5 comments about A Complaint Free World: How to Stop Complaining and Start Enjoying the Life You Always Wanted.

1. The first thing to understand about A Complaint Free World is that Will Bowen is NOT saying to be a doormat! He explicitly says "Directing a comment to someone who can improve your situation is not complaining." He says "I am NOT advocating remaining silent when there is something that has happened which you need corrected." His assistant, Marcia, says "It is NOT about stuffing your emotions in and putting on a Pollyanna face."
   
   What they are going on is Dr. Robin Kowalski's definition, which was used in a famous study on complaining. "Whether or not the particular statement reflects a complaint ... depends on whether the speaker is experiencing an internal dissatisfaction."
   
   So it's important to know this up front. This book is ALL for speaking out, speaking up, making changes, seeking improvements. It is about doing those things in a way that keeps you healthy, and will best reach your goals.
   
   So, with that being understood, what is this book about? Will Bowen was trying to inspire his church members to live more attentive lives. Many of them had financial difficulties. The financial planning books they had talked about how complaining did little good to help - that people had to face their problems head on, work out solutions, and then work through them with energy and focus.
   
   Will liked this idea and thought he could help people with the complaining part at least. He ordered 500 purple wrist bands that said "spirit", passed them out, and asked everyone to try not complaining for 21 days. If you complained, you moved the wrist band to the other wrist and started counting again. The moving-the-band was key - it was a physical action, something that your brain began to pay attention to.
   
   People thought this would be easy - and then discovered they had to move the band 20 times in one day! Will himself broke 3 bands with all the moving before he succeeded. The average person who tries this takes 4-8 MONTHS before they succeed. However, they improve as time goes - and they report being SO much happier by the end.
   
   Why?
   
   "You can best get what you desire by expressing what you WANT rather than complaining about the way things are." People actually made far more progress in their lives when they phrased their desires in a way that enticed action, instead of in a way that was negative. Listeners get defensive and hostile at criticism - but they feel drawn to help if you are going for a positive goal.
   
   "You have a right to get what you deserve. To achieve this don't talk about or focus on the problem. Focus BEYOND the problem." This is echoed in many other books. What you focus on is what you tend to get. If you complain about being fat and unhappy, you'll probably stay fat and unhappy! If you talk about your goals to go walking more, and your desire to go walking, I bet people will cheer you on and offer to go walking with you.
   
   As Earl Nightingale says, "We become what we think about".
   
   They have distributed 6 million FREE bracelets already, so this is resonating with a lot of people.
   
   Will lays out the four stages of achieving mastery of ANY subject, including non-complaining.
   
   * Unconscious incompetence
   * Conscious incompetence
   * Conscious competence
   * Unconscious competence
   
   What this means is we start out trying a new thing without realizing just how hard it could be. That's fine, otherwise we might not even try smile So with complaining, we start out thinking "heck that's easy" and then realize just how much we DO complain. So we're now conscious of how much work is ahead of us. But then over time, we get much better at it with attention - and finally it is a normal healthy part of our lives and we do it naturally.
   
   The Psychological Bulletin study on complaining found that many complain to get sympathy, attention, or to dodge out of doing something. They even found that doctors felt 2/3rds of all visits to them were based on something mental / emotional! For example, someone gets extremely stressed by work - and this drives up their blood pressure. Think of how much more healthy we could all be if we found a better way to deal with stress and issues!
   
   Ben Franklin said "The best sermon is a good example." Will points out that you shouldn't complain about others complaining smile Don't try to change others. Just be yourself, and don't "feed" their complaining. You might find they change naturally when they don't have a complaining buddy!
   
   Will emphasizes that this is NOT about being a passive doormat. Martin Luther King Jr had his dream. Rosa Parks took her seat and held it. They had a positive vision of the future, and they went for it. They achieved great things.
   
   He reminds you to think about why you are complaining, if you do. Criticizing a place (like a cheap restaurant) if often a form of bragging about your more sophisticated tastes. Criticizing others is a way of saying you are better than they are. He says it is fine to "process" - to share your feelings. "I feel upset because of what was said." He says it is less healthy to deliberately bash others, "She is a stupid jerk for doing that."
   
   Overall I found this a very well written book, with great examples, a healthy dose of humanity, and a wonderful message for us all. Will doesn't say this is easy. He doesn't even say this is for everyone. But I definitely agree that many of us complain at the drop of a hat, over things that are really not a big deal at all. All that stress affects our bodies and our health. If we were able to find the humor in life - and find positive action to fix the things we want to fix - our world would really be a much better place.
   
   Highly recommended!



2. I saw this book lying around my office: probably it was a review copy. So I picked it up. It didn't take long to read (and it didn't take long to write either). So here's the deal. Order a "complaint free" bracelet from a website (address thoughtfully provided). Wear it on your wrist. Every time you complain, gossip or criticize, switch it to the other wrist. Result: in 4 to 8 months, you will reach the goal of not complaining about anything for 21 days straight. You will be HAPPY. You will be SECURE. You will know BLISS. You will be assured of salvation in the life hereafter.
   This book is written by the lead pastor of a church in Kansas City, Missouri. It includes nuggets realy profound and hard-earned wisdom such as: "I finally looked at the word insecure. It's the opposite of secure." (page 79.) "I discovered that the word spirit comes from the Latin word spiritus (page 89). "If you will begin to call the people and events in your life by names that spur positive energy in yourself, you will find that they no longer bother you and in fact can be a real bonon for you." (page 104.) "To criticize means to find fault with someone or something."
   Far be it from me to criticize! So by all means read this book. It's only 176 pages long. It won't take too much of your time. And once you've read it, you too will be able to "start enjoying the life you always wanted." It's that easy, isn't it?



3. I found this to be extremely difficult to follow but it's well worth it. I read the book and listened to the CD in my car. I enjoyed it so much, I ordered the bracelets and CD for work and hopefully we'll create a small group to meet weekly, listen to a chapter and discuss it along with our personal experiences.



4. Even if you don't get the book, try the experiment. Get their bracelet (or use a jelly bracelet, or one of your own) and put it on your wrist. Each time you catch yourself grumbling or complaining or criticizing something or someone, put the bracelet on the other wrist. In my first day, I must have changed it 7 times in the first hour. I was shocked, and intrigued...enough to try it for nearly a week before I gave up. That was a year ago, and I still think about that bracelet every week. And yes, I'm far less critical than I used to be. Now, I do neuroscientific research on meditation, spirituality, and optimism, and I think that this little gimmick is a gem. Why? Because every time you foster a critical thought, your brain releases a cascade of stress chemicals which eventually damages the very circuits that control anxiety and irritability. So a little exercise like this can have a profound effect on neural functioning, which is why Andrew Newberg, MD, and I talked about the Reverend Bowen's bracelet and his vision of a complaint-free society in our book, How God Changes Your Brain: Breakthrough Findings from a Leading Neuroscientist. Oh, and one more thing, which we thoroughly discuss in our book: every time you complain in public, your irritability-like a virus-is neurologically picked up by every person who hears your voice or sees your face. So by all means, train your brain to be optimistic and positive because (according to 30+ years of longitudinal research conducted by Duke University and the Mayo Clinic), it will literally add years to your life.
   
   PS: Check out their website (acomplaintfreeworld.com) for tips for teaching children to become "complaint aware." Interestingly, a Missouri congressman was so impressed by the idea that he just introduced a bill into congress calling for a "Complaint-Free Wednesday," the day before Thanksgiving. I hope it passes....



5. This book really made me think about what I say and do and how it not only effects others and my relationships but also my own emotional and mental health and well being. Recommend this book for anyone who is looking to further define themself.

5 comments about The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari: A Fable About Fulfilling Your Dreams & Reaching Your Destiny.

1. I enjoyed this book, with reservations. It's an odd blend of (mostly) Buddhist philosophy with the sort of self-help pep talk preferred by corporate go-getters. At times it reminded me of reading the Dalai Lama, at others, a Franklin-Covey leadership session.
   
   The parable is a little facile, and the dialog naive-- but the overall thrust benign and even helpful. It may well be a doorway to a better path for many who read it. If you've never encountered Eastern philosophy before but are already a fan of corporate pep talks, you may find this a real treat.



2. International best-seller, "The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari" is a short fable or story about a high powered lawyer who suffers a personal loss and embarks on a life of workaholism, materialism and emptiness. When he suffers a life threatening heart attack he determines to put the essential luxuries of purpose, peace and happiness back into his life. He travels to the Himalayas and spends time with the Sivana monks, who teach him wisdom of life.
   
   This book is chock full of simple habits and rituals to include in one's life to nurture your body, mind and spirit. The advice within is compellingly framed and concise, making use of symbolism to remember the key concepts.
   
   Picture the following sequence. What can this mean?
   
   You are sitting in a wondrous, beautiful flower garden. In the middle there is a red, six story lighthouse. Suddenly, there is a creaking from the base of the lighthouse and out comes a 290lb Japanese sumo wrestler. He is wearing a simple, pink wire cable sheath. The sumo wrestler spots a shiny stopwatch. He picks it up and immediately falls to the ground. It appears that he has taken his last breath, when suddenly he comes back to life. He then gets up and looks over at a beautiful group of yellow roses nearby. Finally, he exits the garden by a path of beautiful diamonds...
   
   How can you draw upon your deep reservoir of mental fortitude and inner strength that you possess? As most accomplished people know, never stop learning and actively expand your wisdom about life. As many great leaders do each and every day, take time out for reflection, including self-reflection. To not do so is akin to being too busy driving to put gas in your (beautiful) car (you). Awaken with the sun and cultivate a positive mindset and an attitude of gratefulness. Savor the present. Make music an integral part of your life. Build your character by taking specific actions. Simplify your life as much as you can for enhanced peace of mind. Thus, you will leave time for the things that matter most. Specifically, those things that will make the most difference in the long run. Always cultivate your virtues of industry, compassion, humility, patience, honesty and last but not least, courage.
   
   This little gem of a book is inexpensive. It's entertaining. It's a quick read. It will be three hours of your valuable time very well spent. You might learn nothing new. Or, perhaps you will see your life more clearly than ever before. Perhaps you will be pleasantly surprised and this book will unexpectedly improve the quality of your life.



3. I Had previously read the book and I loved it so much that I bought it from Amazon.com. It is an excellent book to have on your night table and a tool to implement good things into your life. Certainly brings you enlightment and help to improve your life!



4. Its amazing that all of these books say the same thing the Bible says but people would rather trust a human for advice than their maker. I give this book 4 stars because it does follow the Bible. It may sound off the wall to some but that would depend on their desperation.



5. If you ever need to read a self-help book, you only need to read this one.

5 comments about A Thousand Names for Joy: Living in Harmony with the Way Things Are.

1. Byron Katie has discovered the secret to happiness, she lives it and offers it to all in this wonderfully honest writing. Long ago I felt that The Work she offers would absolutely transform the entire field of psychology. I still feel this will happen. And, finally, she has clearly stated the final realization of the work, "no thought (thinking) is absolutely true." Not one or any. No thinking needs to be possessed or identified with, especially thinking that produces suffering and separation. Of course, it may take one's practice to investigate the reality of this claim and that is as should be.
   
   I love her stories in this book and often found myself chuckling with her. Katie is such an innocently fearless and wise Being. Often, people believe that enlightened beings do not have to face the same life challenges as they do. In this book Katie clearly demonstrates that her understanding has survived more challenges than most people have ever dreamed of meeting. Reality gets real with Katie, no past, no future, just this, who knows what it is, who knows what's coming, wow here it is.
   As Katie notes, it is only by arguing with life that we feel unhappiness and to argue, we must indentify with and believe some form of thinking. Her secret is to be aware of our thinking, how it makes us feel and then do the work to reclaim our true nature...fearless, desireless, loving of this, right here, right now, just as it is. Katie's realization of joy and happiness is truly a gift to all of us.
   
   Sundance Burke, Author Free Spirit: A Guide to Enlightened Being



2. I enjoy reading the short responses to the Tao te Ching written by Katie. It gives insight to her experience of life and keeps it simple and direct allowing you to roam around in your own mind and see how life flows for you.



3. I love this book. A great recommendation from the folks at [...] where I watched all the video clips and felt the direct power and grace of The Work she is doing with everyone. Loving What Is, the title of her first book, says it all, but A Thousand Names For Joy: Living in Harmony with the Way Things Are arrived first in the mail. Joy is joy, and the laughter came freely in every short chapter of this, Katie's meditation inspired by her husband Stephen Mitchell's translation of the Tao Te Ching. About half way through, Loving What Is arrived and I read that perfect introduction to The Work, Katie's reality check and guide to self-inquiry, before continuing with A Thousand Names For Joy. There may not be easy laughs on every page for you, but there is amazing grace there. I have, of course, ordered Katie's other books and preordered her next one. I find her to be the most quotable of writer-teachers, thus the title of her most recent book, Question Your Thinking, Change the World: Quotations from Byron Katie. And here, from A Thousand Names For Joy, is the passage that prompted me to write this review:
   
   "Beyond what the mind can see is kinder than what it sees--that's the privilege of an open mind. Kindness resonates with the way things are. Kindness is sipping a cup of tea without the thought that I'm even sipping it. It's like being my own plant, feeling myself being watered, beyond any thought that that's what I even need. It's the sound of rain against the window, the gift of the sound of rain in my ears, the gift of life, which I did nothing to deserve. Kindness prepares what I am to eat in the next season. It even leaves a rainbow. It's infinite. It's the hair that protects my head in the sun, the ground that supports the floor. There's nothing that isn't kind. A death accomplishes what ordinary life could never do, letting you experience what is beyond identification: the bodiless self, mind infinitely free.
   
   "When you realize where you come from, no imagination can move you to believe that you are separate. Everything is seen for what it is, and you understand that no one is in danger of losing anything but his identification. And in that forever good news, in the face of everything that appears to be real, only kindness remains. It's nothing that can be taught. It's an experience; it's self-delight. When I give to you without motive, I am delighted. I act with kindness because I like myself when I do that. That kindness can only be to myself. It doesn't include anyone else, not even the apparent receiver. I am both giver and receiver, and that's all that matters.
   
   "The whole world belongs to me, because I live in the last story, the last dream: woman sitting in chair with cup of tea. I look out the window, and whatever I see is my world. There's nothing beyond that, not one thought. This world is enough for me. Anything I ever need to do or be is in this unlimited space. It's enough to accomplish my purpose, and my purpose is to sit here now and sip my tea. I can imagine a world outside what I can see, and as it happens I prefer this one. It is always more beautiful here, wherever I am, than any story of a future or a past. The here and now is where I can make a difference. It's what I live out of. Nothing more is required."



4. I enjoyed this book and got a lot out of it because it ties in the mindfulness aspect of The Work with the theosophy of the Tao Te Jing such that the Tao helps clarify why The Work is truly helpful. I recommend this to anyone interested in looking at their thoughts and feelings with greater honesty and responsibility.



5. I absolutely loved this book! It empowers me to but things in perspective and find the joy in the moment. I have read the book numerous times in the last 9 month's it's one of those books I'll reread the rest of this human experience. I also purchased the CD set of Byron Katie reading the book....it doesn't seem like she is reading...just sharing. Her gentleness and love is heart felt. My husband and I listened to it on our way back home in the car, 12 hours. It was joyfull! In it she shares her experiences as a Lover of What Is and what that looks life as a human organism, a wife, a mother, a teacher, you know all the labels we put on ourselves and others. Anyway...ENJOY YOUR LIFE!

5 comments about The Presence Process: A Healing Journey into Present Moment Awareness.

1. I am a well healed and experienced 'seeker' , 'consciousness-diver' and am extraordinarily grateful to have discovered 'The Presence Process'. It is a deep, significant, easily available, accessible, functional tool for - I'll use the word - 'enlightenment', awareness, presence, taking full responsibility. I've been reading Eckhart Tolle's 'A New Earth' simultaneously. Both books involve, invoke, the same issues. I find Tolle's to be much more cerebral. Michael Brown's 'The Presence Process' is involving, hands-on, a highly useful tool that has enabled me to free myself by guiding me in a clear comforting way to deal with the causes of my suffering. I give it the highest recommendation.



2. Tomorrow I begin my final week of the Presence Process, I cannot tell you what this process has given me. I feel so much gratitude, appreciation and love for this work, for myself and for all the wonderful messengers (mess-enders). Yes I have had to face myself, my fear, anger and grief and yes there is still work to do, but I am in the real process of becoming me. My heart IS good and I WILL reside in it and respond from it.
   Learning to love and trust "what it" with much gratitude .................Kind regards and love for all.



3. This book found me after I read Eckhardt's book, A New Earth. It is truly a remarkable journey but you have to be ready for it. Michael suggests reading the entire book cover-to-cover first before rereading and beginning the meditation exercises. Even if you only do the first reading, it will change your life and the way you view yourself and others - in the most profound way!
   
   I've reread it once, doing the meditation components, but will begin a 3rd reading soon. Each time you complete the process, you enter the next reading at a different level of awareness so the benefits increase with each re-reading.
   
   The self-discipline it takes to meditate for 15-minutes twice daily during your 2nd reading and beyond is not always easy but disciplining your mind to follow thru with this process pays off in spades. If you have any old hurts from the past or even an uncomfortable feeling in life that you can't verbalize, this book will help put those past hurts to bed permanently making you feel more alive and light-hearted like you perhaps felt in your earliest memories of being a child. Even if you don't remember being happy as a child, go to any playground and rediscover the sense of joy and innocence most children feel even if their lives aren't perfect.
   
   After beginning this process, I actually had 2 people tell me that they felt like a breath of fresh air entered the room when they were in my presence. What a blessing that Michael's book could give that to me and that I could then pass this on to others!
   
   I still have personal growth work I'd like to accomplish but I'm not the same person I was before reading Michael's book. It's like that saying, "Once you know something, you can't not know it anymore". To paraphrase Michael, this process is gentle and won't give you any more than you can handle, but also, not any less. It is truly a remarkable journey and I wish you the all the best in your endeavors with this book and any others that find you along your journey thru life. Namaste!



4. The Presence Process is a life changing inner work where one directly meets the emotional suffering that drives our behavior in life. As the veils of fear, anger and grief are parted, the fullness of our essential love appears: awake, alive, free and ever present.
   This is not a casual journey but one which requires commitment and devotion. Anyone who is interested in the asking of questions, the opening of the heart, the power that lies in the 'pain body' and present moment awareness will enjoy meeting Michael Brown and his unique approach to awakening.



5. This book was a gift from my uncle and I'll be forver grateful to the writer and my uncle. This book has saved my life!! I was battling with bulimia and depression. I began the process 8 weeks ago and I've never been better. No therapy had done what this process has for me. I've been free for 8 weeks, I've reached my healthy weight, I found my issues and I'm working to clean my soul and my life forever. I highly recomend this book to everyone whether you have a problem or not. Thank You Michael Brown and David!

5 comments about Living a Life of Inner Peace.

1. The cd itself is good, good information if you are on this path, but Tolle's laughing in the background is a little off putting. It is more of a snort than a laugh, so at first I wasn't sure what he was doing. If you can get past that though it is good.



2. We really believe that people are born very special no matter what is their background; the pollution of life, ego, Maya, we our selves changed our natural of being in peace. We can feel peace every where " in the sky, birds, children, " but not in our selves because our ego just want to shut it down , once again in a moment of silence we remember that we are alive, no matter what are the circumstances . we are here, no matter how much we think we are suffering.. this CD taught me how to let go ? yes , and accept my self the way I am , also I have to thank God that I really have everything, I don't need more I just want peace.. In some how you feel this is not easy.. if so,this CD will make it so easy with the real examples that touch every human life, we are not suffering from life , life is great, our ego what made our diamond become less in shine and now is the time to polish this natural Diamond. Buy it you will love it.
   
   Zoooz



3. Been going through all his works, text and audio cds, and he's a breath of fresh air, smart, wise, funny and very relaxing. Highly recommend it.



4. Its hard to pick which of Eckhart Tolle's books or CDs I like better but this one says everything in a short 2cd format. I have several of his works but this one is the one I keep with me if I travel or I'm driving--it keeps me on track. Thank you.



5. I may be a bit bias towards anything that Mr. Tolle has to say but nevertheless I found this audio book to be another source for me to use to soothe my soul and quiet my mind.
   The quality of the CD may surprise you as it is just a recording of a seminar however it's the wisdom that comes from ET that I crave.
   Yes, in my opinion ET can't have enough products out there to help people become aware and conscious and still.

5 comments about Soul Wisdom: Practical Soul Treasures to Transform Your Life (Soul Power).

1. Soul Wisdom is a beautifully written book on how to connect with your own soul and move it along on its journey of enlightenment. The words just flow off the page and connects with your soul. It gives both the practical and spiritual tools in a very easy read format.
   
   Each chapter is a complete story on one aspect of soul wisdom and each chapters leads you to the next. There are simple and yet very profound ways to expand your inner spirit as it interfaces with opening your whole life to more joy and happiness.
   
   A must read for those walking their path. It will springboard you ahead.



2. This book appears to be very disorganized and I found the writing to be un-inspiring. Worst of all, the CD didn't even work !!! I have tried it in three different CD players.



3. I recently read (or I should say tried to read) Soul Wisdom by Dr. Z. Shah and found it extremely frustrating to understand the key themes. I knew from the beginning that this book would require some "right" brain thinking, given its emphasis on spirituality. I have read many spiritual books, especially those with a Buddhist focus, and many of them had a worthwhile message, which tend to emphasize either "letting go of attachments since everything changes" and "being in the present moment." I am a believer of Zen style meditation and its ability to help create focus in an increasingly distracted world. However Soul Wisdom tries to introduce the concept of Soul Language and Soul Song without really defining the concepts in a way I could understand. There is an instance of reciting verses of the "secret code mantra" "San San Jiu Liu Ba Yao Wu" without really defining the terms. In addition, it is mentioned that this secret mantra comes from Heaven, without either supporting evidence or logical thought. There are more examples of what I call "garbled language" with an extreme emphasis on the author's emotion, and a short shrift on logic, which makes this book extremely frustrating to the reader trying to understand and use the messages. After about 10 chapters (book contains 24 chapters and a Soul Wisdom CD), I just gave up. This is a book I would not recommend.



4. I don't agree with a lot of what Dr. Zhi Gang Sha speaks of in his book, but it is interesting reading and food for thought and may be very helpful to some people that need universal strength. I would agree with the others that it does come across as "cult-like", so vulnerable people may want to use care. The 14 minutes CD included is beautiful and lovely to listen to...although reminded me of e-i-e-i-o from childhood and made me giggle a bit ;o)



5. SOUL WISDOM: PRACTICAL SOUL TREASURES TO TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE is packaged with a bonus 'soul song' cd and comes from an internationally acclaimed Soul Master, healer and author who discusses tapping into the soul to transform consciousness. From chants to evoke and tap into 'soul language' to translating discoveries and experiencing divine joy, this is a fine addition for any New Age library.
   
   Diane C. Donovan
   California Bookwatch

5 comments about The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself (New Harbinger/Noetic Books).

1. I actually enjoyed reading the first half of this book. It is easy to follow, it does have some very compelling insights. The two points I couldn't get past, though, were: 1.He stresses how our thoughts have no impact what-so-ever on our world as we know it. I'm pretty sure we all know that isn't true at all. 2. He later writes an entire chapter on "Being happy no matter what". He states, over and over, that there is nothing that can happen to us that we can't decide to just be happy all the while it's happening. He says this is true enlightenment, but my opinion is that we were given emotions as a gift, and experiencing the highs and lows of life is part of the process of growth. Without sadness as it's opposite, we would have no idea what bliss feels like. I realize many will disagree with me, but I just don't believe numbing myself to life is anything to strive for. I stopped reading the book after this chapter, perhaps I'll pick it up again later-perhaps not.



2. This book is a mystical journey beyond the physical self, past the the idea of thought and even our emotional selves. It brought me to the very core of my existance. I can view existance in a way that I never could before and use this experience as a tool in my everday life to help me experience all facets of life in a powerful and most postive way. I am able to experience even lifes' most extreme curves with extreme happiness, peace, Joy, and vibrancy that I never knew I had access to. Michael A Singer is an excellent teacher and is giving one of life's most powerful mysteries away for the price of a book. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain by reading this book. It is a must have for all who are still searching for the most Powerful Love, Truth, Peace, and Joy that existance has to offer.



3. I have meditated for 30+ years and been exposed to a variety of self-help knowledge. The Source, Unbounded, All That IS or whatever you feel comfortable calling it has been with me always and "I" have been aware of it's presence for some time. Yet the unfoldment of witnessing the unification of my personality with spirit is constantly unfolding. This book, to me, addresses that. I felt new awakenings within me while reading it. Some parts did not feel as "right" for me as others yet, overall, I feel it to be a valuable read for anyone. Michael Singer is a very good writer and able to take abstract values and put them in everyday language for all of us to understand. It's a beautiful gift.



4. This is a book that I am very grateful was given to me for my birthday.
   In the first chapter, I was hooked. This was the book for me!!
   I have bought 6 copies to give to friends. Two lasting phrases learned: 1. I am not the voices in my head..I am the listener. 2. Keep you heart open.
   Once you read it you can't give it away..it stays by the bed.



5. Like the back cover of this book claims it is a bridging of both Eastern and Western thought. The author has certainly achieved this in its small well packed 181pages of wisdom. Although I have read my fair share of Eastern and Western books over the years what the author delivered here is the most straight forward message for 'Personal Transformation' stripped down to its very bare essentials. This will satisfy the empirical reader that has no interest in wading knee deep in Eastern metaphors searching for meaning. It's is a straight to the point, honest and psychologically robust approach for living in the now. It does not get too bogged down in spirituality and yet don't be fooled because its entire inner message itself is all about Spirit. A favorite excerpt of mine is in page 134 "What it means to live spiritually is to not participate in this struggle. It means that the events that happen in the moment belong to the moment. The don't belong to you" It's a precious book of wisdom that will be well underlined by the time you have read it for the second time. If you're still not too sure about purchasing it, Don't just take my word for it and read all the other reviews below. Thank You for finding me.

5 comments about The Greatest Salesman in the World.

1. This is a Awesome Book and I was looking for something exactly like it to read. The book is in excellent condition, and it gave me many of the answers that I was looking for in personal development.



2. the book was received as promised and in the condition it was stated to be in.



3. If you read through the book and follow the path of the ten scrolls your life will become so much better. While the scrolls outline a very basic foundation from which to build success, it is the basics that so many of us seem to neglect. I know, I've been neglecting them a long time.
   
   Reading this book gives me a reassurance in my own personal beliefs on how one should be and act in this world. They may be the 10 scrolls to help you become the greatest salesman in the world but if you take them to heart and make them a part of you no matter what you do...you may become the greatest person in the world.
   
   I highly recommend this book to anyone who is feeling a little confused about how their life is going and wondering if what they are doing is right or not. If you are finding you are getting angry too fast or frustrated too easily and basically just lashing out for no reason, read just the ten scrolls and take them to heart. Reflect on how if you followed what they are saying would this make your life that much better. I know it is working for me, perhaps it can for you too. FIVE STAR READ!



4. Time tested truths we all need written in very readable/enjoyable form. Anyone needing help in self discovery will benefit extrordinarily from Og Mandinos offering.



5. This is an incredible little book. The only criticism is that it is written in masculine terms and I didn't want to be repeating three times
   a day that I am a wonderful salesman! So I typed it up myself with
   language appropriate to my gender. In so saying, I believe that exercise
   gels the scrolls in my consciousness even more so I have given it 5 stars
   anyway. Make sure you do the repetitions for the full 30 days as repetition IS the first law of learning. If you don't repeat it, it
   doesn't stay.

5 comments about The Book of Secrets: Unlocking the Hidden Dimensions of Your Life (Chopra, Deepak).

1. "The Book of Secrets" is the most spiritually focused book by Deepak. He explores spiritual ideas with depth and wisdom that is refreshing and thought-provoking. You find yourself undertaking a unique quest where you're chartering into hidden parts of your self. Sounds dangerous?
   
   Well don't worry with Deepak as your guide you're safe. So plunge into the depths of this book and learn a thing or two about life that you didn't realize before or just plain forgot.
   
   Besides this book you need to read "Nexus" by Deborah Morrison. It's a fantastic exploration! You'll learn about life's journey both in the spiritual highs and lows. I love its message of unity, spiritual growth and compassion.
   
   "Nexus: A Neo Novel"



2. This is a great book and among my top favorites. At times it went over my head but i am sure i may understand some things later.



3. This book has become my bible! It was great reading the first time, and now filled with post-its, for future references.



4. ...who is ill prepared .
   The first chapter sets you up for a fantastic quest , The book fails to answer its own questions. A lot of antecdotal fluff.



5. A very rich book where fifteen secrets are presented that can change our lives in all aspects . I found myself smiling, while reading and enjoying the eloquent words of Mr. Chopra, in the journey towards enlightenment. This book is a very complete spiritual guide that can be used for every day life regardless of your age or profession...
   
   It reminded me of a book by my favorite authors Ariel and Shya Kane, titled Working on Yourself Doesn't Work: The 3 Simple Ideas That Can Instantaneously Transform Your Life. I have experientially discovered how to open my heart to the limitless possibilities of life thru their principles of Transformation, and find myself living a more satisfied and easy life.

5 comments about Courageous Souls: Do We Plan Our Life Challenges Before Birth?.

1. In my life long search for the true meaning of life I have studied and investigated a lot of things. Ultimately I have become convinced that our truth purpose in life is enlightenment and now study and follow the so called non-dual religions of the east. Having found non-dual wisdom I abandoned all my previous spiritual / religious beliefs including the belief in channeled information as well as the new age idea's that we reincarnate to learn specific lessons. So initially I was resistant to revisit the concepts that are presented in this book as they seemingly are in direct conflict with the non-dual wisdom path. How could both be right? One believing that the personal self is an illusion and that there is only one true nature and the other believing that there is a spirit world and that we have individual immortal souls that reincarnate to learn lessons. However it proved well worth my while to put aside my reservations and read this book!
   
   My review will not cover the `life plan' aspects of this book as so many other reviewers have already done that. If that is what you expect then it would be better to read one of the other reviews. If it interests you to read on then you will find a high level critical review of this book based of the highest level of spiritual truth that I know, the non-dual wisdom teachings of the east.
   
   "If you always - and I mean always - take the higher road, the higher frequencies will lift you into more loving actions towards others." ~ Page 285, Courageous Souls. Non-dual wisdom says if you seek your true nature then the Self will begin to pull you in. What I discovered in reading this book was that it is far more inline with non-dual wisdom than I initially suspected. It now seems to me that reincarnation and life lessons are an intermediate stage (that we all go through) which will ultimately lead to the desire to seek enlightenment itself, which is where the non-dual teachings of the east begin. The channeled information in the book states quite clearly that the personality structure is an illusion created for learning; "The personality is the illusion that is required on Earth in this space-time to learn the lessons" ~ Page 222; "You must understand that the personality is a construct" ~ Page 230. Non-dual wisdom says something very similar that the personality is a construct / illusion and that enlightenment is seeing through the construct and knowing ones true Self, which is indescribable impersonal conscious non-duality (oneness).
   
   I am university trained in logic and deductive reasoning and do not simply believe something because it sounds impressive or it is popular. I put everything I come across through rigorous logical analysis and cross checking and only embrace it when it stands up to thorough examination. Just because I have embraced spiritual teachings does not mean that I have thrown out logic and reason. Therefore the unscientific approach of this book grated on me and although I was pleased that the author validated the information by using several different sources for the same person the book is clearly written with no objectivity. I found the writing style too informal and loose for what I consider a serious subject. The author repeatedly inserts his own understanding of the material, his personal beliefs and common new age beliefs which requires some sorting through because of the different sources and levels of understanding mixed together. The reliability of the source of all information is of utmost important to all scientists.
   
   Spiritual truth can only ever completely be trusted when spoken by someone who knows because they have been there experientially. Second hand truth may be true but there is no way to verify that it is not simply nice cozy concepts that we want to believe in because they make us feel better. Lastly I definitely do not trust channeled information, for the same reason, you have a completely unverifiable source of information. You have no idea what level of consciousness that `spirit' who is providing the information has reached, in fact you have no idea if information is even being channeled. A clever psychic or psychologist could simply be reading you and telling you what you expect to hear or giving you some spiritual information that they read in books especially after you have already provided them with a lot of information upfront. I am not saying that the information provided in this book is not true but rather that you can not verify the source of the information and therefore it is automatically less trust worthy. For these reasons the book lost one star. Despite my misgivings I still rated this book at four stars simply because of the inspiring and beneficial affect it had on me. And despite what I have said I have faith that the unverifiable `life plan' information is reasonably reliable because I crossed checked the other channeled information with my non-dual wisdom sources and these sources I have complete faith in since I have been validating them for years.
   
   Some further extracts; "Do not consider reuniting, for that betokens a separation. There is never any separation. What the personality feels after death, when it feels as one with God, is simply the brushing away of cobwebs that obscure its view" ~ Page 223. Non-dual wisdom says that the world appears as duality but in reality is non-dual. In other words there is no separation only a oneness, this applies to physical object as well as consciousness. Further it says that we can not see reality because our view is obscured. "we create the illusion in which we appear to be separate from one another and All That Is" ~ Page 203. "The realization and recognition that one is responsible for creating one's own sense of happiness and well-being" ~ Page 143. This is also a teaching from a high consciousness level and indeed similar to non-dual wisdom which states that we project all meaning out onto the world. All emotion states stem from our mental positioning towards objects. Therefore if we give up our constant mental positioning we can experience peace. "What other activities are you engaged in? We, too, server as guides and mention for others, and we seek our own melding with the absolute"; a question that is asked of channeled spirit ~ Page 74. This is saying that there are other beings in other realms also seeking enlightenment in their own way and this agrees with the non-dual teachings that say we are seeking enlightenment.
   
   I have given some examples from the book that I have been able to verify with my non-dual wisdom sources. Some other concepts that are mentioned in the book that also correlate with non-dual wisdom are impermanence, non-judgment, compassion and love. One of my non-dual western master teachers often says how judgment is reserved for God alone and that we think is just a beggar on the street may actually be an enlightened master. This book really helped me embrace this teaching. I have found faith in what else is offered about life lessons and despite my continued weariness and tendency to distrust channeled information I have found this book of great interest and usefulness. It certainly helped me become less judgmental, more accepting, inspired greater hope and meaning, and resolved a long conflict I had between my past new age beliefs and current faith in non-dual wisdom. In essence both teachings are true and compatible but vary in approach and target audience. I highly recommend this book to those of you who embrace new age and also to those who study non-dual wisdom (as an interesting and useful adjunct to your primary teachings). I end with one more validation with the non-dual wisdom teachings.
   
   "The hermit who sits alone on a mountaintop radiating a vibration of peace does more to bring harmony to the world than the angry peace marcher." ~ Page 270



2. One of the most important books I have ever read. This book confirmed to me many things that I have always inherently felt to be true, but more than that, it has helped me see life and the people in it from a much more elevated perspective. I cannot stress how amazing it is. I am re-reading it once again. I hope the author writes another very soon.



3. With my mother dying I had a lot of questions about the journey of souls. This book is packed with a lot of wonderful information and gave me a sense of calm and made me felt more accepting of situations and people in my life.



4. If you have unanswered questions about why some of your relationships didn't work out, or why certain things seem to just "happen" to you, read this book! You will get a better understanding of how we chart our lives, prior to incarnation, in order to learn the lessons our soul needs to grow and perfect. Robert Schwartz does a wonderful job of researching!



5. Whether or not you believe in reincarnation or spirit guides or even pre-birth planning, this book has something to teach you. The book helps us look at the negatives in our lives and turn those into positives - especially the negative people we encounter. Instead of harping on the negative lessons our parents (or anyone) gave us, we can thank them for being examples of how to and how not to be. It's a complete flip from the negative to the positive. I felt like a tremendous load had been lifted after I finished the book. Again, even if you don't believe in mediums, reincarnation, etc., you can still learn from this book. Give it a try.