The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins

Rating: 3.5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 257 pages
Published: December 2024

Probably like many of you, I heard about the viral sensation, Let Them, on various forms of media - social, radio, podcasts, etc. At the beginning of the year, when one of my coworkers mentioned she was going to read the book, I offered to buddy read and discuss it with her. Mel Robbins, along with her co-author and daughter worked on this practical self-help guide to help readers give themselves permission to pursue dreams, confront fears, and embrace their authentic selves. 

The book opens explaining the "Let Them theory". Robbins posits it as a "proven method that teaches you how to protect your time and energy, and focus on what matters to you" (p. 12). While the "let them" portion of the theory is catchy and memorable, the rub is in the second part, which is "let me." The author explains that by letting go of trying to control others; you create space to let yourself live freely and authentically. She simply reminds the reader: "The only person you are in control of is you" (p. 30). Throughout her book, she provides scientific research and academic studies to bolster her position. Robbins uses personal stories and experiences in a conversational tone to offer useful advice in the form of actionable tips that any reader can implement immediately. 

While I found this motivational book to be empowering and comprehensive, I did think most of the perspectives she shared were something any middle-aged adult should know. However, like most self-help books, I found this to be a good reminder of what we should be doing to live our life to the fullest. Robbins' overarching message of strength and perseverance resonates throughout the book and creates inspiration for readers to take control of their mind, body, and soul. 

Recommendation: This book is an inspiring self-help formula for crafting better relationships by embracing one's own authenticity. It serves as a reminder that we are in control of what we do and how we react to what others do, but we cannot control other people. Whether you're at a crossroads in your career or personal life, this book provides the common sense tools and encouragement needed to embrace your true self. I recommend it to those needing that reminder. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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The 6 Types of Working Genius by Patrick Lencioni

Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars 

Duration: 04:11:00
Published: September 2022

The 6 Types of Working Genius by Patrick Lencioni was recommended by a couple of colleagues. Because it was a relatively short book I chose to consume it via audio during a week's commute to and from work. The premise of the working genius model is that each person has natural talents and gifts and when they are put in roles that accentuate these talents, they are more successful in, energetic about, and fulfilled in the work they perform. Their non-dominate talents tend to deplete one's energy. The six working types make the acronym WIDGET. They are: 

• Wonder
• Invention
• Discernment
• Galvanizing
• Enablement
• Tenacity

Lencioni presents the model and the resulting working types in the form a fables, or short stories, as a creative way to define and illustrate the model. Readers can also elect to take the working genius assessment for about $25, or three fancy Starbucks drinks, to determine where you fall. The results are delivered in an easy to read PDF report and outline what your two working genius areas are, your 2 working competencies, and your 2 working frustrations. It is recommended to take the assessment before reading the book - probably because more tenured professionals can figure out where they fall after reading the short book. 

The book, its theory, and model are all presented in an easy-to-understand format. It made for an easy listen while driving. However, if I am completely honest, at this point in my career I know myself well enough to know what fills my cup up. The gem here is learning what types of workers others are on my team so I can better relate and lean in to their strengths. 

Recommendation: Books are knowledge, and knowledge is power. I would definitely recommend this book to people who work in teams - as a career or in a volunteer role - for a resource to better understand others. And we know from another professional development book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, are better when we first seek to understand others before trying to make others understand us. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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Do the New You: 6 Mindsets to Become Who You Were Created to Be by Steven Furtick

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 304 pages
Published: February 2024

I will preface this review by saying I consider Pastor Steven Furtick my pastor and Elevation Church my church. I know there's a whole debate questioning whether attending online services constitutes going to church. I will tell you this: I am a happier and better person by being a part of this international ministry. So, when Furtick released his newest book, Do the New You: 6 Mindsets to Become Who You Were Created to Be, I snagged a copy. Not only because I wanted to read and learn but because I am also a part of a small group that meets virtually each week and we were tasked with studying it together. 

The book is relatively short and easily digestible. In it, Furtick proffers 6 memorizable statements to lean into when life gets you down and you need to get recentered and refocused on God. They are as follows: 

1. I'm not stuck unless I stop. 
2. Christ is in me. I am enough.
3. With God there's always a way, and by faith I will find it. 
4. God is not against me, but He's in it with me, working through me, fighting for me. 
5. My joy is my job. 
6. God has given me everything I need for the season I'm in. 

The book is divided into six parts that align with those mindsets, and each part contains four or five short chapters where Furtick shares personal and Biblical stories to illustrate his points. If I am being honest, nothing he is saying is earth-shattering. It all makes sense, especially if you've read the Bible and attended church before. Even more, if you've attended Elevation Church, you'd probably heard some of the content before reading the book. However, the gem is in the creative presentation and the gentle reminders that we all need from time to time to help get us back where we need to be. 

I read the physical book while listening to the audio (courtesy of Spotify). The language is easily understood, and the audiobook is narrated by the author giving deeper meaning to the content, especially his personal stories. I also noticed that the audio does not follow the book word-for-word. It appears Furtick took a more conversational approach, like he preaches, with the audio version. However, the overall meaning is the same. 

Recommendation: I find the author to be an effective writer, an engaging speaker, and an exceptional communicator. He is able to take Biblical foundations and make them applicable to real-world, present-day scenarios. He is gifted, and this book was a delightful read that I will probably turn to time and time again. Highly recommend! 

P.S. If you consume the audiobook, there are goodies at the end including a beautiful song by Elevation Worship that got me through the season of my Grandmother's last days on this side of heaven. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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The Dream of You by Jo Saxton

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 240 pages
Published: January 2018

I first met professional author and speaker, Jo Saxton, at a women’s conference hosted by a local church. When my favorite online ministry, Proverbs 31 decided to facilitate an online Bible study in the fall based on Saxton’s book, The Dream of You: Let Go of Broken Identities and Live the Life You Were Made For, I hurriedly registered to participate. 

In this short book, Saxton has offered concise yet powerful information on how to see yourself differently, specifically focusing on how God sees you. Each chapter begins with a thoughtful, heartfelt letter to the reader from Saxton and is then followed with practical applications based on Biblical principles. The non-fiction book is somewhat autobiographical in that Saxton bears her soul by sharing some of her most vulnerable moments with the audience. Additionally, the piece is targeted toward Christian women; however, as with most motivational literature, anyone can benefit from the overarching themes and message. 

Saxton’s writing style is educational and simultaneously conversational. Many of the ideas she presents are done in such a way that any reader can relate and understand. Having heard her speak and following her on Instagram, I would say she has a bubbly personality and that definitely comes through in her writing. 

Recommendation: Overall, I would say that Saxton has a way with words and is a Biblical scholar. I would recommend this book to any of my friends seeking to rid themselves of negative self-talk and improve on self-perspective and reflection. This book is a must read! 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

Read More