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Unexpected: Leave Fear Behind, Move Forward in Faith, Embrace the Adventure
by Christine CaineIs it possible to have peace in an uncertain world? To not only expect the unexpected but embrace it?Most of us want to have life under control. But God wants us to anticipate the unexpected with a faith deeply rooted in his goodness. He wants us to know that because he is in control, we don’t have to be.In Unexpected, beloved author Christine Caine helps us walk into the life God has for us—unknowns and all. Using dramatic examples from her own journey, Christine offers real-life strategies and biblical inspiration to help us move from fear and worry about ourselves to hope and trust in God. As we learn new ways to manage disappointment, strengthen our hearts, and build our faith, we can enjoy a new adventure with God that is more fulfilling than any day we spend trying to anticipate what will happen next.Stepping into our God-given destiny means stepping into the unknown, but we can embrace that calling because God knows it already. Nothing in our lives takes God by surprise. So even in the midst of personal upheaval, relational challenges, financial stresses, family transitions, career disappointments, and chaotic world affairs, we can expect God to be good and do good. What other expectation do we need to have? Listen to God’s dare to trust him in every unknown of your life today.
Unexpected: Navigating Life's Unforeseen Turns (Morgan James Faith)
by Ken L. RobertsOn a routine trip to a women’s Bible study, Ken’s wife of twenty-five years was killed in a car accident. At the time of the accident, Ken was forty-seven years of age, the father of two adult children, and the pastor of a large and growing congregation. Using his own story, as well as his thirty plus years of experience in pastoring hundreds of others through adversity and tragedy, Ken in his new book Unexpected: Navigating Life’s Unforeseen Turns will help you navigate through your unexpected turns in life and in the process become the person you hope to become.
Unexpected Blessings
by Roxanne Black"Roxanne's heartfelt experience reminds us of the sacred experience we all share." Mehmet C. Oz, M.D., coauthor of YOU: The Owner's Manual Beautifully drawn stories of hope, healing, and courage illuminate the unexpected blessings that lie beyond the hurdles in life. When Roxanne Black was only fifteen years old, she was diagnosed with lupus, a chronic inflammatory disease. As a teenager with a rare and potentially life- threatening illness, Roxanne yearned to connect firsthand with others who knew what she was experiencing. So she made the decision to turn her diagnosis into something positive. Working out of her hospital bedroom, she founded Friends' Health Connection, which is now a nationwide community that matches people with similar health conditions for friendship and mutual support. Unexpected Blessings brings to life Roxanne's moving personal story, as well as the wisdom and lessons of courage she has learned over the years from famous leaders and celebrities, as well as everyday heroes standing strong against adversity. We meet Sara, an eight-year-old mature beyond her years, who is struggling with AIDS and the loss of her mother, and Ruby, a chronically ill woman whose devoted husband eases her pain. We experience Roxanne's poignant encounter with Christopher Reeve before his death, and also see unbelievable kindness and acts of love-family members offering transplant organs to save loved ones, strangers supporting one another through crisis, and more. These powerful stories and reflections weave together a rich tapestry of hope, comfort, and inspiration, and serve as reminders of the incredible resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming challenge. In this gorgeously written book, Roxanne Black reminds us of the courage we all possess.
The Unexpected Gift of Trauma: The Path to Posttraumatic Growth
by Dr. Edith ShiroA groundbreaking approach to healing from trauma and experiencing posttraumatic growth from a leading psychologist, featuring a powerful, five-stage framework to help readers not just recover, but thrive and transform. Trauma has always been part of the human experience, and traumatic events—both physical and emotional—can shake our very foundation and leave us forever changed. While we know more about the lasting neurological and physical effects of trauma than we did a decade ago, few people realize that experiencing trauma doesn’t have to sentence you to a lifetime of suffering and grief.In this first book of its kind, renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Edith Shiro shares a powerful, five-stage framework for posttraumatic growth, a transformational process that helps you not just heal, but achieve growth and expand consciousness in the face of trauma. Inspired by her grandparents, who were refugees and Holocaust survivors, Dr. Shiro has dedicated her life to individuals, families, and communities facing trauma and its aftereffects. Developed over more than twenty-five years of research and practice, Dr. Shiro’s stages—Awareness, Awakening, Becoming, Being, and Transforming— provide a universal language and outline how trauma can be a catalyst for transformative growth.Grounded in science and psychology, and filled with practical tools and takeaways, The Unexpected Gift of Trauma offers a bold a new definition of trauma, touching on individual as well as collective and intergenerational trauma. Dr. Shiro brings the power of posttraumatic growth to the forefront and reveals a groundbreaking new way to think about and heal from traumatic experiences.
The Unexpected Gift of Trauma: The Path to Posttraumatic Growth
by Edith ShiroA groundbreaking approach to healing from trauma and experiencing posttraumatic growth from a leading psychologist, featuring a powerful, five-stage framework to help readers not just recover, but thrive and transform. Trauma has always been part of the human experience, and traumatic events can shake our very foundation and leave us forever changed. While we know more about the lasting neurological and physical effects of trauma than we did a decade ago, few people realize that experiencing trauma doesn't have to sentence you to a lifetime of suffering and grief.In this first book of its kind, renowned clinical psychologist Dr Edith Shiro shares a powerful, five-stage framework for posttraumatic growth, a transformational process that helps you not just heal, but achieve growth and expand consciousness in the face of trauma. Inspired by her grandparents, who were refugees and Holocaust survivors, Dr Shiro has dedicated her life to individuals, families, and communities facing trauma and its aftereffects. Developed over more than twenty-five years of research and practice, Dr Shiro's stages - Awareness, Awakening, Becoming, Being, and Transforming - provide a universal language and outline how trauma can be a catalyst for transformative growth.Grounded in science and psychology, and filled with practical tools and takeaways, THE UNEXPECTED GIFT OF TRAUMA offers a bold a new definition of trauma, touching on individual as well as collective and intergenerational trauma. Dr Shiro brings the power of posttraumatic growth to the forefront and reveals a groundbreaking new way to think about and heal from traumatic experiences.
The Unexpected Gift of Trauma: The Path to Posttraumatic Growth
by Edith ShiroA groundbreaking approach to healing from trauma and experiencing posttraumatic growth from a leading psychologist, featuring a powerful, five-stage framework to help readers not just recover, but thrive and transform. Trauma has always been part of the human experience, and traumatic events can shake our very foundation and leave us forever changed. While we know more about the lasting neurological and physical effects of trauma than we did a decade ago, few people realize that experiencing trauma doesn't have to sentence you to a lifetime of suffering and grief.In this first book of its kind, renowned clinical psychologist Dr Edith Shiro shares a powerful, five-stage framework for posttraumatic growth, a transformational process that helps you not just heal, but achieve growth and expand consciousness in the face of trauma. Inspired by her grandparents, who were refugees and Holocaust survivors, Dr Shiro has dedicated her life to individuals, families, and communities facing trauma and its aftereffects. Developed over more than twenty-five years of research and practice, Dr Shiro's stages - Awareness, Awakening, Becoming, Being, and Transforming - provide a universal language and outline how trauma can be a catalyst for transformative growth.Grounded in science and psychology, and filled with practical tools and takeaways, THE UNEXPECTED GIFT OF TRAUMA offers a bold a new definition of trauma, touching on individual as well as collective and intergenerational trauma. Dr Shiro brings the power of posttraumatic growth to the forefront and reveals a groundbreaking new way to think about and heal from traumatic experiences.
The Unexpected Journey: Conversations with People Who Turned from Other Beliefs to Jesus
by Thom S. RainerFollowing Jesus is a journey none of the people in this book ever expected to take. Why did they?What difference did it make?The book you’re holding is dangerous. If you read it, you’ll see that God is still active in saving even the most unexpected people: An atheist woman who viewed Christians as “idiots.” A married couple high in the leadership ranks of the Mormon church. An African-American man who became a Black Muslim out of hatred for white Christians. You’ll be amazed, moved, and encouraged as you read their compelling stories and the stories of nine others who made The Unexpected Journey from non-Christian beliefs to faith in Jesus Christ. You’ll rediscover the power of the gospel. You might even be emboldened to tell others about Christ yourself.Unexpected journeys beyond• Mormonism• Judaism• Hinduism• Atheism• Jehovah’s Witness• Agnosticism• Wiccan Paganism• Buddhism• Unitarianism• Astrology• Islam• Satanism
The Unexpected Joy of Being Single: Locating happily-single serenity
by Catherine Gray* 'This refreshing, unusual book needs to exist. A culture shift which repositions a single person as someone who is relationship-free, complete, and not lacking is long overdue.' - The i ** 'Absolutely f*cking brilliant' - Florence Given *Having a secret single freak-out? Feeling the red, heart-shaped urgency intensify as the years roll on by? Oh hi! You're in the right place.Over half of Brits aged 25-44 are now single. It's become the norm to remain solo until much later in life, given the average marriage ages of 35 (women) and 38 (men). Many of us are choosing never to marry at all.But society, films, song lyrics and our parents are adamant that a happy ending has to be couple-shaped. That we're incomplete without an 'other half'*, like a bisected panto pony. Cue: single sorrow. Dating like it's a job. Spending half our lives waiting for somebody-we-fancy to text us back. Feeling haunted by the terms 'spinster' or 'confirmed bachelor.'Catherine Gray took a whole year off dating to find single satisfaction. She lifted the lid on the reasons behind the global single revolution, explored the bizarre ways cultures single-shame, detached from 'all the good ones are gone!' panic and debunked the myth that married people are much happier.Let's start the reverse brainwash, in order to locate - and luxuriate in - single happiness. Are you in?*Spoiler: you're already wholePRAISE FOR CATHERINE GRAY'S WRITING:"Fascinating." Bryony Gordon."Not remotely preachy." The Times"Jaunty, shrewd and convincing." The Telegraph"Admirably honest, light, bubbly and remarkably rarely annoying." The Guardian"Truthful, modern and real." Stylist"Brave, witty and brilliantly written." Marie Claire"Haunting, admirable and enlightening." The Pool(p) 2018 Octopus Publishing Group
The Unexpected Joy of Being Single (The Unexpected Joy Of #2)
by Catherine GrayFrom the Sunday Times bestselling author 'This refreshing, unusual book needs to exist. A culture shift which repositions a single person as someone who is relationship-free, complete, and not lacking is long overdue.' - The i'Absolutely f*cking brilliant' - Florence GivenHaving a secret single freak-out? Feeling the red, heart-shaped urgency intensify as the years roll on by? Oh hi! You're in the right place.Over half of Brits aged 25-44 are now single. It's become the norm to remain solo until much later in life, given the average marriage ages of 35 (women) and 38 (men). Many of us are choosing never to marry at all. But society, films, song lyrics and our parents are adamant that a happy ending has to be couple-shaped. That we're incomplete without an 'other half'*, like a bisected panto pony. Cue: single sorrow. Dating like it's a job. Spending half our lives waiting for somebody-we-fancy to text us back. Feeling haunted by the terms 'spinster' or 'confirmed bachelor.'Catherine Gray took a whole year off dating to find single satisfaction. She lifted the lid on the reasons behind the global single revolution, explored the bizarre ways cultures single-shame, detached from 'all the good ones are gone!' panic and debunked the myth that married people are much happier.Let's start the reverse brainwash, in order to locate - and luxuriate in - single happiness. Are you in?*Spoiler: you're already wholePRAISE FOR CATHERINE GRAY'S WRITING:"Fascinating." - Bryony Gordon"Not remotely preachy." - The Times"Jaunty, shrewd and convincing." - The Telegraph "Admirably honest, light, bubbly and remarkably rarely annoying." - The Guardian"Truthful, modern and real." - Stylist"Brave, witty and brilliantly written." - Marie Claire"Haunting, admirable and enlightening." - The Pool
The Unexpected Joy of Being Single (The Unexpected Joy Of #2)
by Catherine GrayFrom the Sunday Times bestselling author 'This refreshing, unusual book needs to exist. A culture shift which repositions a single person as someone who is relationship-free, complete, and not lacking is long overdue.' - The i'Absolutely f*cking brilliant' - Florence GivenHaving a secret single freak-out? Feeling the red, heart-shaped urgency intensify as the years roll on by? Oh hi! You're in the right place.Over half of Brits aged 25-44 are now single. It's become the norm to remain solo until much later in life, given the average marriage ages of 35 (women) and 38 (men). Many of us are choosing never to marry at all. But society, films, song lyrics and our parents are adamant that a happy ending has to be couple-shaped. That we're incomplete without an 'other half'*, like a bisected panto pony. Cue: single sorrow. Dating like it's a job. Spending half our lives waiting for somebody-we-fancy to text us back. Feeling haunted by the terms 'spinster' or 'confirmed bachelor.'Catherine Gray took a whole year off dating to find single satisfaction. She lifted the lid on the reasons behind the global single revolution, explored the bizarre ways cultures single-shame, detached from 'all the good ones are gone!' panic and debunked the myth that married people are much happier.Let's start the reverse brainwash, in order to locate - and luxuriate in - single happiness. Are you in?*Spoiler: you're already wholePRAISE FOR CATHERINE GRAY'S WRITING:"Fascinating." - Bryony Gordon"Not remotely preachy." - The Times"Jaunty, shrewd and convincing." - The Telegraph "Admirably honest, light, bubbly and remarkably rarely annoying." - The Guardian"Truthful, modern and real." - Stylist"Brave, witty and brilliantly written." - Marie Claire"Haunting, admirable and enlightening." - The Pool
The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober: THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER
by Catherine GrayTHE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER 'Gray's tale of going sober is uplifting and inspiring' - The Evening Standard 'An icon of the Quit Lit movement' - Condé Nast Traveller 'Fascinating' - Bryony Gordon 'Not remotely preachy' - The Times 'Jaunty, shrewd and convincing' - Sunday Telegraph 'Admirably honest, light, bubbly and remarkably rarely annoying' - Alice O'Keeffe, Guardian 'Truthful, modern and real' - Stylist 'Brave, witty and brilliantly written' - Marie Claire 'The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober came to me at a time when I much needed it... The book became my best friend, and got me through, and took me on a journey.' - Sadie Frost 'Particularly lovely, because it's not a deep and dark dive into someone's terrible addiction. It's a celebration of everything that she has gained from not drinking' - Laura Donnelly Ever sworn off alcohol for a month and found yourself drinking by the 7th? Think there's 'no point' in just one drink? Welcome! There are millions of us. 64% of Brits want to drink less.Catherine Gray was stuck in a hellish whirligig of Drink, Make horrible decisions, Hangover, Repeat. She had her fair share of 'drunk tank' jail cells and topless-in-a-hot-tub misadventures.But this book goes beyond the binges and blackouts to deep-dive into uncharted territory: What happens after you quit drinking? This gripping, heart-breaking and witty book takes us down the rabbit-hole of an alternative reality. A life with zero hangovers, through sober weddings, sex, Christmases and breakups.In The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober, Catherine Gray shines a light on society's drink-pushing and talks to top neuroscientists and psychologists about why we drink, delving into the science behind what it does to our brains and bodies.Much more than a tale from the netherworld of addicted drinking, this book is about the escape, and why a sober life can be more intoxicating than you ever imagined. Whether you're a hopelessly devoted drinker, merely sober-curious, or you've already ditched the drink, you will love this book. 'Haunting, admirable and enlightening' - The Pool 'A riveting, raw, yet humorous memoir with actionable advice. A truly unique blend of storytelling and science that holds a universe of hope.' - Annie Grace, author of This Naked Mind 'Like listening to your best friend teach you to be sober. Lighthearted but serious, it's packed with ideas, tools, tips and, most importantly, reasons for living a sober life. This book is excellent.'- Eric Zimmer, host of podcast The One You Feed 'Gray's fizzy writing succeeds in making this potentially boring-as-hell subject both engaging and highly seductive' - The Bookseller 'Catherine Gray is an exceptional writer. Her exquisitely crafted thoughts on the joys of being sober are not only deeply honest and pragmatic, but she manages to infuse tons of humor. This is a delightful, informative, and compelling read for all those who are sober or seeking sobriety.' - Sasha Tozzi, Huffington Post columnist 'Catherine's writing style and voice captivate me. She has a way of translating her story into an experience I don't want to end. I want to drink every drop she produces.' - Holly Whitaker, founder of Hip Sobriety School and co-presenter of Home podcast 'This book is great. A balanced, informative and entertaining mélange of memoir, sociology and psychology. I identified very strongly with huge sections of it.' - Jon Stewart, guitari
The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober: THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER (The Unexpected Joy Of #1)
by Catherine GrayGoing sober will make you happier, healthier, wealthier, slimmer and sexier. Despite all of these upsides, it's easier said than done. This inspirational, aspirational and highly relatable narrative champions the benefits of sobriety; combining the author's personal experience, factual reportage, contributions from experts and self-help advice.
The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober: THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER (The Unexpected Joy Of #1)
by Catherine GrayGoing sober will make you happier, healthier, wealthier, slimmer and sexier. Despite all of these upsides, it's easier said than done. This inspirational, aspirational and highly relatable narrative champions the benefits of sobriety; combining the author's personal experience, factual reportage, contributions from experts and self-help advice.
The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober Journal: THE COMPANION TO THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER (The Unexpected Joy #3)
by Catherine GrayEver sworn off alcohol for a month and found yourself drinking by the 7th? Think there's 'no point' in just one drink? Welcome!Quitting drinking, whether for a month or for life, is enormously satisfying, but also fiendishly difficult. -There's the getting started ('But I have that party next week!')-There's the feeling clenched and socially anxious.-Throw in a sizeable amount of social pressure and suspicious questions ('So, do you have a drinking problem?'-Finally, chuck in the hundreds of pro-drinking messages we see every day; films where a round of shots always comes with a whoop; fridge magnets that say 'I don't trust people who don't drink'; pub clapboards announcing 'Strong people need strong drinks'; and memes declaring 'Beer: it's a holiday in a glass.' Whew. It's no wonder we find it tricky to stay teetotal. But don't worry. We're going to tackle all of the above. I'm going to give you tools that enable you to clear all of these stumbling blocks with the grace of a gazelle. So, let's get started, shall we? PRAISE FOR CATHERINE GRAY'S WRITING:"An icon of the Quit Lit movement." Condé Nast Traveller"Fascinating." Bryony Gordon."Not remotely preachy." The Times"Jaunty, shrewd and convincing." The Telegraph "Admirably honest, light, bubbly and remarkably rarely annoying." The Guardian"Truthful, modern and real." Stylist"Brave, witty and brilliantly written." Marie Claire"Haunting, admirable and enlightening." The Pool
The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober Journal: THE COMPANION TO THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER (The Unexpected Joy #3)
by Catherine GrayEver sworn off alcohol for a month and found yourself drinking by the 7th? Think there's 'no point' in just one drink? Welcome!Quitting drinking, whether for a month or for life, is enormously satisfying, but also fiendishly difficult. -There's the getting started ('But I have that party next week!')-There's the feeling clenched and socially anxious.-Throw in a sizeable amount of social pressure and suspicious questions ('So, do you have a drinking problem?'-Finally, chuck in the hundreds of pro-drinking messages we see every day; films where a round of shots always comes with a whoop; fridge magnets that say 'I don't trust people who don't drink'; pub clapboards announcing 'Strong people need strong drinks'; and memes declaring 'Beer: it's a holiday in a glass.' Whew. It's no wonder we find it tricky to stay teetotal. But don't worry. We're going to tackle all of the above. I'm going to give you tools that enable you to clear all of these stumbling blocks with the grace of a gazelle. So, let's get started, shall we? PRAISE FOR CATHERINE GRAY'S WRITING:"An icon of the Quit Lit movement." Condé Nast Traveller"Fascinating." Bryony Gordon."Not remotely preachy." The Times"Jaunty, shrewd and convincing."The Telegraph "Admirably honest, light, bubbly and remarkably rarely annoying." The Guardian"Truthful, modern and real."Stylist"Brave, witty and brilliantly written." Marie Claire"Haunting, admirable and enlightening."The Pool
The Unexpected Joy of the Ordinary
by Catherine Gray**From the Sunday Times Bestselling Author**We're told that happiness is in the extraordinary. It's on a Caribbean sun lounger, in the driving seat of a luxury car, inside an expensive golden locket, watching sunrise from Machu Picchu. We strive, reach, push, shoot for more. 'Enough' is a moving target we never quite reach.When we do brush our fingertips against the extraordinary a deeply inconvenient psychological phenomenon called the 'hedonic treadmill' means that, after a surge of joy, our happiness level returns to the baseline it was at before the 'extra' event.So, what's the answer? The Unexpected Joy of the Ordinary theorises that the solution is rediscovering the joy in the ordinary that we so often now forget to feel. Because we now expect the pleasure of a croissant, a hot shower, a yoga class, someone delivering our shopping to our door, we no longer feel its buzz. The joy of it whips through us like a bullet train, without pause.Catherine Gray was a grandmaster in the art of eye-rolling the ordinary, and skilled in everlasting reaching. Until the black dog of depression forced her to re-think everything.Along the way, she discovered some surprising realities about the extraordinaries among us: that influencers risk higher rates of anxiety and depression, high-rollers are less happy, and huge frothy weddings increase the likelihood of divorce.Learning how to be exalted by the everyday is the most important lesson we can possibly learn. In Catherine Gray's hilarious, insightful, soulful (and very ordinary) next book, you may learn to do just that.PRAISE FOR CATHERINE GRAY'S WRITING:"Fascinating" Bryony Gordon."Not remotely preachy" The Times"Jaunty, shrewd and convincing" The Telegraph "Admirably honest, light, bubbly and remarkably rarely annoying" The Guardian(p) 2019 Octopus Publishing Group
The Unexpected Joy of the Ordinary (The Unexpected Joy Of #4)
by Catherine Gray**From the Sunday Times Bestselling Author**Life-affirming - THE TELEGRAPHWonderful - INDEPENDENTShe made it her mission to learn how to be default happy rather than default disgruntled - RADIO 4 - WOMAN'S HOURTake a leaf out of Gray's book and be kinder to yourself by appreciating life just as it is - IRISH TIMESThis book came to me in an hour of need - during lockdown when I had to focus on the positive, appreciate simple things, not lose my shit, and value each day. It was a pure joy for me and held my hand - SADIE FROSTInteresting and joyful. Lights a path that could help us to build resilience against society's urging to compare life milestones with peers - LANCET PSYCHIATRY Underwhelmed by your ordinary existence? Disillusioned with your middlin' wage, average body, 'bijou' living situation and imperfect loved ones? Welcome to the club. There are billions of us. The 'default disenchanted'. But, it's not us being brats. Two deeply inconvenient psychological phenomenons conspire against our satisfaction. We have negatively-biased brains, which zoom like doom-drones in on what's wrong with our day, rather than what's right. (Back in the mists of time, this negative bias saved our skins, but now it just makes us anxious). Also, something called the 'hedonic treadmill' means we eternally quest for better, faster, more, like someone stuck on a dystopian, never-ending treadmill. Thankfully, there are scientifically-proven ways in which we can train our brains to be more positive-seeking. And to take a rest from this tireless pursuit. Whew.Catherine Gray knits together illuminating science and hilarious storytelling, unveiling captivating research showing that big bucks don't mean big happiness, extraordinary experiences have a 'comedown' and budget weddings predict a lower chance of divorce. She reminds us what an average body actually is, reveals that exercising for weight loss means we do less exercise, and explores the modern tendency to not just try to keep up with the Murphys, but keep up with the Mega-Murphies (see: the social media elite).Come on in to this soulful and life-affirming read, to discover why an ordinary life may well be the most satisfying one of all.
The Unexpected Joy of the Ordinary (The Unexpected Joy Of #4)
by Catherine Gray**From the Sunday Times Bestselling Author**Life-affirming - THE TELEGRAPHWonderful - INDEPENDENTShe made it her mission to learn how to be default happy rather than default disgruntled - RADIO 4 - WOMAN'S HOURTake a leaf out of Gray's book and be kinder to yourself by appreciating life just as it is - IRISH TIMESThis book came to me in an hour of need - during lockdown when I had to focus on the positive, appreciate simple things, not lose my shit, and value each day. It was a pure joy for me and held my hand - SADIE FROSTInteresting and joyful. Lights a path that could help us to build resilience against society's urging to compare life milestones with peers - LANCET PSYCHIATRY Underwhelmed by your ordinary existence? Disillusioned with your middlin' wage, average body, 'bijou' living situation and imperfect loved ones? Welcome to the club. There are billions of us. The 'default disenchanted'. But, it's not us being brats. Two deeply inconvenient psychological phenomenons conspire against our satisfaction. We have negatively-biased brains, which zoom like doom-drones in on what's wrong with our day, rather than what's right. (Back in the mists of time, this negative bias saved our skins, but now it just makes us anxious). Also, something called the 'hedonic treadmill' means we eternally quest for better, faster, more, like someone stuck on a dystopian, never-ending treadmill. Thankfully, there are scientifically-proven ways in which we can train our brains to be more positive-seeking. And to take a rest from this tireless pursuit. Whew.Catherine Gray knits together illuminating science and hilarious storytelling, unveiling captivating research showing that big bucks don't mean big happiness, extraordinary experiences have a 'comedown' and budget weddings predict a lower chance of divorce. She reminds us what an average body actually is, reveals that exercising for weight loss means we do less exercise, and explores the modern tendency to not just try to keep up with the Murphys, but keep up with the Mega-Murphies (see: the social media elite).Come on in to this soulful and life-affirming read, to discover why an ordinary life may well be the most satisfying one of all.
The Unexpected Leader: Discovering the Leader Within You
by Jacqueline M. BakerExpand your leadership skill set by looking for it in unexpected places Effective leadership isn&’t confined to easily identifiable silos. It appears everywhere, and sometimes in the most unexpected of places. In The Unexpected Leader: Discovering the Leader Within You, veteran leadership trainer and consultant Jacqueline M. Baker delivers an incisive and actionable discussion of how to refine, define, and elevate leadership by absorbing lessons from other leaders and actualizing the leader within. You&’ll learn how to meet the demands of a rapidly changing workforce with a new approach to leadership development. In the book, you&’ll find: Examples of how exemplary leadership can show up anywhere and in anyone New strategies for implementing the latest leadership techniques in a demographically and culturally diverse workforce Modern lessons on unique and authentic leadership from people unexpectedly thrust into positions where great leadership was essentialAn ideal resource for everyday leaders at all levels, executives and managers, The Unexpected Leader: Discovering the Leader Within You is an essential read for anyone who hopes to expand their concept of leadership beyond the traditional.
Unexpected Places: Thoughts on God, Faith, and Finding Your Voice
by Anthony EvansUnexpected Places is the personal story of gospel singer Anthony Evans, son of well-known pastor Tony Evans and brother of author Priscilla Shirer. In this intimate and moving memoir, Anthony shares the details of his struggles with depression and doubt, and encourages readers with the unique story of his search for purpose and identity. From growing up duty-bound to his name, to his time as a finalist and then talent producer on The Voice, Anthony explores the pressures he experienced as a child and as a young man in Hollywood. He describes the journey to his renewed faith in God and exposes the vast differences between what the world teaches us to value and how God values us. Anthony examines what his parents did right in raising him but also describes how they unknowingly missed his pain. Finally, he reveals how God orchestrated His plan to grow Anthony into a man who is in love with his life, his heritage, and his individual calling.Anthony has learned to embrace the incredible beauty of his unique voice. In Unexpected Places, he invites readers on their own journey to do the same.
The Unexpected Power of Mindfulness and Meditation
by Deb Shapiro Ed Shapiro"Ed and Deb bring compassion and heart to a modern world where it is sorely missed." — Ram Dass author of Be Here NowBehind the dramas and conflicts of life, there exists a quiet inner place where mindfulness and meditation can help us reside. The sanity and brilliance of this combination can awaken inner strength, foster kindness and fearlessness, and invite radical change. Discover how to transform your life from the inside out with the profound benefits of a calm and stress-free mind.The Unexpected Power of Mindfulness and Meditation features personal insights from visionary leaders — Matthew Fox, Jon Kabat-Zinn, and Marianne Williamson among them — who discuss their methods of maintaining mental health and happiness.“Treat this book as you would a cookery book. You wouldn't just read recipes; you'd try them out. Like cookery, meditation only makes sense if you experience it.” — His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Nobel Peace Prize laureate"Ed and Deb remind us all just how important it is to look after the health and happiness of the mind. With warmth and humor, they show us how to integrate the timeless qualities of awareness and compassion into everyday life." — Andy Puddicombe, founder of HEADSPACE“Mindfulness is the awareness that arises when we pay attention to the present moment. It accesses us to core aspects of our mind that our very sanity depends on, as does our capacity to live wholeheartedly in this crazy world.” — Jon Kabat-Zinn, mindfulness teacher“I can be as nuts as the next person, living in a world like we live in with the craziness and chaos. It takes work to retain our sanity in the midst of all that, and to me meditation is the most powerful tool for doing so.” — Marianne Williamson, New York Times bestselling author of A Return to Love“Ed and Deb Shapiro are two warm, caring, and capable individuals. Their work makes our planet a safer and more loving place to live.” — Bernie Siegel, M.D., bestselling author of Love, Medicine and Miracles“If there is one book you read about meditation, this should be the one. Hear about some of the cool people who do it, why you should do it, and how.” — Sharon Gannon, Jivamukti Yoga“What an accomplishment! Ed and Deb's profoundly unique book offers a one-stop shop for those engaged in mindfulness and meditation. The direct transmission contained in this book can take us one step further. We find it especially useful to help stabilize spiritual activism in these challenging times and we'll refer it widely.” — John Steiner and Margo King, transpartisan activists“I hope that your work is reaching many. It deserves it and so do they.” — Stephen Levine, international bestselling author “Acceptance of what is, that is meditation. This book will help you make friends with your mind. Ed and Deb are spreading love in the world; be a part of it!” — Parmita Pushman, White Swan Records“The pausing has been profound. It has invited me to arrive in the here and now with my child clients, and to accept whatever happens without judging.” — Megan Cronin Larson, play therapist“The wonderful Shapiros are a conduit of joy and spiritual energy that heals hearts on their subtle level.” — Dr. Lex Hixon, author of Coming Home“Ed and Deb make a connection to their friends' spirit. They then bring their spiritual energy all over the world for world peace.” — Kitaro, Golden Globe Award– and Grammy Award–winning musician
The Unexpected Power of Mindfulness and Meditation
by Deb Shapiro Ed Shapiro'Anyone interested in meditation should read this book.' The Dalai Lama'Ed and Deb remind us all just how important it is to look after the health and happiness of the mind. With warmth and humor they show us how to integrate the timeless qualities of awareness and compassion into everyday life.' Andy Puddicombe, founder, HEADSPACEThis book is essential reading for anyone - both newcomers to mindfulness and meditation as well as long-time devotees - wishing to make positive changes in their lives. It teaches you how to reach your quiet inner place where meditation and mindfulness can help resolve issues such as anger and fear, relationship breakdown, forgiveness, parenthood, and a lack of self-esteem. Read wisdom from the Dalai Lama, Jon Kabat-Zinn and Marianne Williamson who discuss their methods of maintaining good mental health and happiness. People everywhere now realise the profound benefits of mindfulness and meditation to reduce deep-rooted stress, calm the mind, become kinder, and find true happiness.
Unf*ck Your Finances: Your Handbook to Financial Freedom
by Melissa BrowneStart making smart decisions. Free yourself from the financial fog. Take control of your money.Unf*cking your finances will change your life. With a step-by-step approach, including a 30-day financial detox, money mindfulness plan and goal-setting exercises, this book provides everything you need to develop healthy financial habits. As well as in-depth practical advice on debt, the stock market and navigating money with partners, financial advisor and accountant Melissa Browne will teach you to transform your relationship with money. Whether you want to get out of your overdraft, get clued up on credit, maximise your savings or achieve your dream to buy a property, this book is full of no bullsh*t information for anyone who needs a fresh approach.
Unf*ck Your Habitat: You're Better Than Your Mess
by Rachel HoffmanFinally, a housekeeping and organizational system developed for those of us who'd describe our current living situation as a “f*cking mess” that we're desperate to fix. Unf*ck Your Habitat is for anyone who has been left behind by traditional aspirational systems. The ones that ignore single people with full-time jobs; people without kids but living with roommates; and people with mental illnesses or physical limitations. Most organizational books are aimed at traditional homemakers, DIYers, and people who seem to have unimaginable amounts of free time. They assume we all iron our sheets, have linen napkins to match our table runners, and can keep plants alive for longer than a week. Basically, they ignore most of us living here in the real world.Interspersed with lists and challenges, this practical, no-nonsense advice relies on a 20/10 system (20 minutes of cleaning followed by a 10-minute break; no marathon cleaning allowed) to help you develop lifelong habits. It motivates you to embrace a new lifestyle in manageable sections so you can actually start applying the tactics as you progress. For everyone stuck between The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up and Adulting, this philosophy is decidedly more realistic than aspirational, but the goal is the same: not everyone will have a showcase of a home, but whatever your habitat, you deserve for it to bring you happiness, not stress.
Unf*ck Your Life and Relationships: How Lessons from My Life Can Help You Build Healthy Relationships from the Inside Out
by Anita AstleyUnf*ck Your Life and Relationships combines Anita&’s personal story and the culmination of twenty-five years of clinical experience with individuals, couples, and families. She demonstrates that building healthy relationships starts from the inside out and calls for a &“back to basics&” of love and life that have become lost in a culture driven by electronic communication and social media attachment. Experiencing conflict in relationships is an unavoidable fact of life. When our relationships are messed up, our lives feel messed up. Likewise, our hearts and minds hurt—the two are intricately linked. Drawing on over twenty-five years of clinical experience with individuals, couples, and families, psychotherapist Anita Astley will walk you through practical steps to unf*ck yourself from the inside out in order to establish healthy relationships. Her approach takes you back to the basics of love and life that have become lost in a culture consumed by electronic communication and social media attachment. Anita will help guide you through your journey of transformation by identifying various psychological dynamics that serve to do more harm than good to you and your relationships. In addition, she will provide tools to help you hone your communication skills through active listening and effective speaking as a means of working through conflict to arrive at solutions. These practices have helped countless patients and have proven to be effective for Anita personally. In this book, she shares her childhood journey from India to Germany (and then to Canada), reuniting with her father. However, his expectation for Anita to follow a culturally traditional path and consent to an arranged marriage destroyed her confidence and self-worth and left deep emotional scars. As she pursued higher education and individual psychotherapy, Anita found her voice through mentors who enabled her to break free, find her path to healing and inner strength, and eventually unlock the skills needed to help others. In these pages, Anita Astley now acts as your mentor and guide so you can do the same and learn to maintain inner emotional balance and form healthy, fulfilling relationships with those you love.