I originally purchased this book because it is
suggested reading for the school I am currently attending to become certified
as a "Life Coach". Since it's now "out of print", I had
almost decided not to get it, but then thought better of it & chose to go
ahead and buy a used copy - and I have to say that I am really glad that I
did!
"Take Charge" is literally jam packed with great insights on life
in general. The author starts off with stories of people who have actually
changed some aspect of their life for which they were previously unhappy or
stressed. These changes were generally made possible by some insight that he
either shared directly with his client, or helped his client reach through
appropriate questioning.
He then goes on to discuss the "big lie" - that other people are
responsible for your feelings - and the negative impact this lie has on many
of us. He suggests that we need to realize that we are in control of our
feelings, and by allowing other people's actions to impact how you feel will
literally leave you powerless (as you cannot MAKE someone change, you can
only change yourself and your choices).
After this, he shares essays on various life situations and his current
beliefs - always discussing how "negative" life events can be
looked at in a different, more positive way (we coaches call this
"re-framing").
The last 3 chapters encompass his philosophy on life, "quick fixes for
minor snags" & various affirmations - all of which provide a wealth
of information to assist those of us in the "helping professions",
as well as those who would like to change some part of their lives, but just
don't know how.
Overall, this is an easy, enjoyable read, and I highly recommend it (it's one
of those books that's worth finding a used copy of if it continues to remain
out-of-print)
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