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Five to Thrive: How to Determine If Your Core Needs Are Being Met
Answering 5 Questions Can Change Your Life.
Who can I trust?
Who am I?
Who wants me?
Why am I alive?
What do I do well?
Every human has five core needs, and if you're going to thrive, these needs must be met in healthy ways—primarily through God. Learn what they are and how you can develop beliefs and skills so they're met and you become whole, content, and at peace. Start thriving as you use the ideas in this revised and updated edition of Finding Authentic Hope and Wholeness.
With humor and vulnerability Dr. Kathy Koch gives you the tools to develop an authentic sense of self and a positive outlook on the future.Take the time to ask yourself these five questions, and discover the answers as you journey with Dr. Kathy toward hope and wholeness. You'll be glad you did—for the rest of your life.
Who can I trust?
Who am I?
Who wants me?
Why am I alive?
What do I do well?
Every human has five core needs, and if you're going to thrive, these needs must be met in healthy ways—primarily through God. Learn what they are and how you can develop beliefs and skills so they're met and you become whole, content, and at peace. Start thriving as you use the ideas in this revised and updated edition of Finding Authentic Hope and Wholeness.
With humor and vulnerability Dr. Kathy Koch gives you the tools to develop an authentic sense of self and a positive outlook on the future.Take the time to ask yourself these five questions, and discover the answers as you journey with Dr. Kathy toward hope and wholeness. You'll be glad you did—for the rest of your life.
240 pages, Paperback
Published February 4, 2020
82 people are currently reading
442 people want to read
About the author
Kathy Koch
34 books90 followersDR. KATHY KOCH is the Founder and President of Celebrate Kids, Inc., a Christian ministry based in Fort Worth, Texas. She is an internationally celebrated speaker who has influenced thousands of parents, teachers, and children in over 25 countries through keynote messages, workshops, seminars, assemblies, and other events. She also blogs regularly at www.DrKathyKoch.com.
Dr. Kathy's newest book, coauthored with Jill Savage, No More Perfect Kids: Love Your Kids For Who They Are, helps parents understand why they must get to know their children to parent them wisely. How Am I Smart? A Parent's Guide to Multiple Intelligences helps parents understand their children's learning strengths. Finding Authentic Hope and Wholeness: 5 Questions That Will Change Your Life provides a solution-focused, enriching approach to real problems. Her book, Screens and Teens: Connecting with Our Kids in a Wireless World, will be published in March, 2015.Dr. Kathy earned a Ph.D. in reading and educational psychology from Purdue University. She was a tenured associate professor of education at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, a teacher of second graders, a middle school coach, and a school board member prior to becoming a full-time conference and keynote speaker in 1991.
Dr. Kathy's newest book, coauthored with Jill Savage, No More Perfect Kids: Love Your Kids For Who They Are, helps parents understand why they must get to know their children to parent them wisely. How Am I Smart? A Parent's Guide to Multiple Intelligences helps parents understand their children's learning strengths. Finding Authentic Hope and Wholeness: 5 Questions That Will Change Your Life provides a solution-focused, enriching approach to real problems. Her book, Screens and Teens: Connecting with Our Kids in a Wireless World, will be published in March, 2015.Dr. Kathy earned a Ph.D. in reading and educational psychology from Purdue University. She was a tenured associate professor of education at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, a teacher of second graders, a middle school coach, and a school board member prior to becoming a full-time conference and keynote speaker in 1991.
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January 13, 2025
Excellent. A 4.5.
I especially appreciate how she points out that often we can address the main core need by shoring up the needs on either side. I also really value chapter 8 where she takes the reader through how to facilitate change in their own life. That's what I love about Dr. Kathy's books - they are usually written to parents to utilize with their children and yet I have so much growth myself. Why? Because at the end of the day if we are in Christ we need to utilize His Spirit and His Word to transform our hearts and minds. And she does a great job of demonstrating how she does that in her own life and how we can take those steps and apply them to ours.
I have heard from some peers that sometimes it can be hard to apply what is written and I can understand their point of view. Among Dr. Kathy's very clear phases, she will sometimes tuck in very practical nuggets that don't get their own separate heading. I have begun to annotate those in my book and then you really see how much practical advice are tucked into her works.
This is book one for 2025 of choosing her to be my literary mentor for the year.
I especially appreciate how she points out that often we can address the main core need by shoring up the needs on either side. I also really value chapter 8 where she takes the reader through how to facilitate change in their own life. That's what I love about Dr. Kathy's books - they are usually written to parents to utilize with their children and yet I have so much growth myself. Why? Because at the end of the day if we are in Christ we need to utilize His Spirit and His Word to transform our hearts and minds. And she does a great job of demonstrating how she does that in her own life and how we can take those steps and apply them to ours.
I have heard from some peers that sometimes it can be hard to apply what is written and I can understand their point of view. Among Dr. Kathy's very clear phases, she will sometimes tuck in very practical nuggets that don't get their own separate heading. I have begun to annotate those in my book and then you really see how much practical advice are tucked into her works.
This is book one for 2025 of choosing her to be my literary mentor for the year.
January 8, 2020
The popular cliche says: "Don't just try to survive, thrive!" It is a nice way to inspire one to grow beyond the status quo. Yet, there is also a sense that such motivational phrases might have become too common, or overused. Strangely, many people still pay lots of money to go to motivational seminars and lavish conferences to get a new kick at life. The trouble is, once the initial hype is over, everything goes back to square one. What happens next? Another motivational project? If only there is a proven way not only to get a motivational impetus, but to make it sustainable. This book acts on that principle, not just driven by our human determination, but linked intricately to divine dependence. At the same time, there is sufficient qualitative and quantitative data to support the way to thrive. Thanks to Kathy Koch, we have one helpful avenue to improve our lives. The way to do that is to determine our core skills in our journey to being whole persons, fully in tune with who we are and what we are created to be. We cannot be less than who we are. The moment we are able to be the best of ourselves, that is where thriving begins. Author Kathy Koch lists five things that can make us whole. She calls these the "five core needs."
Security: Who Can I Trust?
Identity: Who am I?
Belonging: Who wants me?
Purpose: Why an I Alive?
Competence: What do I Do Well?
These needs have been ordered for a reason. Generally, there is an inner-to-outer movement. For instance, before one can be effective externally, one needs to be in tune with oneself internally. Another key truth is that before we can help others, we ourselves need to be helped first. Using her early dance classes as an example, she shares about her sequence of needs being met as she moves from fear to faith and from faith to fruitfulness. Security is the base of all the core needs. Our search for fulfilment and recognition of our calling needs to go through these five core needs. More importantly, Koch tells us that our search for fulfillment of our core needs must never exclude God. For only God can truly and completely fill us. In each of these five core needs, Koch shows us two angles before giving us a path forward. Negatively, we need to beware of trying to fulfill our needs through things temporal. Positively, we can benefit from role models and various grace we have received from people, such as our parents or benefactors. As the foundation of Koch's five-core-needs model is security, it is important to not to skip this particular chapter.
My Thoughts
I think of three questions as I read this book. How scientifically proven are the five factors? Are the Scriptures used an after-thought addition to a personal technique? How different is this from other self-help books?
First, how scientifically proven is this book? Given that Koch holds a PhD in educational psychology, as far as the credibility of the author is concerned, readers should feel a sense of ease to know that the author is someone who has spent considerable time working through and proving that the theories are sound. The other factor is that this work combines the experiences and knowledge gained through her ministry of "Celebrate Kids, Inc." Koch has given this messages in many countries, in churches, schools, and other organizations. However, if we are looking for numbers, factual evidence, and statistics, we will not find them here. This work is thus more qualitatively oriented.
Second, how are the Scriptures used here? Every chapter begins with a passage from the Bible as an anchor. There is not much biblical exposition here, probably because this book is not a Bible commentary in the first place. It is more application with the Bible in mind. The key to linking Scripture with the five thriving core needs is to see first that everything begins with God. Our first security, our core identity, our belonging, our purpose, our competence, are all linked with God. Without God, there is no path forward. We are no different than any other secular organizations. I think the biggest pointer to God is that without His Word and His anchor, all of our plans will fall flat in a matter of time.
Third, how different is this book from other self-help books? I would say that chapter on the "Change Process" is quite special. Apart from just giving us a plan for establishing our core needs, Koch goes into not just the psychology but the theological view of the human being. It is not just mental or psychology at play here. We are also deeply spiritual beings. Transformation is never something that we can do on our own. We need divine help. Humans can only do so much. With God, there is no limit.
I like this book and warmly recommend it for anyone seeking to improve their lives and to establish a deeper dependence on God. It must begin with a willingness to let go of our own stubborn old ways and to let God change us from the inside out.
Dr Kathy Koch is the founder and president of Celebrate Kids, Inc., based in in Fort Worth, Texas, and a co-founder of Ignite the Family, base in Alpharetta, Georgia. She earned a PhD in reading and educational psychology from Purdue University.
Rating: 4.5 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Moody Publishers and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
Security: Who Can I Trust?
Identity: Who am I?
Belonging: Who wants me?
Purpose: Why an I Alive?
Competence: What do I Do Well?
These needs have been ordered for a reason. Generally, there is an inner-to-outer movement. For instance, before one can be effective externally, one needs to be in tune with oneself internally. Another key truth is that before we can help others, we ourselves need to be helped first. Using her early dance classes as an example, she shares about her sequence of needs being met as she moves from fear to faith and from faith to fruitfulness. Security is the base of all the core needs. Our search for fulfilment and recognition of our calling needs to go through these five core needs. More importantly, Koch tells us that our search for fulfillment of our core needs must never exclude God. For only God can truly and completely fill us. In each of these five core needs, Koch shows us two angles before giving us a path forward. Negatively, we need to beware of trying to fulfill our needs through things temporal. Positively, we can benefit from role models and various grace we have received from people, such as our parents or benefactors. As the foundation of Koch's five-core-needs model is security, it is important to not to skip this particular chapter.
My Thoughts
I think of three questions as I read this book. How scientifically proven are the five factors? Are the Scriptures used an after-thought addition to a personal technique? How different is this from other self-help books?
First, how scientifically proven is this book? Given that Koch holds a PhD in educational psychology, as far as the credibility of the author is concerned, readers should feel a sense of ease to know that the author is someone who has spent considerable time working through and proving that the theories are sound. The other factor is that this work combines the experiences and knowledge gained through her ministry of "Celebrate Kids, Inc." Koch has given this messages in many countries, in churches, schools, and other organizations. However, if we are looking for numbers, factual evidence, and statistics, we will not find them here. This work is thus more qualitatively oriented.
Second, how are the Scriptures used here? Every chapter begins with a passage from the Bible as an anchor. There is not much biblical exposition here, probably because this book is not a Bible commentary in the first place. It is more application with the Bible in mind. The key to linking Scripture with the five thriving core needs is to see first that everything begins with God. Our first security, our core identity, our belonging, our purpose, our competence, are all linked with God. Without God, there is no path forward. We are no different than any other secular organizations. I think the biggest pointer to God is that without His Word and His anchor, all of our plans will fall flat in a matter of time.
Third, how different is this book from other self-help books? I would say that chapter on the "Change Process" is quite special. Apart from just giving us a plan for establishing our core needs, Koch goes into not just the psychology but the theological view of the human being. It is not just mental or psychology at play here. We are also deeply spiritual beings. Transformation is never something that we can do on our own. We need divine help. Humans can only do so much. With God, there is no limit.
I like this book and warmly recommend it for anyone seeking to improve their lives and to establish a deeper dependence on God. It must begin with a willingness to let go of our own stubborn old ways and to let God change us from the inside out.
Dr Kathy Koch is the founder and president of Celebrate Kids, Inc., based in in Fort Worth, Texas, and a co-founder of Ignite the Family, base in Alpharetta, Georgia. She earned a PhD in reading and educational psychology from Purdue University.
Rating: 4.5 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Moody Publishers and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
February 17, 2020
Kathy Koch is a brilliant, wise sage. This was my introduction go her work, but I Sill now devour everything she puts out into the world.
There is something g in this book for everyone! Every story is practical. E dry scripture reference is relevant.
Our basic needs, met or unmet, drive behavior, Kathy shows us how to address our behavior and change our u deflating thought patterns. This is a practical guide to
One that you will want to refer to over and over again.
This book is well written in an easy to read style that will draw anyone in,
Every person should read this book this shear. Every counselor, pastor and coach should point their people here to this book. Buy this book, read it and read it again,
This book gets my highest recommmendation!
I received a copy of the book from the publisher Via NetGalley for the purpose of reviewing it. The opinions I have expressed are my own honest review.
There is something g in this book for everyone! Every story is practical. E dry scripture reference is relevant.
Our basic needs, met or unmet, drive behavior, Kathy shows us how to address our behavior and change our u deflating thought patterns. This is a practical guide to
One that you will want to refer to over and over again.
This book is well written in an easy to read style that will draw anyone in,
Every person should read this book this shear. Every counselor, pastor and coach should point their people here to this book. Buy this book, read it and read it again,
This book gets my highest recommmendation!
I received a copy of the book from the publisher Via NetGalley for the purpose of reviewing it. The opinions I have expressed are my own honest review.
February 25, 2020
By becoming more aware of beliefs that cause the unhealthy ones, the pursuit to be like Jesus is a lifelong journey.
We have 5 core needs that if not being met, we will not thrive but loose hope. We are not created whole and because of what we believe determines how we live and respond, we need to identify those needs in light of God's word and purpose. Those needs are meant for us to turn to him and to love others well. The 5 core needs are foundational so when the first one is not meant, usually you will have a breakdown on the next 4.
Security asks the question who can I trust? This question is meant to lead us to God and his word.
Identity asks the question who am I? We try to find this answer in culture and others and when the answer is who God says I am.
Purpose asks the question why am I alive? The answer to this question is how we live. Do we live our lives with God as the center?
Competence asks the question what do I do well? Many times we fail as we try to live our lives in our own strength and wisdom.
The book answers how we wrongly live when these 5 core needs are not being met and when our core needs are centered on God. For example on security. How do we view God's sovereignty? Do we long to know God and the plan of redemption. Do we try to please many or one. The text is filled with self-examination and scripture to help you mine these truths to thrive in your faith. It takes resolve to take these steps however, it is well worth it in knowing the Lord and how he meets those needs.
A Special Thank you to Moody Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
We have 5 core needs that if not being met, we will not thrive but loose hope. We are not created whole and because of what we believe determines how we live and respond, we need to identify those needs in light of God's word and purpose. Those needs are meant for us to turn to him and to love others well. The 5 core needs are foundational so when the first one is not meant, usually you will have a breakdown on the next 4.
Security asks the question who can I trust? This question is meant to lead us to God and his word.
Identity asks the question who am I? We try to find this answer in culture and others and when the answer is who God says I am.
Purpose asks the question why am I alive? The answer to this question is how we live. Do we live our lives with God as the center?
Competence asks the question what do I do well? Many times we fail as we try to live our lives in our own strength and wisdom.
The book answers how we wrongly live when these 5 core needs are not being met and when our core needs are centered on God. For example on security. How do we view God's sovereignty? Do we long to know God and the plan of redemption. Do we try to please many or one. The text is filled with self-examination and scripture to help you mine these truths to thrive in your faith. It takes resolve to take these steps however, it is well worth it in knowing the Lord and how he meets those needs.
A Special Thank you to Moody Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
February 5, 2020
Wow, what a great book! Kathy has brought such insight and healing to some lacking areas in my life. I look forward to sharing it with my children. Helping them apply the same beneficial tools so they can have a better understanding of themselves and why they exhibit certain behaviors.
I want to preface this review by saying that I have been a Christ follower for 20 years. In addition I've also been through some intense long-term healing classes. Even so, I can say this material has brought much self awareness and growth.
For years I have struggled with setting healthy boundaries in my relationships. And when I was able to set some I doubted them and myself the whole time. Dr. Kathy has brought understanding as to why this area of my life it's been so weak. I am so thankful to have tools to bring lasting change to my life and relationships. I see how I've tried to find security in vain vain things and relationships instead of Christ. It sounds so simple. Why didn't I see it before? I don't know.
But I can tell you that Kathy was an encourager all the way. She asked hard questions and encourage me to look at myself for change. She was transparent by telling her life stories and how she applied these teachings. The questions at the end of the chapters also helped draw out how to apply these concepts to my own life.
I want to preface this review by saying that I have been a Christ follower for 20 years. In addition I've also been through some intense long-term healing classes. Even so, I can say this material has brought much self awareness and growth.
For years I have struggled with setting healthy boundaries in my relationships. And when I was able to set some I doubted them and myself the whole time. Dr. Kathy has brought understanding as to why this area of my life it's been so weak. I am so thankful to have tools to bring lasting change to my life and relationships. I see how I've tried to find security in vain vain things and relationships instead of Christ. It sounds so simple. Why didn't I see it before? I don't know.
But I can tell you that Kathy was an encourager all the way. She asked hard questions and encourage me to look at myself for change. She was transparent by telling her life stories and how she applied these teachings. The questions at the end of the chapters also helped draw out how to apply these concepts to my own life.
January 23, 2025
Absolutely fantastic. Super practical, very easy to read, God centered and healthy growth is the goal. Everyone can benefit from this book. It will challenge your perception of yourself, make you examine your life and question how you can be better. This should replace the Hierarchy of Needs that we are taught in school, it is much more relevant and useful.
1. Security- Who can I trust? (not WHAT can I trust?)
2. Identity- Who am I? (not who WAS I?)
3. Belonging- Who wants me (not who NEEDS me?)
4. Purpose- Why am I alive? (not the P's- power, position, pleasure, possessions, popularity, pursuits)
5. Competence- What do I do well? (not what am I the BEST at?)
The entire conversation is grounded in God and His word. Every chapter includes a lengthy discussion about how God answers these questions for us.
Once that is established, she builds into how we can use these answers, or search for these answers within God's people and the work God has given us. Finally coming to find these answer within ourselves as well. Trust ourselves, feel confident and comfortable within ourselves. God did not make a mistake when He made us for this time, we need to believe that He has equipped us to find success now.
All of the categories are connected. The answer to one affects the answers to the others, they are all needed for a person to be completely whole (which is her most nebulous term, but in a very real sense we all know what she means). Answering them negatively or in the wrong way creates problems throughout all of life.
But nothing is set in stone. It is never about perfection, or comparing yourself to other. It is about the journey to grow in the security, identity, belonging, purpose, and competency that God has given every individual. To seek healthy answers to these questions in our relationships and our character.
It affects how we make our decisions (which was a wonderful section I'll summarize in a spoil because I liked it so much, but is not integral to the book.)
The whole thing boils down to a tool for character training to live in righteousness. How we can actually change our behaviors, so that we can seek to change the answer to our questions. Don't like something about yourself, or an answer to one of your questions, it can be changed.
1. Write down the behavior you'd like to change and the behavior you'd like to replace it with.
2. Write down the reasons this behavior is wrong, get to the root of the problem (sin).
3. Study God's word to learn more about the sin and what you should do instead.
4. Write down your new beliefs.
The whole book is fluid, with all of these ideas working together. It is soaked in optimism and hope. There is the capacity for change, none of us are stuck, and God is at work.
This book was absolutely wonderful.
1. Security- Who can I trust? (not WHAT can I trust?)
2. Identity- Who am I? (not who WAS I?)
3. Belonging- Who wants me (not who NEEDS me?)
4. Purpose- Why am I alive? (not the P's- power, position, pleasure, possessions, popularity, pursuits)
5. Competence- What do I do well? (not what am I the BEST at?)
The entire conversation is grounded in God and His word. Every chapter includes a lengthy discussion about how God answers these questions for us.
Once that is established, she builds into how we can use these answers, or search for these answers within God's people and the work God has given us. Finally coming to find these answer within ourselves as well. Trust ourselves, feel confident and comfortable within ourselves. God did not make a mistake when He made us for this time, we need to believe that He has equipped us to find success now.
All of the categories are connected. The answer to one affects the answers to the others, they are all needed for a person to be completely whole (which is her most nebulous term, but in a very real sense we all know what she means). Answering them negatively or in the wrong way creates problems throughout all of life.
But nothing is set in stone. It is never about perfection, or comparing yourself to other. It is about the journey to grow in the security, identity, belonging, purpose, and competency that God has given every individual. To seek healthy answers to these questions in our relationships and our character.
It affects how we make our decisions (which was a wonderful section I'll summarize in a spoil because I liked it so much, but is not integral to the book.)
The whole thing boils down to a tool for character training to live in righteousness. How we can actually change our behaviors, so that we can seek to change the answer to our questions. Don't like something about yourself, or an answer to one of your questions, it can be changed.
1. Write down the behavior you'd like to change and the behavior you'd like to replace it with.
2. Write down the reasons this behavior is wrong, get to the root of the problem (sin).
3. Study God's word to learn more about the sin and what you should do instead.
4. Write down your new beliefs.
The whole book is fluid, with all of these ideas working together. It is soaked in optimism and hope. There is the capacity for change, none of us are stuck, and God is at work.
This book was absolutely wonderful.
February 9, 2020
I’ve read several books by Dr. Kathy Koch and I’ve always been impressed by her love and compassion for her readers, the quality of her research and presentation, and the practicality of both the subject matter and its application. All of these qualities are made possible and made better because of her real and living relationship with God. I’m very happy to say that this book continues this high standard.
Dr. Koch often mentions the “five core needs” in presentations and in her other books, but I couldn’t even remember what all five needs were until reading this book. I’m so thankful that I now have this resource available to study and apply to my own life as well and in parenting. This point actually demonstrates a difference between this book and Dr. Koch’s other books: Five to Thrive isn’t written to parents. It’s written to the reader themselves because everyone has these essential needs, and how the needs are met play a vital role in the completeness and hope in a person’s life. I think of the “five core needs” like the air masks coming down in a plane: work on your own first before helping the person next to you.
While I’m continuing to study and learn how to apply the lessons in this book, I had the great blessing of discussing the core needs with my daughter. We needed one of those conversations where a growing issue had to be dealt with before it became an ingrained character trait. Yes, there were tears in the first half of the conversation (through her security and identities). But as we went through her belonging, purposes, and competencies, there was clear hope starting to shine through. Dr. Koch confidently explains in the very beginning of the book that these five core needs, when healthily met, will lead to hope and completeness. And when I heard the word “hope” actually said and repeated by both my daughter and I in our conversation, I rejoiced that I could see the evidence of these truths right before me in the face of my precious girl.
This book is a wonderful encouragement where hope is needed. (Where isn’t it needed?) The teaching is clear and sound. It is given with such love for the reader that you know that Dr. Kathy Koch has prayed for her readers as they accept and apply this knowledge.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book from the publisher for the purpose of reviewing it. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.
Dr. Koch often mentions the “five core needs” in presentations and in her other books, but I couldn’t even remember what all five needs were until reading this book. I’m so thankful that I now have this resource available to study and apply to my own life as well and in parenting. This point actually demonstrates a difference between this book and Dr. Koch’s other books: Five to Thrive isn’t written to parents. It’s written to the reader themselves because everyone has these essential needs, and how the needs are met play a vital role in the completeness and hope in a person’s life. I think of the “five core needs” like the air masks coming down in a plane: work on your own first before helping the person next to you.
While I’m continuing to study and learn how to apply the lessons in this book, I had the great blessing of discussing the core needs with my daughter. We needed one of those conversations where a growing issue had to be dealt with before it became an ingrained character trait. Yes, there were tears in the first half of the conversation (through her security and identities). But as we went through her belonging, purposes, and competencies, there was clear hope starting to shine through. Dr. Koch confidently explains in the very beginning of the book that these five core needs, when healthily met, will lead to hope and completeness. And when I heard the word “hope” actually said and repeated by both my daughter and I in our conversation, I rejoiced that I could see the evidence of these truths right before me in the face of my precious girl.
This book is a wonderful encouragement where hope is needed. (Where isn’t it needed?) The teaching is clear and sound. It is given with such love for the reader that you know that Dr. Kathy Koch has prayed for her readers as they accept and apply this knowledge.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book from the publisher for the purpose of reviewing it. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.
February 15, 2020
We were created with a purpose, an intentional purpose to fulfill. Kathy Koch’s latest book “Five to Thrive” explores our five core needs through great examples and exercises to get you thinking. I appreciate the approach Kathy used to first ensure that every one of our five core needs can be met by God and why that is such an important foundation for each core need. She then goes into other ways the needs are met and how they are connected, building upon each other. Kathy’s examples not only refer to the individual reader but also to the surrounding people, allowing you to identify an area that might need shoring up. As a mom, I especially liked the examples with kids and teenagers.
Several chapters contain personal challenges and exercises that made me think about not only how I view others (do I trust them?), but to also consider how they might view me (do they trust me?). The chapter on Belonging hit home for me since authentic adult friendships are hard for me. There are several pages dedicated to friendship skills that I intend to use!
The last chapter takes a deep dive into change – an area that is not easy for me and I suspect for many. The detailed process gets to the root of the unwanted attitude or behavior and what identity will replace those. Kathy is very specific that we must remove the old before putting on the new – rather than piling on the new over the top of the old, which will likely result in reverting to the old. This is not a quick fix or check off the box, but a soul searching and truth telling of yourself.
Kathy Koch has shared so much wisdom through her other books and this is another gem. I highly recommend Five to Thrive for anyone.
I received this book in advance to read, but my opinions are wholly my own.
February 10, 2020
There are a lot of books on the market today that promise to share with you the secret formula of wholeness and offer proclamations on how to be a happy and thriving individual…and then fail to deliver. This isn’t one of those books.
This is a different kind of book. It's not another parenting or relationship or self-help book. We all have needs, we’re all in relationship with people that have needs, and this book will guide you through a process that will encourage you to spend time with the Lord in personal reflection.
Five to Thrive shed light on the areas in my life that I’ve looked to other people/things beside the Lord. Instead of pointing to an exact PERSON/THING that I was making so important, it helped me get to the root of the issue and illuminated the specific God-given NEED(S) I was lacking, as well as the importance of having this need met by Him.
This material provided me with insights, Biblical wisdom, thought-provoking questions, and it encouraged me to spend time with the Lord reflecting on the state of my heart. The insights in this book helped me to see how my unmet needs were affecting the way I see the Lord, the world and my relationships with others. The final chapter pushed me on how to start to make changes in the areas that need it.
This book is meaty, but Dr. Kathy writes in a way that makes the information easy to digest. It isn’t an A+B=C formula, but rather a guide to follow the Lord through a repeatable process of soul-reflection. And as Dr. Kathy always does, her words challenged and inspired me to see HOPE as an action and characteristic that can grow, not a fleeting emotion. This book is worth adding to your collection – I expect I will pick this up yearly to take a personal inventory, and I plan to use it with my children and the teens I mentor.
I’ve read all of Dr. Kathy/s books. She’s been such a gift to my home with the wisdom and insights she shares on parenting. She is humble, compassionate and she is wise, and she is an absolute blessing to my generation as we try and navigate raising the next generation. Her theology and Biblical application is sound – she is a source that can be trusted.
This is a different kind of book. It's not another parenting or relationship or self-help book. We all have needs, we’re all in relationship with people that have needs, and this book will guide you through a process that will encourage you to spend time with the Lord in personal reflection.
Five to Thrive shed light on the areas in my life that I’ve looked to other people/things beside the Lord. Instead of pointing to an exact PERSON/THING that I was making so important, it helped me get to the root of the issue and illuminated the specific God-given NEED(S) I was lacking, as well as the importance of having this need met by Him.
This material provided me with insights, Biblical wisdom, thought-provoking questions, and it encouraged me to spend time with the Lord reflecting on the state of my heart. The insights in this book helped me to see how my unmet needs were affecting the way I see the Lord, the world and my relationships with others. The final chapter pushed me on how to start to make changes in the areas that need it.
This book is meaty, but Dr. Kathy writes in a way that makes the information easy to digest. It isn’t an A+B=C formula, but rather a guide to follow the Lord through a repeatable process of soul-reflection. And as Dr. Kathy always does, her words challenged and inspired me to see HOPE as an action and characteristic that can grow, not a fleeting emotion. This book is worth adding to your collection – I expect I will pick this up yearly to take a personal inventory, and I plan to use it with my children and the teens I mentor.
I’ve read all of Dr. Kathy/s books. She’s been such a gift to my home with the wisdom and insights she shares on parenting. She is humble, compassionate and she is wise, and she is an absolute blessing to my generation as we try and navigate raising the next generation. Her theology and Biblical application is sound – she is a source that can be trusted.
March 2, 2025
I started this early 2024, and just now came back to finish it. That tells you a little something right off the bat. I think the concept is great and appreciated a good chunk of what waa presented, but I feel like this could have been deeply condensed, maybe even a series of articles; all the mini sermons between everything lost me and I found myself zoning out and skimming. I completely skimmed the last couple of chapters because I believe real change takes a deeper more spirit level approach than the mostly habit/mind approach she presents.
All in all, great concept, very helpful, but bloated presentation.
All in all, great concept, very helpful, but bloated presentation.
February 17, 2020
This book is changing my life!
Dr. Kathy Koch has a great insight into what we need to be whole and thriving. I have read and studied other core needs philosophies, but this one is so helpful because it recognizes how the 5 needs (security, identity, belonging, purpose and competence) interact with each other.
I love how Dr. Kathy points us towards God as she explains all 5 of our core needs and ultimately, God is our source of getting all 5 needs met. However, I don’t feel you need to be a follower of Jesus to reap the benefits of this book. (But watch out, you may find yourself desiring a relationship with Him after reading this book.)
My favorite part of the book is the last chapter “The Change Process.” Dr. Kathy lays out a four-stage process, that while easy to understand, is deep and profound if you take the time to work through it.
I’m excited to go through this process over and over again as I encounter different unwanted attitudes and behaviors in both myself and my 16-year-old son.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book from the publisher for the purpose of reviewing it. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.
Dr. Kathy Koch has a great insight into what we need to be whole and thriving. I have read and studied other core needs philosophies, but this one is so helpful because it recognizes how the 5 needs (security, identity, belonging, purpose and competence) interact with each other.
I love how Dr. Kathy points us towards God as she explains all 5 of our core needs and ultimately, God is our source of getting all 5 needs met. However, I don’t feel you need to be a follower of Jesus to reap the benefits of this book. (But watch out, you may find yourself desiring a relationship with Him after reading this book.)
My favorite part of the book is the last chapter “The Change Process.” Dr. Kathy lays out a four-stage process, that while easy to understand, is deep and profound if you take the time to work through it.
I’m excited to go through this process over and over again as I encounter different unwanted attitudes and behaviors in both myself and my 16-year-old son.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book from the publisher for the purpose of reviewing it. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.
March 31, 2025
Kathy provides wonderful insight to help us as we parent our children. By addressing core needs, we can help our children grow and be comfortable with the successes and failures that life will inevitably bring their way. This book, like many of her other books reads smoothly and quickly while being packed with great ideas for implementation. I also liked the emphasis on rooting these in the truths of the gospel, supporting them through how we parent, and helping kids to bloom from there.
May 27, 2020
Kathy Koch writes another thought provoking book about our relationship with God. Reading her thoughts and creating a more focused look at my God given purpose has been beneficial in helping my teenager find their purpose, too. This is a great companion to 8 Great Smarts and Screens and Teens. Great resource from teens through adults, no matter where you are in your walk with God.
August 10, 2020
Dr Koch has such a profound way of getting to the root of things and always turning us to God. Five to Thrive includes wise words reminding that without all of our basic needs, we are not fully available to God.
She offered great tips and scripture to use to strengthen the way our needs are met.
Note...I received this ARC from Celebrate Kids.
She offered great tips and scripture to use to strengthen the way our needs are met.
Note...I received this ARC from Celebrate Kids.
June 3, 2021
I think it is so easy to admit we have physical needs, but we often forget we have internal needs. Kathy Koch walks us through five internal needs that need to be met. I am highly guilty of neglecting my internal needs. I will be referencing this book often as I learn to address and work on getting those internal needs met.
February 4, 2020
Five to Thrive by Dr. Kathy Koch does not disappoint. Dr. Kathy shares in the book that we have 5 core needs and each one relies on another in order to thrive. If one is missing, then it affects another. We cannot truly be whole without all 5. At the center of it all is a relationship with Jesus Christ and how he helps to meet all these needs; because He is each one of these core values. Our 5 core values being:
• Security: Who Can I Trust?
• Identity: Who Am I?
• Belonging: Who Wants Me?
• Purpose: Why Am I Alive?
• Competence: What Do I Do Well?
With the help of Christ, Dr. Kathy helps us to see that we can have these needs met and achieve wholeness.
Each chapter addresses each core value and allows us to reflect on things we might need to change in our lives. The last chapter however puts everything into practice. Dr. Kathy challenges us to make change where change is necessary. She uses a Scripture reference to help us see this.
Ephesians 4:21-24 “You…were taught in Him, as the truth is in Jesus, to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.”
Then step by step she walks us through how to do this through 4 stages of transformation. It is one you in which you will want paper and pencil so that you can walk through the chapter step by step recording what God places on your heart. She shows you how to make true change by realizing the need for change and the root of what needs to be changed. She helps you turn it around and see what is good about the change based on what you know to be true about yourself in the way God sees you. You turn old beliefs about yourself into new beliefs that result in change and lead to wholeness.
This book is an easy read, filled with Scripture references. It is great for self-reflection. Dr. Kathy shares many personal stories as well as situations from others’ lives to help bring home her points. She ends the book using a scenario of her own struggles and allows us to see the process she walks through to change. Along the way, she gives you opportunity to stop and seek the Lord.
This book is great for any person looking to understand their own needs to be whole…so very everyone since that is truly what we all want to be. This is a book you will want to read more than once.
• Security: Who Can I Trust?
• Identity: Who Am I?
• Belonging: Who Wants Me?
• Purpose: Why Am I Alive?
• Competence: What Do I Do Well?
With the help of Christ, Dr. Kathy helps us to see that we can have these needs met and achieve wholeness.
Each chapter addresses each core value and allows us to reflect on things we might need to change in our lives. The last chapter however puts everything into practice. Dr. Kathy challenges us to make change where change is necessary. She uses a Scripture reference to help us see this.
Ephesians 4:21-24 “You…were taught in Him, as the truth is in Jesus, to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.”
Then step by step she walks us through how to do this through 4 stages of transformation. It is one you in which you will want paper and pencil so that you can walk through the chapter step by step recording what God places on your heart. She shows you how to make true change by realizing the need for change and the root of what needs to be changed. She helps you turn it around and see what is good about the change based on what you know to be true about yourself in the way God sees you. You turn old beliefs about yourself into new beliefs that result in change and lead to wholeness.
This book is an easy read, filled with Scripture references. It is great for self-reflection. Dr. Kathy shares many personal stories as well as situations from others’ lives to help bring home her points. She ends the book using a scenario of her own struggles and allows us to see the process she walks through to change. Along the way, she gives you opportunity to stop and seek the Lord.
This book is great for any person looking to understand their own needs to be whole…so very everyone since that is truly what we all want to be. This is a book you will want to read more than once.
February 8, 2020
Have you ever felt insecure? Like your trying to figure out who you are or that your life doesn’t have a purpose? Or maybe that no one cares or wants you? Maybe you feel that you just are not good at doing anything? Then “Five to Thrive” is the book for you!
Kathy Koch, PhD. has written a wonderful book about our five core needs and practical ways for how to determine if they are being met. She uses her own personal life stories and stories of people she personally knows to help us, the readers, apply them to our own lives.
As Christians we may know that all our needs are met in God, but sometimes we get lost and need a little help getting back to the basics. Personally I had gotten in a “going through the motions” rut and needed to remember that God makes me “whole” by meeting my five core needs. How great is it to know that God has a great plan for our lives?
Even if you are not a Christian this book can still help you figure out how to meet your five core needs. It will be useful for anyone who is looking for answers. Parents, teachers, singles, teens, children, divorced, elderly, those with other religions, we all need the same things. In Kathy’s book “Five to Thrive” she gives us a process for learning if our core needs are being met. And if they are not being met, she points us in the right direction for how to get them met.
Kathy is an international speaker that I have had the pleasure to listen to several times at conferences for moms. She has so much wisdom to offer. I am praying for her ministry and know that many people will be blessed by her insights.
I give “Five to Thrive” 5 stars!
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book from the publisher for the purpose of reviewing it. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.
Kathy Koch, PhD. has written a wonderful book about our five core needs and practical ways for how to determine if they are being met. She uses her own personal life stories and stories of people she personally knows to help us, the readers, apply them to our own lives.
As Christians we may know that all our needs are met in God, but sometimes we get lost and need a little help getting back to the basics. Personally I had gotten in a “going through the motions” rut and needed to remember that God makes me “whole” by meeting my five core needs. How great is it to know that God has a great plan for our lives?
Even if you are not a Christian this book can still help you figure out how to meet your five core needs. It will be useful for anyone who is looking for answers. Parents, teachers, singles, teens, children, divorced, elderly, those with other religions, we all need the same things. In Kathy’s book “Five to Thrive” she gives us a process for learning if our core needs are being met. And if they are not being met, she points us in the right direction for how to get them met.
Kathy is an international speaker that I have had the pleasure to listen to several times at conferences for moms. She has so much wisdom to offer. I am praying for her ministry and know that many people will be blessed by her insights.
I give “Five to Thrive” 5 stars!
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book from the publisher for the purpose of reviewing it. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.
April 10, 2020
Great information and activities. Will definitely be rereading this one and working on the activities.
September 20, 2021
About our five core needs
February 5, 2020
Dr. Kathy has done it once again! I was so excited to read this book because of the amazing speaker and teacher that she is at homeschool conventions. We just entered the teenage years and I was curious how this book would help equip me for mothering through this season confidently. She did NOT disappoint. Of course, she takes you straight to the word of God. That changes EVERYTHING!
“Everyone is looking for hope, that unshakable, rocksolid, confident expectation of things to come. Authentic hope is established when our number one foundational need of security is fulfilled in a personal relationship with God the father, through trusting his son, Jesus Christ.” YEEEEESSSSS!!! I love this!
I will definitely be having my teenage daughter read this book next!! She JUST accepted Jesus into her heart and this is such a timely book for her in the age and stage she is in!! I am excited to have some conversations about the content of each chapter with her!! I respect Dr. Kathy so much. I was slow to get into the rhythm of the book’s layout but in about the 3rd chapter I fell in love. I’m glad I kept trying! I’m realizing how strongly my influence on raising my children will affect their five core needs as they grow. My role is serious, important, life giving (or can be undeniably debilitating), and essential to pointing them in the way of the Lord. I know all of this, but do I really realize the words that come out of my mouth daily and their effects on their hearts. I love how Kathy emphasizes the importance of individuals owning their decisions and direction though too, regardless of their upbringing. Ultimately, I love how she directs us and encourages us straight to God and his Word. This is a perfect read for anyone wanting to understand more about how and why they do what they do and how to improve in all areas of our lives in order to find wholeness in God!
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book from the publisher for the purpose of reviewing it. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.
“Everyone is looking for hope, that unshakable, rocksolid, confident expectation of things to come. Authentic hope is established when our number one foundational need of security is fulfilled in a personal relationship with God the father, through trusting his son, Jesus Christ.” YEEEEESSSSS!!! I love this!
I will definitely be having my teenage daughter read this book next!! She JUST accepted Jesus into her heart and this is such a timely book for her in the age and stage she is in!! I am excited to have some conversations about the content of each chapter with her!! I respect Dr. Kathy so much. I was slow to get into the rhythm of the book’s layout but in about the 3rd chapter I fell in love. I’m glad I kept trying! I’m realizing how strongly my influence on raising my children will affect their five core needs as they grow. My role is serious, important, life giving (or can be undeniably debilitating), and essential to pointing them in the way of the Lord. I know all of this, but do I really realize the words that come out of my mouth daily and their effects on their hearts. I love how Kathy emphasizes the importance of individuals owning their decisions and direction though too, regardless of their upbringing. Ultimately, I love how she directs us and encourages us straight to God and his Word. This is a perfect read for anyone wanting to understand more about how and why they do what they do and how to improve in all areas of our lives in order to find wholeness in God!
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book from the publisher for the purpose of reviewing it. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.
February 10, 2020
So many self-help books, so little time, and so ineffective. Fortunately, Five To Thrive by Kathy Koch isn’t a self-help book and is worth your time to read at least once, if not multiple times. I have learned many things from Kathy and this book is just another cherry on the sundae.
I am not able to set aside a great deal of time for reading, so in the time I set aside, I want to read books that will either help me in my Spiritual life, or that make me laugh. I can’t say Five To Thrive caused a lot of laughter, but it made me smile. More importantly, it helped me to grow as a follower of Jesus and to learn more specifically what areas I need to work on in my life.
This book is written well, so the reading of it flows fairly smoothly. BUT, it is a challenging read as it causes you to question yourself down to heart level, which most of us struggle to do. Kathy writes how I think: applicationally. As I read this book the first time, I read the chapters but didn’t spend much time on the questions at the end of each chapter. I grew. Now, as I’m going through it again, taking extended time on the questions written, I’m growing more, and adding my own questions to hold myself accountable, to apply this new knowledge to my daily life.
If you don’t want to be challenged, don’t read this book. If you don’t want to grow, again, you should probably skip this text. But, if your goal is to live to your full potential, to live as God has designed you to live, this is a great book to devour. Scripture is the number 1 authority, and Kathy references plenty in Five To Thrive to back up her points. So, if you like a personal challenge, and you aim to glorify God, to know Him better, or even if you think the whole God/Jesus thing is crazy but you still want to be a better person, then this is a book you need to get so you can highlight, underline, asterisk, take notes, and do whatever it is you do as you read a book that is full of wisdom nuggets. And get a copy (or 10) for your friends because you’re not going to want to part with this re-readable book.
I am not able to set aside a great deal of time for reading, so in the time I set aside, I want to read books that will either help me in my Spiritual life, or that make me laugh. I can’t say Five To Thrive caused a lot of laughter, but it made me smile. More importantly, it helped me to grow as a follower of Jesus and to learn more specifically what areas I need to work on in my life.
This book is written well, so the reading of it flows fairly smoothly. BUT, it is a challenging read as it causes you to question yourself down to heart level, which most of us struggle to do. Kathy writes how I think: applicationally. As I read this book the first time, I read the chapters but didn’t spend much time on the questions at the end of each chapter. I grew. Now, as I’m going through it again, taking extended time on the questions written, I’m growing more, and adding my own questions to hold myself accountable, to apply this new knowledge to my daily life.
If you don’t want to be challenged, don’t read this book. If you don’t want to grow, again, you should probably skip this text. But, if your goal is to live to your full potential, to live as God has designed you to live, this is a great book to devour. Scripture is the number 1 authority, and Kathy references plenty in Five To Thrive to back up her points. So, if you like a personal challenge, and you aim to glorify God, to know Him better, or even if you think the whole God/Jesus thing is crazy but you still want to be a better person, then this is a book you need to get so you can highlight, underline, asterisk, take notes, and do whatever it is you do as you read a book that is full of wisdom nuggets. And get a copy (or 10) for your friends because you’re not going to want to part with this re-readable book.
February 10, 2020
Are you wondering if you matter? If you belong? Or maybe you are lost about what your purpose in life is. Then Five to Thrive is for you, just as it was for me. Dr. Kathy Koch has hit a home run again in her book “Five to Thrive: How to Determine if Your Core Needs are Being Met (and What to Do When They’re Not).” In her practical, down-to-earth, straight up conversational styled writing, Dr. Koch identifies five core needs innate to every human being. She discusses how we can meet those needs to become healthy and whole individuals. She identifies character traits that will aide us in our pursuit of being who God created us and purposed us to be, in turn allowing us to “serve well, love well, and live well.” Five to Thrive is not just a book filled with philosophical advice, rather it is a book filled with God’s truth and wisdom. By weaving in “some slice-of-life stories’ throughout the book, even personal to herself, Dr. Koch is able to portray how change is possible to become the healthy and whole individual God designed you (and me) to be.
January 28, 2020
Kathy Koch is a brilliant person-- and she is SO gifted in sharing what she knows in a reachable way that all can understand and learn- and she is a natural motivator and cheerleader as she writes- she graciously thanks you for reading-- she engages you with questions as you read, and then stops you as the concepts change with an assignment-- and these are challenging but with her input so achievable.
As I found in her 8 Great Smarts and Start with the Heart books- you can hear in her writing that her faith and her personal relationship with God continues to be active and growing, and the richness of scripture she shares as it applies to what she knows as an educator and psychologist is such a fresh and insightful way to apply research! As well as her consistent perspective that we are His workmanship.
She encourages all of us to see our gifting and to see who we are through God's lens. This book surprised me as my knowledge of the core needs has always been rather dry and limited- knowing that if we don't have security or identity- we can't belong- and that all three lead us to competence and purpose... But the concept that only God can really meet these needs and He desires to make us whole! This is truth- I knew it when we fostered a child and worked first on his security, identity and belonging- and as we did- he calmed and trusted us- but that we were really helping him realize humans are broken and can't always meet his needs we will fail. But God can!!
Read this book- you won't be disappointed. The core needs are something that helps us realize who we are and Dr. Kathy helps us see and plan to IMPROVE and grow- and her suggestions are the clearest and simplest- and set to support the reader in making a real change for the positive.
The physical book is worth owning-- it's the perfect size to throw in a bag and it just feels good!! Also it's written in contrasting colors- with charts and boxes- and plans to accomplish identifying your core needs and ways to grow. I suppose the kindle will look as good- but if you waver at all- get the book!! Moody is thoughtful about making it worth owning!
Blessed- to launch this my fourth book of Dr. Kathy's and to have read and used 5 or more of her books in my personal and professional life. Thank you Moody Books and Netgalley for the opportunity.
As I found in her 8 Great Smarts and Start with the Heart books- you can hear in her writing that her faith and her personal relationship with God continues to be active and growing, and the richness of scripture she shares as it applies to what she knows as an educator and psychologist is such a fresh and insightful way to apply research! As well as her consistent perspective that we are His workmanship.
She encourages all of us to see our gifting and to see who we are through God's lens. This book surprised me as my knowledge of the core needs has always been rather dry and limited- knowing that if we don't have security or identity- we can't belong- and that all three lead us to competence and purpose... But the concept that only God can really meet these needs and He desires to make us whole! This is truth- I knew it when we fostered a child and worked first on his security, identity and belonging- and as we did- he calmed and trusted us- but that we were really helping him realize humans are broken and can't always meet his needs we will fail. But God can!!
Read this book- you won't be disappointed. The core needs are something that helps us realize who we are and Dr. Kathy helps us see and plan to IMPROVE and grow- and her suggestions are the clearest and simplest- and set to support the reader in making a real change for the positive.
The physical book is worth owning-- it's the perfect size to throw in a bag and it just feels good!! Also it's written in contrasting colors- with charts and boxes- and plans to accomplish identifying your core needs and ways to grow. I suppose the kindle will look as good- but if you waver at all- get the book!! Moody is thoughtful about making it worth owning!
Blessed- to launch this my fourth book of Dr. Kathy's and to have read and used 5 or more of her books in my personal and professional life. Thank you Moody Books and Netgalley for the opportunity.
February 5, 2020
All people have the same core needs. In order to be whole, those needs must be met in a healthy way - ultimately in God through Jesus Christ. That is the basic message of this book.
Dr. Kathy Koch does a wonderful job explaining what the core needs are and what questions to ask to determine how you are meeting those needs. She demonstrates how meeting our needs for security, identity, belonging, purpose and competence with the wrong things or the wrong people (or neglecting any of those needs entirely) negatively affects our entire being.
Each chapter is a perfect balance of information, stories to illustrate her point, and questions for the reader to reflect on. These questions help the reader determine whether or not his/her core needs are being met in an authentic and healthy way. The questions also help guide the reader toward wholeness. Written in Dr. Koch's signature, conversational style, this book is easy to read yet full of practical wisdom and tools to help each person learn and grow.
Anyone who senses that something is lacking in their life will benefit from this book. Anyone who seeks to help others realize their full potential and have the fullness of life will find a valuable resource in this book.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy from the publisher for review. The opinions expressed are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.
Dr. Kathy Koch does a wonderful job explaining what the core needs are and what questions to ask to determine how you are meeting those needs. She demonstrates how meeting our needs for security, identity, belonging, purpose and competence with the wrong things or the wrong people (or neglecting any of those needs entirely) negatively affects our entire being.
Each chapter is a perfect balance of information, stories to illustrate her point, and questions for the reader to reflect on. These questions help the reader determine whether or not his/her core needs are being met in an authentic and healthy way. The questions also help guide the reader toward wholeness. Written in Dr. Koch's signature, conversational style, this book is easy to read yet full of practical wisdom and tools to help each person learn and grow.
Anyone who senses that something is lacking in their life will benefit from this book. Anyone who seeks to help others realize their full potential and have the fullness of life will find a valuable resource in this book.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy from the publisher for review. The opinions expressed are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.
February 9, 2020
One thing I especially loved about this book is the practical and biblical solutions given for CHANGE! Often times we can identify problems or issues, but what do we DO about it then? Between the questions, charts, and response sections, I feel so much more equipped to make a REAL change! To help others as we discuss these feeling of belonging, purpose and more. I feel like this will help so many others in these areas too because it is practical, clear, and most of all ENCOURAGING! I feel like I have a cheerleader as I read the words in this book. This is a fantastic and motivating book for individuals in every stage of life! A must-read if you are looking for a positive change in yourself, your relationships with others, your marriage, your children, and more!
February 5, 2020
Dr. Koch consistently publishes books that make an impact, and "Five To Thrive" is no exception. Koch researched the science behind core needs and uses this book to explain them in relatable terms.
Anyone who has struggled to truly examine what they need in life and evaluate what they need to be successful will find great help in this book. While many of Koch's prior books focus on children ( she's the founder and president of Celebrate Kids) "Five To Thrive" is a useful book for adults, teens and children alike. There are assessments throughout the book that can help you go deeper in your knowledge of core needs. The book connects the reader with biblical application as well as insight as to how to put these practices in place.
Koch has a candor about her that encourages while challenging us to make the changes we already know we need. Don't miss this book! It would be useful for anyone seeking to implement lasting change.
I was an early reader, thanks to Moody Publishers. All opinions are my own
Anyone who has struggled to truly examine what they need in life and evaluate what they need to be successful will find great help in this book. While many of Koch's prior books focus on children ( she's the founder and president of Celebrate Kids) "Five To Thrive" is a useful book for adults, teens and children alike. There are assessments throughout the book that can help you go deeper in your knowledge of core needs. The book connects the reader with biblical application as well as insight as to how to put these practices in place.
Koch has a candor about her that encourages while challenging us to make the changes we already know we need. Don't miss this book! It would be useful for anyone seeking to implement lasting change.
I was an early reader, thanks to Moody Publishers. All opinions are my own
February 7, 2020
One of the things I love most about Kathy Koch's writing is that I always feel like I'm just sitting on the porch talking with a friend. She has a great deal of wisdom, and is able to articulate her thoughts in a way that is understandable yet deeply thought provoking.
In the first chapter of Five to Thrive, Kathy addresses the idea of being whole. We need to be whole, yet we are created with holes - with core needs that must be met. God creates us with these needs so we will turn to Him. The rest of the book explores these core needs and how first and foremost, God can meet them. But since we are also created to have earthly relationships, Kathy offers insight into how those can be healthy and whole. She says, "We're complete in Christ, but people complement us."
Five to Thrive is one of the most practical books I've read, and will be one that I read and refer to again and again.
In the first chapter of Five to Thrive, Kathy addresses the idea of being whole. We need to be whole, yet we are created with holes - with core needs that must be met. God creates us with these needs so we will turn to Him. The rest of the book explores these core needs and how first and foremost, God can meet them. But since we are also created to have earthly relationships, Kathy offers insight into how those can be healthy and whole. She says, "We're complete in Christ, but people complement us."
Five to Thrive is one of the most practical books I've read, and will be one that I read and refer to again and again.
February 9, 2020
Are your core needs being met? My guess is no and you probably don't even know what they are and how to meet them. Dr. Kathy Koch does an excellent job in this book to explain what the five core needs are and how we can address them. She illustrates what it looks like when our needs are not being met and how to go about changing that situation. Her real-life examples are so helpful to gain deeper understanding and insight. This book is a game-changer and the strategies inside could help anyone learn to not just survive, but THRIVE!
February 5, 2020
Self help is all around us and this book I think is Kathy's approach; along with God. I like how faith and Jesus are tied into this books steps to finding fulfillment in life. There are so many conferences, conventions, videos, and books that cover how to be a better you. And I think this one moves right to the top by giving key ideas on how to accomplish a life fulfilled by not only bettering our day to day through relationships with family, and friend but also by leaning closer to God. I appreciate all of Kathy's books - they are stuffed with insight on the topic at hand. She is inspirational and digs deep in whatever her subject is at that time. She's a professional relationship guru who never disappoints. I received this ARC from Moody Publishing and these are my own personal opinions.
February 5, 2020
There are so many thing I like about this book!! It is a very practical book to help you in your personal growth as well as helping others. Through-out each chapter Dr Kathy ask thought provoking questions to think about in your own life. Each chapter ends with questions under "Becoming Whole" and "Now" that you know this, "Next" we'll learn. There are helpful sheets to download. In filling out the identity analysis sheet I found it helpful to see where I'm placing my identity. Dr. Kathy shows how the five core needs are all connected to each other, and how even "little" decisions can make a big difference, but she stresses our personal growth is not on our own, only through and because of Christ. A very, very practical book for leaders, teachers, parents and your own personal growth!
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