MoonglotexasI am a longtime follower of Alison Cook via social media and newsletter so when her book “Best of You” was announced I looked forward to reading it. It is a solid, step-by-step guide to connecting with yourself. I have spent years in therapy and following Alison and others so much of it felt familiar but it was good to have my knowledge refreshed.
I loved these quotes:
Healing is a process, a practice, a way of becoming more of who you really are
The Best of You by Alison Cook
Your empathy may lead you to let someone off the hook when what they actually need is accountability…its not ok to let someone else mistreat you, just because you understand the hurt behind their behaviour.
The Best of You by Alison Cook
When you must deal with toxic or abusive people on the left side of the spectrum, the most effective response is taking action, which speaks louder than words. You’ve likely already tried to have a conversation with the other person but nothing has changed. That channel is closed. Let me repeat: if you could have a constructive conversation with the other person, the relationship wouldn’t be toxic.
The Best of You by Alison Cook
Managing perceptions means I am trying to earn your approval through my actions. On the other hand, authentic connection means I want to be known as I really am.
The Best of You by Alison Cook
I did find some of the stories shared to make the lessons tangible triggering or distressing so do be aware. I chose to skip over some of these.
It is a fantastic resource and so I highly recommend it. It’s a four out of five on the enJOYment scale.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
From the back cover:
How would your life change if you could show up as your true self?
Do you sometimes feel so stuck in an endless cycle of meeting everyone else’s needs and expectations that you lose sight of your own? You want to give the best of yourself to others. But what happens when people hurt or take advantage of you? What happens when life doesn’t go your way, despite your best efforts?
The Best of You reveals breakthrough strategies to discover your true self, find your voice, set wise limits, and still be a loving person. For over twenty years, Dr. Alison Cook has brought together faith and psychology to help thousands of women reclaim their confidence, find their purpose, and develop the authentic connections they crave. Her unique wisdom will help you answer these tough questions:
- How do I put a stop to painful patterns that keep recurring in my life?
- How do I find my voice and speak up for myself?
- What if other people respond with anger, blame, or a guilt trip?
- How do I trust myself to make wise decisions even in difficult circumstances?
You don’t have to stay stuck, overwhelmed, or defeated. The Best of You gives you the path to the life and relationships that God designed for you to enjoy.
