For Individuals and Life Transition
Forgive for Good by Dr. Fred Luskin – This is a favorite on forgiveness by Dr. Luskin. Learn how forgiveness is defined, why it’s so hard to forgive, and the tools he has developed and proven to be successful for those in need to find peace. Practicing forgiveness is a skill when used in your everyday life can transform your life and relationships. So whether one uses it for something as small as being cut off in traffic or as big as facing an unexpected loss or wrongdoing, you can learn how to choose to hurt and suffer less. Imagine living your life with more peace.
The Dance of Anger by Harriet Lerner – Though the subtitle indicates it is a “woman’s guide”, anyone can benefit from her work if you are struggling with anger in your relationships. Lerner has stories one can identify with, helps one to see how anger can actually be a guide to learning more about yourself, where it stems from and more importantly what one can do to to transform your anger and create healthier, more respectful relationships.
Age of Miracles – Embracing the New Midlife by Marianne Williamson- For Women: We love this book. Ms. Williamson is a wonderful spiritual writer whose words express eloquently the many experiences, issues, challenges that women in middle age feel. Our own personal copies are highlighted with our own notes (most “aha” comments!) as she inspires and gives hope and positive perspectives of this glorious time in a woman’s life.
Spiritual Divorce – Divorce as a Catalyst for an Extraordinary Life by Debbie Ford – Lisa used this book and found it extremely helpful in her own divorce. She recommends it to anyone who is going through a divorce, even those who are struggling through a significant relationship. Divorce is one of those life distresses that can force one into a spiritual wake-up call. The pain created from the result of a divorce can be used as the catalyst for new beginnings. This book covers the most basic and insightful perspectives to guide you successfully.
What We Say Matters: Practicing Nonviolent Communication by Judith & Ike Lasater – If you are ready and serious about how to communicate effectively whether you’re at home, work or out in your community, then this is the book. The focus is choosing connection over conflict and how to create mutually acceptable outcomes.
When Things Fall Apart– by Pema Chodren – Imagine what it would be like to travel life’s adversities and do so with the “knowing” that growth and opportunities are within our reach? Learn ways to communicate that lead to openness and true intimacy with others. This is what American Buddhist nun, Pema Chodren teaches in this powerful book. It is one of Carol’s faves.
The Wise Heart by Jack Kornfield – Carol has recommended this book to a number of clients and friends. It teaches us how to turn to our own “wise heart” where compassion, loving kindness and inner wisdom can be found. Open yourself to these concepts and you’ll experience a kind of inner peace and freedom you may never have ever imagined.
For Parents and Families
Building Resilience in Children and Teens by Kenneth R. Ginsberg, MD with Martha M. Jablow – We attended a seminar where Dr. Ginsberg spoke. He was engaging and inspiring! Learn what the crucial 7 Cs are and how these create the effective strategies to teach your kids resiliency at all ages.
Less Stress, More Success by Kenneth R. Ginsberg and Marilee Jones – Perfect for any middle school or high school parent who is trying to support and guide their child through the college admission process.
Parenting with Love and Logic by Foster Cline, MD and Jim Fay – This is a great book to prepare adolescents for responsible adulthood. For parents it helps discern the difference between punishment vs. natural consequences. This book guides parents in teaching their child that part of gaining independence and growing into adulthood means owning both good and bad actions and behaviors and the natural consequences that go along with them.
Staying Connected to Your Teenager by Michael Riera, Ph.D. – I (Carol) bought this book soon after I started coaching. Not so much for my clients, but as I was raising my own teenage kids. I have gained so much insight from Riera’s book and have thus shared it with parents ever since. Highly recommended.