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Unsatisfied: Finding Contentment in a Discontented World
In Finding Contentment in a Discontented World , Ann C. Sullivan sorts through the reasons for our frustrations – Drama, Judgement, Fear, and Comparison – and leads readers on a path to genuine contentment through Hope, Purpose, and Fulfillment. Unsatisfied dares readers to believe that God is closer than you think, sorts through the reasons for unhappiness and frustrations, helps define fulfillment, and leads readers to find genuine contentment.
Unsatisfied :
• Unravels our cultural definition of fulfillment.
• Identifies the empty spaces the comparison game leaves behind.
• Connects the dots that lead to genuine contentment.
“In Finding Contentment in a Discontented World , Ann C. Sullivan accomplishes something I wish could be taught yet fear that it can’ She writes an in-your-face book about a deeply difficult subject, yet she avoids preaching. Rather, Ann takes a come-alongside approach and shares her life, warts and all, revealing what she’s learned and how she’s grown―allowing us to apply the morals and principles for ourselves. It’s a work of art.”
Jerry B. Jenkins Novelist & Biographer | The Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild
“With refreshing humor and insight, Ann skillfully weaves together the current issues of life and the timeless principles of scripture. She points to all the things we should be grateful for and the disappointments that keep us from celebrating. If you’re ready for an honest look at our struggle and the practical solutions that are available, you’ll want to pick up Ann C. Sullivan’s book, Unsatisfied .”
Leslie Strobel Co-author of Spiritual Mismatch
Unsatisfied :
• Unravels our cultural definition of fulfillment.
• Identifies the empty spaces the comparison game leaves behind.
• Connects the dots that lead to genuine contentment.
“In Finding Contentment in a Discontented World , Ann C. Sullivan accomplishes something I wish could be taught yet fear that it can’ She writes an in-your-face book about a deeply difficult subject, yet she avoids preaching. Rather, Ann takes a come-alongside approach and shares her life, warts and all, revealing what she’s learned and how she’s grown―allowing us to apply the morals and principles for ourselves. It’s a work of art.”
Jerry B. Jenkins Novelist & Biographer | The Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild
“With refreshing humor and insight, Ann skillfully weaves together the current issues of life and the timeless principles of scripture. She points to all the things we should be grateful for and the disappointments that keep us from celebrating. If you’re ready for an honest look at our struggle and the practical solutions that are available, you’ll want to pick up Ann C. Sullivan’s book, Unsatisfied .”
Leslie Strobel Co-author of Spiritual Mismatch
256 pages, Paperback
Published February 19, 2019
4 people are currently reading
18 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 30, 2019
I chose this book because the title suggested it was going to be about a topic of concern to me and my family. We've had some issues lately with being unsatisfied with what we have and wanting what isn't really ours to possess. You know, that "grass is always greener on the other side of the fence mentality." I thought a book with a description, "Finding Contentment in a Discontented World" would offer some helpful hints from a biblical perspective on how to overcome this problem. I was sorely disappointed, however!
First of all, it's not really a self-help or Bible study book so much as it is a memoir of the author. She talks a lot about how she dealt with a medically-induced issue causing anxiety and panic attacks, how she overcame some hang ups, fears and limitations, etc.
Second, she mostly talks about some common causes of discontentment. She doesn't really address them in an orderly, purposeful manner, though. The author just sort of rambles along about seemingly unrelated observations in each chapter whose titles merely hint at what they're all about.
Third, Mrs. Sullivan likes to include references from secular authors and research, television and semi-contemporary culture, and her own experiences and opinion. But she doesn't include a lot of Scripture. While she has a Christian background, I didn't find this book particularly biblically based.
Fourth, most likely due to the medical roots of her challenges, the author advocates medication to deal with depression, anxiety, etc. She says she is not a "health wealth" advocate, and she knocks the charismatic movement. In so doing, she--like so many American religious persons--cuts herself off from part of what Jesus Christ came to do for those who believe in and represent Him. She looks to man's wisdom and resources for the healing power, faith, peace, joy and contentment that Christ suffered to provide and the Holy Spirit imparts to us (c.f.--Isaiah 53:5, 2 Peter 2:24, 1 Corinthians 12:7-11, Galatians 5:22-25 & Philippians 4:4-13).
Finally, the Bible has a lot to say about contentment, but this author pretty much dwelt on why some people are unhappy with this life, rather than how to overcome our dissatisfaction. Out of thirteen chapters in this book, the reader has to slog through ten containing tedious ramblings about her dissatisfaction before she finally gets to two or three chapters in the back of the book that offer a few surface solutions. Most discontented people aren't going to have the patience to stick with the book long enough to get to that part, and they're likely to be unsatisfied, as I was, with how little "meat" they find to help them overcome this issue. At a whopping $18.99 for the paperback, you're going to be wasting your money on this one, folks.
First of all, it's not really a self-help or Bible study book so much as it is a memoir of the author. She talks a lot about how she dealt with a medically-induced issue causing anxiety and panic attacks, how she overcame some hang ups, fears and limitations, etc.
Second, she mostly talks about some common causes of discontentment. She doesn't really address them in an orderly, purposeful manner, though. The author just sort of rambles along about seemingly unrelated observations in each chapter whose titles merely hint at what they're all about.
Third, Mrs. Sullivan likes to include references from secular authors and research, television and semi-contemporary culture, and her own experiences and opinion. But she doesn't include a lot of Scripture. While she has a Christian background, I didn't find this book particularly biblically based.
Fourth, most likely due to the medical roots of her challenges, the author advocates medication to deal with depression, anxiety, etc. She says she is not a "health wealth" advocate, and she knocks the charismatic movement. In so doing, she--like so many American religious persons--cuts herself off from part of what Jesus Christ came to do for those who believe in and represent Him. She looks to man's wisdom and resources for the healing power, faith, peace, joy and contentment that Christ suffered to provide and the Holy Spirit imparts to us (c.f.--Isaiah 53:5, 2 Peter 2:24, 1 Corinthians 12:7-11, Galatians 5:22-25 & Philippians 4:4-13).
Finally, the Bible has a lot to say about contentment, but this author pretty much dwelt on why some people are unhappy with this life, rather than how to overcome our dissatisfaction. Out of thirteen chapters in this book, the reader has to slog through ten containing tedious ramblings about her dissatisfaction before she finally gets to two or three chapters in the back of the book that offer a few surface solutions. Most discontented people aren't going to have the patience to stick with the book long enough to get to that part, and they're likely to be unsatisfied, as I was, with how little "meat" they find to help them overcome this issue. At a whopping $18.99 for the paperback, you're going to be wasting your money on this one, folks.
February 23, 2020
Note: I did not finish this novel.
I'll admit, when I first selected this title, I didn't realize it was a Christian publication. I don't typically enjoy publications specifically marketed as Christian fiction or nonfiction.
This novel is basically a memoir of the author dealing with her panic disorder and referencing scripture. I can see this being a good read for a women's bible study group or a similiar setting.
While it's not my cup of tea, the writing is straight-forward and easy to follow. I appreciate the fact that the author declares that there is no shame in taking antidepressants or other medications for help with mental health, but then she spoils the sentiment with a tongue-in-cheek reference that people who do not support medication use should be afflicted with major depression in order to understand it if there is any justice in the world. After that point, I couldn't continue reading.
I'll admit, when I first selected this title, I didn't realize it was a Christian publication. I don't typically enjoy publications specifically marketed as Christian fiction or nonfiction.
This novel is basically a memoir of the author dealing with her panic disorder and referencing scripture. I can see this being a good read for a women's bible study group or a similiar setting.
While it's not my cup of tea, the writing is straight-forward and easy to follow. I appreciate the fact that the author declares that there is no shame in taking antidepressants or other medications for help with mental health, but then she spoils the sentiment with a tongue-in-cheek reference that people who do not support medication use should be afflicted with major depression in order to understand it if there is any justice in the world. After that point, I couldn't continue reading.
March 20, 2019
"Unsatisfied" is a book that encourages the reader to see past the fluff of what the world offers to seek true contentment. Author Ann C Sullivan contemplates the longing that few seem to be able to satisfy: that of being content in our current station in life. Scripture mentions this often, usually attributed to Paul, who talks of being in plenty and in want, yet still feeling content with either status.
Ann shares her battle with a panic disorder, trying to discern what her illness was and how to treat it for 13 years. She speaks of her life before and after her diagnosis. Finding contentment is not a quick process, but it can be a manageable one if we commit to it. Far too often we continue to wish for more than we need, or envy those that have what we want. Could we really be satisfied with less? Do we already have too much?
Within her stories of friends, community as well as her own private, personal battles with learning to find the silver linings while finding comfort in the imperfect, Ann's writing can be all at once personal and encouraging. I found myself highlighting and marking quotes to share, even those I feel I may need daily reminders of in my office or home. I have never heard or read any of Ann's work prior to this, but I am excited I had the chance to be an advanced reader thanks to the author and #Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
Ann shares her battle with a panic disorder, trying to discern what her illness was and how to treat it for 13 years. She speaks of her life before and after her diagnosis. Finding contentment is not a quick process, but it can be a manageable one if we commit to it. Far too often we continue to wish for more than we need, or envy those that have what we want. Could we really be satisfied with less? Do we already have too much?
Within her stories of friends, community as well as her own private, personal battles with learning to find the silver linings while finding comfort in the imperfect, Ann's writing can be all at once personal and encouraging. I found myself highlighting and marking quotes to share, even those I feel I may need daily reminders of in my office or home. I have never heard or read any of Ann's work prior to this, but I am excited I had the chance to be an advanced reader thanks to the author and #Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
April 15, 2019
Ann Sullivan’s chatty style is like sipping coffee across the table from one of your best girlfriends—the one who always cracks you up, but she’s really smart and always comes out with this wise stuff you hadn’t thought of. You’re talking about your faith and your frustrations with why life is so hard, and she’s had the same experiences and maybe a few more. Ann used to battle panic attacks but now speaks before large audiences of women—the number one fear most people have. Go figure. I would love to hear her in person, teaching the Bible and sharing from life as she does here.
April 15, 2019
There is so much that is going on in the world that can make us question how we can be happy, satisfied, or content. Ann Sullivan takes those fears and puts them in such a way that one is able to learn and grow and feel more satisfied and content knowing that even through all the craziness of this world, God is there for you and will never leave you. This book was such an encouragement to me as I struggled with some personal issues and stresses. I am so glad I had the opportunity to read this book!
April 9, 2019
This book has been such a blessing to me! I love that that it showed me how to take the difficult of this world and turn it around to be something glorious. There is so much negative, sorrow and harshness in today’s world and we need to take steps to turn those things around and find the good in each situation. Why stay in the gloom and dearness when you can be happy and continent with what you have and with what is going on if you just see it with a different mindset! Thankful for this book!
May 30, 2019
As I read Unsatisfied, I felt like I was making a new friend. There were so many, oh me too, moments when reading this book. Ann C Sullivan explains like a friend would, how to turn discontentment into contentment. The reader is reminded that just because the world around them is up side down, she doesn't have to be. There is contentment to be found, even in our messes; Ann C Sullivan shows us how to find it.
March 14, 2019
Many people say they are not satisfied with their lives. But, do they pause and consider the reason? In this compelling book, author Ann C. Sullivan shares from personal experiences and from other sources about finding satisfaction in life. This is a good book to read more than once. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.
March 18, 2019
I have been enjoying reading Ann’s book. It feels like coffee with a good friend. She gives examples and illustrations that make it easy to relate her points to your life. Can’t wait to dig deeper into this book.
April 9, 2019
Very satisfying read. It helped me see I'm not alone and my feelings matter. Dig a little and you can find your contentment in whatever situation. This book helped me remember what contentment is for ME. "Unsatisfied" also helped reminded me that contentment doesn't have to look the same as others.
March 15, 2019
Easy and fun, relatable, hilarious and inspiring!! Pick this one up!!
March 20, 2019
Anne C. Sullivan really hits the mark for me in her new book Unsatisfied!!
I have felt discontent and disconnected so many times, she goes deeper into why we feel this way and what to do about it.
I have felt discontent and disconnected so many times, she goes deeper into why we feel this way and what to do about it.
March 22, 2019
This book was an easy read filled with many convicting thoughts on life. I could relate to so much of it.
March 19, 2019
I love that Ann is willing to ask difficult questions, yet, in an approachable way. Ann offers humorous personal stories along with insightful illustrations. She has also done her research in preparing for this book and provides practical ideas for those of us searching for that ever elusive life of contentment. I am encouraged.
August 19, 2019
Do you realize you may get believe what our culture says is fulfillment. Do you know how empty comparison leaves you? Do you really know how to be fully content? If you answered these questions with a no then I’m going to suggest you read this book. Ann sits down with you as if she were here face to face and places her hands on your cheeks and tells you how to find contentment the real Godly kind that is there even when life unravels and doesn’t go how you think it should!!!
March 12, 2024
Great book with real world examples, biblical references and examples of percentages of happenings or not. Numerous issues pointing to anxieties in my life and ways to reduce those anxieties. Great self help book for anxieties or depression with worldly examples.
A must read for anyone.
A must read for anyone.
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March 15, 2019Currently reading the book! Highly recommend
March 21, 2019
I bought this book thinking it would help me with my discontentment. The author spoke about her struggles with it and made some good points, but I felt it was lacking in concrete steps to help with discontentment. I was hoping that at the end of each chapter the author would have some Bible verses associated with the topic and questions to go over about them. She included Scripture throughout, but I was looking for something more applicable and less a story of someone's life. If you know from the onset this is what you get, you may enjoy the book more than I did.
*I was given a copy of the book from the publisher and this is my honest review.*
*I was given a copy of the book from the publisher and this is my honest review.*
March 22, 2019
"What made this book so special was the author's style- relatable and approachable. This book felt like I was talking to my best friend over a cup of coffee about our own lives.
Don't start this book thinking you are going to read about someone's perfect life. Ann candidly reveals her flaws and struggles. She keeps it real with her humility, grace, warmth, and her self-deprecating humor.
I read this book slowly for 2 reasons:
1) I didn't want to miss a word.
2) I didn't want it to end. I loved every minute....."
Don't start this book thinking you are going to read about someone's perfect life. Ann candidly reveals her flaws and struggles. She keeps it real with her humility, grace, warmth, and her self-deprecating humor.
I read this book slowly for 2 reasons:
1) I didn't want to miss a word.
2) I didn't want it to end. I loved every minute....."
April 9, 2019
I’m sure we’ve all felt discontentment from time to time. If you’re anything like me, you don’t like it at all. In her book, Unsatisfied, Ann C. Sullivan takes on finding contentment through examining her life and sharing personal stories—the good, the bad and the not so pretty. She shares with us what should be obvious but we so often overlook. It is important to know the obstacles we face in order to combat them. Discontentment affects every part of our lives. It spews out on those around us. Being content is a choice we must make. Through her use of personal stories and scripture, Ann shares her path towards contentment. She invites you along with her. Although the search for contentment is a journey each person must make on their own, it’s okay to travel the path with friends. If you’re ready to start, pick up Ann’s book and get ready to leave discontentment behind.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews