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Your Definition of Success

Estelle Taylor Author Interview

In One Woman’s Guide to Life, you offer readers a mix of humorous anecdotes and actionable insights on life’s challenges. Why was this an important book for you to write?

I had a manager for a few years who really helped me to come out of my shell. I remember her telling me once “I want you to be able to say what you think, and sleep like a baby afterwards”. While that ethos is still a work in progress for me, she helped me to speak up and be more confident. Her style of encouragement is something I applied to my own team, and in turn, I’ve seen them sharing it with more colleagues. That was a rather long-winded way of saying that I wanted that very positive experience to ripple outwards to more people.

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

That we’re here to live, learn, and be happy – as happy, peaceful, and content as we can be. That modern life is fast-moving, we’re inundated with information from multiple sources and details of other people’s lives. I think it’s important to be able to step out of that river of information sometimes, slow down, take stock, and remember that you’re more than enough just the way you are and it’s your definition of success that matters.

What is one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were younger?

You get one body. Look after it, listen to it, and don’t let stress get out of control. Your health and your relationship with yourself and others is what’s really important.

What is one thing you hope readers take away from your experiences?

Don’t just be a passenger on the bus of your life. Get into the driver’s seat. And build in some fun stops along the way.

Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon

Learning things the hard way is probably more useful because, hopefully, those lessons stay with you. But it’s not always the fun way. What if you could get a sneak peek at some of the most useful lessons and be more prepared than the average bear?

This is one woman’s life lessons in short(ish), bite-sized nuggets. Everything from defining your version of success, understanding your fellow humans, reducing your bills, knowing how to ace interviews, right through to financing your retirement.

Whether you’re just starting your adult life, or you’re an experienced pro, there should be something that resonates.

Ultimately, it’s about being kinder to yourself, getting more out of life and cutting the rest of humanity some slack while you’re at it.

One Woman’s Guide To Life

One Woman’s Guide to Life is a warm and practical manual that feels like a heart-to-heart with a wise friend. Spanning topics from personal growth to finances and travel, the book offers readers an empowering mix of anecdotes, advice, and actionable insights. Taylor’s voice is clear and conversational, making even the most challenging life advice seem approachable. It’s less about lofty philosophies and more about real experiences with a dash of humor and charm.

What stood out to me immediately was Taylor’s chapter, “Stop Waiting to Live.” She challenges the common habit of postponing happiness for an uncertain future, urging readers to seize small joys today. Her practical suggestions like building regular “nice things” into your routine resonated deeply with me. It reminded me of how often I’ve delayed simple pleasures, waiting for the “right moment.”

The section on managing relationships, especially “It’s Okay That Not All Friendships Last a Lifetime,” felt refreshingly honest. Taylor acknowledges the bittersweet reality of outgrowing people and normalizes the necessity of letting go. It’s not a revolutionary idea, but the way she frames it makes it feel like a revelation. Her advice to assess whether a friendship is draining or enriching hit home for me and I found myself reflecting on some of my own connections with new clarity.

On a lighter note, her chapter, “The Art of a Good Conversation,” made me smile. Taylor likens a great chat to a tennis match, with an easy back-and-forth. Her advice to aim for a 50/50 split in talking and listening is golden, and it reminded me of my own habit of either dominating conversations or staying too quiet. This blend of practical tips and personal charm is what makes Taylor’s book such a gem.

One Woman’s Guide to Life is a delightful companion for anyone seeking guidance on living authentically. Whether you’re looking for strategies to streamline your daily routine, connect meaningfully with others, or embrace the beauty of aging, this book delivers. I’d recommend it to women at any stage of life who enjoy practical wisdom sprinkled with humor and heartfelt sincerity. Taylor’s reflections are bound to leave readers feeling seen, inspired, and just a little bit braver.

Pages: 225 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CZ5LJ8KT

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