Blog Archives
Preparation and Perfectionism
Unstuck digs into the everyday mess of self-sabotage and shows how it hides in fear, doubt, old stories, and protective habits that keep us spinning in place, rather than providing readers with practical tools to build new habits. What inspired you to write Unstuck?
Unstuck was inspired by watching capable, self-aware people repeatedly blame themselves for patterns they didn’t choose. I kept seeing the same frustration show up in different forms, like overthinking, hesitation, perfectionism, and a constant sense of starting over. Most of these people weren’t lacking insight or intelligence. They were responding to fear in ways that once made sense but no longer served them. I wrote Unstuck to explain that experience clearly and to offer practical tools that help people move forward without shame, force, or pressure.
You emphasize that self-sabotage is not a personal flaw. Why is that reframe so important?
Because when people see self-sabotage as a flaw, they respond with self-criticism, and self-criticism almost always strengthens the pattern. The behaviors we call self-sabotage are usually protective responses shaped by fear, conditioning, and past experience. Reframing them this way allows people to work with their nervous system instead of fighting it. Once someone understands that their reactions are learned rather than broken, change becomes something they can practice instead of something they feel judged for.
What patterns do you see most often in people who feel “stuck”?
The most common pattern is overthinking as a form of protection. People delay action while searching for certainty, replay decisions to avoid risk, or use preparation and perfectionism as a way to stay safe. I also see avoidance disguised as productivity and a harsh inner dialogue that erodes self-trust over time. These patterns are subtle, which is why awareness and repetition matter more than dramatic insight.
What does “being unstuck” look like long-term, not just in a breakthrough moment?
Long-term change looks quieter than people expect. Being unstuck means noticing fear without letting it decide, responding instead of reacting, and choosing smaller, steadier actions that build trust over time. That’s also why I created the UNSTUCK Workbook as a companion for readers who want help applying the ideas consistently. The goal isn’t a single breakthrough. It’s learning how to practice awareness, regulation, and follow-through in everyday situations so progress holds.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
You may understand your patterns. You may have read the books, tried the advice, and promised yourself you would “do better next time.” And yet the same cycle keeps repeating. Not because you lack discipline or ambition, but because your mind is defaulting to old protective responses that no longer fit the life you are trying to build.
If you have ever asked yourself why you keep getting in your own way, this book offers a clear, compassionate explanation. You are not broken. Your brain is doing what it learned to do under pressure, fear, and uncertainty.
Built around the A.I.R.™ Method, UNSTUCK helps you recognize self-sabotaging habits as conditioned responses rather than personal failures. Instead of forcing motivation or relying on willpower, the book teaches you how to notice patterns early, interrupt anxiety spirals, and respond with steadier, more intentional action.
Inside, you’ll learn how to:
identify hidden forms of self-sabotage like overthinking, avoidance, perfectionism, and harsh self-talk so you can stop repeating them automatically
calm the inner critic and regulate emotional reactions so fear no longer drives your decisions
rebuild confidence through small, repeatable actions so progress feels sustainable instead of exhausting
create emotional safety around change so growth no longer triggers shutdown or self-doubt
move forward consistently even when motivation fades or pressure increases
Rather than chasing breakthroughs, UNSTUCK focuses on progress that holds. Through practical psychology, real-life examples, and guided reflection, the book shows how to shift from self-protection to self-trust without pretending, performing, or becoming someone else.
Readers and editorial reviewers have noted the book is grounded, emotionally intelligent approach, highlighting its focus on awareness, clarity, and steady change rather than pressure-driven transformation.
UNSTUCK is especially well suited for people who:
feel stuck in cycles of overthinking or fear
know what they want but struggle to follow through
are tired of starting over and blaming themselves
want calm, durable confidence instead of temporary motivation
This is not a book about fixing yourself.
It is about removing the internal resistance that has been blocking who you already are.
If you’re ready to stop restarting and start moving forward with clarity, stability, and self-trust, UNSTUCK offers a grounded path forward.
Read today and begin building progress that lasts.
Successful Life Skills for Teens
Successful Life Skills for Teens by Chad K. Smith is a positive, practical guide for young readers who want to build confidence, manage emotions, and get their lives on track. Smith mixes personal stories, simple psychology, and interactive exercises to teach lessons about self-worth, time management, and resilience. As a retired Marine, he writes with discipline but also with warmth and humor. The book feels more like a friendly conversation than a lecture, which makes it easy to connect with.
Right from the introduction, I was hooked by the story of James, a teen who went from terrified to fearless in public speaking. That small success captures what this book is about: steady growth through effort. I loved the first chapter on self-confidence. Smith compares it to building a house: you can’t stand tall until your foundation, self-worth, is strong. His advice about writing “self-acceptance letters” and practicing positive self-talk felt surprisingly doable.
The chapters on emotional intelligence stood out to me the most. Smith breaks down big ideas, like empathy and stress management, into everyday language. He suggests keeping an emotion journal, doing breathing exercises, and even rating stressors on a worksheet. It’s simple but smart advice, and he never makes it sound preachy. His focus on mindfulness felt refreshing, emphasizing awareness more than perfection.
Some parts, like the financial literacy and time-management chapters, read a bit like a school manual, but even those sections have solid takeaways. I liked his explanation of the Eisenhower Matrix for prioritizing tasks; it’s one of those “why didn’t anyone tell me this earlier?” tools. And his reminder to celebrate small wins might be the most underrated advice in the book.
By the end, I felt like I’d spent a few hours with a coach who genuinely believes in his students. Smith’s writing isn’t flashy, but it’s sincere, and that makes all the difference. Successful Life Skills for Teens is perfect for teenagers trying to figure out who they are and how to handle life’s chaos. I’d recommend it to anyone, teen or adult, who needs a reminder that progress is built one small, confident step at a time.
Pages: 156 | ASIN : B0FD5CY2WC
Be Kind and Do Good
Amber Luna My Bright Light weaves together the stories of two teenage girls navigating the challenges of middle school, family expectations, and their own self-doubt. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
I have three young adult children. As I watched them grow up, I remember feeling so grateful that each of them had genuinely good friends. As they became teenagers, I was impressed by how my children handled some tough situations with those friends—whether it was helping them through a personal problem, forgiving them after a petty fight, or walking away when a friendship became unhealthy.
During those moments, I often wondered: Would my life as a struggling teen have been different if one of them had been my friend? Writing Amber Luna My Bright Light was my way of giving myself that friend.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Friendship—having a good friend or being a good friend—is at the heart of this story. Kindness, helping others, personal growth, and gratitude are all key themes woven into the story as well. When I was writing Amber Luna, I wrote myself a note and read it every time I sat down to write. It said, “Not every act of kindness comes with applause or an award. Often, our best intentions go unnoticed. Be kind and do good anyway. You have the power to change one person’s life, and the ripple effect of your kindness, the light you shine, will multiply in ways you may never see.”
It was just as important for the story to convey that we all have doubts and insecurities. No one has all the answers, but with time and experience, we gain knowledge and the courage to step into who we’re meant to be.
Can we look forward to more work from you soon? What are you currently working on?
Yes! I’m currently drafting the sequel to Amber Luna My Bright Light (working title: Mari’s Light Burning Bright). The story follows Mari’s healing journey, showing that tending to our mental health is rarely a straight line. It has ups and downs, and at times it may feel like there’s no destination. But it’s in the process of seeking answers, taking small steps forward, and learning from the people who come into our lives that helps us discover our strength and our light.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Facebook | Website
Amber’s bold, colorful style and quick wit make her stand out—but underneath, she’s a whirlwind of doubts, hiding a secret talent she’s too afraid to share. Mari, quiet and cautious, is carrying far more than just her bags. She’s struggling under the weight of guilt, expectations, and trauma she hasn’t been strong enough to face—yet.
They’re both 13. They’ve both just finished eighth grade. And they’re about to meet at Camp Evergreen, a summer camp in the middle of nowhere. As their unlikely friendship grows, their differences don’t keep them from discovering something they’ve both been missing— the freedom to be themselves.
Told from two perspectives, Amber Luna My Bright Light is a tender and empowering story that reminds us that finding yourself isn’t about changing or conforming but remembering who you’ve always been. Sometimes, it takes borrowing someone else’s light to see your own. And the bravest thing you can do is let it shine.
Amber Luna My Bright Light
Amber Luna My Bright Light tells the intertwined stories of Amber and Mari, two teenage girls navigating the tangled mess of middle school, friendships, family expectations, and the deep, quiet ache of self-doubt. Amber’s voice is sharp and funny, but tinged with loneliness as she deals with a toxic ex–best friend and the relentless gaze of social media. Mari’s chapters are softer but heavy, weighted by her struggles with faith, belonging, and a private pain she hides from even her closest friend. Both perspectives weave together into a portrait of adolescence that’s as tender as it is raw, capturing the ways we protect ourselves, sometimes at the expense of connection.
I found the writing genuine. Marquart nails the rhythms of teenage thought. How one minute you’re making sarcastic jokes about socks, and the next you’re falling into an emotional sinkhole you can’t climb out of. The alternating voices feel distinct without being forced. Amber’s chapters pulse with humor and bite, while Mari’s carry a quiet, simmering ache. There are a lot of small, everyday details, like shopping carts, awkward hallways, and bad hair days, that make the story feel authentic. At times, the pace slows to deliver those details, but the authenticity more than makes up for it. It reads like someone cracked open a diary and let you peek at all the messy pages.
What resonated with me wasn’t the big dramatic moments, but the small ones: a song on the radio, a mean-spirited Instagram post, a parent missing a school event. These are the cuts that don’t bleed much on the outside but leave marks you keep tracing with your fingers years later. The book doesn’t shy away from the darker parts like bullying, loss, and the pull toward self-harm, but it never feels exploitative. Instead, it treats those moments with respect, letting them sit there, uncomfortable but honest. It’s the kind of story where you want to hug the characters, even when you want to shake them a little, too.
By the time I reached the last page, I didn’t feel like I’d read a coming-of-age story so much as lived alongside two girls during the hardest stretch of their young lives. This isn’t a book that ties everything up neatly, and I liked that. Life doesn’t hand you perfect endings, and Amber Luna My Bright Light knows it. I’d recommend it for anyone who remembers what it felt like to be thirteen and unsure, for teens who feel unseen, and for adults who’ve forgotten how much the small things mattered back then.
Pages: 240 | ASIN : B0FCQ1QG3S
Mirror, Mirror Off the Wall: Seeing Yourself the Way God Sees You
Dr. Noemi X. Oliver’s Mirror, Mirror Off the Wall is a heart-to-heart conversation about self-worth, identity, and faith. She takes us on a journey of breaking free from the suffocating grip of self-doubt, toxic comparison, and societal expectations. With a blend of biblical wisdom, neuroscience, and personal anecdotes, Oliver doesn’t just offer another self-help book—she offers a spiritual realignment. Each chapter peels back a different layer of the distorted reflections we see in the world’s mirror and replaces them with the unshakable truth of how God sees us. It’s an invitation to step into the light of divine love and self-acceptance.
From the first page, Oliver’s voice is warm, almost like an encouraging friend saying, “Hey, I’ve been there, too.” The book is packed with relatable stories like women doubting their worth, mothers feeling invisible, and professionals tying their identity to their achievements. One particularly moving moment comes when she shares a story of a woman who, after battling cancer, tattoos “Redeemed” over her mastectomy scar, seeing herself not as broken but as a testament to survival. These raw moments hit deep, making the book feel more like a safe space than a lecture. What’s even more powerful is the practical guidance. She gives actionable steps like the 7-Day Self-Compassion Fast, the “Love Playlist” of affirmations, and mindfulness prayers that are simple but life-changing.
The book is not just about personal transformation, it’s about shifting how we show up in the world. Her chapter on breaking chains of comparison, especially in the age of social media, is a game-changer. She calls out the curated highlight reels we see online and challenges readers to step out of the “not enough” trap. The suggestion to do a 24-hour media detox hit home for me personally. I tried it, and the difference it made in my mental space was huge. She also offers a fresh perspective on self-acceptance: it’s not about striving to be “better,” but about remembering who we already are in God’s eyes.
Mirror, Mirror Off the Wall is for any woman who’s ever looked in the mirror and felt “too much” or “not enough.” It’s for the overthinkers, the perfectionists, the ones tired of chasing a moving target of worthiness. If you want a blend of psychology, scripture, and real talk that meets you where you are but doesn’t leave you there, Mirror, Mirror Off the Wall is a must-read.
Pages: 222 | ASIN : B0DWSPWB7B
A True Work of Art
The Question invites readers to shift their focus from career aspirations to the qualities that define a meaningful life, all wrapped in lyrical rhymes and enchanting illustrations. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
As a mother, I spend a great deal of time imagining what the future might look like for my two young children and contemplating what it means to raise them into happy, healthy adults. After dedicating a significant portion of my childhood and early adulthood to the belief that achieving conventional and extrinsic successes (e.g., graduating as Valedictorian, attending elite universities, and following a specific career trajectory) was ‘making it’ and defined my value in society and to myself, I began to question if I had it right. It took me well into adulthood to unlearn many of these assumptions and understand that what’s ultimately important in life are the intangibles—our everyday blessings, cultivation of community, care for our Earth, travel, self-love and self-discovery, and family, whatever that family structure may look like. My goal is to help percolate the idea that what a child ultimately decides to do in life professionally does not determine their value as a human being.
How did you collaborate with Jo Blake to bring the story’s themes to life visually?
At the beginning of my book publication journey, I spent an evening with one of my dearest friends mapping out the visual arc of The Question. This ad-hoc brainstorming session ultimately provided the context for the illustrations, which we envisioned as truly beautiful hand drawings that portrayed a theme of magical realism. My ultimate hope was that The Question would never simply be a children’s book, but a true work of art delivering a philosophical message to readers of all ages.
I partnered with Blue Balloon Books, a children’s book publisher, to bring my book to life. Blue Balloon Books works hand in hand with authors to publish original stories that ignite the imagination and curiosity of young learners and readers, and part of the process is to pair these authors with illustrators who can visually manifest their stories. Based on our original storyboarding, my publication team and I provided Jo with the desired themes and per-page elements (e.g., the narrator would be a small child with unruly hair and green eyes, whereas the primary adult would remain faceless throughout most of the book as a means of diverting visual attention to the child). Jo provided black and white rough illustrations based on this original input. I was so thrilled with Jo’s original roughs that we requested very few changes, which meant that she could nearly immediately embark on her full-color, final illustration process. Jo innately understood my vision for The Question, and I think the book is a visual masterpiece.
Were there any particular moments in your life that shaped the message of this book?
After embarking on a deep meditation practice about five years ago, I made the decision to leave a job that was profoundly unsatisfying and deleterious to my sense of self. I began perusing new professional avenues and kept running into mental barriers, asking myself too many questions that revolved around ‘what’. During a meditation, a simple yet profound thought arose within me, which was that I had been asking myself the wrong question. Instead of asking ‘what’ (e.g., “What am I going to do next? What will my role be? What company will recognize my talents? What job title should I seek?”), I should be asking ‘how’ (e.g., “How do I want to split my time between my career and my children? How do I want my life to unfold? How do I want to affect the world? And how do I want to feel at the end of each day and at the end of my life?”). Ultimately, I needed to reframe my mental lens and change the question from ‘what’ to ‘how’ I will be in this world.
What advice would you give to parents about fostering the qualities you highlight—like curiosity and gratitude—in their children?
Life requires so much hard work, often beginning in childhood, and it’s nearly inevitable that children will one day have a job, a trade or a profession. Yet the value of a human—whether as a child or an adult—should not be predicated on their extrinsic achievements. I encourage my children to learn not for the sake of getting good grades, but for acquiring knowledge and fostering their curiosity about the world around them. And a small family ritual dedicated to gratitude can help unify a family and bring perspective to life’s daily trials. Each morning, my family gathers together to ring a gong and give thanks for our everyday blessings (our family, our home, our pets, our community, our opportunities). And each evening, we hold hands before dinner and say a benediction of gratitude that was co-written by our children. Whatever this ritual looks like for your family (e.g., a morning walk, a family circle around a fire, etc.), setting aside time to say ‘thank you’ is so important, as it helps ensure that we are raising kids who have a strong sense of peace and well-being, who are empathetic and resilient, and who can look outside of themselves. A practice of gratitude ultimately reminds us that “life is enough.”
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
In this beautifully illustrated children’s book, a young narrator is faced with the age-old question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Instead of giving a traditional answer, however, this narrator poses a different question: “How will I be when I grow up?”
Through rhyming stanzas and vibrant pictures, The Question encourages children—and the adults in their lives—to think beyond societal expectations and focus on developing qualities that truly matter, like kindness, gratitude, and a positive mindset. This inspiring story will help young readers discover their unique paths and understand the importance of being a good and curious person, no matter what they choose to be when they grow up. The Question is a valuable resource for anyone who hopes to ignite a passion for reading and self-discovery in young minds.
Life Skills for Teens Toolkit: Master A Growth Mindset, Emotions, Financial Savviness, Cybersmarts & More, Even Though It Seems Like Everyone Else Has It Figured Out
Life Skills for Teens Toolkit: Master A Growth Mindset, Emotions, Financial Savviness, Cybersmarts & More, Even Though It Seems Like Everyone Else Has It Figured Out, by Maegen Lara, is a valuable guide for teens and young adults looking to navigate the complexities of life with confidence. The book covers a wide range of topics, from emotional intelligence and cultivating a growth mindset to mastering financial responsibility and staying safe online. It provides practical advice to help young people feel more in control of their lives during a time when everything can feel overwhelming.
One of the standout aspects of this book is its focus on emotional and psychological development. As someone with a background in psychology, I particularly appreciated how Lara incorporates insights from renowned psychologists like Angela Duckworth. The book goes beyond popular concepts like the growth mindset, delving into lesser-known yet equally important topics such as neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new pathways as we learn, is a fascinating subject, and Lara does an excellent job of making it accessible. It’s a powerful reminder that we can always improve and learn new skills, which is often overlooked in discussions about personal growth. Lara’s emphasis on the “power of yet” resonated with me deeply. This concept encourages readers to reframe their mindset—not as someone who can’t do something, but as someone who can’t do it yet. This simple shift in thinking can be incredibly motivating, turning challenges into opportunities for growth rather than roadblocks. It’s a brilliant way to help young people break free from self-limiting beliefs and push past their comfort zones.
Life Skills for Teens Toolkit is a must-read for any teen or young adult feeling uncertain about stepping into the adult world. Lara offers practical, down-to-earth advice on building the right mindset and skills for personal and emotional success. Her message that no one has it all figured out is reassuring, and the tools she provides empower readers to face life’s challenges with confidence. I highly recommend this book to anyone feeling lost or in need of guidance as they navigate adulthood.
Pages: 181 | ASIN : B0DHBNLB2Z
The Hippo Who Hated To Fight
The Hippo Who Hated to Fight is a heartwarming picture book about Kuno, a young hippo with a gentle soul living in a world where fighting and biting are the norms. Kuno is different from his four big brothers, who can’t seem to understand his aversion to conflict. Seeking solace, Kuno embarks on a journey of self-discovery, encountering Zema, a wise and kind elephant. Through their conversations, Kuno learns valuable lessons about kindness, love, and self-acceptance, leading to a transformative friendship that changes his life.
I absolutely loved this story! The writing is simple yet effective, making it enjoyable for children and adults alike. Lowe’s ability to capture Kuno’s emotions, from his feelings of alienation to his joy in discovering true friendship, is truly touching. The dialogue between Kuno and Zema is playful and deep and often brings a smile to my face, especially when Zema gently teases Kuno with her big floppy ears or talks about her insatiable appetite.
What really stood out to me were the messages woven into the story. Kuno’s journey isn’t just about fitting in; it’s about embracing who you are, even when you feel out of place. Zema’s wisdom, like her explanation that elephants don’t say “I love you” but show it through actions, adds depth to the story. It’s a beautiful reminder that love and kindness don’t always need to be expressed in words; sometimes, they’re best shown through care and compassion. These moments made the book feel like a gentle guide for any child or adult learning to navigate their path in life.
Stephen Bibel’s illustrations are the perfect complement to Lowe’s story. They’re bright and full of life and capture the essence of the characters beautifully. These images will surely captivate young readers and help them connect with the story.
The Hippo Who Hated to Fight is a delightful children’s book that I’d recommend to anyone looking for a heartwarming and meaningful story. It’s perfect for kids who’ve ever felt different or struggled to fit in, and it’s a great reminder for all of us about the power of kindness and being true to ourselves.
Pages: 40 | ASIN : B0D8K317L5
