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Dancing Through Life: Indulge Your Dreams and Pursue Life's Possibilities
Live your life to the fullest
In Dancing Through Life, Allen Brown offers his unique perspective: All life starts with the question Wouldn't it be great if . . . ? Allen believes that a true, authentic life begins with this simple question because it signals an awakening to the possibility of more. We can be more than we think we are, and we can do more than we think we're capable of doing. And the sense of wonder and possibility contained in Wouldn't it be great if . . . ? isn't just for the young. It's for everyone!
This book will inspire you to start living the lives you've always wanted to live. The author offers his advice on such topics as
- trusting your intuition
- broadening your horizons and getting out of your comfort zone
- understanding the power of your own thoughts
- adopting a growth mind-set
- setting and achieving goals
An entrepreneur and self-made millionaire, Allen became an amateur ballroom dancing champion in his mid-eighties. Through the insight he provides in Dancing Through Life, you will be reminded that if the music is playing, you should be dancing. We only have one life, and we should live it with gusto!
In Dancing Through Life, Allen Brown offers his unique perspective: All life starts with the question Wouldn't it be great if . . . ? Allen believes that a true, authentic life begins with this simple question because it signals an awakening to the possibility of more. We can be more than we think we are, and we can do more than we think we're capable of doing. And the sense of wonder and possibility contained in Wouldn't it be great if . . . ? isn't just for the young. It's for everyone!
This book will inspire you to start living the lives you've always wanted to live. The author offers his advice on such topics as
- trusting your intuition
- broadening your horizons and getting out of your comfort zone
- understanding the power of your own thoughts
- adopting a growth mind-set
- setting and achieving goals
An entrepreneur and self-made millionaire, Allen became an amateur ballroom dancing champion in his mid-eighties. Through the insight he provides in Dancing Through Life, you will be reminded that if the music is playing, you should be dancing. We only have one life, and we should live it with gusto!
- GenresNonfictionSelf Help
152 pages, Paperback
First published April 7, 2020
22 people are currently reading
967 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
March 14, 2020
I love the tone of this book. Though the author explores matters that are not new to the reader, his approach towards trusting your intuition, broadening your horizons and simply cultivating and sustaining a growth mindset- is quite interesting as it correlates to dance and music.
Thanks Netgalley for the eARC.
I know readers would love the questions to reflect upon at the end of every chapter. I did.
Thanks Netgalley for the eARC.
I know readers would love the questions to reflect upon at the end of every chapter. I did.
April 1, 2020
Dancing Through Life: Indulge your Dreamland Pursue Life's Possibilities by Allen T. Brown is one part memoir and three parts self improvement, all dressed in the coat and tails of dance references, analogies and stories. The author does a good job of mixing things up, and prefaces each bit of advice with just enough personal backstory to keep things entertaining.
Beyond the personal bits, however, there is nothing new in this book. The author relies heavily on Napolean Hill's classic, Think and Grow Rich, as well as other, more modern iterations of the same information. His sound bytes - being around greatness makes you great, find your teachers, post your goals where you can see them every day, make a gratitude list - have been heard many times before.
That said, all the advice and suggestions in this book are spot on, and, if acted on, can be powerful. I first read Hill three decades ago at a time in my life when I needed motivation to change, and it absolutely changed my life. So, for someone new to the self improvement circuit, Dancing Through Life: Indulge your Dreamland Pursue Life's Possibilities might be a wonderful place to start. The writing is clear and unintimidating, the stories are engaging, and each chapter ends with a series of exercises and questions that help turn the theory of self improvement into concrete actions and habits. I can see a much younger me making ample use of a highlighter and coming back time and time again for much-needed inspiration. To me that's the mark of a good self improvement book.
This review is based on an advanced copy reading.
Beyond the personal bits, however, there is nothing new in this book. The author relies heavily on Napolean Hill's classic, Think and Grow Rich, as well as other, more modern iterations of the same information. His sound bytes - being around greatness makes you great, find your teachers, post your goals where you can see them every day, make a gratitude list - have been heard many times before.
That said, all the advice and suggestions in this book are spot on, and, if acted on, can be powerful. I first read Hill three decades ago at a time in my life when I needed motivation to change, and it absolutely changed my life. So, for someone new to the self improvement circuit, Dancing Through Life: Indulge your Dreamland Pursue Life's Possibilities might be a wonderful place to start. The writing is clear and unintimidating, the stories are engaging, and each chapter ends with a series of exercises and questions that help turn the theory of self improvement into concrete actions and habits. I can see a much younger me making ample use of a highlighter and coming back time and time again for much-needed inspiration. To me that's the mark of a good self improvement book.
This review is based on an advanced copy reading.
April 15, 2020
A very no nonsense book about improving your life. Basic things like accept your mistakes and grow from them and think about what you want and make a plan. Also, the author references one of my least favorite self-help books, Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill, and vibes off some of the things listed in that book making them interesting and relatable.
May 16, 2020
An inspirational book from a successful man, Dancing Through Life provides helpful (or maybe just motivational?) tips to make a difference in your life. The content was solid, maybe a little unoriginal, but the flow of the book was excellent. It's a short read with a red-thread of dancing weaved into the story. (Note: you won't actually learn to dance with this book.) Nevertheless, some of the ideas felt oversimplified, speaking only ever of luck and hard work as the catalysts to making your dreams come true. While that may be true for people already in a place of privilege, as a woman, I found some of this advice just simply isn't applicable to my experience. That being said, I did take away some ideas and actions (this book is nothing if not actionable) to make positive changes in my life. I guess there's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to self-improvement books, and this one just isn't quite the right fit. It's not the holy grail of advice, but it is solid if you're looking for a quick and easy to follow pick-me-up.
*I received a copy of this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway, but all thoughts are strictly my own.
*I received a copy of this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway, but all thoughts are strictly my own.
April 14, 2020
Positive Thinking
There are no guarantees in life!! Always keep dancing, life is a challenge with many obstacles, but with positive thinking you can do anything you set your mind too. Well written!!
There are no guarantees in life!! Always keep dancing, life is a challenge with many obstacles, but with positive thinking you can do anything you set your mind too. Well written!!
April 14, 2020
Unlike most motivational books, "Dancing Through Life" encourages readers via a relatable extended metaphor—that of dance. The author, now 84, describes how he ventured into the world of amateur ballroom dancing in his seventies and later placed 2nd twice in tough competitions, despite having some age-related physical impairments.
We learn how in many ways Brown has always danced through life, mainly by listening to the rhythms of his own heart’s desires. These took him well beyond his boyhood farm to the merchant marines and eventually out West, where he made millions of dollars running shopping centers in Colorado and California. But you won’t find even an iota of boasting in this book. Instead, the author warmly presents a rich distillation of lessons learned through experience and through wisdom gleaned from the works of other inspirational writers, particularly Napoleon Hill’s "Think and Grow Rich." How well we do in life, how well we live life, claims Brown, depends on how we think: “What we think, we create.”
The author’s upbeat and engaging conversational style suits this slim work well, for we begin to feel as if we’re partners with him in this swift-moving dance of learning how to trust our own instincts and lean on experienced mentors. At times the author becomes repetitive and veers into clichés, but just as he nears the edge of a platform of platitudes, he swirls and dips us into fresh, new, deeper takes on conventional wisdom. Each chapter concludes with a brief list of thought-provoking questions aimed at helping readers move past fears and personal roadblocks. One striking example is the soul-searching, “What would you regret never trying in life?” The book would have benefited by including more real-life stories and examples to support its insights. Yet despite this tendency toward abstractness, this worthwhile little volume is one that will remain on my shelf to re-read whenever I need a virtual partner to remind me how to choreograph the next steps in my own dance through life.
This review is based on an advance reader's copy provided by the publisher.
We learn how in many ways Brown has always danced through life, mainly by listening to the rhythms of his own heart’s desires. These took him well beyond his boyhood farm to the merchant marines and eventually out West, where he made millions of dollars running shopping centers in Colorado and California. But you won’t find even an iota of boasting in this book. Instead, the author warmly presents a rich distillation of lessons learned through experience and through wisdom gleaned from the works of other inspirational writers, particularly Napoleon Hill’s "Think and Grow Rich." How well we do in life, how well we live life, claims Brown, depends on how we think: “What we think, we create.”
The author’s upbeat and engaging conversational style suits this slim work well, for we begin to feel as if we’re partners with him in this swift-moving dance of learning how to trust our own instincts and lean on experienced mentors. At times the author becomes repetitive and veers into clichés, but just as he nears the edge of a platform of platitudes, he swirls and dips us into fresh, new, deeper takes on conventional wisdom. Each chapter concludes with a brief list of thought-provoking questions aimed at helping readers move past fears and personal roadblocks. One striking example is the soul-searching, “What would you regret never trying in life?” The book would have benefited by including more real-life stories and examples to support its insights. Yet despite this tendency toward abstractness, this worthwhile little volume is one that will remain on my shelf to re-read whenever I need a virtual partner to remind me how to choreograph the next steps in my own dance through life.
This review is based on an advance reader's copy provided by the publisher.
August 10, 2021
Unlike most motivational books, Dancing Through Life encourages readers via a relatable extended metaphor—that of dance. The author, now 84, describes how he ventured into the world of amateur ballroom dancing in his seventies and later placed 2nd twice in tough competitions, despite having some age-related physical impairments.
We learn how in many ways Brown has always danced through life, mainly by listening to the rhythms of his own heart’s desires. These took him well beyond his boyhood farm to the merchant marines and eventually out West, where he made millions of dollars running shopping centers in Colorado and California. But you won’t find even an iota of boasting in this book. Instead, the author warmly presents a rich distillation of lessons learned through experience and through wisdom gleaned from the works of other inspirational writers, particularly Napoleon Hill’s Think and Grow Rich. How well we do in life, how well we live life, claims Brown, depends on how we think: “What we think, we create.”
The author’s upbeat and engaging conversational style suits this slim work well, for we begin to feel as if we’re partners with him in this swift-moving dance of learning how to trust our own instincts and lean on experienced mentors. At times the author becomes repetitive and veers into clichés, but just as he nears the edge of a platform of platitudes, he swirls and dips us into fresh, new, deeper takes on conventional wisdom. Each chapter concludes with a brief list of thought-provoking questions aimed at helping readers move past fears and personal roadblocks. One striking example is the soul-searching, “What would you regret never trying in life?” The book would have benefited by including more real-life stories and examples to support its insights. Yet despite this tendency toward abstractness, this worthwhile little volume is one that will remain on my shelf to re-read whenever I need a virtual partner to remind me how to choreograph the next steps in my own dance through life.
This review is based on an advance reader’s copy provided by the publisher.
We learn how in many ways Brown has always danced through life, mainly by listening to the rhythms of his own heart’s desires. These took him well beyond his boyhood farm to the merchant marines and eventually out West, where he made millions of dollars running shopping centers in Colorado and California. But you won’t find even an iota of boasting in this book. Instead, the author warmly presents a rich distillation of lessons learned through experience and through wisdom gleaned from the works of other inspirational writers, particularly Napoleon Hill’s Think and Grow Rich. How well we do in life, how well we live life, claims Brown, depends on how we think: “What we think, we create.”
The author’s upbeat and engaging conversational style suits this slim work well, for we begin to feel as if we’re partners with him in this swift-moving dance of learning how to trust our own instincts and lean on experienced mentors. At times the author becomes repetitive and veers into clichés, but just as he nears the edge of a platform of platitudes, he swirls and dips us into fresh, new, deeper takes on conventional wisdom. Each chapter concludes with a brief list of thought-provoking questions aimed at helping readers move past fears and personal roadblocks. One striking example is the soul-searching, “What would you regret never trying in life?” The book would have benefited by including more real-life stories and examples to support its insights. Yet despite this tendency toward abstractness, this worthwhile little volume is one that will remain on my shelf to re-read whenever I need a virtual partner to remind me how to choreograph the next steps in my own dance through life.
This review is based on an advance reader’s copy provided by the publisher.
April 18, 2020
This inspirational book by Allen T. Brown will help anyone who is seeking to make the most their life with what they currently have and all that they certainly can have if they apply themselves. Allen relates how from somewhat humble beginnings he was able to do what so many may say they want but somehow do not attain.
His formula for success is not new. Much is drawn from other inspirational writers and he focuses heavily on Napoleon Hill's classic, "Think and Grow Rich." Allen emphasizes the think part of this title but probably more so relied on the action elements where probably most fail to follow through.
He also covers many other principles such as seeking the help of others and how important guidance and support will be on the journey. This carries over to gratitude another major underpinning of his success.
And finally maybe the most important principle, that of giving back. Only by giving do we really get in life and that is something many of us probably misunderstand. Material success is one thing many focus us on while missing out on the greater reward of reaching out to help raise others in need.
There are many more principles and lessons to be learned in this book and it is the type that needs to be revisited often to stay on track.
Allen encourages us to move out of our comfort zones where many of us get mired into thinking we are safe and secure. Maybe so, but by not breaking out and striving he shows us we only end up accepting the self imposed limits and miss out on so much.
Through the book he interjects how his own life was transformed by the various principles and practices and did indeed lead to successful outcomes, not without struggle but well worth engaging in the challenge.
Hopefully he will consider a more in depth autobiography as I am sure there is much more he could share. Yet learning to dance on the floor and in life takes first one step, and that lesson we all need to learn ourselves.
His formula for success is not new. Much is drawn from other inspirational writers and he focuses heavily on Napoleon Hill's classic, "Think and Grow Rich." Allen emphasizes the think part of this title but probably more so relied on the action elements where probably most fail to follow through.
He also covers many other principles such as seeking the help of others and how important guidance and support will be on the journey. This carries over to gratitude another major underpinning of his success.
And finally maybe the most important principle, that of giving back. Only by giving do we really get in life and that is something many of us probably misunderstand. Material success is one thing many focus us on while missing out on the greater reward of reaching out to help raise others in need.
There are many more principles and lessons to be learned in this book and it is the type that needs to be revisited often to stay on track.
Allen encourages us to move out of our comfort zones where many of us get mired into thinking we are safe and secure. Maybe so, but by not breaking out and striving he shows us we only end up accepting the self imposed limits and miss out on so much.
Through the book he interjects how his own life was transformed by the various principles and practices and did indeed lead to successful outcomes, not without struggle but well worth engaging in the challenge.
Hopefully he will consider a more in depth autobiography as I am sure there is much more he could share. Yet learning to dance on the floor and in life takes first one step, and that lesson we all need to learn ourselves.
April 30, 2020
I love self help books because I think they represent self love. If your not into you, then who will be. Dancing through life takes a different perspective on how to be happy. Many people have problems and do not view them as challenges. The author helps you indulge your dreams and pursue life’s possibilities by asking the question...wouldn’t it be great if?
What did I like? The momentum of the book is really exciting, as the author offers up such enlightening quotes and examples of people dancing through life. The author also references one of my favorite emotional self help heroes...Byron Katie as she helps us through deceptive thoughts by asking the question Is it true? If your looking for a different direction in life then this would be a positive motivator towards helping you achieve your happiness.
“Eliminate what you hate to do and do more of what you love to do?”
John Wesley “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, to all the people you can, as long as you can.”
Would I recommend or buy? I was gifted a copy by the publishers but this was an emotionally enlightening book. The author has done some enormous things in his time here and this is just another example of the way you can give. I highly recommend this as a great book, with a fun title. Dancing through life is a journey to health and happiness by doing things you want and saying no to things you don’t.
Thoughts for the author? A big thank you. I really appreciate your publicist reaching out and gifting a copy. This will go on my shelf to reread along side my Byron Katie books. I absolutely loved the book and your intuition. The book caught my eye because dancers are a healthy and happy lot, and it’s been on my bucket list for awhile. Dancing is the most freeing form of happiness in my opinion, kudos for a well written book.
What did I like? The momentum of the book is really exciting, as the author offers up such enlightening quotes and examples of people dancing through life. The author also references one of my favorite emotional self help heroes...Byron Katie as she helps us through deceptive thoughts by asking the question Is it true? If your looking for a different direction in life then this would be a positive motivator towards helping you achieve your happiness.
“Eliminate what you hate to do and do more of what you love to do?”
John Wesley “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, to all the people you can, as long as you can.”
Would I recommend or buy? I was gifted a copy by the publishers but this was an emotionally enlightening book. The author has done some enormous things in his time here and this is just another example of the way you can give. I highly recommend this as a great book, with a fun title. Dancing through life is a journey to health and happiness by doing things you want and saying no to things you don’t.
Thoughts for the author? A big thank you. I really appreciate your publicist reaching out and gifting a copy. This will go on my shelf to reread along side my Byron Katie books. I absolutely loved the book and your intuition. The book caught my eye because dancers are a healthy and happy lot, and it’s been on my bucket list for awhile. Dancing is the most freeing form of happiness in my opinion, kudos for a well written book.
August 19, 2020
This book by 80+ year old Allen T. Brown is part life review and part encouragement to others to do the same. "We do not have problems; we have challenges," Brown states. His premise is there is nothing we can't do if we really want it bad enough. Answering the question "wouldn't it be great if I..." should guide our activities without limitations. Raised in a world where boys grow up to be farmers like their dads, at seventeen, Brown asked himself "wouldn't it be great..." and ended up as a merchant marine on a freighter sailing the Great Lakes. He went on to go to college, become the headmaster of a school in Vail, CO, and then a real estate entrepreneur. He pursued hobbies with gusto, becoming the world's #1 amateur ballroom dancer. In his 80s, he has taken up learning to play the piano. His book's goal "is to teach you that you are never too old to learn something new." Each chapter ends with exercises for reflection or to put that chapter's lesson into practice. One chapter is an extended review of "Think and Grow Rich," a book by Napoleon Hill. Explanations of the universal mind and our spirit guides were not my cup of tea, but Brown's life review was interesting. I definitely agree with his love of books. "What I discovered when I read were worlds and places I had never heard of and possibilities I had never considered...I discovered the ability to question, to wonder, to dream."
I won this Kindle edition in a GoodReads giveaway, so thank you GoodReads!
I won this Kindle edition in a GoodReads giveaway, so thank you GoodReads!
May 4, 2020
Allen T. Brown's remarkable new book "Dancing Through Life" is a journey of self-discovery and learning how to live life to the fullest. A true gem in the plethora available on the subject, Brown has written what may be the best book of the year. The simplistic approach to his suggestions sprinkled with personal stories capture how we should be living our lives.
Brown grew up on a farm in Michigan and had dreams beyond his little town. He ended up in Colorado and California, spending $12 to make $30 million through a commercial laundry business and real estate ventures. He ended up becoming a ballroom dancer in his 80's and competing. Brown knows that no matter what, people can achieve their dreams from starting with very little.
"Dancing Through Life" hits on all the things we should be doing that we WANT to do. As adults, we've forgotten to have fun. We live by the rules society tells us, not by the inner beat all of us have. Brown lays out lists of exercises; some will have readers do a lot of soul searching. There are also nuggets of wisdom like " It's time to start questioning every belief you've ever taught and what you have always assumed" and "You deserve to achieve your goals and your dreams. Believing this is the first step."
Brown manages to hit a lot of nerves with this insightful book. Readers will take away many reasons to start living their lives instead of just surviving.
"Dancing Through Life" is available now where all books are sold.
Brown grew up on a farm in Michigan and had dreams beyond his little town. He ended up in Colorado and California, spending $12 to make $30 million through a commercial laundry business and real estate ventures. He ended up becoming a ballroom dancer in his 80's and competing. Brown knows that no matter what, people can achieve their dreams from starting with very little.
"Dancing Through Life" hits on all the things we should be doing that we WANT to do. As adults, we've forgotten to have fun. We live by the rules society tells us, not by the inner beat all of us have. Brown lays out lists of exercises; some will have readers do a lot of soul searching. There are also nuggets of wisdom like " It's time to start questioning every belief you've ever taught and what you have always assumed" and "You deserve to achieve your goals and your dreams. Believing this is the first step."
Brown manages to hit a lot of nerves with this insightful book. Readers will take away many reasons to start living their lives instead of just surviving.
"Dancing Through Life" is available now where all books are sold.
December 7, 2020
Great for someone who needs that inspiration. That push to try something new, get off the couch of life, and stop letting preconceived notions set by self, society, or environment keep your from pursuing what you are passionately dreaming of doing.
That said very repetitive on the themes of getting out of your comfort zone and following your dreams. However, if you already read books on this kind of thing it might be a little slow to read as it shares similar concepts to other books like it.
Also, its hard to see the point in some of the topics becusee there's too much reflection on the authors own experiences rather the point or lesson they are trying to convey with that experience. I dont usually mine this but you may get lost in that as the points are not clear or not always connecting to the experiences being shared.
If you are new to self help books, this is a great starter. If you want a different perspective on the themes of getting out of your comfort zone and chasing your dreams, this is a decent one. But otherwise, as said earlier, might be a slow read.
That said if you do give it a go, has a whole bunch of really good quips to get you inspiring to go after you goals. Also, must read, write down in a journal, or follow the exercises at the end of every chapter.
That said very repetitive on the themes of getting out of your comfort zone and following your dreams. However, if you already read books on this kind of thing it might be a little slow to read as it shares similar concepts to other books like it.
Also, its hard to see the point in some of the topics becusee there's too much reflection on the authors own experiences rather the point or lesson they are trying to convey with that experience. I dont usually mine this but you may get lost in that as the points are not clear or not always connecting to the experiences being shared.
If you are new to self help books, this is a great starter. If you want a different perspective on the themes of getting out of your comfort zone and chasing your dreams, this is a decent one. But otherwise, as said earlier, might be a slow read.
That said if you do give it a go, has a whole bunch of really good quips to get you inspiring to go after you goals. Also, must read, write down in a journal, or follow the exercises at the end of every chapter.
November 25, 2020
Allen Brown provides an entertaining but short story about his life. After growing up on a farm in a loving family but in a small town with limited education and no hopes except to carry on as a farmer for the family business, he decides to leave for the merchant marine which eventually allows him to go to the army.
Mr. Brown, with an undisputed passion for learning and belief in himself, shares many stories of his varied career. He also shares many lessons from the best personal growth books such as Think and Grow Rich and the four agreements and weaves them into his stories.
Several unique lessons:
1) He really stresses that success does not come alone. No man is an island. Everyone needs help from mentors, teachers, friends and family support and other coincidentally placed people along life's journey
2) The #1 lesson from the book. It is never to late to dream and make it happen. You start with, "Wouldn't it be great if?" and continue with hard work, daily and you work at it until you reach your goals.
I would recommend this book. It is short, has memorable stories, and has some unique lessons from a man who has achieved much over the years.
Mr. Brown, with an undisputed passion for learning and belief in himself, shares many stories of his varied career. He also shares many lessons from the best personal growth books such as Think and Grow Rich and the four agreements and weaves them into his stories.
Several unique lessons:
1) He really stresses that success does not come alone. No man is an island. Everyone needs help from mentors, teachers, friends and family support and other coincidentally placed people along life's journey
2) The #1 lesson from the book. It is never to late to dream and make it happen. You start with, "Wouldn't it be great if?" and continue with hard work, daily and you work at it until you reach your goals.
I would recommend this book. It is short, has memorable stories, and has some unique lessons from a man who has achieved much over the years.
April 11, 2020
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher and here's my honest review:
This book is part memoir and part self help, but the author has blended them so well that you go from one to the other and back before realizing it. At times, this book seems like an ego boost for the author, but considering his age (over 80 years), we realize that he is only trying to tell us all the factors that helped him succeed in life and got him to where he is today.
The principles that helped Allen achieve success in life are listening to one's inner voice, being in flow, being passionate about things one does, meditation, giving time to the things that one loves the most and thinking & believing deeply about one's passions. Even though none of these concepts are new to us as readers, the author's way of approaching them is refreshingly pleasant.
The short book reads very lucidly and it almost felt like I was listening to my grandfather sitting in his armchair and narrating his life story to me.
This book is part memoir and part self help, but the author has blended them so well that you go from one to the other and back before realizing it. At times, this book seems like an ego boost for the author, but considering his age (over 80 years), we realize that he is only trying to tell us all the factors that helped him succeed in life and got him to where he is today.
The principles that helped Allen achieve success in life are listening to one's inner voice, being in flow, being passionate about things one does, meditation, giving time to the things that one loves the most and thinking & believing deeply about one's passions. Even though none of these concepts are new to us as readers, the author's way of approaching them is refreshingly pleasant.
The short book reads very lucidly and it almost felt like I was listening to my grandfather sitting in his armchair and narrating his life story to me.
June 2, 2020
Allen T. Brown has written a completely relatable book to help you self motivate, reassess and guide you through the difficult choices you face in navigating life. It is by all means a self-help book, but isn't the preachy sort, or the type that overwhelms you with all the'changes' you need to find happiness through achieving your goals.
I didn't find any real 'new' advice here. What I did find- was that through Brown's common sense approach, finding the right path doesn't seem so daunting. Brown's story (memoir) unfolds in small parts throughout the book as it relates to the author's message.
This is not a grandiose book of promises and success. So many self-help books are 'all or nothing'. This book gives advice and exercises that are easily attainable when put in to practice.
Most of all, Brown reinforces the fact that you are never too old, and it is never too late to achieve meaningful successful through your dreams and goals, if you apply yourself.
I received this book through the Goodreads Giveaway and this is my honest review.
I didn't find any real 'new' advice here. What I did find- was that through Brown's common sense approach, finding the right path doesn't seem so daunting. Brown's story (memoir) unfolds in small parts throughout the book as it relates to the author's message.
This is not a grandiose book of promises and success. So many self-help books are 'all or nothing'. This book gives advice and exercises that are easily attainable when put in to practice.
Most of all, Brown reinforces the fact that you are never too old, and it is never too late to achieve meaningful successful through your dreams and goals, if you apply yourself.
I received this book through the Goodreads Giveaway and this is my honest review.
May 17, 2020
I never know exactly what I'll get when I read a self help book like this. Most seem to be so useless that I don't waste the time finishing it, much less leaving a review. But this book was just what I needed right now. Ever since Spring Break didn't end and the coronavirus lockdown started, I've been in a series funk as well as a state of denial about my own mindset.
This book reminded me that I have control over my own reactions to circumstances. That life isn't as bad as I've been feeling it is, I just need to alter my steps to dance in the rain. There were several parts of the book where I stopped and thought to myself, "Yes, this is so true!" But I want to share one of those parts that I feel everyone needs to hear. Brown say, "You deserve to achieve your goals and dreams. Believing this is the first step."
I received a free copy from the publisher, but my opinions are my own. I feel so blessed that I received this book.
This book reminded me that I have control over my own reactions to circumstances. That life isn't as bad as I've been feeling it is, I just need to alter my steps to dance in the rain. There were several parts of the book where I stopped and thought to myself, "Yes, this is so true!" But I want to share one of those parts that I feel everyone needs to hear. Brown say, "You deserve to achieve your goals and dreams. Believing this is the first step."
I received a free copy from the publisher, but my opinions are my own. I feel so blessed that I received this book.
December 21, 2020
*I won this in a GoodReads Giveaway*
Why do I enter giveaways for this genre? I think it’s because I want to like self-help books. I want to gain wisdom. I want to be taught something that will make my life better… but man, they make it so hard. So. Hard.
And this book is no different.
I mean, this book really isn’t terrible… the writing is sufficient, I suppose. But really, it’s just a bunch of cliches wrapped up in secular humanism with a few personal anecdotes. Put good thoughts out into the universe and you’ll get good things back. You have ancient wisdom within you, just listen to it.
It’s just so… inane. And boring.
So, if you’re really lost in life you might find this book helpful. If you need to be told to take a chance it might be worthwhile. If you need to be told to stop being a doofus, maybe you do need to read this. Otherwise, I’m not sure it’s really worth the time.
Why do I enter giveaways for this genre? I think it’s because I want to like self-help books. I want to gain wisdom. I want to be taught something that will make my life better… but man, they make it so hard. So. Hard.
And this book is no different.
I mean, this book really isn’t terrible… the writing is sufficient, I suppose. But really, it’s just a bunch of cliches wrapped up in secular humanism with a few personal anecdotes. Put good thoughts out into the universe and you’ll get good things back. You have ancient wisdom within you, just listen to it.
It’s just so… inane. And boring.
So, if you’re really lost in life you might find this book helpful. If you need to be told to take a chance it might be worthwhile. If you need to be told to stop being a doofus, maybe you do need to read this. Otherwise, I’m not sure it’s really worth the time.
May 13, 2020
*I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review*
While filled with cliches on how to achieve your dreams, Dancing Through Life was just what I needed. Allen T. Brown uses his life experiences to build a framework on how you can achieve anything in life. His wisdom coaxes the reader along, by giving them the tools and insights to make their dreams a reality, all while using dance as a metaphor.
Each chapter begins with an inspirational quote and ends with a checklist of steps to take based on what was discussed in the chapter.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Dancing Through Life. The chapters were short and the checklists were a great way to tie up each chapter. Allen T. Brown's life is also fascinating to read about. While I do not believe his strategies will work for everyone, there is a little something for everyone in this book.
While filled with cliches on how to achieve your dreams, Dancing Through Life was just what I needed. Allen T. Brown uses his life experiences to build a framework on how you can achieve anything in life. His wisdom coaxes the reader along, by giving them the tools and insights to make their dreams a reality, all while using dance as a metaphor.
Each chapter begins with an inspirational quote and ends with a checklist of steps to take based on what was discussed in the chapter.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Dancing Through Life. The chapters were short and the checklists were a great way to tie up each chapter. Allen T. Brown's life is also fascinating to read about. While I do not believe his strategies will work for everyone, there is a little something for everyone in this book.
April 30, 2020
I place higher weight on advice from people who have lived what they are selling. This author certainly seems to have done so. His book is a quick and friendly reminder to feel our own beat and follow our instincts about what would make our life great. The advice is given through a combination of personal philosophy, examples and the authors on personal story. I'm not always a fan of such a light treatment and quick switching between concept and personal examples. However, in this case it especially worked for me. The message has also stuck with me over the past few days, which means it was meaningful and memorable.
October 17, 2020
I pick this book up at the airport on a whim. I was searching for a happy, feel good book for the trip.
However, I put this book down halfway through and could not finish it. This book is clearly written by an old white man living in a white man’s world. He talks about factors like religion and culture as being barriers to success and living the life you want. There was no mention of unique challenges people face due to a system that puts them at a disadvantage compared to their white male colleagues.
However, I put this book down halfway through and could not finish it. This book is clearly written by an old white man living in a white man’s world. He talks about factors like religion and culture as being barriers to success and living the life you want. There was no mention of unique challenges people face due to a system that puts them at a disadvantage compared to their white male colleagues.
May 12, 2020
I am grateful to have won this book in a giveaway. It's a quick read that serves as a really good pep talk; the author's tone is warm and I came away inspired. I found the "exercises" at the end of each chapter (a list of questions to ask yourself) very helpful in summarizing his main points and encouraging serious thought in the reader (me, at least!). Thank you Mr. Brown for your heartfelt work here.
August 18, 2020
I love to dance, which is one of the reasons I got this book. But the author went way above my expectations on motivation and inspiration. I liked how he compared different aspects of dancing to his themes. Excellent read! If there were anything I could suggest to improve the book would be pictures of the author, maybe as a child with his scar, or on the dance floor with one of his partners, or photos of him with some of his mentors.
November 6, 2020
This is an inspirational book on how it is never too late to learn how to learn something new . There are many tips on how to accomplish each goal one at a time. Plus, this book also highlights how to make the world a better place by either donating money or time towards a good cause. (I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway, and it is one that I will revisit over and over for guidance. Great read!)
June 20, 2025
I read this book over a long span of time. I found it endearing and inspiring, chapters probably coming to me when I most needed them.
My one critique is that it felt steeped in privilege at times … just take five piano lessons in a week. Go hard or go home. Yes, but not everyone can do that. Not everyone is so apt to offer others help or mentorship. I wonder if Allen would have had so much business success if he were a woman.
Overall though, very helpful and uplifting read.
My one critique is that it felt steeped in privilege at times … just take five piano lessons in a week. Go hard or go home. Yes, but not everyone can do that. Not everyone is so apt to offer others help or mentorship. I wonder if Allen would have had so much business success if he were a woman.
Overall though, very helpful and uplifting read.
April 13, 2020
Super cute read
This is a fun self.help book that goes beyond the idealistic proclamations of "just quit your job and follow your heart!" There is solid advice with clear steps to help you figure out what you want to do in the first place, and then how to work out a feasible plan to make it happen. Great read for INFJs.
I received this book from a Goodreads giveaway
This is a fun self.help book that goes beyond the idealistic proclamations of "just quit your job and follow your heart!" There is solid advice with clear steps to help you figure out what you want to do in the first place, and then how to work out a feasible plan to make it happen. Great read for INFJs.
I received this book from a Goodreads giveaway
March 4, 2021
I love that this book is both memoir and self help. I enjoyed reading the authors personal antidotes and how he relates them to improving our lives. I think anyone who enjoys memoirs or self help will enjoy this book.
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy free of charge. This is my honest and unbiased opinion of it.
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy free of charge. This is my honest and unbiased opinion of it.
May 19, 2020
This is a little motivational book. Many of the ideas I've seen before but they are presented here in an easy to read way. Allen Brown makes you want to do new things and live your dreams, no matter their size or your age.
June 15, 2020
Sweet and inspirational, and I was especially drawn to it because of the author's experience with dance. I would definitely recommend this as it helped me gain a little perspective about where I am right now in my life.
June 16, 2020
I had a chance to read this book after winning a copy in a Goodreads giveaway. With personal tidbits from Brown and plenty of advice, it is a solid self-improvement book. It flows well with good organization.
October 16, 2023
This book offers some basic advice on how to succeed in life. The message is very positive, but nothing earth-shattering or new, just common sense. I would have liked to learn more about the author's experiences in ballroom dancing!
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