When Is Enough, Enough?: What You Can Do If You Never Feel Satisfied (Paperback)

~ (Author), (Author) "This is not a book for people who count their blessings..." (more)
Key Phrases: Twelve Step

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Psychotherapists Ashner and Meyerson (coauthors of When Parents Love Too Much, William Morris, 1990) argue persuasively that people who are never satisfied with their achievements are unconsciously setting themselves up for disappointment. Further, such thinking bears little relation to reality and actually signals the need to readjust the way goals are approached. The authors list the 13 characteristics of this type of thinking and outline ways to change. Throughout this readable book, they skillfully integrate theory and case studies, creating a work that sustains interest. It is less "New Age" in approach than Barbara DeAngelis's Real Moments (LJ 9/1/96); all public libraries should consider.?January Adams, Franklin Twp. P.L., Somerset, N.J.
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Product Description

This no-nonsense, compassionate guide explores misguided life strategies that can sabotage happiness and fulfillment. Using practical examples from everyday lives, the authors show us how to replace feelings of chronic dissatisfaction with a sense of contentment and fulfillment.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 272 pages
• Publisher: Hazelden (October 1, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1568381972
• ISBN-13: 978-1568381978
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 6 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #752,556 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

22 of 25 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars The key word in the subtitle is DO, August 28, 1998

By A Customer

Nine core issues are discussed as underlying chronic discontent or "never enough" thinking. The authors are both therapists and present the issues as questions commonly asked by their clients. "Why do I always feel like something is missing?" is shown to be a search for self. "Why don't I follow through on my dreams?" can mask the search for purpose. "Why is it that nothing makes me happy for long?" calls for a search for validation. The search for trust lies behind the question "Why can't I just relax?", and the search for competence lurks beneath "Why am I so bored and restless?" "Why can't I find the right person?" translates to the search for a mirror. "Why do I always end up getting less than I give?" calls for a search for control. The search for identity underlies "Why can't I stop comparing myself to other people"? The last core issue is the search for safety, or "Why do I always want the one thing I can't have?" Guidelines for change and growth are discussed throughout each chapter, and the closing chapters pull together ideas so that satisfaction with one's life is seen as an achievable goal. Lots of thought-provoking ideas as well as Prescriptions for Change, and Thoughts & Questions given for each of the nine core issues.

3 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Illuminating, insightful and practical, November 30, 2005

By	Sigrid Macdonald "Sigrid Macdonald, Author an... (Ottawa) - See all my reviews

I'm not usually keen on self-help books because I find that they tend to repeat themselves, use extensive anecdotal evidence or offer nothing but psychobabble. This one is different.

The authors really understand human nature. They go beyond the surface and ask us to pose difficult questions to ourselves about why we repeat certain behaviors or what is causing us to be unfulfilled at work and relationships, and in other areas of our life.

The book covers a wide range of territory and is well worth reading, especially if one takes the time to do the exercises and think about what might be causing him or her to be stuck and routinely unable to feel satisfied.

My only complaint would be that there was a little too much emphasis placed on parenting and early childhood experiences. Not everyone is damaged in childhood. Other life events can occur in adulthood that can be traumatic and can alter one's self image and self-esteem.

Other than that, this is a thoroughly enjoyable and insightful read.

Sigrid Macdonald
Author of D'Amour Road