Chasing The Bright Side - Embrace Optimism, Activate Your Purpose & Write Your Own Story

by Jess Ekstrom

Let go of negativity. Start seeing the good in the world to become the good in the world.

Today’s climate constantly bombards us with all the reasons why we’re doomed. From politics to business to current events and more, there’s always the inevitable headline of bad news. Combined with the challenges and obstacles that each of us face as we journey through life, it’s enough to create a cloud over our world, affecting how we approach the people around us, as well as the goals and dreams we have for our lives.

Yet every movement, invention, solution, or positive change started with the belief that there’s something better out there.

Through her story of overcoming personal challenges that threatened to derail her family’s future, author and speaker Jess Ekstrom shares with readers how she learned to focus on the good in the world, even in the midst of circumstances that make most stop trusting, stop risking, and stop imagining the best for themselves. Chasing the Bright Side is Jess’s story of how she learned to anchor herself in optimism, treating it as a trained muscle, in order to start trusting again, start taking risks again, and start reimagining the best for herself and the world.

All of this led Jess to see a need and meet it, creating the Headbands of Hope, which has given away headbands to children with cancer in every hospital in America and in fifteen countries since 2012. It’s Jess’s hope that her story and what she’s learned along the way will inspire readers to lean into optimism, reimagine their purpose, and go forth to create more good in the world.

Genres: Self Help, Nonfiction, Personal Development, Business, Audiobook, Adult, Health

205 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2019

About the author

Jess is the founder and CEO of Headbands of Hope, a company she started as a junior in college in 2012. For every headband sold, a headband is given to a child with cancer. The company has been featured on the TODAY Show, Vanity Fair, Seventeen, Good Morning America and more. But more importantly, they've donated over half a million headbands to every children's hospital in the United States and 15 countries. Jess is also a professional speaker and author of Chasing the Bright Side. She’s currently living and traveling in an Airstream with her husband, Jake, and standard poodle, Ollie.

Reviews

[Ell · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the creator of Headbands of Hope for children with cancer comes this delightful book on optimism. Chasing The Bright Side is more than an ode to bright-sided mantras. Optimism is, in the author’s words, “about understanding that we can’t control all of our experiences, but we can control what they mean to us and the story they write for us.”

Optimism and the stories we write for ourselves are inextricable linked. Optimism is powerful. It can form our beliefs, guide our behaviors and change our stories. And when we change our stories, we create opportunity…opportunity to develop, to grow, to dare, to become. We create the opportunity to reject stagnancy and anxiety.

Written in an engaging, satirical yet informative manner, Chasing The Bright Side is insightful and refreshing. Young adults will especially enjoy this book.

[Anneke Alnatour · Rating 1 out of 5]

Sooo, I am a picky self help/motivational book reader. Or better said: I love Brene Brown, who does some real break through work.

I did not really hate this one, unlike Rachel Hollis' work, but once again, there wasn't really anything new in this either. I was actually going to give it a full 2 stars, until I came across her example of helping a homeless person by doing shopping for him, and being annoyed with the fact that he preferred wheat bread. WHEAT bread, as she writes.

And why the heck not. Why should he accept whatever you think is best for him? Why do you think he has not enough agency to determine what he'd like to eat or not? Why not let him do his shopping for himself?

And why do we always determine success by being on TV? Or celebrity involvement? I think I am pretty successful, but hardly anybody ever heard of me! Doesn't bother me one bit.

Just leaving that here too.

[Jenny · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is encouraging without being cheesy. Jess writes in a conversational style, sharing her real life experiences in a way that helps us connect with her message and not feel as if we are being lectured to. Jess lets us in on her biggest failures, most embarrassing moments, and major fears. Showing us how optimism can help fuel the fire and keep us going in the worst of times, Jess encourages us not just to dream, but to put those dreams into action and never stop seeing the possibilities that lay before us. She encourages us to see failures not as dead ends, but simply as an opportunity to learn and grow. There are a lot of books in this genre recently, and while it wasn't my favorite I've read along this same vein, it was pleasant and encouraging, and definitely a more enjoyable reading experience than others that have tried to be encouraging and failed at it. Jess is honest and resilient, and I enjoyed hearing her story.

*Thank you to Thomas Nelson publishing for sending me an advanced copy of this book.*

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved listening to this audio. I didn't know who the author was or anything about her business before picking this up. I'm not sure how this ended up in my audio library, but I'm so glad it did. What a complete breath of fresh air this author is. I am already planning on listening to this again on my next day off.

I enjoyed her humor and her way with words. She is so positive and that is a message everyone needs to hear. I also liked the way she walked to her own beat and how completely fine she was with that ..... without all the second guessing. I also want to buy 2 copies of this and give them to my girls to read. I think there is a lot of useful information for them in this. 5 whopping stars for this one.

Update:
I still liked this the second time around.

[Shania Garcia-Herrera · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very quick and lighthearted read. I finished it in 2 sittings. I was quick to judge a book by it’s cover + the author … I didn’t really know how I was going to relate to this book. But I was pleasantly surprised!

Jess offers a fresh perspective and spin to your average self help book. Her optimistic and warm approach feels like you are getting advice from an older Millennial sister who has a big Live Laugh Love sign in her home. And honestly… I’m into it!! Through this book Jess has helped me redefine optimism and positivity and has transformed the shame/guilt I felt about it into something I am proud of and can embrace.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

This lovely, optimistic book really got under my pessimistic skin--and in all the right ways.

As someone who quite literally sees the bad in everything (I’m working on it) a small part of me wants to instantly check out at the mention of bright sides and unyielding optimism. I’d just as soon go back to the next book on my to-read list that undoubtedly involves an unsolved murder.

But, like I said, I’m working on it. And, with Chasing the Bright Side, it was easy to get lost in Jess Ekstrom’s world. The pages just kept turning, and I wasn’t rolling my eyes because it wasn’t preachy or belittling, instead it was inspiring and hopeful--and funny, like genuinely laugh out loud funny.

Chasing the Bright Side is like taking a peak behind the curtain, but instead of seeing a disappointing little man from Oz, you find a resilient, resourceful woman happy to give you some tips on how to write your own story and really “be the good.” For yourself, your family, the world. And there’s not a single bad thing this pessimist can think to say about that.

[AcademicEditor · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book covers a lot of the same ground that many positive-thinking self-help books do, but the author has some interesting stories to share. In particular, the relative she called "Uncle Bernie" became infamous when he stole away the wealth of many high-profile victims as well as Jess's family: Bernie Madoff. Her family was forced to rebuild their lives, and Jess took a path that involved working at Disney, getting involved with the Make-A-Wish foundation, and eventually starting her own charitable venture, Headbands of Hope.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Listening to this book was like listening to a ray of sunshine. There’s no toxic positivity here, just great tidbits on feeling your feelings and shifting your perspective to find the good, even when you’re in the midst of the bad.

Mood boosting and inspiring, I think this will be a go-to book for me whenever I’m struggling with my mental health.

[Addie Yoder · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read a ton of books about women who struggled, built a business, over came hard times and wanted to share their tips and stories. This one is a little special. I went into it expecting the same thing I have read over and over. Don't get me wrong, those stories are all great, but the are pretty similar. Jess put her story in perspective of optimism and the ways that we can control our mindset and perspective and actions in a totally new way. She recognizes the challenges. She doesn't insist that we just get up earlier or work later to make it happen. She is real and honest but does that with an upbeat outlook that is totally contagious.

For readers who need a pick me up and feel like they have tried everything or the reader who thinks they have heard it all, this is a great switch. Its still light and easy to read without being pushy or preachy.

Thanks to the author and Harper Collins for letting me read and review!

[Amy 'ners' uhm · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

[Elizabeth Dietz · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5 • This was definitely an inspiring read and even more impactful because it expanded upon some of what I learned from seeing the author speak at a conference. I really liked the concept of “Yes, and…” instead of “Yes, but…” as well as her take on seeking accolades versus alignment. Definitely recommend this book & seeing her speak in person if you have the opportunity!

[Heidi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a feel-good read and I felt more hopeful while reading it. Would recommend and will likely re-read in the future.

[Jillian Totman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Settled in for a cozy Saturday night with this good book. Jess Ekstrom’s insights on how embracing optimism and activating your purpose can help you write your own story was inspiring. Chapter 8 of Chasing the Bright Side, is by far my favorite.

“We will never be able to walk into a new experience being totally prepared and knowing everything there is to know, so we need to feel tall enough even when we don’t have all the answers.”

The struggle is real. You know how to tread water but you’re still too afraid to jump off the diving board because you can’t clearly see all the way to the bottom. But as the author says, “sometimes the main difference between the people who make it and the ones who don’t is just the courage to begin where you are.” Begin today and read Chasing the Bright Side!

[Kelli Panique · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you could change the voice in your head to a different voice like you do on an app on your phone, I would highly suggest changing it to Jess Ekstorm's voice. Her positivity is contagious and empowering. Chasing the Bright Side is, of course, about optimism, but not a put-on-the-rose-colored-glasses-and-everything-will-be-okay optimism. This is optimism in the face of struggle, disappointments, and naysayers. It's about trying to figure out life/business/relationships as you go and choosing to move forward when things don't go the way you anticipated. Jess' book is the fan to the flame of the dream you didn't think you should dare to dream. If you need some positivity in your life (and who doesn't?), I highly recommend this book. In fact, get two copies so you can tear out all the inspiring quotes to wallpaper your house.

[Lesa Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a big Jess Eckstrom fan. She has a powerful message of optimism and hope. Chasing the Bright Side is a fun read that takes you on the adventure of Jess' life. It's inspiring. I love how she finds the positive spin on every tough situation she's walked through and is able to articulate the lessons and how one thing led to the other. It's a great read that will uplift you and challenge you to find the bright side in everything.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started this book and I was hooked immediately! Jess’ conversational style of writing feels like she’s there with you. She is real and honest and FUNNY, and tells you the things you need to hear in a way that makes you excited to hear them. Highly recommended!

[Kristen · Rating 2 out of 5]

Memoirs of a successful millennial. Braggadocio and bravado overtake the depressing nature of her storytelling. Twenty percent helpful and inspiring. Eighty percent entitlement describing college as “low lying fruit”.

[Guinevere Mare · Rating 3 out of 5]

Listened to the audiobook and it was good in a motivational podcast kind of way. Not ground-breaking but solid enough advice to stay positive and go after your dreams and believe in yourself and you can do it!

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Personal development books are my JAM, and I can’t wait for this one! I just listened to a sneak preview of the first chapter of the audiobook and I can’t wait to hear/read the rest.

[Go · Rating 3 out of 5]

Optimism is a strong foundation. For some people, it takes more of a conscious effort to build it. I am naturally more optimistic than pessimistic and it has made a big difference in my life. I prefer to look at the bright side than wallow in the pit of despair. I like to surround myself with positive people and we lift each other up. When we envision something for ourselves we have to be our biggest believer. It’s easier to give up than to keep picking yourself up and moving forward to a better life…the life you want. You have to ask yourself what is worth the effort? This book demonstrates some ups-and-downs that come from searching and activating your purpose every single day. No one is going to work for your dreams harder than you will. Dreams without action are only a wish. It’s about how realistic optimism, relentless individuality, and dreams can create a new path where there wasn’t one before.

I liked that the author encouraged giving back, in creative ways, to others through our successes. She mentioned a “Give Gala” that focused on acts of service instead of monetary gifts: hand-lettering lessons, cooking meals for a family, babysitting so the parents can have a night out, a princess unicorn birthday party on their farm, family photos…and on and on.

The author’s family scandal would be a shock and it could easily destroy someone’s spirit. They chose to forget themselves and go to work. They didn’t lose heart or sit around feeling sorry for themselves. They acknowledged the things they still had in life–things that were more important than what was taken from them–their family. “When you experience something you can’t control, you will amaze yourself with what you can achieve when you have to.” “You can make an active decision to write your own story. We are not what has happened to us. We are the story we write from it. We can write stories of fear, or we can write stories of possibility.”

We can make plans but until we start to execute them, we will not achieve the success we envision. We “develop in the process, not the planning.” Our failures help us to improve upon our plans, sometimes making it better than we could have imagined. “Failures are not indications of self-worth or your experience level.” “Instead of being paralyzed by uncertainty, you’re energized by possibility.”

“Most times when I see businesses fail, it’s not because of a lack of resources; it’s because of a lack of being resourceful.”

“Don’t put perception over purpose.”

“Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change.”

[Anne Skyles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not only are Jess Ekstrom and her company Headbands of Hope inspiring but I love that she took the time to write a book to inspire others with her positivity! I have no desire to be an entrepreneur but I loved reading about her history and outlook on life and did walk away with so many insights to help me with mine. I really enjoyed her witty writing style and am very encouraged by the purpose of her business and desires to help others. The world needs more Jess Ekstroms!

[Emelie Flink Patscot · Rating 4 out of 5]

After seeing one of Jess’s talks, reading this book felt like getting a warm hug… that maybe lasted a little too long. Her speaking engagement was incredible, so full of heart, humor, and energy and the book felt like an extended version of that. But with that extra length came a bit of repetition. I’m still a big fan of Jess and Headbands for Hope. She’s an absolute force, full of spunk, sass, and sunshine and honestly, we could all use a little more of that in our lives.

[Emily Mitch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this quick read! I read a little bit over breakfast each day, and it served as a quick confidence boost every morning. Funny without being overly cheesy, I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the self-help genre, stories about female authors/entrepreneurs, or anyone who has an idea they want to pursue but need a little encouragement to get started!

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best self- improvement books I’ve read in a while! And I read a lot! I listened to the audio version with the author reading for the audience. Well done, great stories, relatable, inspiring words and great calls to action. I literally took 8 pages of notes! Would love to meet the author or see her speaking. Great work!

[Briana-Cecilia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve had this book sitting in my mom’s apartment since I lived there. It was a really great read and made me feel super inspired.

-1 because it was a little cheesy and had some very surface level advice. And because I cannot stand when people do not use “they” and just say “he or she”.

[Mary Agbovi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed this with the WHIT book club

[Donna Craig · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice enough, but nothing new

[Avery · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored every word, every second, every page of this book. I read it while listening to the audio so I could highlight things, and I ended up giving up on the highlighting, or I would just highlight the whole book. Jess Ekstrom is so sincere, funny, transparent, vulnerable, and vibrant, and it shows through every word.

It's honestly hard to encompass what all this book is in a review. It's definitely not your "toxic positivity" guidebook, and it's not a woo-woo "the universe needs you" kind of deal either.

Chasing the Bright Side is all about real situations. It's about finding meaning. It's about dancing in the rain. It's a masterclass in resourcefulness.

But it's also forgiving. It's okay to be sad. It's okay to have hard days. It's impossible to be perfect and happy and fulfilled all the time. This is a book that makes your bright days brighter and your dark days a little less lonely.

It's so warm, down to earth, and written by an actual person. (If you don't read a lot of personal development, you might not understand that, but sometimes it gets... weird.) Jess actually reads the book herself for the audiobook, and it's such a treat.

Whether you enjoy personal development or not, I feel like everyone should read this book. I'm sure I'll re-read it for years to come (and I don't re-read books). It's like reading sunshine. Seriously. I'm so grateful to have this book in my toolkit for whenever I need to remember what's really important in life.

[Maggie Kane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ya'll, order this book TODAY. I am not kidding you, hands down the best book I've read in a long long long time. I not only cried and laughed the whole entire way through but it was more than that. I felt I knew Jess throughout the book. It was similar to having a conversation with her and boy is that the coolest thing. You don't see this in many authors. Jess has a way of relating to people (all people, seriously) in her words which is extremely rare. I felt how genuine, authentic, and raw she was being--much of how we all should live our lives. I could see myself and my life in her words. She inspired me to open myself up to people, my purpose, and to begin writing my story knowing it is not going to be perfect ever. Not to mention, her stories just make us all feel more normal and laugh at things that happen in our life that we have no control over. She is REAL. She is YOU! Order this book, you won't regret it! It is also just freaking hilarious and will keep you laughing on each page.

[Janice Starr · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Jess Ekstrom’s book. She does a fabulous job in making you want to turn the page and read more. Her suggestions and thoughts on how to “rethink” some of the things you might be doing. It very self-reflecting. She make you have either more appreciation for what you have, or try harder to get what you want (mostly intrinsic). Her book did not disappoint. Her cause is amazing and how it all started. My admiration for her and what she does for others will hopefully be contagious to all!