Blog Archives
Well That Was Fun…Now What?: A Real Plan For Recovery From Setbacks
Let me just start by saying this book gets it. Kareen McKinnon has managed to bottle up the chaos of life’s inevitable curveballs, sprinkle in a bit of sass, and somehow turn it all into an incredibly practical guide for bouncing back. Well That Was Fun…Now What? is not your typical self-help book dripping with toxic positivity or clichés about how “everything happens for a reason.” It’s refreshingly real, sometimes hilarious, and filled with tools you can actually use when life decides to go full soap opera on you. From burnout to reinvention, McKinnon tackles the messiness of failure and growth with humor and honesty, leaving you feeling seen and, most importantly, equipped to handle the mess.
What I loved most about the book was its tone. It’s like having a wise, funny friend who’s been through the wringer but still knows how to laugh about it. Take the chapter on burnout, for example. McKinnon doesn’t just tell you to “listen to your body”; she calls out our modern obsession with ignoring limits, comparing it to “trying to charge your phone with positive thoughts.” She talks about how burnout sneaks up on you. Her tips on creating a “personal dashboard” for warning signs felt so doable and even kind of fun.
The writing is so conversational that you almost forget how much practical advice you absorb. One standout section for me was about reframing your mindset after failure. McKinnon doesn’t sugarcoat anything. She openly acknowledges that when you’re in the middle of your own personal dumpster fire, the last thing you want is someone chirping about silver linings. Instead, she frames it as “rearranging the furniture in your mind.” That metaphor hit me hard because, yeah, the emotional clutter doesn’t go away, but maybe you can move it so it stops tripping you up.
What surprised me most were the stories sprinkled throughout. Real people, real screw-ups, and real comebacks. Sarah turned her failed startup into a consulting gig where she makes more money teaching others what not to do. Or Marcus, who became a 50-year-old intern after his career derailed and ended up running a successful digital marketing firm. These stories reminded me that reinvention isn’t just possible; it’s messy, awkward, and sometimes better than what you had planned. Plus, McKinnon doesn’t romanticize these comebacks. She’s clear that they result from hard work, stubbornness, and asking for help.
Well That Was Fun…Now What?: A Real Plan For Recovery From Setbacks is perfect for anyone who’s had their life turned upside down—whether it’s a breakup, career disaster, or just the sheer weight of existing in a chaotic world. If you like your advice practical, your humor sharp, and your growth messy but meaningful, this is your next read.
Pages: 63 | ASIN : B0DTTD6M46
Pinnacle Goddess Principles – RED STAR
Jo Anna Bennerson’s Pinnacle Goddess Principles: Awakening and Unlocking Your Inner Power! is a captivating guide blending Greek mythology, self-help, and real-world inspiration. The book explores seven transformative principles; resilience, energy, devotion, strategic thinking, transformation, accountability, and renewal, each represented by a Greek goddess and tied to relatable modern figures. Bennerson’s aim is to guide readers toward achieving “C” Excellence, defined as healthy competition, conviction, clarity, courage, creativity, compassion, and cycles of growth.
The writing feels both poetic and direct, a combination that’s uplifting and engaging. I particularly enjoyed how Bennerson weaves mythological stories with actionable advice and real-life examples. This kind of storytelling made the lessons more memorable and gave me a sense of empowerment while reading.
One standout section was the chapter on energy, embodied by Aphrodite. Bennerson’s discussion on the vibrancy of life and passion, punctuated by Eleanor Roosevelt’s tireless advocacy, hit home. Her call to tap into our “reservoirs of vitality” resonated deeply. While I feel the language occasionally veered into flowery territory, the sincerity of Bennerson’s tone kept it authentic. The chapter on accountability, inspired by Nemesis, stood out as particularly impactful. The inclusion of Prince’s commitment to his craft and integrity as an artist made the abstract concept of accountability more relatable. Bennerson also challenges readers to embrace their own creative potential while taking responsibility for their actions. This balance between empowerment and accountability felt refreshing.
Some sections of the book leaned a bit heavily on rhetorical questions, which could feel repetitive at times. The emphasis on letting go of the past to embrace future possibilities felt like a gentle nudge to pause, reflect, and reset. Her advice here is universal, and the examples of both mythology and Robbins’s work tied the book’s lessons together beautifully.
Pinnacle Goddess Principles is a heartfelt and motivating read for anyone seeking a mix of mythology, personal growth, and practical life advice. Jo Anna Bennerson’s ability to connect the ancient with the modern creates a unique and empowering narrative. I’d recommend this book to readers who enjoy introspective self-help books or those looking for inspiration to tackle life’s challenges with grace and determination. It’s not just a book; it’s a call to awaken the goddess—or god—within you.
Pages: 90 | ASIN : B0DGQ3S57M
What Lights You Up?: Illuminate Your Path and Take the Next Big Step in Your Career
In today’s world, where social media pressures us to conform and fit into pre-defined boxes, recognizing your true self has never been more vital. What Lights You Up, by Mary Olson-Menzel, is a vibrant guide to self-discovery and career fulfillment. Written with an uplifting and engaging tone, the book draws readers in through a blend of personal anecdotes and actionable advice. Olson-Menzel’s writing style feels both warm and motivational, gently nudging readers to identify their passions and chase careers aligned with their authentic selves.
Olson-Menzel’s passion for her subject radiates from every page. Her arguments are compelling, and her ideas are meticulously thought out. From the way she presents her concepts to the strategies she suggests, her expertise on topics like soft skills and the evolving workplace landscape is evident. One standout idea is her emphasis on “ikigai,” the Japanese philosophy that marries purpose and passion. She argues convincingly that finding one’s ikigai leads to joy and fulfillment, a balance between career aspirations and the human need for purpose. Her approach feels refreshing, holistic, and distinctly modern.
The book’s structure is as thoughtful as its content. Olson-Menzel knows how tedious self-help books on career fulfillment can be, and she has taken intentional steps to keep the material engaging and practical. Her organization flows naturally, making the book a breeze to read, while the personal stories she shares add richness and depth to her ideas. The inclusion of interactive worksheets and exercises scattered throughout the chapters transforms the reading experience into a hands-on journey of self-discovery, allowing readers to apply insights in real-time. This interactivity encourages deep reflection, inspiring readers to rethink how they approach both life and career.
What Lights You Up stands out as both inspiring and empowering. The author’s personal approach adds a layer of authenticity that makes her message resonate deeply. The book opens with a heartfelt tribute to Olson-Menzel’s late mother, whose enduring passion for art serves as a poignant reminder that age or adversity should never extinguish one’s inner light. This touching anecdote sets the tone for the book, reinforcing the idea that it’s never too late to rediscover and pursue what makes us come alive. Drawing lessons from her own experiences and the world around her, Mary Olson-Menzel delivers a powerful and valuable resource for anyone — regardless of career stage — looking to design a path that feels both authentic and rewarding.
Pages: 206 | ASIN : B0DJDSFSRC
BLITZED: What I Learned Reading 100 Books in 100 Days in My Target Language
Blitzed, by Jason S. Comely, is a fascinating and somewhat eccentric dive into language learning through an intense, self-imposed challenge. Comely embarks on a 100-day journey to read 100 books in Polish, a language he is just beginning to learn. The book chronicles his experiment, blending personal anecdotes, language-learning tips, and reflections on the books he blitzes through in this mental marathon. It’s a quirky mix of language-learning guide and memoir, offering insights into the highs and lows of this unconventional approach.
One thing that stands out immediately is Comely’s relentless drive and creativity. His creation of the “Bimodal Blitz” method—reading while simultaneously listening to audiobooks—shows a commitment to hacking his way through the frustrating walls of traditional language learning. For instance, when he tackles classics like Animal Farm and Candide, the struggle is palpable. He often loses his place, gets mentally exhausted, and admits to barely understanding chunks of the text. Yet, there’s something inspiring in his persistence. He doesn’t sugarcoat the experience. That honesty makes the book relatable and motivating for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by learning a language.
Comely is open in sharing his thoughts througohout this experience. When he blitzes through Lolek, a memoir about the bond between a man and his dog, Comely notes improvements in his Polish comprehension but doesn’t seem to connect emotionally with the content. In some cases, the rapid-fire consumption of literature sometimes reduces the books to mere stepping stones in his language journey rather than meaningful experiences.
The book is also full of moments that resonate emotionally. Comely’s reflections on books like Anne Frank show a more introspective side. He finds himself moved by Anne’s unwavering optimism despite the grim historical context, a sentiment that clearly touches him on a personal level. It’s in these moments that Blitzed transcends from being just a log of a language experiment to a heartfelt exploration of human resilience and connection through the written word.
Blitzed is not your typical language-learning book. It’s raw and sometimes chaotic. Full of triumphs and stumbles. Comely’s journey is a testament to the power of immersion and persistence in learning a new language. I’d recommend this book to anyone interested in learning a new language, especially through an unorthodox method. It is also great for people who enjoy stories of personal challenges and growth, with the added bonus of discovering new books along the way.
Pages: 148 | ASIN : B0D8BLRXJN
Passion Struck: Twelve Powerful Principles to Unlock Your Purpose and Ignite Your Most Intentional Life
Passion Struck by John R. Miles offers a compelling framework for transforming your life, discovering your passion, and unlocking your hidden potential. Drawing from over 30 years of experience, John presents a series of personal stories and principles that have empowered countless individuals to achieve remarkable success. The book is filled with inspiring narratives from a diverse range of people, including government officials, technologists, entertainers, athletes, academics, artists, and business leaders, all of whom have applied the principles outlined in the book to their lives. These stories teach readers how to exercise intentionality and take small, boundary-pushing actions that build confidence and diminish fear.
One of the standout qualities of Passion Struck is its rich storytelling, which adds a human touch and creates an emotional connection with readers from the beginning. The book seamlessly blends personal anecdotes with practical lessons, making the content relatable and engaging. For instance, one of the most memorable stories revolves around Steve Jobs and the concept of being “right by being alone.” When the music industry initially dismissed Jobs’ vision for the iPod, his persistence eventually led to the creation of Apple Music and other online music services, transforming the industry forever. This story and many others illustrate the power of perseverance and visionary thinking.
John also shares invaluable insights from his diverse professional experiences, including his time in the military and cybersecurity, his role as a CIO at Dell, and his journey as an entrepreneur. These insights are presented through smart and intriguing concepts, such as “fear confronter,” “mission angler,” and “perspective harnesser.” His use of metaphors and analogies effectively conveys the book’s messages. For example, the “metaphorical mosquito” is used to describe emotionally manipulative individuals who compromise boundaries—an analogy that vividly illustrates the importance of protecting one’s personal space and integrity. This book is not just a collection of theoretical essays; it actively engages readers with a variety of interactive elements. It includes actionable exercises, a well-structured framework, and even QR codes that provide additional insights and resources. These elements enhance the reading experience and encourage readers to apply the lessons to their own lives. The chapter-ending exercises are particularly thoughtful, serving as both a summary and a prompt for deeper reflection.
Passion Struck is an ideal read for those eager to pursue their passions and achieve their dream lives. By exploring topics such as meditation, self-awareness, psychology, and entrepreneurship, the book equips readers with the tools they need to embark on a journey of success and fulfillment. John R. Miles reminds us of the importance of listening to our hearts and following our passions—qualities that no AI can ever replace.
Pages: 399 | ASIN : B0CGS248NR
A Roadmap for Success
Find The Ladder takes a close look at the modern workplace and the challenges faced in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. What inspired you to write this guide?
Having supported job seekers and career professionals for years, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact the pandemic had on livelihoods worldwide. Things turned really critical in the UAE where around 85% of the total population consists of expatriates, a unique situation that effected millions of workers. The sudden loss of jobs and the resulting economic instability created an urgent need for comprehensive guidance and support. My existing YouTube channel, while helpful, lacked the reach to address the widespread challenges many were facing. This realization motivated me to extend my efforts beyond digital content and move towards creating literary content.
In writing this book, I aimed to provide a deeper, more structured approach to navigating the modern workplace in the wake of COVID-19. My book addresses key issues such as remote work, skill diversification, and mental resilience, offering actionable strategies to help individuals adapt and thrive. By combining my extensive experience in career coaching with up-to-date research and real-world case studies, I aspired to create a resource that empowers readers to rebuild their careers and find new opportunities in these unprecedented times.
Can you share with us a little about the research required to put your book together?
To start my research for ‘Find the Ladder’, my first course of action was direct contact with the affected people on social platforms. I also had to conduct extensive online research, drawing from years of experience in career coaching and recruitment. I analyzed recent employment trends, interviewed a few recruitment and HR experts, and tried to gather firsthand perspectives about the future course of the employment scenario post-pandemic. Progressively, I continued incorporating data from reputable sources to ensure that the strategies and insights provided in the book are practical and relevant for today’s job market.
What is one thing you learned in your research that surprised you?
One of the most surprising insights from my research was the staggering percentage of individuals experiencing dissatisfaction in their careers. This revelation underscored a critical issue: many people feel unfulfilled and disengaged in their professional lives, leading to decreased productivity and overall well-being in their personal lives. I discovered that career dissatisfaction stems from multiple factors, which I ensured to address in ‘Find The Ladder’ to the maximum. These findings highlighted the importance of addressing career satisfaction not just for individual fulfillment but also for organizational success.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from Find the Ladder?
One key takeaway I hope readers gain from ‘Find The Ladder’ is the power of resilience and the impact of mindset-positivity in the face of adversity. The pandemic has reshaped the professional landscape, introducing unprecedented challenges and new concepts related to the overall employment scene. My goal is to empower and inspire readers to view these changes not as insurmountable challenges or obstacles, but as catalysts for growth through adaptability.
Through practical advice, strategic insights, and offering new methodologies, I want readers to understand that their career paths are not stagnant. They have the power to redefine their professional journeys, harnessing their unique strengths and passions. I hope to instill a sense of confidence and optimism, encouraging them to embrace continuous learning and proactive career management.
Ultimately, I want Find the Ladder to be a beacon of hope and a roadmap for success, guiding readers toward fulfilling sustainable careers in this new era. By adopting the principles outlined in the book, they can navigate the complexities of the modern workplace and emerge stronger, more adaptable, and ready to seize the opportunities ahead.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website | LinkedIn
‘Find The Ladder’ offers a revolutionary approach to career counseling, providing you with practical and accessible advice to help you with career change, career advancement, and personal growth.
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Conscious Life Purpose: Live a Meaningful Life by Making a Difference for Greater Happiness, Love, and Success
Conscious Life Purpose: Live a Meaningful Life by Making a Difference for Greater Happiness, Love, and Success, by Kashonia Carnegie, PhD, offers a profound exploration of how conscious change can infuse your life with meaning, success, and happiness. Dr. Carnegie’s insightful guide delves into the distinction between leading a meaningful life in a traditional sense, such as that of a doctor and living a life rooted in your conscious life purpose. The book is thoughtfully divided into four parts. The first section introduces the concept of a meaningful life versus a conscious life, setting the stage for a deeper journey. Subsequent sections provide practical guidance on finding your conscious path, identifying your strengths and talents, and engaging in activities that align with your true purpose. By the end, you’ll be equipped to design a future that resonates with the insights gained throughout the book.
Dr. Carnegie’s approachable and supportive tone makes the journey feel like a personal growth experience with a trusted mentor. Each chapter begins with a summary and a preview of the topics to come, ensuring a clear understanding of the book’s progression and objectives. One of the highlights of the book is the author’s personal anecdotes, such as her experiences teaching MBA leadership classes. These stories illustrate how her value exercises have profoundly impacted her students, helping them realize what truly makes their hearts sing.
The exercises included in the book are both brilliant and engaging. Readers are encouraged to actively participate, with activities like listing potential career paths that align with their talents and strengths. These exercises are designed to provoke thoughtful reflection and practical application. Dr. Carnegie’s deep dives into various subjects, including astrology, numerology, and the Japanese tradition of Ikigai, are particularly enlightening. The chapter on Ikigai, for instance, offers unique insights into how discovering your Ikigai can differ from others’ experiences, highlighting the personal nature of this journey.
Conscious Life Purpose: Live a Meaningful Life by Making a Difference for Greater Happiness, Love, and Success is a practical and thought-provoking book from start to finish. I highly recommend it to anyone feeling lost or unsatisfied in their current profession, as well as to those still deciding on their career path. By engaging with the book and its exercises, you will gain a deeper understanding of yourself and be empowered to follow a path that truly aligns with your conscious life-purpose.
Pages: 329 | ASIN : B0D35NGHR5
Find The Ladder
Nadeem Shafkat Lutfullah’s Find the Ladder offers a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of the modern career landscape, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The book begins with a stark reminder of the pandemic’s devastating impact on both lives and livelihoods, setting the stage for a broader discussion on resilience, adaptability, and the power of positive thinking.
One of the most intriguing takeaways from the book is Lutfullah’s concept of the “Eureka instant,” described as ‘the critical moments of intentional thought that shape our actions and outcomes.’ He builds the book around this idea, taking readers on a journey to understand how a positive mindset is foundational to success, likening it to the opening moves in a chess game that determine the course of play.
Lutfullah excels in demonstrating his points through real-world examples, drawing from his own experiences and those of others. For instance, he tells the story of a small family-owned restaurant that successfully adopted a digital model, illustrating the power of adaptability in personal and business contexts, especially during a crisis. He addresses the challenges of such transitions honestly, including the mental health implications of prolonged isolation and the digital divide. His insistence on lifelong learning is a key message that helps readers manage their expectations, showcasing his credibility as a writer. Lutfullah’s insights can be applied directly to change the trajectory of one’s career. His writing is personal and passionate, and his storytelling conveys a deep commitment to the subject. This approach offers readers a comforting and encouraging perspective, making the book especially valuable for those feeling stuck in their careers.
Find the Ladder, by Nadeem Shafkat Lutfullah, is like a warm mug of cocoa on a snowy day—exactly what you need to keep going. It is engaging, motivational, and encourages readers to hope for better while also reminding them to stay realistic.
Pages: 107 | ASIN : B0D5FK14K5
LITERARY TITAN 