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You're Going to Survive: True Stories from People Who've Endured Soul-Crushing Moments in Their Careers--Failure, Rejection, Disappointment, Public Humiliation--And How They Got Through It
The essential guide to getting through defeat, staying motivated, and coming out the other side smarter and stronger than ever.
No matter what kind of career you've chosen, you're going to deal with discouragement, frustration, and occasional failure. It could be a difficult interaction with a hysterical client. Or watching your best friend get the promotion you wanted. Or a vicious one-star review that rattles your self-esteem and makes you question your talent and even your identity. When that moment arrives, open this book.
Inside, you'll find inspiring true stories from all kinds of people--from authors, chefs, lawyers, website designers, and Broadway performers to personal stylists, jazz musicians, business consultants, non-profit fundraisers, and more--each describing one of the worst moments in their entire career, and how they got through it.
Each chapter is filled with honesty, humor, and heartfelt encouragement to help you confront tough times and never give up. No matter what's going on in your career right now, this isn't the end of your story. You're going to survive.
No matter what kind of career you've chosen, you're going to deal with discouragement, frustration, and occasional failure. It could be a difficult interaction with a hysterical client. Or watching your best friend get the promotion you wanted. Or a vicious one-star review that rattles your self-esteem and makes you question your talent and even your identity. When that moment arrives, open this book.
Inside, you'll find inspiring true stories from all kinds of people--from authors, chefs, lawyers, website designers, and Broadway performers to personal stylists, jazz musicians, business consultants, non-profit fundraisers, and more--each describing one of the worst moments in their entire career, and how they got through it.
Each chapter is filled with honesty, humor, and heartfelt encouragement to help you confront tough times and never give up. No matter what's going on in your career right now, this isn't the end of your story. You're going to survive.
- GenresSelf HelpNonfiction
242 pages, ebook
Published December 15, 2017
24 people are currently reading
218 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
June 29, 2021
This was the first time I had stumbled upon Alexandra Franzen's work, and this book offers insight to challenges the current millennial generation faces in regard to criticism, rejection, and more. The variety of stories from her colleagues and acquaintances provide affirming stories, particularly for those planning to go down a creative career path, such as starting one's own business. I found that this book offered fewer tangible tactics for those with other career paths, such as business or medical professionals. As an audiobook, I would have preferred to hear the story from the author's voice rather than this narrator. While the author sounds like she genuinely cares for the reader with her advice, parts of the book do sound more like self-promotion, from her restaurant to her coaching business. Nonetheless, it is worth the quick listen if you are seeking an easy read for some inspiration.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing a free advanced copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing a free advanced copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
June 26, 2021
I've read Alexandra Franzen's blog for many, many years and I enjoy her style of storytelling with heart and her ability to get to the heart of the matter and both make you think and make you feel . She can instill courage while making sure you feel held.
Many of the stories in this collection are of people who have had major setbacks in their lives and have found ways to move past them and many have found ways to create very powerful outcomes as a direct result of the setback. (So examples of not just "you're going to survive" but "you're going to thrive.")
There are a wide range of examples in the book and a wide range of stories. If you're struggling or in the middle of a setback, this is a good reminder, a good pep talk, and some good advice to help shift that perspective. A reminder that life is long and we are resilient.
with gratitude to netgalley and OrangeSky Audio for an advanced audio in exchange for an honest review
Many of the stories in this collection are of people who have had major setbacks in their lives and have found ways to move past them and many have found ways to create very powerful outcomes as a direct result of the setback. (So examples of not just "you're going to survive" but "you're going to thrive.")
There are a wide range of examples in the book and a wide range of stories. If you're struggling or in the middle of a setback, this is a good reminder, a good pep talk, and some good advice to help shift that perspective. A reminder that life is long and we are resilient.
with gratitude to netgalley and OrangeSky Audio for an advanced audio in exchange for an honest review
December 12, 2019
This book was such a joy, such an inspiration, and not in a toxic positivity sort of way. This is a collection of true stories about people who tried and often failed but they didn't die or stop trying. It came to me at just the right time (I'd quit my job at a university after 19 years). For how much she does for individuals and their daily lived experience through her work, Alexandra should be so much more famous and wealthy.
January 1, 2017
Everything Alexandra Franzen writes is GREAT. This was, of course, also GREAT. It's a collection of essays, some by Franzen and some by others, which she describes as "True stories of criticism, rejection, public humiliation, terrible Yelp reviews, and other experiences that basically make you want to die—and how to get through it". Beautiful. So many good stories! Loved it.
January 20, 2018
I've been a longtime reader and supporter of Alex, so I was really looking forward to this book and knew it would be right up my alley.
This book is incredibly encouraging, filled with tons of real-life stories—each paired with practical tips to get through your worst defeats. This is definitely a book I'll gift to others, as well as return to from time to time to reread.
This book is incredibly encouraging, filled with tons of real-life stories—each paired with practical tips to get through your worst defeats. This is definitely a book I'll gift to others, as well as return to from time to time to reread.
April 8, 2018
I've been a long time fan of Alex too, and her writing never disappoints. I love Alex's positivity and attitude to life, and I know this is a book I'll refer back to time and time again when I need a pep talk. It's a perfect gift for someone going through a tough time in their life or career, and a perfect gift for yourself too!
June 24, 2022
It's a good book if you're doing creative stuff or starting a business. It's not a book I needed, but I enjoyed it anyway.
August 11, 2020
You're Going To Survive is one of those books that every creative, artist, entrepreneur - i.e ANYONE who is any kind of maker, dreamer, or creator - should have on their bookshelf.
In fact, you should carry it in your back pocket because if you want to be a successful (as defined by you) artist, then at some point you will have to deal with failure, bad reviews, online trolls - all those "soul-crushing moments" that really define and shape our careers.
i loved this book from the moment i picked it up. Not only because i love a good inspirational story, but because this book is more than just about "inspiring" us through challenging times.
It's a call to action to persevere when met with obstacles and challenges us to answer the question, what are we going to do about it? Are we going to let soul-crushing shit win? Or are we going to do whatever it takes to survive? To get our work done and into the world?
Not only does this book help us feel less alone in our struggles, but it's also filled with survival tips, resources, and checklists to make sure that we have all the tools we need to survive. And THRIVE.
A simple idea with profound impact.
The only room for improvement i can see is more diversity & inclusivity in people chosen to share their stories. There are a few. But not enough. While, yes, we are connected in the struggle the manner, (in)equalities, and systems in which we experience them are different.
Perhaps, this could be book two in the series?!?! ;)
In fact, you should carry it in your back pocket because if you want to be a successful (as defined by you) artist, then at some point you will have to deal with failure, bad reviews, online trolls - all those "soul-crushing moments" that really define and shape our careers.
i loved this book from the moment i picked it up. Not only because i love a good inspirational story, but because this book is more than just about "inspiring" us through challenging times.
It's a call to action to persevere when met with obstacles and challenges us to answer the question, what are we going to do about it? Are we going to let soul-crushing shit win? Or are we going to do whatever it takes to survive? To get our work done and into the world?
Not only does this book help us feel less alone in our struggles, but it's also filled with survival tips, resources, and checklists to make sure that we have all the tools we need to survive. And THRIVE.
A simple idea with profound impact.
The only room for improvement i can see is more diversity & inclusivity in people chosen to share their stories. There are a few. But not enough. While, yes, we are connected in the struggle the manner, (in)equalities, and systems in which we experience them are different.
Perhaps, this could be book two in the series?!?! ;)
April 14, 2018
Exactly what I needed to read, right now
I stumbled across Alexandra online recently. I don't remember what I was searching for, but something about her captured my attention. I loved her blog so much, I reached out to her via email and introduced myself as a new fan. I shared with her that I am a 20-year journalist struggling with what direction I want to take next in my career. She warmly responded with a few suggested blog posts she wrote, as well as this book. I wasn't sure what to expect, and my ego didn't help either (I'm a professional writer too, I already know everything!) But, I was surprised to find that this book was exactly what I needed to feel validated in some of the fears and negative self talk I have been experiencing lately. I was totally engaged and became very inspired by the stories of others she shared, as well as her own wisdom and tips. My desire to work on a magazine idea was revived after reading this book. Alex's friendly and practical advice is relevant for anyone experiencing mental road blocks or fear of the unknown ... in any profession, not just writing. It's a super easy read and I promise you, you'll feel inspired and motivated after reading this.
I stumbled across Alexandra online recently. I don't remember what I was searching for, but something about her captured my attention. I loved her blog so much, I reached out to her via email and introduced myself as a new fan. I shared with her that I am a 20-year journalist struggling with what direction I want to take next in my career. She warmly responded with a few suggested blog posts she wrote, as well as this book. I wasn't sure what to expect, and my ego didn't help either (I'm a professional writer too, I already know everything!) But, I was surprised to find that this book was exactly what I needed to feel validated in some of the fears and negative self talk I have been experiencing lately. I was totally engaged and became very inspired by the stories of others she shared, as well as her own wisdom and tips. My desire to work on a magazine idea was revived after reading this book. Alex's friendly and practical advice is relevant for anyone experiencing mental road blocks or fear of the unknown ... in any profession, not just writing. It's a super easy read and I promise you, you'll feel inspired and motivated after reading this.
July 20, 2021
Thank you to Netgalley for the audio-arc of this book.
I really enjoyed this audiobook. It has some repetitive and redundant stories/advice but overall it was a good reminder that, well, you really are going to survive. I liked the stories that were included from other people who had experienced rejection or criticism and offered some just really good advice on how to deal with it. Most of us know the advice given in this book, but putting it into real world experiences is a good refresher.
My favorite part of the book was toward the end where the author talked about the Plan Z and what happens even after Plan Z. The examples and actual websites to look into other job opportunities or places for help was something that most books don't include. As I am starting to look into starting my own business, the website for coaching from entrepreneurs was relevant and something that I didn't know existed.
Overall, this is a definitely a book that I will recommend to my friends and even refer back to myself from time to time.
I really enjoyed this audiobook. It has some repetitive and redundant stories/advice but overall it was a good reminder that, well, you really are going to survive. I liked the stories that were included from other people who had experienced rejection or criticism and offered some just really good advice on how to deal with it. Most of us know the advice given in this book, but putting it into real world experiences is a good refresher.
My favorite part of the book was toward the end where the author talked about the Plan Z and what happens even after Plan Z. The examples and actual websites to look into other job opportunities or places for help was something that most books don't include. As I am starting to look into starting my own business, the website for coaching from entrepreneurs was relevant and something that I didn't know existed.
Overall, this is a definitely a book that I will recommend to my friends and even refer back to myself from time to time.
September 8, 2018
This book is amazing. It's written in a caring, loving tone with stories of everyday people overcoming various struggles. Regardless of the stage of life you're in, there's a little something for everyone to learn from this book. Good thing about the book is that it's easy to follow and read, so you can do this while waiting in the line at the post office, your morning metro commute, etc.
Alexandra Franzen is one of my favorite authors and this book just shows how much she cares about her readers and how she wants to spread positivity and help us reach our potential. I would highly recommend signing up for her e-newsletter too. My friend forwarded me her email once and I'm forever changed thanks to her kind words. Big thanks to her and hope you enjoy reading this book!
Alexandra Franzen is one of my favorite authors and this book just shows how much she cares about her readers and how she wants to spread positivity and help us reach our potential. I would highly recommend signing up for her e-newsletter too. My friend forwarded me her email once and I'm forever changed thanks to her kind words. Big thanks to her and hope you enjoy reading this book!
April 10, 2021
I don’t give reviews of books to often but this one is very good and easy to read and I feel anyone who is going through tough times especially in this Covid who might have lost their jobs or plans getting cancelled must read it.
The way book is written is like a good friend giving you advice and comforting you on how you can get through your tough times. I have only good to talk about this book.
I recommend this book to anyone but if you are someone who is going through tough times then I feel it’s a must for you.
The way book is written is like a good friend giving you advice and comforting you on how you can get through your tough times. I have only good to talk about this book.
I recommend this book to anyone but if you are someone who is going through tough times then I feel it’s a must for you.
January 14, 2018
What a gorgeous book! I read constantly but this is the first book I have bothered to review. The rest have been great but this one really spoke to me. It seemed like I was meant to read it at this point. Lots of fab advice and pick me ups. I will re-read this one over again as it's full of tips and tricks to get your self esteem and focus back on track.
I really loved it. Well done to the author :-)
I really loved it. Well done to the author :-)
March 28, 2018
This book showed up at the perfect time for me and was much like a series of comforting, funny, morale-boosting phone calls with a good friend. I started reading in the wake of rejection and kept reading because I realized that I would be coming back to this book again and again, and wanted total immersion the first time around. An excellent resource for those situations when the universe demands that we flex our resiliency muscles.
August 8, 2021
This was a good listen and it came at a good time for me after the last two years. I needed a reminder that will get past this all both professionally and privately.
This was my first exposure to the author and I will look out for more.
The narration was very good.
I was given an advance copy by netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely my own.
This was my first exposure to the author and I will look out for more.
The narration was very good.
I was given an advance copy by netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely my own.
December 18, 2017
I really enjoyed this. I think there is a lot anyone can get out of the great stories here and Alex's commentary, even though it is really geared to those pursuing unconventional/online careers.
October 20, 2019
This book is really good. For anyone who is depressed, sad, anxious, stressed, pressured, helpless, going over the edge, or lost. This book will help, and you will really be ok, so hang in there :)
July 5, 2020
Read this review and others at https://www.readingforsanity.com/2020...
October 24, 2021
*received for free from netgalley for honest review* Pretty good, and not annoying motivational book
August 12, 2021
This audiobook was a nice easy listen that was broken up into manageable chapters. It’s a collection of tales about various peoples setbacks, and how they not only got through them but flourished. This acts as a reminder that not only can we survive, we can flourish and thrive too.
It sets itself apart from a lot of self-help books as it’s not about how everything in life is sunshine and rainbows. It accepts that some things are less than great, but reassures you that you can survive them all.
Big thanks to NetGalley and OrangeSky Audio for the copy of this book.
It sets itself apart from a lot of self-help books as it’s not about how everything in life is sunshine and rainbows. It accepts that some things are less than great, but reassures you that you can survive them all.
Big thanks to NetGalley and OrangeSky Audio for the copy of this book.
July 28, 2019
Alexandra Franzen is a wonderful writer, and this is a beautiful little book. Heart warming and heart felt - I'll definitely read it again. Highly recommended.
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November 22, 2017Read as research for an interview with Alex.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews