An encouraging and uplifting resource explains how a fundamental change in one's perspective can promote a more fulfilling life while breaking down barriers to personal happiness, in a guide that discusses such challenges as confidence, fear, and creativity. Original.
Robert Holden, Ph.D., is the Director of The Happiness Project and Success Intelligence. His innovative work has been featured on Oprah, Good Morning America, and media worldwide. Robert coaches leaders in business, education, politics and healthcare. His clients include Dove and the “Real Beauty Campaign,” and also Virgin and The Body Shop. Robert is a student of A Course in Miracles. He is author of the best selling books: Happiness NOW!, Shift Happens!, Authentic Success (formerly titled Success Intelligence) and Be Happy. Robert also hosts a weekly show on Hay House Radio called Shift Happens! Website: RobertHolden.org.
The title snagged my attention since I use "Shift Happens" as a tagline for my new website. Happily, the material Holden presents is upbeat and somewhat similar to the book I'm working on, but not so similar as to dissuade me from my project.
Occasionally, finding ideas with which I'm already familiar dampens my enthusiasm for a book. In this case however, I felt as if another teacher spoke into my life to encourage and remind me of wise principles I'm choosing to embrace more and more.
"Defenses are made of fear. When you defend yourself, you become a fugitive on the run from fear. ...This is true of every defense mechanism, be it cynicism, avoidance, hiding or denial. .. It is a myth that defenses make you strong. You cannot be defensive and be free. You cannot suppress feelings and feel whole. You cannot hide wounds and fell safe. You cannot shut down and shine. You cannot be cynical and inspired. You cannot side with fear and also be open to love."
I had low expectations for this book and was pleasantly surprised as I listened to it. There were plenty of gems hidden in it that really made me stop, think and evaluate life. Although most of the ideas were not new to me I felt the author did an excellent job of explaining some of the principles in a way that was easy to understand. In particular I found some of the ideas from Eastern philosophy seemed to click into place as I listened. This book might be getting a high rating because it was a case of reading it at the right time!
I would give this book five stars if the author had not chosen to use a few miserable cliches towards the end of the book. The first two-thirds of the book was insightful and contained much wisdom. I love the book enough to buy it but because of some glaring errors, could not recommend it to others.
Needed some short, positive messages to listen to while doing other things. This did the trick, sometimes insightful, sometimes cliché. Overall not bad.
What a great, logical, feel good book. Practical advice for life. I think parents should give this to their older kids, too. Philosophy "lite". Love it and will read it again.