Showing posts with label psychology. Show all posts
Showing posts with label psychology. Show all posts

Wednesday 4 January 2023

Do It For You: How to Stop People-Pleasing and Find Peace

 Fantastic insights




Summary


Imagine living a peaceful life...
One where you move through your days confidently and authentically...
Doing your thing without worrying about how you'll be received...
That's the life I always dreamed was possible, but I had no idea know how to
get there. I felt trapped in a constant loop of people-pleasing, toxic
relationships and burnout, and simply didn't have the time for my own dreams.
Until my life came crumbling down around me and I had to rebuild it from
the ground up. 

Do It For You is the collection of all the wisdom gleaned from this process.
It will open up new doors to creating your very best life, offering insights,
straight talk and practical exercises. This book is an interactive manual
meant to empower you to break free from the habit of people-pleasing,
remember your worthiness and find true inner peace.


My review


I was very keen to read Do It For You: How to Stop People-Pleasing
and Find Peace. The book didn't let me down! It gave fantastic 
insights.

The author had a great knowledge about the topic and she showed
some interesting cases.  

So if you like to read about practical psychology and self help, don't
hesitate to chose this fantastic book.

I give with lots of pleasure a 5 star rating for this amazing work! 



Booktasters


I receive a free copy via Booktasters and the author as well in return of 
my honest review, which I did. 

Tuesday 15 November 2022

Wellness Wellplayed - The power of a playlist

It was fun to read this book.


Summary

Music is powerful. The right song at the right time can make you smile,
cry, dance, or breathe a contented “ah.” 

In Wellness, Wellplayed, music therapist Jennifer Buchanan shows us
how to develop and use music playlists with purpose, as a bridge
to something deeper within ourselves—and a way to address our
human need to feel, create, and connect.

It has 152 pages, Paperback

Wellness Wellplayed was published September 10, 2021





My review


It was fun to read this wonderful book! It's a splendid mix between
sciences and personal stories. 

The book gives new views about how to use music well. I think I'll
listen to some playlists now :-)

Anyway, I enjoyed reading this book and I would recommend this
to all people who love music.

I give a 5 star rating for this pleasure read.


Booktasters


I want to thank Booktasters and the author Jennifer Buchanan for
providing me a free copy in return for my honest review
which I did. 

Saturday 28 May 2022

Trauma Surviror's Guide to Coping With Panic Attacks

Book review : Trauma Surviror's Guide to Coping With Panic Attacks

Author: Nicole Dake


An interesting book!





Summary


Panic attacks that result from PTSD and cPTSD can be debilitating. Research
unfortunately falls short, telling those suffering from panic attacks to just
"wait for them to be over." Over the years I have learned to cope, first
preparing for panic attacks, and then calming down during a panic attack.
I am sharing these coping skills with others who have PTSD, so they can
go from being survivors to warriors too.


My review


It took a while to read the book completely although it wasn't a big one,
however the topic really interested me much. 

The author has used her own experiences which I found very interesting. 
It is a clear book, fluently written and understandable.

I recommend this book to all who want to know more about how to deal
with panic attacks. 

Without any doubts I give a 5 star rating for this interesting book!


The author


Nicole Dake is a blogger, author and mom of three, living in
Broomfield, CO. Nicole graduated from University of Colorado,
Boulder with a BA in Psychology in 2008. Nicole writes about health
and wellness for moms and kids, with a focus on whole person wellness.
In her spare time, she enjoys swimming, yoga and playing Magic
the Gathering.



Booktasters


I want to thank booktasters and the author as well, for providing me a
free copy in return of my honest review, which I did. 

Thursday 21 April 2022

Advantages of reading books

Recently, I discovered a very interesting article about the advantages
of reading books. 

For me the main reason of reading books (and reviewing) is to learn
new things, to get new insights and for making my English better,
because my native language is Dutch. Or doing some armchair travelling
with the memoirs. It just makes me happy 😊

It was a bit quiet on this blog, due to some other busy things but
hopefully I can pick up the thread again and talk nice blog posts/reviews/
author in the picture posts or about other things.








👉 Thank you very much for your support and if you have any - book related -
ideas, feel free to let me know.

Meanwhile, find the article on next link: 10 Great Advantages of Reading Boooks

Keep on reading!





The picture was taken by me in the Museum Plantin Moretus in 2021 in
Antwerpen, Belgium. 


Monday 7 March 2022

Living in Joyful Resilience: A Roadmap for Navigating Life’s Ups and Downs

 Well worth reading


Summary


The book is a Call-to-Action blueprint for creating recurring joy and stronger
resilience in your life. It provides thought-provoking research into the difference
between being merely resilient and being joyfully resilient. Drawing from psychology,
education and neuroscience, the book explains how joyfulness contributes to the
responses that enable us to bounce back from adversity, thriving not just surviving.
Included are resilience stories from the author and ten contributors that will resonate
with your own life and inspire you.







My review

I really enjoyed this book. You feel the passion of the author in the way she tells.
It also was well worth reading from the beginning till the end. 

It's good to see things written down from another point of view than yours. So I
absolutely want to recommend this book to anyone who is interested in the 
psychology of habits (and changing habits).

Of course I give with lots of pleasures a 5 star rating, and I hope the author will
write some more books about this topic because she's really passionate about it.



The author


Kate Olson is an NLP & Reiki Practitioner & Trainer, Life Coach, Hypnotherapist,
Author, Speaker and Radio Host. She offers online courses, retreats and events,
as well as, her coaching. Kate likes to call herself a “Change Adventure Navigator”,
because she loves guiding clients through obstacles and adversity to find their path,
purpose and peace. With a background in psychology, she chose to become a life
coach and hypnotherapist in 2015, pursuing certifications in other modalities to
best serve her clients. A Washington native, she currently resides in
Southern Arizona. Her love of books began in grade school and remains a
passion that feeds her soul. Pursuing her passions is a priority in her life and
she loves traveling, exploring and new adventures. Creativity is a must and
she tries to nurture it in herself and, others. 

Booktasters


I want to thank Booktasters and the author as well for this splendid reading chance
in return for my honest review, which I have done. 

Monday 29 November 2021

Bookreview: Win Your Life with a Permanent Fix

A splendid and clear book! 


The Book

177 pages, ebook

Published April 4, 2018






Summary

Born in a small village in India, the author was expected to work
and live in that town. However, interest in self-development supported
by formal education in India, Australia, and Canada, led him to Canada
and also helped him live a successful life in North America. However,
there was a feeling of a missing link – a feeling that there was something
missing in life. Having been born into a mystical tradition helped him
understand mysticism from the right sources. Over a two decade
long practice in Dhyan and experimenting with more than a
hundred different types of Eastern meditations helped him improve his
mental balance. But that still did not help to resolve what this missing
link was and how to complete this link.

Research in philosophy, clinical psychology with a primary emphasis
on logotherapy, helped him resolve the missing link. The author found
that it does not matter what your belief regarding God or your religious
affiliation is, what matters is whether your practices help you to control
your seeds of aggression, addiction, and depression. It does not matter
what philosophy you follow, what matters is whether that philosophy is
leading you to a meaningful life. This book is intended to help you to
win your life through your unique contributions and make permanent
changes, one person – you – at a time.

My Review

Besides (royal) history I'm always very interested in psychology, 
especially Industrial and Organizational psychology. 

Although this book is more about individual changes and chances.
It is a good reminder for us all. Even, I noted some interesting
advices.

For me the book was very clear, not floaty and the author knew his
stuff! He gave lots of interesting examples. 

I certainly would recommend this splendid "Win Your Life with a Permanent Fix"
to all who are looking for a change in their lives. 

Therefore I give without no doubt a 5 star rating for this very open minded book. 

The author

Chetan Prabhu Desai speaks on topics such as ‘How to find meaning at any
workplace’, and ‘How to make your business environment where every employee
wins’. He worked in managerial positions in aerospace and electronics
organizations, including in Berkshire Hathaway Group. His education includes
an MBA from the Schulich School of Business of York University in Canada,
and Master of Engineering in Systems engineering at RMIT in Australia.
As an expert, He appeared on 100+ channels including Fox News,
iHeart, BizTalkRadio, Salem Media, CKLW.



Booktasters


I really want to thank Booktasters and the author for giving me this splendid
reading and review chance!! 


Wednesday 28 July 2021

Bookreview: Incremental Courage

 "What a fantastic memoir"


Summary


In this work, the author shares a number of challenging situations and experiences 
that almost broke him at an early age. To move forward, he had to lean on his faith,
unlearn some stuff, consider a new perspective, be vulnerable and develop the
courage to confront and slay his demons. 







My review

I'm very sorry the reading and reviewing process took a while but what an amazing
book. I absolutely liked it, although it sometimes was shocking. 

It's more than a memoir and it brought a lots of mixed feelings in me. However I
really want to thank the author for sharing his experiences with us -the readers.

I would recommend this book to all readers who love a fantastic memoir!

Without any doubt I want to gave a 5 star rating to this wonderful book! 


The author


Christopher Warren was a combat veteran of nearly 25 years in the US Army. 
He had served in high-profile assignments including commander, speechwriter,
aide-de-camp, congressional liaison, Pentagon staff officer and human resources
officer. After retiring he served as a chief of staff and a senior policy advisor
for federal executive branch agencies.


The Book


Incremental Courage was published on 24 February 2021 and it contains 205 pages.


Monday 28 June 2021

Bookreview: All in the same boat

 

Very interesting book! 


Summary

On a submarine crew, officers and sailors work together in cramped spaces
and challenging conditions to accomplish complex missions with no room for
failure.

As Rennie moved into leadership positions in the business world, he found that
the basic underlying principles for success at sea also led to high-performing
teams on land.

Leaders succeed when they create a unified team with a singular mission -
when all employees perform like they are all in the same boat. 




My Review


I enjoyed this book very much as well as the applicable book cover. 

The author tells fantastic about his own experiences in the navy, which
he compares to situations in a business.

I read many books about leadership and about Industrial and Organizational
psychology but this one is special due to the personal stories of the author.
He also makes great links and argumentations with for example facts and 
figures.This book helps business leaders with clear hints. 

I would recommend "All in the same boat" to all the business leaders who
want inspiration for the problems in their firm. 

I give without any doubt a 5 star rating to this very interesting book! 




The author

Jon is a business leader, author, podcaster and speaker. He is co-founder,
president and CEO of Peak Demand Inc., a manufacturer of critical
infrastructure products for electric utilities. He served as a U.S. naval officer
on nuclear submarines and has close to 30 years leading industrial businesses
in North America.

He had a singular mission: to build a world with better bosses. His hope is that
his books inspire you to look at leadership in a new light. 





Booktasters

I received a free copy in return for my honest review via Booktasters and
the author. 

The author was very friendly and very correct as well as Booktasters. 





All in the same boat is published on May 2nd. 2021. It is available on Kindle
and in Paperback on Amazon. 

Friday 30 April 2021

Bookreview: Unparalleled

 

"What an exciting science fiction story!"



Summary

Waking up in a strange house, with no memory of how or why he is there,
Stuart Milton finds his life has changed beyond recognition. His pregnant 
wife is missing, but his only living relative, his brother, is incapable of 
substantiating his claim.

Lost in a world of confusing that is spiralling out of his control, Stuart finds
temporary salvation in a psychiatrist assigned to his case.

This enthralling journey takes Stuart to the edge of sanity, culminating in
an unparalleled climax of kidnapping, betrayal and murder. 






My Review

When I started reading Unparalleled I was immediately into the story and I really
wanted to know what would come next.

The characters are all deepened out very well, the science fiction story is written
with lots of twist and mystery. I absolutely enjoyed reading.

Unparalleled makes the impossible possible and it takes the reader on a journey
during the existential crisis of the main character. 

I certainly will recommend Unparalleled to everybody who loves science fiction
stories. I give with lots of pleasure a five star rating to this excellent book!

I hope there will be a sequel soon!

The Author

D.S. Smith was born in Bolton, England. At the age of 20 he joined the RAF
embarking on a career that spanned nine years. Following this he took a
degree in Biological Sciences and spent 7 years at the Natural History Museum
in London where he worked as Scientific Officer. 

The amazing people he has met and the places he has visited throughout his life
are a major inspiration for his writing. 


About the book

Unparalleled is the first novel of D.S. Smith, it reached number 1 on Amazon's 
bestseller list for SciFi. In August 2019 it received the Discovered Novel Award. 


Thank you!


I received a free copy of Unparalleled via BookTasters and the author! Thank you
very much!!! 

Wednesday 14 April 2021

Author in the picture blogpost: Susan J. Witt


Recently, I read and reviewed the book Energy of Love from Susan J Witt
 which I really liked (check my review on this link). 


I felt immediately that this was not just one of the self-help books. So, I became
curious to know the author Susan J. Witt better. That’s why I asked you if you
wanted to participate in a new Author in the picture blogpost. Luckily you said yes.
So, here are the questions.






The Questions


Who is Susan J Witt?

My story is not dramatic, and I did not have a near death experience that created a
great awakening for me, but instead my story is much like what others go through
as life happens to them.

At the age of 16 years old I became a Christian and proclaimed Jesus Christ as my
Lord and Saviour. I later married and devoted my life to raising two beautiful children.
We raised our children as Lutheran and for 16 years I was committed to being
the best mom possible.

It all started to fall apart when my youngest received his driver’s license.   
It happened over night that I was no longer needed as a mother. This took me
like a storm and left a big hole in my heart. I did not know who Susan was anymore
and after 16 years I had to find myself.

After a few years of wallowing in these thoughts my life took a drastic down-turn
of depression and self-hate. I started to believe I was a horrible person, and my
marriage was almost over. One day my husband introduced me to Finerminds
by Brian Johnson. 

This was a daily email subscription of self-empowered material and my first
exposure to the power of our thoughts. Finerminds introduced me to an array of
books on self-help and that’s when it turned into years of being consumed by
learning all areas of self-help and self-empowerment. During this 5-year
period I learned Yoga, Meditation, Law of Attraction, many areas of healing
energy, crystal energy, oracle card readings, and I became a Reiki Master.
All of this brought me out of depression and gave me self-empowerment
to make changes, but it did not make me a happy person. My life was
 so absorbed in learning that it took over my life completely.

One day in April 2014 everything changed. I was doing what I always did
at that time, which was reading more material on my computer, when suddenly
a very loud interruptive voice said to me, “SELF-LOVE”. With these simple
two words I was downloaded with a knowledge and knowing that Self-Love
was the true key to happiness. Suddenly I just knew that all the information
for years that I was consuming was truly meant for a greater purpose and
that God finally gave me the answer of Self-Love AND my life mission!

It was easy for me to know what I needed to do because I had years of
learning and experience in self-help. God made it easy for me to link all
of it to Self-Love. I was going to help millions of people realize this too
by writing an actual how-to program to self-empower and self-love.
But what others have NEVER done in all that I have read, I was going to
tell it quite differently. I was going to plant the seed of LOVE and show
people how Love is connected to all self-help, Law of Attraction,
Quantum theories, and most importantly how Love is who we
really are at the deepest spiritual level!

A year later I created a book called Energy of Love, A How-To Program
to Self-Empowerment and Self-Love. This was not just a program but a
complete learning experience from the ground up. Non-religious and extremely
easy to read and understand for all levels. The first half of Energy of Love is
the learning, and the 2nd half is the how-to. The detail and flow of how
Energy of Love connects the dots to link God with Science is mastery.
I can say this because it was God that sat with me during every second
of writing this profound book. Energy of Love was changed a few times
as I added and edited it to make it even more complete and it was
published in March of 2018.

In 2020 another life changing event happened to me. I received the 2020
Next Generation Indie Book Award. This is proclaimed the largest international book
award program for indie writers and Energy of Love place as a finalist in
the Self-Help Category!

Today I have a large social media following on all platforms, and I use this to
continue daily to spread the message of Self-Love and my book Energy of Love. 
I have started another book that is presently unnamed. This book will be the
next level of human after Self-Love and that is learning to live in the energy
and consciousness of Unconditional Love. God speaks to me when I write,
and this book is not ready for humanity right now because there is so much
healing to be done first and especially cultivating Self-Love. I have no timeframe
for this new book but write as God gives me the messages and know it will be
ready when the human is ready.

Can you say something more about your book(s)?

Energy of Love is available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble website.
It is offered in Paperback, Hardcover and E-book. It is important to point out
that Energy of Love is a life changing program that has many thought
provoking concepts and ideas in every chapter. This book is not meant to be
read in a weekend, but to be consumed slowly and let each piece sit with
your own beliefs. As I explain in the book the power of change can only
come from YOU. I give several website references throughout the
chapters so you can stop and do your own research. Energy of Love
plants seeds for you to research. I can give you several examples,
but it is your own research that gains the strength and empowerment
to make real life changes!





On your site is mentioned that you are a Reiki Master.
Can you tell us what Reiki is? And how it can help people?

Reiki is an immensely powerful healing modality that I channel from the
Divine Source of Love. I believe Reiki is one of the most powerful sources of
“hands-on” healing because it does not come from me, but from God.
The healing energy is channelled through my hands, to the person receiving
the healing. I can focus on a specific emotional or physical issue, or we can
simply ask for peace to be delivered in the session. Reiki is for everyone
and a beautiful peaceful healing energy. I have seen profound healing
in the years of administering Reiki!  Distance Reiki is a way you can channel
the healing to someone in another location, and I have found this to be just
as beneficial as if the person were in the same room!  For first-time clients
I always give a free 20-minute Distance Reiki session so they can
receive a taste of its power.

Do you do other things besides writing and Reiki?

I also do Oracle card readings. This is not like Tarot readings, but it is
messages coming in from your Angels or any kind of spiritual being.
Oracle readings help people to communicate with the heavenly beings
that are assigned to help us in this human life. The readings can be very
general, or you can ask for specific guidance on an issue. I want to make
it clear that my readings do not for-tell the future. The future changes
every second based on your thoughts and feelings, so the reading can help
you to see the direction you are going, and it is especially helpful
to have awareness of your own energy at the moment of the reading.

 

Where do you get your inspiration from?

My inspiration comes from an inner knowing when I get into a place of quiet and
peace. We all have gifts that surface when we can quiet the mind. My gift is Clair
cognizance, which is “the ability of a person to acquire psychic knowledge
without knowing how or why they knew it”.  I sometimes get revelations
or downloads of information when I write, read, (like the day in April 2014),
or even driving. Mostly when I start writing the words start flowing and the
knowledge and power come out of me.

I have a daily meditation practice that I am very faithful to and more
than likely addicted! I have often thought about teaching meditation
because it is so important to the mind, body, and soul.
I offer a free 32-minute meditation on my website so please check that out!

Another daily practice is staying away from ego-based thoughts (separation and fear).
I constantly monitor my thoughts through self-awareness so I can work on being in
the highest level of consciousness. My goals are to try and always stay in the energy of love.

On my social media I love sharing other peoples’ work and their spiritual guidance.
Much of what I share on social media are who I follow and get my spiritual
guidance and inspiration.




Do you plan things in life or is it more going with the flow?

I feel it is important to do both. By knowing and living in your authentic truth,
you can set the correct frequency and vibrational match to the future of
your dreams. Going with the flow is getting out of your own way and
allowing the Universe to bring you naturally what you desire.
I always say that even if you do not know what you desire just focus on
the energy of love, because then you cannot get it wrong!

What is your most important aim in life?

Helping millions to awaken to self-love and cultivate living a life of
being your authentic self. This mission will be with me until I leave this Earth!

Do you sport or do you follow a health routine?

Over the years I have been mindful about my body, and I practice a diet
that is healthy and works for me. From my spiritual perspective it is
important to eat and exercise according to your own physical needs.
This is very personal and specific for everyone, so I do not feel it is
right or important to give my routine. Your body speaks to you every second,
so listen to what it is telling you!





I like to listen to music all day. Do you prefer silence or music and which one?

I feel music can be so inspirational and it can take you into just about any
kind of mood. I listen to music daily, and I also do several guided meditations
throughout the day.  There are many times when I crave silence too!


I always end with the same question:
What are your wishes / dreams for you and the world?

Well, if I could answer that honestly most people would not understand
the language. To keep it simple, I dream of living in a higher dimensional
world where the consciousness level is LOVE or above. A world that has no
conditions on love, and we can just give love freely. We do not judge and
that our love comes without attachments and expectations.  
Ah, that is my next book….


Do you want to know more about this fab author?


Check her website: www.lovejustissjw.com


Thank you! 



Thank you very much for participating Susan! Wish you lots of success with your
coming book(s) and keep us updated! 

Tuesday 6 April 2021

Bookreview: Smart 10-Minute Productivity Habits

How to Boost Your Productivity and Achieve
Your Goals


" A very practical book."


Summary

Do you often marvel at how a day can slip by without your having 
accomplished anything worthwhile? Do you fret at how you never 
seem to achieve the targets that you have set and wonder at how you 
can never get down to crossing off the items on your to-do lists? 

In Smart 10-Minute Productivity Habits the author shares a collection
of 48 actionable tips and strategies to transform your unproductive day
into one where you successfully checked off items on your to-do lists to
accomplish objectives that are meaningful to you. 

My review

I always try to do a lot of things during a day, but I sometimes never get
finished a job. That's why I wanted to know more about Time Management.

"Smart 10-Minute Productivity Habits - How to Boost Productivity and
Achieve Your Goals" is a very practical book with clear, well written chapters.

It isn't boring and it is inspirational. I'm happy I could read this book because
I learned lots of tricks and tips. Perhaps I'm going to adapt them in my daily
life.

I would recommend this book to all who want to know more about 
Time Management. I give this book with pleasure a 5 * rating.




The Author

Smart 10-minute Productivity Habits - How to Boost Your Productivity 
and Achieve Your Goals is written by Joann Lindsey.

BookSirens


I received a free copy of this book via BookSirens. I want to thank them for this
excellent reading chance. 

Wednesday 24 March 2021

Author in the Picture: Darlene Corbett

A while ago, I got the chance to read and review a book via Booktasters. It was
Stop Depriving the World of You - A Guide for Getting Unstuck, written by
Darlene Corbett. You can re-read my review on this link

I was very fascinated by her book and her unstuck theory that I wanted to ask her
for the author in the picture post. 

So, here are the questions and answers for and by Darlene Corbett. 





Questions and answers


How did you start writing? Did you for ex. study something special?

I fell in love with writing in my fifties. I took no courses, but I constantly hone
my writing skills. I have developed a style of writing that is conversational.

My first article was published in 2011 when the Massachusetts’
National Association of Social Workers invited me to write about hypnosis
for their monthly publication. I was scared to death. My initial fear is that
it would be rejected. Fortunately, it was not. A friend who did not know I was
writing it, let me know had read it and thought it was good.

Next I wrote for an online forum that focused on aging. The editor liked my
articles. Some of the audience did not like my message of having more choices
as we age, but that is a different story. My confidence continued to grow,
and I began writing articles on LinkedIn. I wrote a few when Huffington Post
gave a platform for those who wished to publish on their website. Unless,
your article was elevated, you could not locate the author.

 Eventually, through a newsletter, they found their way in front of an
administrator of a small publishing company who introduced me to the
publisher, and my book was published several months later. Along the way,
I began to write articles for Sixty and Me and a few on Thrive Global. Finally,
BizCatalyst360 reached out to me  and invited me to write for them.
Within a short period of time, I went from Columnist to Featured Contributor
for their online media platform.


Can you tell me more about your writings?

Most of my writing is around subjects of personal development since
I am a therapist. The beauty of my professional identity is that it crosses over
many issues in life. I have also begun to take a stab at writing some fiction around a
historical figure. It has been much fun to try to get into their heads and develop a
short story around them.


Do you prefer to write/work alone?

I write alone. I would not be opposed to write with a group, but time
for me is the essence.


Do you have a special daily routine?

No, I fit in writing when I have time or make time if I want to finish an article.


What is your biggest inspiration?

I do not know. I believe in God and feels he inspires me.
An idea will suddenly pop into my head. It could be around a person,
event, or something I forgot about and try to resurrect. I am blessed that so far
I have not experienced writer’s block.


How did you start with the unstuck theory?

I worked with a strategy coach on how to hone my very broad message of
positivity. She suggested this, and being someone who helps to get people
unstuck for a living, it resonated with me.


You do a lot of professional things. Can you explain more and which
one do you like the most or don’t you have any preferences?

I love all of my professional experiences. As I get older, I would like to cut
back on my therapy practice and increase my speaking and writing endeavors.
I will always be a therapist which is my foundation for everything else.


Do you like sport or do you do other important things for your health?

I exercise at least three to four times a week. The treadmill  has been my main
source, but as I get older, I have added other forms of exercise such
TRX for my upper body.


How did you spend your time during the Corona time?

I have been very blessed to be able to make a living with the help of platforms
that bring virtual therapy to the world. My clients are fine with it. I prefer to see
people versus teletherapy. I had been planning to close my practice in eastern
Massachusetts, and fortunately, virtual therapy has helped me usher into this next
chapter. Again, I am blessed that I have these tools. Other than going out far less,
my life has not changed except for not having an arduous commute.


Do you like to learn new things?

I remain a lifelong learner and will continue to be so all the days of my life.
Like many writers, I am a voracious reader. Before the internet, I used to keep
a dictionary by my side to research words that went beyond my vocabulary.
When I leave this earth, I hope to be reading a good book or writing one.


What are your plans/wishes for the future for you and the world?

I plan on continuing all of my endeavors. Again, I want to increase speaking
and writing.  I may slow down, but as the great Confucius said, “It does not matter
how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.”





Thank you 


Darlene, I want to thank you very much for taking your time to answer my 
Questions. I wish you lots of success with all your projects and keep me
updated :-) 


👉 If you want to know more about Darlene Corbett, please check her website
on this link.

Wednesday 24 February 2021

Bookreview: Energy of Love

A How To Program To Self-Empowerment
and Self-Love


What an interesting read!


Summary

Energy of Love is an updated, new age book that is an actual "how to"
program to loving yourself. Self-Love is the absolute key to happiness
and giving love!

This is not egotistical love but a love that gives self-empowerment. The dynamics 
of this book are unique because it shows you how science is profoundly linked 
to spirituality and self-love. 

Energy of Love will explicitly show you how science research now supports
that we indeed have a creator source of pure love and that love is the energy
that heals at the cellular level. 

Energy of Love includes many new ideas and techniques that will take you
to self-love. It introduces a powerful new method to release past trauma, hurtful
emotions and forgiveness.  Don't let your past own you!




My Review

What an interesting read! I love to read books about psychological "stuff"
and I was pleasantly surprised by this work. 

It was clearly written, easy to understand, and I also liked the layout of the
book. 

I'm sure I'll re-read this book often to use some tips and tricks. That's why
I would like to recommend "Energy of Love" to anyone who is interested
in psychological matters, in changes and in self-help. It's not one of the
books. 

I give with pleasure a 5 * rating!  


The Author

Energy of Love is written by Susan J. Witt and it is an international winning 
book and finalist in the category of self-help. In her mail to me she also told a bit
about her book, which I really like! 

Read more about her and her book on her
website on this link. I would love to read more books of her! 


BookTasters

I received a free copy via the author and BookTasters in exchange for my 
honest review. Thank you very much for this wonderful reading chance! 


Source picture: Book Cover 

Saturday 20 February 2021

Bookreview: High and Low

How I hiked Away From Depression
Across Scotland 


"What a fantastic read." 


Summary

Keith Foskett refused to let his dark mood define his limitations. Unknowingly
suffering with depression, he took to hiking the wilds of Scotland to face his
inner demons. From the craggy Highlands of the Cape Wrath Trail and the
West Highland Way, to the canals criss-crossing the low country, 600 miles
of unforgiving hiking terrain called his name. 

Keith repositioned his compass to what really matters in life. Pushing his
mind and body past breaking point, his journey could set a brave new course
coping with depression.

Battling ferocious weather, the ubiquitous Scottish midge, strange-sounding
local delicacies and substandard TV sets, this is one man's battle to conquer the
wilds of Scotland and his own psychological demons. 






My Review

First of all: What a fantastic read.  The author tells in clear, short chapters
about his walks in Scotland. He also is very honest about his struggles in
his mind and in his body as well!

It read easily and it was written very well. I also loved the historical
knowledge of the author.

I recommend this book to all people who want to throw their struggle
away by walking. Therefore, I would like to give a 5 * rating for this
lovely book! 

The author

Keith Foskett has hiked thousands of miles and holds a deep respect for
outdoor spaces of this world. Great Outdoors magazine shortlisted his book 
for several awards, and his blog won the Go Outdoors best Blog award. 



We love memoirs


I received a free copy from the We love memoirs group - the most
friendliest group on Facebook. 


Picture: Book Cover

Thursday 11 February 2021

Bookreview: Primed for Revenge

 

"What a fantastic thriller!"


Summary


Practicing law in a large parnership, Sydney Jones was primed for making
partner. Then her life turned upside down after a disagreement with her boss
at Birdman and Birdman. Leaving the office, she was swiftly kidnapped and
taken to her assailants' hideaway, beaten and raped.

With no memory of whom she was put at her disadvantage with her captors.
She was delivered to her home. Not recognizing her former living quarters.

Piecing together the reasons for her kidnapping brought her into contact with
people, some she could trust and others risky. 

Tapped from crime once nudged her toward caution for something afoul was
going on at Birdman and Birdman. She prepared for a fight. With a vision of
fury she made a chilling decision - never to be a victim again.



My Review

From time to time, I enjoy reading a thriller and the author again didn't let
me down.

Primed for Revenge is the first book in these wonderful psychological thriller
series of Sydney Jones.

It is a fantastic mix between storytelling and dialogues, which I really like!
It is written very clear, easy reading and with great characters. I absolutely
wanted to know the end of the story so I read it twice :-)

I would recommend "Primed for Revenge" to all people who enjoy reading
(psychological) thrillers. 

To conclude: I want to give "Primed for Revenge" with lots of pleasure a
5* rating! 

The author 


Carolyn M. Bowen is a wonderful author who wrote her books with lots
of suspense. More about her in the author in the picture post of
10 February 2021 on this link



Source picture: Book cover

Saturday 6 February 2021

Bookreview: Stop Depriving the World of you

 A guide for getting unstuck


Summary

Do you believe everyone is capable of getting "Unstuck"? Do you 
recognize your own uniqueness? Do you wonder if you have abilities
which may lie deep within? If you do not, once you read this stimulating
book, you'll be convinced otherwise.

Stop Depriving the World of You simiply and creatively provides
exercises for you to begin the journey of self-discovery. Soon you will
come in contact with your own unique talents and gifts. 

In addition the D.R.E.A.M technique will help you to delve deeper
into your inner being and explore uncharted territories. By using the
tools offered in this book, you will be pleasantly surprised by what
you might uncover.






My Review


Psychology and especially Industrial and Organization Psychology 
interest me very much, that's why I wanted to read Stop Depriving
the World of You written by a real coach:  Darlene Corbett. 

While reading this book, I felt that the author wasn't just telling a story,
it was written very clear with lots of experience and knowledge. She
explains this with the unstuck theory. 

I liked the clear chapters and the interesting examples, just as the 
quotes she used. 

I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to move forward
in his or her life. It is with lots of pleasure, I give Stop Depriving
the World of You a 5 star rating! 

The author

Darlene Corbett is a Professional Speaker, Author and Licensed
Therapist/Coach. Her expertise is helping people get "Unstuck". 
Darlene is a high-content speaker with an engaging style. Audiences
leave with much enthusiasm and the tools to begin the process of
getting unstuck. She believes it is a privilege to be able to serve 
people one-on-one as well as to a larger audience.

Darlene has been in the people business for over thirty years and has 
been a featured expert. Because of her Wealth of experience which
she feels honored to have acquired, Darlene decided to begin writing
and many of her blogs can be found on DarleneCorbett.com, 
LindedIn and Thrive Global. 


BookTasters


I received a free copy via BookTasters and the author. Thank you very 
much for giving me this splendid reading chance! I would love to read
more books from this excellent author! 



Source picture: Book Cover 

Sunday 10 January 2021

Individual Advantages: Find the I in Team

 written by Dr. Bran Smith & Mary Smith


Summary

After helping over 18,000 CEO's, entrepreneurs, managers, and employees 
worldwide, Dr. Brian Smith shares his knowledge of creating great leaders
in his first book of The I in Team Series.

Dr Smith's approach to teaching is unparalleled, utilizing a combination of
personal storytelling and philosophy to present the reader with a meticulous
way of achieving prosperity.

Designed to engage and empower current and aspiring leaders with
information to find individual success, this book does not adopt a "one size
fits all" methodology. 




My Review

As I'm very interested in the psychological aspect of human beings, I really
wanted to read "Individual Advantages, Find the I in Team". 

This book didn't let me down. It fulfilled all my expectations. It is based on 
the experiences of the authors and I enjoyed the storytelling. It was clear,
structured with great messages and examples. 

Sometimes the personal stories made me laugh, others were more serious. 
Anyway, this book is a must read for people who are open for change,
interested in business or in psychology. Therefore I want to give this book
a 5 star rating. 

The Authors

Dr. Brian Smith resides in Algonquin, Illinois with his beautiful wife, René,
and their two dogs. During the work day, Brian immerses himself in finding
business solutions to help his clients succeed. 

Mary Smith, the daughter of Dr. Brian, has a bachelor's in English literature
and minored in psychology at the University of Redlands. She has been
working with IA Business Advisors since June 2014, starting as an editor. 
After graduating in 2016, she became a full-time employee; while her main
job still revolves around writing and editing. 


Before reviewing this book, I've had an e-mail from Mary Smith. It was very
correct and agreeable.

You can find both authors on Twitter @IinTeamSeries 


BookTasters


I've received a copy for free by Booktasters. Thank you very much for
this splendid opportunity! 


Source picture: Book Cover 

Saturday 17 October 2020

Bookreview: Let the Willows Weep

"A fantastic book, which made  me very emotional"


“Sometimes life is just like paper wings. Fragile, easily torn apart, and often there are too many pieces to pick up.”


In the tradition of the best Southern fiction—from Bastard Out of Carolina to Where the Crawdads Sing—Sherry Parnell’s Let the Willows Weep is a heart-wrenching portrait of hardscrabble, humble lives in rural America. A keenly-observed and unflinching look at the life of Birddog Harlin as she grows up in her dysfunctional family, this novel explores the line between destruction and redemption.



The Review


"Let the Willows Weep" was very emotional for me and together with the main character I fell a lot of feelings from anger to empathy and from love to hurt. It always very nice that a book can give you so much strong emotion, though it was a sad story. I'm sure - from now on - I 'll never look the same at a willow tree!

"Let the Willows Weep" was excellent written and it fell almost like I was reading poetry. So, beautiful! 

The author, Sherry Parnell did a great job. Check also her wonderful site on this link. I'm looking forward to read more of this author! 

On Goodreads, the book has a 3.95 on 5 rating, but I give her with lots of pleasure a 5 star rating!

BookSirens


I received an advanced copy for free, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you BookSirens for giving me this great opportunity! 


Source picture: Book cover

Friday 9 October 2020

Bookreview: Where the light begins

Where the light begins

A Seeker's Journey for Truth, Freedom and a Place to Call Home
Written by Cristy Elmendorp


The Review

Memoirs, who doesn't love them?! I certainly do, especially in times of Covid-19 and 
staycation. They give us new dreams. 

"Where the light begins" was certainly a very personal journey of the author to South-
East Asia. Although I've never been to those regions, it's now certainly on my wish list!

The book is written in short, clear chapters, which I like. It spoke about many 
interesting topics such as: relationship, love, loss, food, education, and much more.
I really want to know the end of the book!!

For all what I've written before about "Where the light begins", I  would 
recommend the book to friends. 






The author

Although I never read any other book of Christy Elmendorp - I think there are no other
books - I really want to read more work from her. She also has a beautiful website, check
this link


BookSirens

I received an advanced copy for free by BookSirens, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily. 



Source picture: Book cover

Sunday 4 October 2020

Recensie: Tuinieren voor de geest

Geschreven door Sue Stuart Smith

Samenvatting


Wie in de aarde wroet, ploegt ook in het hoofd. In Tuinieren voor de geest onderzoekt psychiater Sue Stuart-Smith hoe tuinieren onze innerlijke wereld beïnvloedt. Het proces van creëren en verzorgen, van snoeien en bemesten heeft invloed op ons geestelijk welzijn, het vermogen tot zelfreflectie en op onze creativiteit. Dat blijkt ook uit resultaten van horticulturele therapie, waarbij tuinieren als remedie wordt voorgeschreven om uiteenlopende psychische problemen - van verslaving en depressie toteenzaamheid en PTSS - te behandelen.

Stuart-Smith baseert zich op de neurowetenschap en de psychoanalyse, en put rijkelijk uit haar eigen praktijk en uit het echte leven. Ze laat zien hoe tuinieren zich niet slechts beperkt tot het verzorgen van bloemen en planten, maar dat het helend kan werken en inspiratie kan bieden om de geest te verrijken.


eigen foto van de tulpen uit m'n eigen tuin


Recensie

Toen er in Knack Weekend een artikel verscheen over het boek "Tuinieren voor de geest" van de auteur Sue Stuart-Smith  wou ik het meteen kopen. Psychologie en tuinieren zijn immers twee onderwerpen die me ontzettend boeien. Zo gezegd, zo gedaan. Meestal laat ik dan een boek wat rijpen, maar deze keer besloot ik om het e-book direct te lezen. 

'Tuinieren voor de geest' stelde me niet teleur, integendeel! De auteur hield een warme oproep om iedereen aan het tuinieren te krijgen. Het stelde diepzinnige vragen en deed me verder nadenken, niet enkel over de tuin maar ook over het leven. 

Het boek is heel duidelijk en boeiend geschreven in klare hoofdstukken, verdeeld over de cycli der seizoenen, wat wel zorgde voor een super goede indeling.

Soms stellen non-fictie boeken me teleur, maar deze was echt een schot in de roos! Het is zeker een aanrader voor mensen die houden van tuinieren, geschiedenis én psychologie. 



Tuinieren voor de Geest - Titelpagina


De auteur

Sue Stuart-Smith is psychiater, doceert aan de Tavistock-kliniek in Londen en werkt voor de National Health Service. Al 25 jaar werkt ze samen met haar man, de beroemde tuinontwerper Tom Stuart-Smith, met veel liefde aan hun prachtige tuin. Meer informatie over haar (in English) op deze link.


Technische details van het boek

Tuinieren voor de geest werd in het Nederlands gepubliceerd door Uitgeverij De Bezige Bij. Meer over hen op deze link. De eerste druk vond plaats op 1 april 2020. 


Te koop bij 


Tuinieren voor de geest las ik als e-book gekocht bij bol.com.