5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Thrive, don't simply Survive, April 1, 2009
Thrive, don't simply Survive, by Karol Ladd, is one of those books that need to be on everyone's book shelf. We are live in a world where things don't go as planned. As women, we think we have everything under control...and then bang! Everything is out of control.
This book covers the seven common disappointments in a Woman's life. With each disappointment, it is sometimes hard to let go. I know I always go back and wonder what if I'd handled it different, would it have made the journey easier?
Thrive, don't simply Survive, helps you embrace the unexpected and helps you step up to new responsibilities and step away from Anger or disappointment. But, the most important thing this book teaches you is how to take the first step in the right direction & recognize God's work in your life during this process. A great book for those that need that extra encouragement in their life.
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Very Uplifting and Helpful - Start Thriving!, September 10, 2009
This review is from: Thrive, Don't Simply Survive: Passionately Live the Life You Didn't Plan (Paperback)
Perfect for : Personal Use, Gift, Women's Group, Bible Study Group
In a nutshell: This is a wonderfully uplifting book for anyone who has experienced disappointment in areas of their life or expectations. We make plans, and dream about our future, and sometimes these plans and dreams work out, and sometimes they don't. The author explains that there are seven common areas where women experience disappointment (I have a feeling that men do too): marriage, kids, self, others, circumstances, religion and God. She provides examples and information on each area. Karol Ladd has written a book that gives readers hope. She stresses that we are in control of our outlook and that we need to embrace the unexpected changes in our life and find good in them. She goes even farther to help readers see how to accomplish this. If you or someone you know is struggling with their circumstances in life, pick up a copy of this book. It will provide hope, guidance and skills to help you thrive in your life, not just survive it.
Extended Review:
Content: The book includes an introduction to the book, and three main sections: 1. When Dreams Disappoint (Seven common disappointments in a woman's life, Time to let go, Worry and What-ifs, How can I trust a God who allows pain and suffering), 2. Embrace the Unexpected (The beauty of Plan B, The bitterness battle, Big-picture thinking, You are what you say), 3. Live Passionately (Your confident stride, Healthy connections, Life is not a spectator sport, Strength of soul). The book also includes a conclusion, leader's guide and discussion questions.
Format: Each chapter begins with information and examples that pertain to the topic. The reader will find both real-life and Biblical-life examples throughout the chapter, as well as passages from the Bible. One of my all-time favorite stories from the Bible is the story of Ruth, the Moabite priestess who married a Jewish man. Shortly after her marriage, her husband dies and she and her mother-in-law are left alone without an income. The author shows how the women maintain their faith in God, and how they take control of a bad situation and thrive.
There is a recap at the end of each chapter called "Stepping Forward" that provides a quick recap of the chapter, an uplifting passage from the Bible, a Prayer, and a plan to help the reader put what they just learned into practice.
Readability: The book is easy to read, and thanks to the examples and stories that are shared, it is easy to relate to.
Overall: This will be a very helpful and uplifting book for anyone who is realizing that life didn't turn out exactly as they expected it to, and for those who are disappointed in the life they currently have. Karol Ladd not only shows you that it is possible to thrive in the life God has given you, but she gives you the tools to do it!
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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Spoke to my heart, January 29, 2010
This review is from: Thrive, Don't Simply Survive: Passionately Live the Life You Didn't Plan (Paperback)
I always have this book nearby; it has been a lifesaver for me. I have had a major medical crisis and am often very depressed but Karol's book offers wonderful ways to help cope with life's disappointments and tragedies. Just reading it and the Bible passages gives me a lift when I really need it. I am trying to do exactly what the title says-Thrive, not simply survive and I feel I am winning this battle! I want to thrive for my beautiful kids who are relying on me to stay strong. Karol's book should be on every woman's bookshelf who is going through a difficult time. It will keep you afloat. Beautifully written.
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