is no small task to pull back the curtain to show the dark corners of your life and be vulnerable. I believe in bearing witness and encouraging life-changing growth. If you feel the same, I think you'll really enjoy this book.
I've read other reviews and want to clarify how I see and use the book.
1) I see this as an origin story. Sheri gives us key stories from her life and life experience that she has identified as turning points and life lessons gained in the moment and through hindsight.
2) I think this book is best viewed as "Volume One". Sheri lives her early life, learns her lessons, Reflects, and BEGINS the process of being more intentional on creating the next half of her life.
3) I see this as a companion piece to the podcast. Sheri continues to grow and evolve and the publication of the book is the jumping off point as she begins her new adventure.
4) This is not a how-to guide for how to live your own best life. It is insight into how one woman is doing it based on her place in life, using her resources and listening to her own heart and soul. You can vicariously learn through her experiences but must do your own soul searching. I think Sheri's vulnerability will encourage you on your own path.
5) If you are sparked to begin your own journey, that is then where the podcast comes in and Sheri and Nancy's website. As they learn and grow, they continue to add items to their shop that will help you do the same. There are now several guides/manuals, journals and even a cookbook to help you on your path.
I have no doubt a Volume 2 will follow and perhaps one will be added for each new decade ahead. There's plenty of time, afterall.
I recommend this book because I enjoyed learning more about Sheri specifically. I further recommend it because I enjoy celebrating and supporting others on their journey. It is no small task to pull back the curtain to show the dark corners of your life and be vulnerable. I believe in bearing witness and encouraging life-changing growth. If you feel the same, I think you'll really enjoy this book.
December 16, 2019
Salata reached the top tier of All Things Oprah in her 20+ year career there. She had her dream career, but not her dream life. So, at age 56, she walked away to discover who she wants to be in her second act.
This seems to be a current theme among women: not a mid-life crisis, but a mid-life reinvention. This book had some helpful things to say, but on some matters it didn't say enough and on others it said too much. Still, a mostly engaging read.
"...the most crucial stories are the ones we author for an audience of one, ourselves." (xiv)
"Somehow we think of it as being vain or being too self-absorbed to tend to ourselves and our stories properly....You can read every book, including this one, go to every seminar, sign up for every retreat, but in the end you will have to be the one to rewrite the stories of your life." (xv)
"The real question is, are we brave enough to want our heart's desires? Are we daring enough to believe that we can have, be, or do what we want?" (10)
"The dark side of gossip, about others or about yourself, is that it starts to have a life of its own." (59)
The Sheri & Nancy show mission statement: "The stories we tell ourselves are what make our dreams come true." (63)
"All my time is free time--determined by my choices. Choices I am free to change at any time." (159)
"Our lives are bettered by ritual. Ritual makes things matter as it blesses the ordinary and elevates it to extraordinary." (206)
"Whether we're aware of it or not, whether we acknowledge it or not, we are writing our story every single day of our lives." (253)
This seems to be a current theme among women: not a mid-life crisis, but a mid-life reinvention. This book had some helpful things to say, but on some matters it didn't say enough and on others it said too much. Still, a mostly engaging read.
"...the most crucial stories are the ones we author for an audience of one, ourselves." (xiv)
"Somehow we think of it as being vain or being too self-absorbed to tend to ourselves and our stories properly....You can read every book, including this one, go to every seminar, sign up for every retreat, but in the end you will have to be the one to rewrite the stories of your life." (xv)
"The real question is, are we brave enough to want our heart's desires? Are we daring enough to believe that we can have, be, or do what we want?" (10)
"The dark side of gossip, about others or about yourself, is that it starts to have a life of its own." (59)
The Sheri & Nancy show mission statement: "The stories we tell ourselves are what make our dreams come true." (63)
"All my time is free time--determined by my choices. Choices I am free to change at any time." (159)
"Our lives are bettered by ritual. Ritual makes things matter as it blesses the ordinary and elevates it to extraordinary." (206)
"Whether we're aware of it or not, whether we acknowledge it or not, we are writing our story every single day of our lives." (253)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews