Tag: Personal Development

Why Character Still Matters: A Review of Robert L. Dilenschneider’s ‘Character’

‘Character’ is Robert L. Dilenschneider’s latest motivational book. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Robert L. Dilenschneider is founder of The Dilenschneider Group, a firm that provides strategic advice and counsel to Fortune 500 companies and leading families and individuals around the world, with experience in fields ranging from mergers and acquisitions and crisis communications to marketing, government affairs and international media.

Dilenschneider has been called the “Dean of American Public Relations Executives” and is widely published, having authored 14 books, including “A Briefing for Leaders,” “On Power,” “The Critical 14 Years of Your Professional Life,” and “Power and Influence: The Rules Have Changed.” His new book “Character: Life Lessons in Courage, Integrity, and Leadership” addresses the need for character as a vital dimension in public and private life, based on iconic historical figures who embodied such qualities of character. (Barnes & Noble, 2025)

In “Character,” Robert L. Dilenschneider explores what it means to possess and foster strong moral character. Through the lens of noted historical figures—ranging from Stephen Hawking to Mother Teresa—he illustrates how integrity, resilience, and ethical leadership have shaped both personal legacies and societal progress.

Dilenschneider contends that character is not merely a trait but a fundamental necessity in our daily lives, especially in today’s complex and often morally ambiguous world. By combining historical narratives with modern-day reflections, he makes a strong case for why individuals, particularly those in leadership positions, must prioritize character over personal gain.

He begins by defining character as exhibiting traits such as honesty, integrity, and loyalty while inspiring others around you. The goal of this book is provide examples of character and how it can drive people to achieve their dreams and how to recognize it and nurture it in others, especially those with leadership positions.

Each chapter profiles a different group of people who were known for a specific trait, such as Innovation (Steve Jobs, Walt Disney), Courage (Winston Churchill, Arthur Ashe), and Loyalty (Eleanor Roosevelt, John McCain). At the end of each, he includes a list of lessons learned.

Chapters include:
Chapter 1 – What is Character?
Chapter 2 – Leadership
Chapter 3 – Innovation
Chapter 4 – Resilience
Chapter 5 – Breaking Barriers
Chapter 6 – Courage
Chapter 7 – Loyalty
Chapter 8 – Integrity
Chapter 9 – Transparency
Chapter 10 – Transcendence
Chapter 11 – Lessons

Highlights:
Chapter 4: Resilience – when we are tested, resilience is what allows us to keep fighting. Nelson Mandela was a vocal opponent of apartheid: “Never give up when your cause is just.”

Chapter 5: Breaking Barriers – profiles of people who broke barriers when they refused to be held down because of their sex, color, or political beliefs. Margaret Chase Smith stood up against McCarthyism in the 40s and 50s: “Speaking your mind may not always be popular but it will win you respect.”

Informative and inspiring, it offers valuable lessons on courage, humility, and perseverance. Dilenschneider’s writing is engaging, and his selection of historical figures ensures a broad perspective on how character manifests in different circumstances.

Overall, “Character” serves as an insightful guide for those seeking to understand the enduring power of virtue in shaping history and how we, too, can attempt to embody these qualities in our own lives. It is recommended for readers who enjoy biographies and leadership/motivational books.

“Learning is a classic way to overcome barriers, by equipping yourself with knowledge that nobody can take away.”

*The author of this blog received a copy in exchange for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

‘Crash Course’ by Ricardo Jiménez: A Raw and Honest Look at Startup Failure

‘Crash Course’ is an insightful look into the volatile world of startups. Photo: Amazon

In “Crash Course: A Founder’s Journey to Saving Your Startup and Sanity,” Ricardo Jiménez offers an unfiltered and deeply personal account of his startup journey—one marked by ambition, struggle, and eventual failure. Unlike typical business books that focus solely on success strategies, Jiménez takes readers through the hard lessons learned when things don’t go as planned. His honest storytelling makes this book a refreshing and invaluable resource for entrepreneurs who want to avoid common pitfalls.

In the Introduction, he bluntly states “I was a startup founder, and I failed.” He is sharing his experiences because he believes we can all learn from someone else’s struggles. Failure is a way of life in business, it’s not you personally.

Jiménez doesn’t just recount his failures—he analyzes them, offering insights on leadership missteps, financial mismanagement, and the emotional toll of entrepreneurship. He highlights the dangers of burnout, poor decision-making, and ignoring red flags, making this book as much about mental resilience as it is about business strategy. The writing is engaging and candid, making complex business concepts accessible to new and experienced founders.

It is divided as follows:

Section 1: Beginning with an Ending
Section 2: Starting Up
Section 3: Market (Mis) Fit
Section 4: Fighting for Survival
Section 5: The End
Section 6: What I Learned, What I Felt, and What I Still Don’t Know
Section 7: Finding the Rewards Among the Risks

Highlights:

Section 4, Chapter 14, Breaking Down – the author shares the importance of self care and work/life balance when all you do revolves around starting your company. People only wanted to talk to him about Plushkies or their ideas for a business and that’s all he was to them. It began to wear him down. “Entrepreneurs are often judged more by their company and product, which is what the public gets to see, than they are by their character and personality.”

Section 4, Chapter 17, Bro Savior Turns Bro Bully – He was so desperate to succeed, he almost lost sight of his principles. He stresses the importance of taking the red flags seriously. “My desperation had caused me to ignore all the red flags flying around that guy and our interactions, almost from the beginning.”

Overall, “Crash Course” is a must-read for anyone navigating the unpredictable world of startups. Above all, Jiménez’ candidness makes him relatable. Rather than glorifying the “hustle culture,” he advocates for balance, self-awareness, and learning from failure. Aspiring entrepreneurs will find comfort in his experiences, realizing that setbacks are not the end—but rather opportunities to grow. It is recommended for readers interested in memoirs and business motivation and self improvement books.

“The hard truth about being an entrepreneur is that, whether it’s building or selling, if it’s your startup, you can’t just rely on other people to build your company.”

Rating: 4 out of 5.

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Related post: What Makes ‘Crash Course’ by Ricardo Jiménez a Must-Read for 2024

Mysticism for the Modern Seeker: A Review of ‘Embodied Kabbalah’ by Matthew Ponak

‘Embodied Kabbalah: Jewish Mysticism for All People’ by Matthew Ponak. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Matthew Ponak is a rabbi, a teacher of Jewish Mysticism, and a spiritual counselor. His book “Embodied Kabbalah: Jewish Mysticism for All” is a collection of 42 mystical texts with commentary that presents the essential teachings from Kabbalah and places them side-by-side with profound inspirations from our era and the world’s great wisdom traditions.

The never before translated texts shed light on unknown traditions of mystical enlightenment. Fascinating descriptions of the paradoxical nature of reality are placed next to cautionary guidance against travelling too quickly on the road to expanded consciousness. Spiritual practices for dealing with depression and sadness come along with illuminated poetry of what our world could look like if we all tried to be truly loving. Using the stunning visual layouts of traditional Torah commentary, Ponak opens the gateway for Judaism to add its much needed voice to the universal quest for meaning, inner knowing, and rooted transcendence. (Barnes & Noble, 2025)

Review:

This is a refreshing and accessible exploration of Jewish mysticism, blending ancient wisdom with modern sensibilities. The author’s goal is to give “perspectives which emphasize the harmony between the physical and the spiritual.” Unlike many scholarly works on Kabbalah that focus on esoteric theory, Ponak brings a grounded, practical approach, emphasizing how these mystical teachings can be integrated into daily life.

The book is presented as a journey through key Kabbalistic concepts, combined with insights from meditation, embodied spirituality, and psychological well-being. Ponak’s background as a rabbi and spiritual teacher enriches the text, making it deeply rooted in tradition and adaptable for contemporary seekers, regardless of religious background. His writing is clear and inviting, avoiding overly complex jargon while still preserving the depth of the teachings.

By focusing on embodiment—rather than treating Kabbalah as an abstract intellectual pursuit, Ponak encourages readers to experience it through mindfulness, movement, and personal reflection. He does this by including sections on reflection and ways to put into practice the material in our personal lives. This makes it an excellent resource for those seeking a more holistic spiritual practice.

Overall, “Embodied Kabbalah” is a thoughtful and inspiring read, bridging the gap between mysticism and everyday life. It is a must-read for anyone interested in Jewish spirituality, personal growth, or embodied wisdom traditions.

“The practice of connecting with nature can be as simple as spending time outdoors, but preferably in a place that feels less urban. Try taking time each day, for one week, to be in nature: by trees, a body of water, a field, mountains, etc.”

Rating: 4 out of 5.

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Navigating Career Change: A Review of ‘Career Coaching for Laid-Off Federal Workers’

‘Career Coaching for Laid-Off Federal Employees’ by Robert Moment. Photo: Amazon

“Career Coaching for Laid-Off Federal Employees’ by Robert Moment is a practical and empowering guide for federal workers navigating the challenges of job loss and career transition. With a step-by-step approach, it offers clear strategies to help readers shift from federal employment to the private sector, making it an invaluable resource for those seeking stability and new opportunities.

Moment provides expert advice on resume writing, networking, and interviewing—key areas where federal employees may need guidance when transitioning into corporate environments. The book also emphasizes mindset shifts, helping readers view job loss as an opportunity for growth and reinvention. He reassures them that even though it may seem like it at the moment, a layoff does not define them. His approach is both compassionate and action-oriented, ensuring that job seekers remain motivated and confident throughout their search.

Chapters include:
Chapter 1: Facing The Layoff With Confidence
Chapter 2: Understanding The Corporate Job Market
Chapter 3: Crafting A Winning Resume & Cover Letter
Chapter 4: Mastering LinkedIn For Job Search Success
Chapter 5: Building A Powerful Personal Brand
Chapter 6: Networking To Unlock Hidden Job Opportunities
Chapter 7: Acing The Corporate Job Interview
Chapter 8: Negotiating A Competitive Salary & Benefits
Chapter 9: Developing New Skills For Career Growth
Chapter 10: Thriving In The Corporate Work Environment

Highlights:
Chapter 10 – where he gives key strategies to help readers integrate into corporate culture, including a 90 Day Career Success Plan. It includes actions to take (Understand Company Culture and Expectations) and what they should have accomplished at the end of each milestone.

Chapter 12 Entrepreneurship As An Alternative Career Path – contains information on steps readers can take if they’re considering business ownership, such as the need to evaluate their entrepreneurial potential, the viability of their business ideas, and how to get started. “Entrepreneurship, consulting, or freelancing can not only offer financial stability but also a sense of fulfillment and independence.”

Most importantly, it is focused on federal employees, acknowledging the unique challenges they face. Moment’s insights help readers effectively translate government experience into private-sector language, increasing their chances of securing meaningful employment.

Overall, “Career Coaching for Laid-Off Federal Employees” is an invaluable reference for those seeking to rebuild their careers after federal job loss. It offers practical tools, encouragement, and a clear roadmap to success in the private sector and is highly recommended for any transitioning professional.

“While many view federal jobs as the pinnacle of security, the truth is that the most successful corporate professionals excel by continuously adapting.”

Rating: 4 out of 5.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Wisdom for the Future: A Review of ‘The Potentialist’ by Ben Lytle

‘The Potentialist: The Pursuit of Wisdom’ is Ben Lytle’s second book in The Potentialist series. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Ben Lytle’s “The Potentialist: The Pursuit of Wisdom” is a thought-provoking guide that explores how individuals can unlock their full potential by cultivating wisdom. The book serves as a practical roadmap, offering insights on self-awareness, lifelong learning, and personal growth. Lytle breaks down the often elusive concepts of wisdom and human potential, making them accessible to anyone willing to embrace change and self-improvement.

It begins with the goal of the book: “This book will show you how to achieve your potential, become wise, make better decisions, have deeper relationships, and live well with only a small investment in time.” After he defines wisdom, he goes into how we can cultivate consciousness and explains several natural laws, such as the Law of Cause and Effect and the Law of Polarity. Finally, he ends with a list of discussion questions for further personal examination for individuals or discussion/book clubs such as Why is life so hard and sometimes seemingly cruel? and Why do some people suffer more than others?

The book is divided as such:

Part 1 – Your Place in the World

  • Potential, Wisdom, and the Art of Living Well
  • Life’s Unavoidable Questions
  • Natural Law
  • The Inner World of Your Psychological Body

Part II – Advanced Skills

  • Cultivating Consciousness
  • Conscious Intention
  • Learning States
  • Intimacy

Part III – Approaching Potential

  • Reframing Fear
  • Getting Out of Your Way
  • Your Potential and Wisdom

Highlight:

Chapter 6 – Conscious Intention – where the author examines the Law of Cause and Effect in the modern age of electronic communications. It has increased the denial of cause and effect when it comes to people who run scams because they “see faceless victims as opportunities without consequences.” This also has to do with people who get angry on social media or in emails and take risks they wouldn’t normally do in person.

I appreciate how he combines philosophical wisdom with actionable advice. Lytle emphasizes the importance of curiosity, adaptability, and resilience in navigating an ever-evolving world. Readers are encouraged to adopt a mindset of continuous growth, shedding limiting beliefs, and embracing opportunities for self-improvement. His writing is engaging, insightful, and filled with real-world examples that make complex ideas easy to grasp.

Overall, “The Potentialist” highlights the importance of inner fulfillment. It challenges readers to look beyond traditional measures of achievement and focus on personal evolution. Whether you are an entrepreneur, professional, or someone on a journey of self-discovery, this book offers valuable insights on living a life of purpose and meaning. It is recommended for readers who are seeking to reach their highest potential.

“Greet every new positive or adverse development as a puzzle piece, increasing comprehension of the inner and outer worlds comprising your life. Instead of responding to change with “Now what?” welcome it with “What can this teach me?”

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

‘The Serviceberry Way’: Lessons in Self-Discovery and Connection

Learn how the serviceberry can guide you towards growth and gratitude in the new book by Kim Lewitt. Photo: Amazon.

Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.) is a small deciduous tree or shrub known for its sweet, edible berries. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, it supports immune health and skin repair. The berries have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Additionally, serviceberries are a good source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health. Native to North America, serviceberry also provides various ecological benefits, attracting pollinators like bees and birds. Its leaves, bark, and roots have been traditionally used for medicinal purposes by indigenous peoples.

“The Serviceberry Way: Gratitude, Growth, and DIY Practices for Everyday Living” is the new book by Kim Lewitt where she writes all about its uses for health and better living.

It is a comprehensive and enlightening guide to the often-overlooked serviceberry plant. Through this book, Lewitt introduces readers to the rich history, versatility, and numerous benefits of the serviceberry, making a compelling case for its place in gardens and landscapes.

It is divided into sections that explore the plant’s history, from its use by Indigenous peoples for food and medicine, to its growing popularity in modern gardening. Lewitt provides an in-depth look at how to cultivate serviceberries, offering practical advice on planting, caring for, and harvesting this hardy shrub. The author emphasizes the plant’s adaptability to various climates and its ability to thrive in a wide range of conditions, making it a sustainable choice for gardeners.

There are two major parts:

Part One: Lessons from Nature
Includes sections such as The Hidden Life of Plants, The Wisdom of Animals, and The Indigenous Perspective: Connection and Community.

Part Two: DIY Practices
Includes sections such as Preparing Your Garden for Serviceberries, Pest and Disease Management, and Cooking with Serviceberries: Recipes and Ideas.

Highlights include:

Part One: Lessons from Nature
Lessons from the Serviceberry: Adaptability and Resilience – it explains the characteristics of the serviceberry and the lessons it teaches us, like Thriving in Diverse Environments and Rapid Recovery and Renewal.

Part Two: DIY Practices
Crafting with Serviceberries and Other Uses – it shares uses for serviceberries beyond the usual jams and pies, such as making natural dyes and other craft ideas.

A big plus for me is the celebration of the many uses of the plant. Lewitt covers everything from incorporating the berries into delicious jams and pies to using the tree’s wood for crafting. The book serves as both a practical gardening resource and a celebration of the serviceberry’s cultural significance.

Overall, for plant enthusiasts, gardeners, and anyone interested in sustainable living, “The Serviceberry Way” is an invaluable resource that highlights the enduring charm and utility of this underrated plant.

“Adaptability is about finding ways to thrive in less-than-ideal circumstances. Just as the serviceberry makes the most of the resources it has, we can learn to be flexible, assess our surroundings, and use what’s available to us creatively and efficiently.”

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 5 out of 5.

A Journey of Inspiration: The Compelling Message of ‘Faith Ignited’

‘Faith Ignited’ is Robert Moment’s new devotional book. Photo: Amazon.

Robert Moment, an ICF Certified Leadership and Executive Coach and Peak Performance Expert, is passionate about helping people discover their God-given potential. With over 15 years of coaching experience and 20+ years in Fortune 500 leadership, Robert specializes in guiding individuals to overcome challenges through unwavering faith and resilience. His other books include “High Performing Teams” and “CEO Leadership Mastery,” and he is dedicated to helping others live out God’s purpose in their lives. His latest book “Faith Ignited: Unbreakable Spirit-Overcoming Life’s Hardships and Rising Stronger Through God’s Grace” is an inspirational Christian guide designed to help you embrace God’s strength, build unwavering faith, and find resilience even in the most difficult times. (Amazon, 2024)

“Faith Ignited” – Whether you’re navigating emotional pain, career setbacks, or personal struggles, this book offers biblical principles and actionable strategies to help you overcome and thrive. Through each chapter, you’ll deepen your relationship with God, explore His purpose for your life, and learn how to transform challenges into powerful stepping stones toward spiritual and personal growth. With devotionals for women and devotionals for men, this guide provides the inspiration you need to rise above adversity.

Discover how unwavering faith empowers you to face adversity head-on and emerge stronger.

  • Mental Toughness Through Scripture
  • Forgiveness and Healing from Hurt:
  • Turn Setbacks into Stepping Stones
  • Mastering Peak Performance
  • The Power of Prayer in Adversity

Review:
This guidebook is an inspiring exploration of resilience and personal transformation. Moment emphasizes the power of faith in overcoming adversity and offers practical advice to get through life’s ups and downs, making it accessible for a wide audience. His reflections on challenges—be they personal, professional, or spiritual—serve as a guiding light for those seeking motivation. He encourages readers to harness their inner strength and believe in their potential, fostering a sense of hope and empowerment. In the Introduction, he writes that this book “…is your roadmap to not just surviving life’s challenges but thriving in the midst of them.”

Chapters include:
Introduction – Igniting Faith in the Midst of Adversity
Chapter 1 – Faith Ignited
Chapter 2 – The Power of Mental Toughness
Chapter 3 – Resilience Through Pain and Hurt
Chapter 4 – Adversity as a Teacher
Chapter 5 – Bounce Back Strategies
Chapter 6 – Mastering Peak Performance
Chapter 7 – The Power of Prayer in Adversity
Chapter 8 – Mental Strategies for Well-being
Chapter 9 – The Unbreakable Spirit
Chapter 10 – Overcoming Career Setbacks
Chapter 11 – Unlocking Your Full Potential
Chapter 12 – Building Your Legacy
Conclusion – Faith Ignited

Each chapter begins with a relevant bible verse and ends with a list of Coaching Questions to help readers think about what they just read and apply it to their personal lives.

Highlights:

Chapter 2 – where he explains how “techniques such as deep breathing and mindfulness can help calm the chaos within” and help us develop mental toughness. He also focuses on positive self talk as a way to create a healthier mindset by identifying negative thoughts and visualizing success.

Chapter 6 – the biggest take is on developing healthy habits such as morning rituals, balanced nutrition, and adequate rest. Small steps add up, and it takes time to develop a healthier lifestyle, so it’s best to be patient and consistent.

The writing style is straightforward yet engaging, making complex concepts easy to grasp. Moment’s emphasis on community and support further enriches the narrative, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles. The language is compelling and relatable, drawing readers in from the beginning. As a quick and easy read, it can easily be read in one sitting and is an excellent reference for frequent use.

Overall, “Faith Ignited: Unbreakable Spirit – Overcoming Life’s Hardships and Rising Stronger Through God’s Grace” is a must-read for these challenging times. The authenticity of Moment’s voice and his firm optimism make this an outstanding devotional. It’s a call to action for anyone facing difficulties and a reminder that with faith and determination, we can ignite our own unbreakable spirit. It is highly recommended for readers looking for encouragement and inspiration from a Christian faith-based perspective.

“You were not created to stay broken. Within you lies an unbreakable spirit, a reservoir of strength and resilience that is waiting to be awakened.”

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Wisdom in Action: How ‘The Potentialist: The Pursuit of Wisdom’ Inspires Personal Growth

‘The Pursuit of Wisdom’ is book 2 in The Potentialist series by Ben Lytle. Photo: Amazon

Books about personal transformation and growth offer profound insights and strategies for individuals seeking to change their lives. These books often explore themes like self-discovery, resilience, and growth, providing readers with tools to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Authors share personal stories, research findings, and practical exercises that inspire action and reflection. By engaging with these texts, individuals can gain clarity, motivation, and a renewed sense of purpose, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and authentic life.

There’s a new one out this month by Ben Lytle, author of The Potentialist series. In his second book, “The Pursuit of Wisdom,” he writes about wisdom, how to attain it, and the potential that exists in everyone, just waiting to be released.

Ben Lytle is a serial entrepreneur and health-care innovator known for being ahead of the curve. He launched five successful companies, including two on the New York Stock Exchange. The best known is Anthem, one of three leading U.S. health plans with a market capitalization placing it in the top 30 of the Fortune 500. He also founded Acordia, Inc., which became the world’s 7th largest insurance broker. (Meryl Moss Media, 2024)

Lytle’s devotion to individual and collective human potential through accelerated wisdom guides his writing, speaking, entrepreneurial energy, and investments. He believes people and organizations today underestimate the extent and speed with which the world will change. Time to adapt and prepare is being compressed, opportunities are being missed, and there will be unnecessary suffering unless prompt action is taken.

He is the author of the series The Potentialist, which includes Your Future in the New Reality of the Next Thirty Years, The Pursuit of Wisdom, and a third installment to come. The series is intended as a guidebook for success during the fast-changing, turbulent, and opportunity-rich times ahead — named The Fourth Industrial Revolution by the World Economic Forum. The newest one, “The Pursuit of Wisdom” is available now.

“The Potentialist: The Pursuit of Wisdom” –
Wisdom and potential are our ideal adaptive responses for these challenging times. Five converging forces are creating a new twenty-first century reality defined by unavoidable life-altering changes and unprecedented decisions. We are anxious and overwhelmed as the world and our lives change faster than we can comprehend and adapt. The old ways of adapting aren’t working because complex changes and decisions are coming at us too fast. In this New Reality, the wise will thrive, and the unprepared will be left frightened and confused.

This groundbreaking book by Ben Lytle—Fortune 500 CEO, entrepreneur, and author—demystifies human potential and wisdom to make them attainable to all who seek their best. He predicts that technological advances and changes in social norms will make wisdom development urgent, but easier. His practical knowledge and straightforward language provide clarity, fresh perspectives, and proven practices that seamlessly integrate with daily life.

This highly anticipated second installment of The Potentialist series takes you on an uplifting journey to unleash your potential and accelerate decision-making wisdom during this period of the greatest change in human history.

Will you seize your potential and become wise to adapt and succeed in these turbulent, opportunity-rich times? If not, what’s your plan?

Navigating Life’s Crossroads: How ‘The Art of Changing Course’ Can Transform Your Life

‘The Art of Changing Course’ is Chris Ruden’s new book. Photo: Amazon.

Motivational and self-improvement books offer valuable guidance for personal growth and achieving one’s goals. They provide insights into mindset shifts, productivity techniques, and strategies for overcoming obstacles. These books often share inspiring stories, practical advice, and actionable steps to help readers enhance their self-awareness, build resilience, and cultivate positive habits. By exploring diverse perspectives and proven methodologies, individuals can gain clarity, boost their confidence, and drive meaningful change in their lives. Ultimately, they empower readers to unlock their full potential and create a more fulfilling and purposeful existence. Keynote speaker and author Chris Ruden has new book out that’s worth mentioning: “The Art of Changing Course”

Chris Ruden is an amputee, Type 1 diabetic record-holding powerlifter, motivational keynote speaker, author, and disabled model who was featured on The Rock’s hit TV show “Titan Games.” From being humiliated and labeled broken because of his disability to struggling with mental health and living in a non disabled-inclusive world, Chris learned to turn his obstacles into opportunities, now using his badass bionic arm, diabetes technology, and message of “creating your world without limits” to impact people around the world. In his new book “The Art of Changing Course: A 3-Step Strategy to Get Unstuck and Solve Your Real Problems,” he shares the foolproof framework to take back control and create immediate lasting change. (Amazon/Athelo Group, 2024)

“The Art of Changing Course” – Getting stuck in life is a guarantee. Staying stuck is a choice. Chris Ruden provides a clear-cut process that walks readers through digestible, actionable stages to get unstuck, allowing you to rise beyond simple awareness of the desire to change and become the person you truly want to be. Backed by numerous psychological principles, management techniques, and organizational change theories, “The Art of Changing Course” focuses on helping readers make three distinct shifts: from subconscious to conscious, conscious to communicated, and finally, communicated to broadcasted.

In this book, you’ll learn about:

  • Moving past your go-to reactions of excuses and distractions when thinking about change
  • Harnessing the language of how you speak to yourself to open up possibilities for change
  • Giving yourself intrinsic permission to become the best version of yourself

People are stuck, lost, and confused―you, the people you care about, and strangers you interact with in your day-to-day life. “The Art of Changing Course” gives you the tools to actually do something about it. It will help you move from overwhelm to action, transforming from hopeless, scared, and stuck into confident, actionable, and limitless―an essential read for anyone looking to find success and fulfillment in their personal and professional lives, and help others do the same.

Mastering Conflict: A Deep Dive into Robert Moment’s ‘Conflict Resolution Skills’

‘Conflict Resolution Skills’ is Robert Moment’s new book.

Robert Moment is an ICF Certified Leadership, Executive, Emotional Intelligence, and Peak Performance Coach with over 15 years of experience in coaching and more than 20 years in Fortune 500 corporate roles. He specializes in building high-performing teams and unlocking the potential of leaders. Recognized as a Top LinkedIn Voice in Leadership Development, Robert is dedicated to empowering professionals to excel in their careers and transform their workplaces. His new book “Conflict Resolution Skills: The Proven System for Building Confidence, Communicating Effectively and Resolving Workplace Conflicts with Ease,” he provides a comprehensive guide to turning conflict into a powerful catalyst for growth and innovation. (Amazon, 2024)

“Conflict Resolution Skills” – Drawing on over 15 years of coaching experience and 20-plus years of Fortune 500 work experience, Robert Moment shares strategies that have helped countless teams transform disagreements into opportunities for collaboration and success.

This book is packed with practical tools and techniques that will empower you to:

  • Approach Conflict with Confidence and Grace: Develop the mindset needed to tackle conflicts head-on.
  • Communicate Clearly and Effectively: Master the art of communication, even in the most challenging situations.
  • Build Trust and Foster Empathy: Learn techniques to create understanding and mutual respect among team members.
  • Navigate Difficult Conversations: Discover strategies for de-escalating conflicts, managing emotions, and finding win-win solutions.
  • Enhance Your Leadership Skills: Become a catalyst for positive change and create a harmonious, productive work environment.

Whether you are a manager, employee, or leader striving to improve your interpersonal skills, this book will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to resolve conflicts and drive positive change in your organization. Transform your approach to conflict and unlock the potential within your team. Order your copy today and start your journey towards a more harmonious and productive work environment.

Review:

This book is an invaluable resource for anyone navigating the complexities of workplace dynamics. In this useful guide, Moment organizes conflict resolution into accessible strategies, making it suitable for both newcomers and seasoned professionals.

He begins by defining conflict as what happens “when individuals possess differing needs, goals, or values, leading to disagreements that can either be personal or systemic within an organization.” Along with that, he explains the various types of conflict and the role that emotions play in it. The book is well organized, featuring clear explanations of core concepts and real-world examples that illustrate each point. The focus is on the importance of building confidence and effective communication, highlighting how these skills are crucial in diffusing tense situations. His step-by-step approach provides readers with actionable techniques, such as active listening and empathetic engagement, which can be immediately applied.

Chapters include:
Introduction
Chapter 1 The Foundation of Conflict Resolution
Chapter 2 Effective Communication Skills for Conflict Resolution
Chapter 3 Understanding Emotions in Conflict Management
Chapter 4 Different Communication Styles and Conflict
Chapter 5 Mastering Leadership Styles for Effective Conflict Resolution
Chapter 6 Conflict Negotiation Strategies for Win-Win Outcomes
Chapter 7 Conflict Resolution Skills: Top 20 Skills Managers Need to Resolve Conflict in the Workplace with Ease
Chapter 8 Mediation Skills for Resolving Conflict
Chapter 9 Resolving Workplace Conflicts: Common Scenarios and Solutions
Chapter 10 Conflict Resolution and Organizational Culture
Chapter 11 Legal and Ethical Considerations in Conflict Resolution
Chapter 12 Self Care and Resilience in Conflict Resolution
Chapter 13 Applying Conflict Resolution Skills Beyond the Workplace
Chapter 14 The Conflict Transformer: 30 Expert Tips to Turn Workplace Challenges into Opportunities
Chapter 15 R.E.S.O.L.V.E™ Your Workplace Conflicts: A Coaching Exercise
Conclusion

Highlights:

Chapter 3: explains the importance of emotional intelligence, especially in yourself because once you acknowledge and understand your own feelings, you can begin to efficiently deal with conflict. Self awareness is key. “Emotions can act like unpredictable waves, crashing down unexpectedly or quietly bubbling beneath the surface, complicating even the simplest interactions.”

Chapter 13: emphasizes how knowing how to deal conflict can be useful outside the workplace, including in the community and in personal relationships. “Effective conflict resolution is not just about finding a quick fix; it can significantly strengthen relationships, enhance mutual understanding, and promote a sense of harmony.”

Each chapter ends with Coaching Questions which further enhance the learning experience. It is an easy read with language that is clear and concise. What I especially liked is the combination of theoretical insights with practical applications, empowering readers to not only resolve conflicts but also foster a more collaborative work environment.

Overall, “Conflict Resolution Skills” is an essential read for anyone seeking to enhance their interpersonal skills. It’s not just about resolving disputes; it’s about cultivating a mindset that promotes understanding and cooperation in the workplace. Though highly recommended for managers, team leaders, and employees seeking to improve their conflict management abilities and create a more positive and productive workplace, anyone outside the work environment can benefit from the practical material.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.