Becoming Okay (When You're Not Okay): A step-by-step guide to decrease suffering and develop acceptance

“A powerfully detailed method of dealing with life’s pains and injustices.” Kirkus Book Reviews

Pain is often part of living; yet, humans naturally resist pain and – in the process of resisting – create more pain for themselves and those they love. In contrast, demonstrating acceptance means approaching the pain of living in a way that gives it less control and less ability to produce suffering. Acceptance is acknowledging what life is, rather than continuing to struggle with what life isn't. Acceptance lessens our struggle with pain and increases our ability to live fully. Acceptance helps us “become okay” – even when we really, really aren’t okay.

While many self-help books emphasize the importance of acceptance, how is it developed? Psychologist, Bryan Bushman, provides a step-by-step roadmap for anyone interested in learning how to rise above emotional or physical pain. Part I of the book suggests powerful ways we can avoid suffering through its innovative use of Buddhism's three paths of suffering. Part II of the book focuses on scientifically-grounded ways to develop acceptance. Combining the best of both eastern- and western-insights with the latest neuropsychological research, Dr. Bushman provides several, easy-to-remember steps that summarize information so people can live richer, more-balanced lives.

Universal in its application, there is something here for everyone. Whether you experience depression, anxiety, chronic illness, emotional trauma, relationship problems, or addictive behaviors, pain doesn’t have to define you. Using playful humor and powerful case examples, Becoming Okay (When You’re Not Okay) provides readers with scientifically-grounded, yet soul-expanding, exercises and insights. You can build a life of vitality and action – even while experiencing some of life’s greatest trials.

“The author packs a great deal of information into his pages, and he delivers all of it with the smooth skill of an expert teacher… He also includes many illustrations, including graphs and charts designed to convey multiple steps at a glance.” Kirkus Book Reviews