Blog Archives
Survival, Healing, and Thriving
Named After Legends details your ascent from the Lehman Village Housing Projects to become successful in various global endeavors, illustrating that personal history does not dictate future potential. Why was this an important book for you to write?
When I started writing, I didn’t have any intentions of publishing a book. Writing was something I did for myself. It started as therapy work. And going to therapy was a decision I made for myself to get professional help in working through some of the mental blocks I was having. But in that work, something beautiful blossomed. The words I wrote about myself, for myself, ended up being the exact thing I needed to help bring me back from what seemed like rock bottom. And it was in a moment of clarity that I realized if my words could have such a profound effect on me, then I knew there was at least one other person out there that could benefit from them as well. Reflecting on how far I came made me realize how impactful my story could be for other people that come from where I come from. So I decided to put my words together in book form. Immediately after that decision, every milestone along the journey of concept to product felt like purpose. So many of us spend our lives searching for that feeling, so I knew this was a gift from God. And I couldn’t deny him when he’s done so much for me.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Once I decided I was going to publish I wanted to be intentional about my messaging. The main idea is that there’s this cycle of survival, healing, and thriving. Living life in survival mode is ok, but we can’t stay there. Once we survive we have to shift our energy and focus to healing, so that we can thrive. It was important for me to share that we all deserve to thrive in whatever way we see fit for ourselves. Regardless of what we’ve had to endure to survive.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
The letters to my cousins who passed away were by far the hardest thing to write about. I would often get overwhelmed with emotions when writing about them and have to stop. Ruminating through memories and having to face the permanence of their physical absence sometimes became too much to bear. I couldn’t scrutinize those words as much as I did with the rest of the book. I wanted it to be honest, I wanted my love and admiration to shine through, I wanted the world to know how great they were despite their upbringing and flaws. I wanted to be sensitive to others who mourn them as well. I wanted to ease my grief by immortalizing them with my words. It was a tall order and it never felt good enough. It got to a point where I just had to trust the words.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your story?
I hope readers get a true sense of what it means to have a growth mindset. No matter what we face in life, we can overcome it if we believe in ourselves enough to take the first step.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Stevland’s fearless vulnerability sets an inspiring example. He reminds us of the importance of documenting our journeys and sharing our stories loudly as we navigate them. While part of his story tragically mirrors the realities of Black death, another part demands greater attention—his ambition, self-motivation, perpetual learning, and adventurous spirit. He navigates a world not designed for his survival, facing giants like poverty, racism, and grief. From pursuing education at the world’s top institutions to embarking on solo journeys through Japanese shrines in search of peace, he demonstrates how a “by any means necessary” mindset can help us not just survive but heal and thrive.
This is a story of resilience and empowerment. By delving into the depths of his experiences, Stevland gains the strength and knowledge to conquer any giant that obstructs his path. His unwavering self-belief, coupled with his timely and refreshing insights, will undoubtedly inspire readers to embark on their own journey toward self-mastery. Named After Legends is an invitation to become the giant slayers of our own lives and unlock our full potential.
Elevate Your Leadership Skills
Elevate Your Leadership Skills by Dr. Elliott Q. Gomez offers an incisive and practical guide for those aspiring to enhance their leadership capabilities. Drawing from a rich background ranging from military service to academic teaching, Dr. Gomez distills the ten most effective practices he has embraced throughout his career.
The book excels in demonstrating leadership through humility, as exemplified in a chapter that encourages leaders to engage directly with their teams, emphasizing solidarity and support. In another compelling section, Dr. Gomez outlines the four cornerstones of responsible leadership; Moral, Ethical, Safe, and Legal, underscoring the importance of a leader who prioritizes the well-being and legal conformity of their practices, making them truly worthy of following.
The book is replete with invaluable advice on cultivating essential leadership qualities that resonate throughout the work. The structure of the book is notably reader-friendly, offering well-organized sections and concise lists that cater to busy individuals. Dr. Gomez employs a clear, explanatory style that facilitates easy comprehension and application of the concepts discussed.
His personal anecdotes, drawing from his experiences as an Army officer and a senior professor at Hallmark University’s School of Business, enrich the lessons with real-world insights. This book will particularly benefit those in leadership roles, enthusiasts of personal development, and anyone aspiring to leadership positions in any organizational context. Dr. Gomez’s motivational prose is filled with actionable insights encouraging readers to engage actively, communicate openly, and foster essential leadership traits.
For readers looking to refine their leadership approach and develop a more self-aware, empathetic leadership style, Elevate Your Leadership Skills offers both inspiration and practical tools. It’s a resource likely to remain a reference point for anyone serious about personal and professional growth.
Pages: 276 | ASIN : B0D134SRCP
Body Wisdom: A Guide To Connecting With Your Intuitive Self
Body Wisdom: A Guide to Connecting with Your Intuitive Self by Cathy Williams is a personal development guide that emphasizes the benefits of developing a deeper connection with oneself. The book serves as a roadmap for self-discovery, focusing on the inherent wisdom our bodies possess. Through nurturing one’s intuition or innate body wisdom, readers can learn to understand their bodies’ needs and use this understanding to navigate life’s demands.
In this eight-chapter book, the author acknowledges that accessing this body of wisdom isn’t always straightforward. Many people prioritize logic and fear over gut feelings, leading to a disconnect from their bodies. Williams offers guidance through practices designed to strengthen and deepen the connection to oneself. Williams shares, “I had grown up with the belief that any act of caring for self was ‘indulgent’ or ‘selfish’…and needed to shed all my beliefs related to thinking this and replace these with ‘permission to prioritize’ what is important to me.”
What stands out about this book is its engaging style. Williams interweaves personal stories with vivid illustrations, transforming abstract concepts into relatable experiences. Her storytelling is authentic and warm, making the book an engaging read. The book also offers actionable advice, empowering readers to create personalized practices tailored to their unique journeys. The movement and breath activities provide invaluable guidance for enhancing awareness and fostering self-connection.
Body Wisdom is an excellent choice for those interested in self-discovery and self-love. Whether you’re new to intuitive connection or looking to deepen your existing practice, this book inspires. Through its gentle wisdom and practical insights, it encourages readers to embrace self-care, trust their intuition, and develop a deeper alignment with their bodies and themselves.
Pages: 184 | ISBN : 0645866903
The Success Guidebook – How to Visualize, Actualize, and Amplify You
Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino’s The Success Guidebook offers a pragmatic personal and professional development approach. Drawing from her extensive experience in the financial industry and her journey as a working mother, Hamilton-Guarino divides the book into three primary focus areas, spanning ten chapters. Each chapter introduces a key factor of success, complemented by practical exercises designed to embed these lessons into everyday practice.
Hamilton-Guarino advocates for a personalized definition of success, recognizing that individual aspirations vary widely due to differing backgrounds and personal values. She explores themes of motivation and adaptation, suggesting that one’s understanding of success evolves over time. This nuanced view encourages readers to define their own metrics of achievement. The author’s credibility is enhanced by her role as a recognized coach, and she enriches the text with personal anecdotes and professional insights. Her emphasis on the combination of vision and effort particularly resonates, underscoring that success requires more than just dreaming—it demands action. The interactive elements of the book, such as reflective questions, are beneficial, aiding readers in mapping out their objectives more clearly. One of the book’s strengths is Hamilton-Guarino’s ability to distill complex concepts into relatable stories and actionable advice. Her dedication to helping others achieve their potential is evident throughout the narrative.
The Success Guidebook stands out as a resourceful and engaging work in the self-help genre. For those seeking to enhance their life through a structured yet flexible framework, this book promises a blend of mentorship and motivation right from the page. For anyone interested in self-improvement, this book is a commendable choice.
Pages: 235 | ASIN : B0CFM7R798
University of Hard Knocks
Have you ever pondered upon the profound questions of why you are here, where you fit in, what you are born to do, what gift you are born to give? In other words, have you figured out your contribution to the world, the grand tapestry of life, and the symphony of human civilization?
In moments of introspection during his retirement years, Rolland felt as if he had unwittingly ‘wandered in the desert’ for 40 years (1975-2015 or 1980-2020). Yet, in hindsight, his life’s purpose was, at some pivotal points in his career -unbeknownst to him- already staring him in the face. He just failed to appreciate and recognize, much earlier, his life’s true purpose. In essence, the author failed to ‘bloom’ where God had already planted him!
If you are a teen or young adult -but especially if you are an immigrant or a member of a minority group- on a quest for your life’s purpose, this book was written for you. It’s a self-help guide outlining practical steps you can use to find and crystallize your life’s true purpose … sooner, rather than 40 years later!
If you follow the guidance contained in this book, you would hopefully avoid the shame and ultimate embarrassment of a lifetime which befell the book’s author: ‘wandering in the desert for forty years’ without constancy to purpose, to the abject dismay of his humdrum biography.
This book is also a clarion call for all citizens, especially immigrants and minorities, to say GOODBYE to apathy and indifference and, instead, to say HELLO to active participation and involvement in an ailing American democracy.
In these extraordinary times, sitting on the sidelines is simply unacceptable. Do you have a definite purpose? What does it mean for you –with your distinct set of skills, knowledge, passions, and talents– to be here in America at this particular moment in time?
The answers lie within you, waiting for you to bring them to light. May you embrace your uniqueness and align your actions with your deepest strengths, values, and aspirations … so you can experience a deep sense of fulfillment of your life’s purpose.
Yes, You Matter asserts that self-reflection is essential for understanding oneself and living to one’s fullest potential. What inspired you to write this book?
My realization, upon retirement that I failed to ‘bloom where I was planted’ inspired me to write this book. You see, upon retirement, I felt a great sense of regret and guilt when I came face to face with the reality that –having been blessed by the Almighty with the great fortune of life in America, a safe haven and comfortable refuge from the clutches of a burgeoning dictatorship I fled decades ago– I did NOT live my life with a constancy to purpose. With no definiteness of purpose, I, therefore, failed to fulfill my life’s true purpose … I failed to make it in America despite an environment of unparalleled freedom and opportunity for immigrants in the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave! In hindsight, my successes in the CPA profession and in local electoral politics did not measure up to my true potential.
My intent in writing this book is simple: To be of service, to pass on the key lessons I learned from the University of Hard Knocks so that readers don’t end up ‘wandering in the desert for 40 years’ without definiteness of purpose’ like I did, to the abject dismay of my humdrum biography.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
For me, out of the whole book, the hardest thing to write about was the discussion on Chapter 4, “Passion and Purpose: Are They the Same?” I had to discuss the twin topics of passion and purpose from the intellectual and practical vantage points to be helpful to the reader. With no formal training in psychology or philosophy, Chapter 4 really challenged me.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from Yes, You Matter?
The pursuit of purpose can be met with challenges and uncertainties. The expectations of others, the pressures of society, and the fear of failure can cloud your vision and divert you from your true path. In such moments, it becomes essential to quiet the outside noise and listen to your heart’s whispers. Allow your intuition and inner wisdom to guide you, for they are the compass that will lead you toward your purpose. Embrace your uniqueness, nurture your passions, and step forward with courage and conviction.
Can readers look forward to seeing more from you soon? What are you currently working on?
Yes, despite health issues, I’m working on a few more books on the twin topics of K-12 education and American democracy.
Author Website
This book was born out of a great sense of regret and guilt which the author felt after he had retired, when he came face to face with the reality that he –blessed by the Almighty with the great fortune of life in America, a safe and comfortable refuge from the clutches of a burgeoning dictatorship he fled decades ago– had failed to fulfill his life’s purpose, despite an environment of freedom and opportunity for immigrants in the Land of the Free and Home of the Brave! In moments of introspection during his retirement years, the author felt as if he had unwittingly ‘wandered in the desert’ for 40 years. Yet, In hindsight, his life’s purpose was, at some pivotal points in his career, already staring him in the face. He just failed to appreciate and recognize his life’s true purpose. The author failed to ‘bloom’ where God had already planted him!
If you are a teen or young adult, an immigrant, or a member of a minority group on a quest for your life’s purpose, this book was written for you. It’s a self-help guide outlining practical steps you can use to find and crystallize your life’s true purpose … sooner, rather than later.
Hopefully, this book can help the reader avoid the shame and ultimate embarrassment of a lifetime which befell the book’s author: ‘wandering in the desert for forty years’ without constancy to purpose, without definiteness of purpose, to the abject dismay of his humdrum biography.
This book is also a clarion call for all citizens, especially immigrants, and minorities, to say GOODBYE to apathy and indifference and, instead, to say HELLO to active participation and involvement in an ailing American democracy. Whatever suits you, in these extraordinary times, sitting on the sidelines is simply unacceptable. What does it mean for you –with your distinct set of skills, knowledge, passions, and talents– to be here in America at this particular moment in time?
The answers lie within you, waiting for you to bring them to light. May you embrace your uniqueness and align your actions with your deepest strengths, values, and aspirations … so you can experience a deep sense of fulfillment of your life’s purpose.
Named After Legends
Stevland Martin Malcolm Polite’s memoir, Named After Legends, unfolds against the backdrop of the Lehman Village Housing Projects, where, despite the dilapidated conditions, a strong sense of community persevered. The weight of his name, inspired by his father’s heroes and the societal expectations placed upon him as a Black man, frame his early struggles. Yet, a pivotal moment of self-preservation during his youth—a conscious decision to abstain from a gang fight—marks the beginning of his journey toward self-determination.
Navigating through the challenges of his environment, racial disadvantage, and personal loss, Stevland’s narrative is one of overcoming and transcending the barriers seemingly preset for his failure. His pursuit of education, varied global experiences, career development, and entrepreneurial ventures are detailed with a vividness that underscores his resilience and determination. This memoir is not only a personal recount of triumph but also a broader commentary on societal issues. It is an inspiring testament to the power of self-agency and the importance of exploring one’s potential beyond the confines of adversity. Stevland’s story, rich in emotion and introspection, encourages readers to critically assess their circumstances and strive for more, making it a compelling read for a broad audience, particularly resonant for those facing similar societal challenges.
Named After Legends is a vivid chronicle of transformation and defiance against the odds. By detailing his ascent from the Lehman Village Housing Projects to success in various global endeavors, Stevland illustrates that personal history need not dictate future potential. His experiences serve as a powerful testament to the importance of ambition, education, and community in transcending societal limits. His story resonates deeply, offering hope and inspiration to those who may find themselves in similar circumstances and encouraging all readers to pursue their dreams with unwavering tenacity. This memoir is not just a reflection on personal success but a call to action for empowerment and change.
Pages: 217 | ASIN : B0CYQM7DPL
The Silent Paralyzer – A decade of life disrupted
In The Silent Paralyzer, Natasha Chai offers an intimate and educational glimpse into her life with hemiplegic migraine. This memoir navigates through her relentless journey of hospital visits and treatments, delving into the challenges of managing a condition that often felt relentless and enigmatic. Chai’s narrative encompasses the physical and emotional complexities of paralysis, as well as the societal implications of enduring visible symptoms in public spaces, including her workplace and her son’s martial arts events.
Chai’s introspection extends beyond her personal experiences, offering insights into broader issues within Western healthcare. Her book serves not only as a memoir but also as a guide for understanding the nuances of living with hemiplegic migraine and other chronic health conditions. Particularly noteworthy is her advice on balancing medical guidance with one’s own bodily awareness, a topic that will resonate with many readers. The memoir stands out for its detailed exploration of the symptoms and emotional toll of hemiplegic migraine. Chai’s vivid descriptions, such as the intense sensation of burning in her neck and face, offer a stark window into her experience. The book skillfully documents a range of emotions from fatigue to embarrassment, fostering a deep connection between the reader and Chai’s journey. Despite its exploration of serious themes, the narrative is interspersed with moments of joy and gratitude, highlighting the importance of finding happiness amidst adversity.
The Silent Paralyzer is a valuable read for anyone directly or indirectly affected by hemiplegic migraine. It not only illuminates the complexities of living with the condition but also serves as a testament to the human spirit’s resilience. Chai’s candid sharing of her story and thoughtful advice are both enlightening and inspiring, making this book a meaningful addition to the conversation around chronic illness.
Pages: 246 | ASIN : B0CVJQ99P9
Yes, You Matter … Your Purpose Awaits You!
In Yes, You Matter, Rolland B. presents a compelling guide for personal growth and self-discovery, exploring the depths of human potential. Central to the book’s thesis is the belief that self-reflection is crucial to avoid stagnation and to continuously evolve in understanding oneself. By asking challenging existential questions, the book doesn’t just ponder life’s mysteries but also propels readers to critically assess their own existence and life choices.
The author skillfully intertwines philosophical concepts, psychological theories, and spiritual insights to create a robust framework for readers. Drawing on Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, the Japanese concept of Ikigai, and the Greek philosophy of Eudaimonia, Rolland B. constructs a multi-faceted approach towards finding and nurturing one’s purpose. The book’s practicality is one of its strengths, offering actionable exercises and strategies to help readers build self-worth, confront self-doubt, and follow their passions with conviction. Rolland B.’s encouraging tone is another highlight of the book. He engages readers with empathy, understanding, and a shared sense of struggle, making the journey of self-discovery feel like a communal experience. This approach makes the book not only informative but also deeply relatable. The author’s real-life experiences with societal pressures, self-doubt, and challenging relationships lend authenticity and depth to his guidance, positioning him as a credible and experienced voice on the subject. The book’s nuanced handling of sensitive topics, such as ethnicity and toxic relationships, is noteworthy. The author navigates these subjects with care and insight, reflecting his deep understanding and experience in self-reflection. The use of metaphors adds an element of elegance and further depth to the narrative.
Yes, You Matter is an inspiring call to action in a world often dominated by social media trends and the threat of conformity. It’s a book that not only encourages self-assessment and personal growth but also champions the importance of charting one’s unique path in life. With its blend of philosophical depth, practical advice, and empathetic tone, the book stands as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand themselves better and forge a meaningful and fulfilling life.
Pages: 230 | ASIN : B0CTWHW6TS
LITERARY TITAN 