Take Charge!: A Guide to Feeling Good

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)

If you want to take charge of what happens in your life read this book. This is the best book on the subject.

Take Charge has something for everyone. The ideas provide a blueprint for personal responsibility, clearly, succinctly and practically.