Dare to Bloom: Trusting God Through Painful Endings and New Beginnings

by Zim Flores

Either by choice or by circumstance, we all encounter times of starting over. Seasons of hardships, abundance, seeking, and struggle all have a purpose because growth demands change. Dare to Bloom urges us to be both vulnerable and resilient in new seasons of life as we boldly position ourselves for what God has for us next. Serial entrepreneur and author, Zim Flores (ne� Ugochukwu), reveals the challenges she's faced and how even her failures have helped shape her sense of purpose.

Her parents had big plans for her life. The daughter of Nigerian immigrants, Zim Flores was uprooted from her community as a young girl, marking the beginning of her quest for true identity. Though she experienced unprecedented worldly success as a teenager and young adult, Zim declares that even when we feel pressured by the world around us, our true identity is never at risk.

In Dare to Bloom, Zim offers practical and hard-won truths


How to reclaim your true identity
How to surrender your desired outcomes to God
How to move forward after broken friendships
How to find comfort during your darkest hours
How to navigate new beginnings with hope for whatever is next
How to joyfully participate in your own story--even when you don't know what the future holds
Dare to Bloom is a powerful gift for readers in times of transition or struggle who need a reminder that their true identity never changes. It empowers those who feel stuck in their current circumstances to follow God obediently into the unknown, finding joy in each new beginning. Inside you'll


Breathtaking photography from Zim's travels
Thoughtful questions for reflection at the end of each chapter
Zimisms--wisdom-filled phrases from the author
When everything changes around us, it can be easy to think that we're only as good as our last success. Though our identities are challenged day by day, Dare to Bloom encourages us to reclaim our identity in God, who is unchanging through it all.

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Faith, Self Help

215 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 8, 2020

Reviews

[Alaina Goodwin · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Dare to Bloom” is tastefully designed and thoughtfully written. The reflection questions, included annual review, and images make it an immersive and transformative read. I know I will come back to this book again and again. The wisdom in this book will inform my conversations with others who are in seasons of transitions. Above all, I appreciate the biblical truths woven throughout. I’m so thankful I have a signed copy to cherish forever.

[Zoeisbookhooked · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life changing, and so needed. Thank you, Lord, for the timing of this book. I have never felt more seen and known.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let’s get straight to it: 5 stars. Hands down. No questions asked. I read this book in 2 days.

This book was excellent! It was personal, heartfelt, warm, revealing and honest. Zim wonderfully captures her life’s journey, childhood, her experience with being an entrepreneur and selling her business, her relationship with herself and with her boyfriend turned husband in an elegant and transparent manner. I felt like I was talking to a friend - and perhaps because of similar experiences being a millennial in tech, a Believer, a woman and a Black woman at that her story resonated so well with me.

I loved this book so much that I did something I’ve never felt the urge to do - I ripped out a page! Without giving too much away at the end there’s a resounding message that I want to say over myself and others every day. So I ripped out a page and taped it to my mirror as a reminder of God’s love, grace & purpose for my life. If you are facing the end of a season of your life (being let go of your job, breakup, friend breakup, move to a new city, etc) I highly recommend that you read this book and allow it to fill you back up in places that are damaged or empty. Zim speaks to the reader in a gentle, encouraging tone. A tone that does not come off as preachy or condemning, but the same tone your best and most compassionate friend uses when you’re contemplating a major life decision.

I have a been a supporter of Zim since she created Travel Noire. While I didn’t get to attend Travel Noire’s adventures I loved the experiences she created for Black travelers to meet others like them and to feel safe. I was so excited to read her newsletter that she was launching her book that I pre-ordered and let me just say that the book itself is BEAUTIFUL. Literally, the images, the illustration, fonts, book design and her depictions of her travel all flow seamlessly together. This book would be a great gift for yourself or someone you know!

[Chelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was really fit for the season I'm in while i was reading it. Moments I'd tear up because i can relate to all the storms and pruning that comes with change and moving into God's next thing for me whether i did not understand or I'm unsure of what's comes next. I definitely recommend reading it.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whether by choice or circumstances we all go through transitions and hard times. Sometimes you might think you've got your path all mapped out only to find yourself at an intersection you didn't expect. This book explores what to do when that time comes and how to better place our focus on hope on God instead of our circumstances or plans. Zim Flores has had her share of changes and struggles, but by sharing her story we can learn from some of her lessons and apply them to our own lives. As a Christian, our identity and focus is in God, but it's so easy to get distracted by what we want (or think we want) and all the world tells us we should be doing/buying/etc. While there wasn't anything life-altering in the book I think this was the right book at the right time. Each chapter is full of beautiful photographs Zim took during her travels and each chapter also ends with some reflection questions. Overall, a quick read with lots to make you think about whatever transition you might be dealing with now or in the future.

Some quotes I liked:

"God will orchestrate circumstances to force your pause." (p. 51)

"Grain, wine, and oil are mentioned together many times in the Bible. It is of no coincidence that to harvest these valuable commodities, each needs to be pressed and crushed to reveal its coveted value. The beginning of any new season isn't marked first by crushing; it's defined by uprooting - an uprooting of your comfort zone, mentality, or mindset, among other things." (p. 88-89)

"...I want to posit a reminder: what you're going through right now isn't happening to you - it's happening for you. And when you shift your perspective, you'll find that the fresh oil isn't all that bad." (p. 93)

"God forbid that we become saddened by the things God requires us to give up. God has so much bigger and better for us than what we've lost - if we only trust Him. In sacrificing the very things that we think we need, we make room for our destiny." (p. 138)

[Nena · Rating 4 out of 5]

Still being stuck at home for more than a year since this pandemic has started has made me feel like I'm going through some type of serious life change or midlife crisis. I've been looking for books that provide some type of insight into life changes or new beginnings. This book is perfect if you are looking to the Bible or Jesus for a path or guidance to personal growth. I loved the pictures, the author's personal stories, and the writing. The layout of the book is absolutely beautiful.

[Lauren Puckett · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought this book was good. It really had some bangers and really powerful points that made me lean into God. I think it was just difficult, at times, for my current season of life having experienced the most unimaginable pain. I couldn’t connect well to some of her examples, because they were just different to mine. But, I thought it was powerful still. I would still recommend it for sure to someone who needs support when life has been unexpected and painful.

The photos were BEAUTIFUL!

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful book, both in words, spirit, and the actual photographs included. This is a book I will read over and over. It could be a devotional, a Bible study, or a meditation. Highly recommend.

[Heaven Adore · Rating 4 out of 5]

RTC

[Katie Gibson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful treasure chest of truths to encourage and anchor anyone walking through a season of transition.

[Tameka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Will be revisiting all year

[Camden · Rating 5 out of 5]

I began reading this book probably a year ago. For some reason I had set it down, but I picked it back up just a few days ago. Firstly, the design and photography throughout is stunning! I highly appreciate the artistic and tasteful touches that are cohesive throughout the book. I enjoyed the visual aspects paired with the incredible stories and words of hope that were shared. I now know that I needed this book in the season I’m currently walking through. Zim’s words resonated deep within my heart and I learned so much! I loved the application aspects with reflection questions and things to work through as I read. Overall, I’m so glad I found this book a year or two ago and I’m so grateful that Zim shared her stories and experiences to help others trust God with the plans He has for them.

[Abbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book with real stories of Zim Flores’ life. Loved her honesty and encouragement throughout

[elise george · Rating 5 out of 5]

I came across this book at just the right time in my life. I had just broken up with the man I thought I would marry, when I also lost my home, and had to move back in with my parents at age 24. At the point where I felt like my whole life was falling apart and I was taking a huge step backwards, this book helped me to understand that these life changes are not happening to me by mistake.

My response to my circumstances changed dramatically while reading this book and reflecting on the questions at the end of each chapter. “Trusting God through painful endings and new beginnings” is the most perfect tagline for this book. Through Zim’s beautiful and encouraging words, I came to a place of peace and contentment and even joy as I embraced the “replanting” and looked forward to “blooming” again.

This book is also lovely to look at, and as I’m a bit of an adventurer myself, I really enjoyed all the author’s photos from her travels. The design, images, and color scheme elevated my reading and journaling experience.

[One Anjana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I ordered this book when I was grappling with the loss of two closest people in my life, seeking solace and strength in any form of words the world could offer. However, due to shipping delays, the book arrived later, and I had already forgotten about my initial intention to accept the painful reality. Now, having read it when I already possess some strength, I can find comfort in relatable lines, serving as a reminder that life’s seasons are constantly changing.

In this book, Zim recounts her life journey, sharing her experiences of navigating various challenging seasons. During these difficult times, she invites us to contemplate God’s purpose in allowing such trials to exist. For instance, there are instances when we endure bitter separations, which ultimately lead us to gain self-awareness or reveal hidden blessings that we had yet to comprehend.

Even though it didn’t resonate with me on a deeper level, it was still a good reminder and source of inspiration. I particularly enjoyed seeing Zim’s travel photos interspersed throughout the book. They were truly beautiful!

[Whitney West · Rating 5 out of 5]

I chose to read this book during what I can now say was at the end of an extremely uncomfortable transition period. This book was a godsend. The chapters fused scriptures & Bible stories that paralleled (many of) my experiences. The book also helped me truly understand & fully accept my identity in Christ. Zim challenged me to prune some much-needed spiritual & emotional deadweight. Lastly, the chapters reminded me of the significance of complete surrender + fasting while reaffirming much of what the Holy Spirit already revealed to me regarding my present & future.

Readers can look forward to in-depth end of chapter questions + a midpoint self-evaluation assessment, stunning real-life photos from the author’s travels throughout, extraordinary stories from the author intertwined with intentional Bible stories & scriptures with questions at the end of each chapter.

[Tekquiree Spencer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book came at the right time. I loved all of the reflection questions and I took the time each day to do the work. I’ve been a fan of Travel Noire for years. I loved Zim’s vulnerability and transparency in this book. What I loved most was learning about her relationship with God. I am truly inspired by the way God continues to use her and her body of work.

[T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the analogy of blooming strung throughout every chapter and how each chapter builds upon the central message of moving and growing in and out of season.

The design of the pages and pictures throughout are a lovely addition, and the reflection questions were unexpected but a wonderful way to practically apply what was covered in each chapter.

[Callahan McIlnay · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to this book and sometimes got lost in it. As someone taking the messages to heart it felt overwhelming at times. I think I would have enjoyed this book more if I was more concerned with the author’s story than how to apply it to my life.

[Takor Njang · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book! I love the fact that it had reflection questions for your own journey and journaling. I appreciate the transparency and how it weaved in seamlessly the truths of God’s words and character!

[Kendra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully designed book with a beautiful message. I loved the photos she included throughout the book. Great read for those facing a season of transition and seeking God for direction as they navigate growing pains. ❤️

[Phoebe Nugent · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful book inside and out. I was concerned about the old don't judge a book by its cover mistake because I definitely picked this up because of how pretty it is! But it didn't disappoint!

I loved Zims message and how she told it through her own personal journey. Wish it had of been longer!

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to be willing to leave some people so that I can walk into the destiny God has for me. I will be listening to this book repeatedly as I’m currently in the fringe season.. working through the hard places of isolation so that I can Dare To Bloom!

[dama · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dare to bloom

What a lovely way to start my year. I was sold from the beginning. What I want to say, go get yourself a copy and you will thank me later.

[Molly Hammond · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of critical thinking and good questions to reflect on. Loved the photos too!

[Leticia I Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

It will ground you instantly. Her writing style is like a calming brook in a chaotic world.

[Annie Joyce · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Loved this book

[Sassy Sarah Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars. I loved this one a ton. There were great Biblical truths unpacked, but it was also encouraging. Beautiful book. Review to come.

[Lexie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book I will be listening to over and over!! Very rich and challenging.

[DeeSha Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many gems!

I absolutely loved the book. It was written well and so relatable. I will definitely read it again so I can continue to store the gems in my spirit.