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Pulling Back the Curtain
Secrets of a Social Butterfly is part memoir, part business guide that shares your transformation from a struggling student to a confident global business strategist. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I wrote Secrets of a Social Butterfly because I know what it feels like to doubt yourself, to feel like you don’t quite belong, and to struggle with confidence in professional settings. This book was my way of pulling back the curtain and sharing the lessons I wish I had known earlier. I wanted to show that confidence isn’t something you’re simply born with—it’s a skill you can develop, and it can change the course of your career or business.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I wanted to show that personal growth isn’t a straight line. I’ve had setbacks, doubts, and moments of imposter syndrome. But every challenge brought lessons that helped me grow, and I wanted readers to see that their struggles don’t define them—the way they navigate them does.
What is one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were younger?
I wish someone had told me: You don’t need to have all the answers to move forward. Just take the next step.
I spent so much time in my early years overthinking, second-guessing myself, and waiting until I felt “ready”—but the truth is, clarity comes from action. Every small step, every new experience, every conversation builds confidence. If I had understood that sooner, I would have trusted myself more and embraced opportunities without so much hesitation. This is also why I launched my popular weekly newsletter Ready Already!
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
If you feel like you don’t quite belong, or you’re unsure of your next step, you’re not alone. I’ve been there. But when you focus on building relationships, staying curious, and showing up as your authentic self, doors start to open. You don’t have to change who you are to succeed—you just need to lean into your strengths and learn how to navigate the world in a way that works for you.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
All of us have experienced those moments of imposter syndrome, struggled to fit in, and have even been bullied for being different. Lynn’s inspiring story takes us on an incredible journey of overcoming setbacks that led to Lynn’s inspiring journey around the world.
Sometimes funny, often poignant, “Secrets of a Social Butterfly” uses storytelling to teach business leaders, founders and anyone really, those ‘unteachable’ skills that we desperately need in this ever changing landscape in which we find ourselves.
This unique narrative nonfiction work blends business insights with learning moments from Lynn’s memoir, offering lessons on going from self-doubt to success.
Secrets of a Social Butterfly
Lynn Bruines’ Secrets of a Social Butterfly is a part-memoir, part-business guide that tells the story of her transformation from a struggling student to a confident global business strategist. She shares deeply personal stories of overcoming imposter syndrome, childhood bullying, and professional challenges, weaving these experiences into valuable lessons about relationship-building, self-empowerment, and personal growth. The book isn’t just about networking; it’s about how human connection, resilience, and adaptability shape our lives and careers.
From the first few chapters, Lynn’s storytelling feels raw and personal. She takes us back to her early struggles in school, where undiagnosed dyslexia and ADHD made her feel like an outsider. Her journey is filled with setbacks like being underestimated by teachers, facing rejection from a top hospitality school, and navigating the social dynamics of the corporate world. Yet, she shares these stories with a mix of humor, humility, and hard-earned wisdom. One of the most memorable moments comes from her road trip back to her childhood schools, where she finally confronts the past that shaped her. The vulnerability in these reflections makes the book incredibly relatable.
Where the book truly shines is in its blend of personal stories and practical takeaways. Lynn doesn’t just tell us how she succeeded, she shows us. The book is filled with moments where she applies real-life lessons, whether it’s using childhood survival tactics to navigate business meetings or leveraging human psychology to build professional relationships. The chapter where she talks about social hierarchies, drawing parallels between corporate networking and the dominance structures in animals, is both insightful and unexpectedly funny. She has a way of making complex ideas feel simple, all while keeping the narrative engaging.
I’d highly recommend Secrets of a Social Butterfly to anyone who has ever felt stuck whether in their career, personal relationships, or self-perception. If you’re an entrepreneur, young professional, or someone navigating a big life transition, this book is packed with wisdom that’s as inspiring as it is practical. Lynn’s journey reminds us that no matter how tough things get, there’s always a way forward.
Pages: 170 | ASIN : B0DNR4Y8YS
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
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
The Passionate Workforce: How to Create and Maintain Maximum Employee Engagement
A company’s success is intricately linked to the people who drive its operations, and Capman’s The Passionate Workforce delves into the critical dynamics of employee engagement and the transformative potential of authentic leadership. Central to Capman’s thesis is the idea that passion in the workplace is not just achievable for any job but essential for creating a thriving and successful organization. Capman sets the stage by sharing personal experiences from his career in various companies, using these narratives to illustrate how passion can be nurtured in any role with the right leadership support. His stories offer a relatable context, bringing his insights on cultivating workplace passion to life. At the heart of fostering a passionate workforce is effective leadership. Capman recounts his own journey from a self-centered CEO to a leader who genuinely prioritizes his employees’ well-being, underscoring that caring leadership is both ethical and strategic for achieving business success.
The Passionate Workforce is a rich repository of ideas and wisdom. One of the book’s standout lessons is the inherent link between leadership and humanity. Capman argues that understanding and valuing employees is fundamental for any leader. He introduces the concept of “self-profit maximization,” which reframes selfishness as a positive force when it involves achieving personal goals to help others succeed. This innovative perspective offers corporate leaders a new lens through which to enhance their employees’ lives. Additionally, Capman advocates for continuous improvement and provides comprehensive, actionable advice throughout the book. The author’s openness and transparency provide a window into his failures and how they fueled his growth as a leader. This honesty makes his advice particularly relatable and inspiring. The book is easy to navigate, with clear language and straightforward sentence structures. Readers will not only find Capman’s journey inspiring but will also be encouraged to reflect on their own paths.
The Passionate Workforce is an insightful and essential read for leaders and managers at all levels. Capman seamlessly blends personal narrative, practical advice, and philosophical ideas into a comprehensive guide for building a motivated and passionate team. The principles discussed are applicable beyond the workplace, suggesting that finding passion in life can lead to profound positive changes.
Pages: 118 | ASIN : B0D413TKNK
LITERARY TITAN 