Description:
"An insightful self-help book that seeks to help people free themselves from the negative thoughts that prevent them from achieving success. Everyone's familiar with the concept of physical gravity, but in this book, debut author Epperson coins the term "Mental Gravity" to describe a constant downward tug on one's emotions. Every person faces a struggle with negativity, he writes, and '[t]he only way to survive Mental Gravity is to be keenly aware of it, and take specific actions to moderate the effects it produces.' Unlike other books on positive thinking, this one emphasizes that positivity alone is not enough, because a well-balanced individual should be prepared for times of both levity and gravity. The author illustrates this balance by relating some of his own negative experiences--including a family car crash and personal financial collapse--and telling how he used them as opportunities to learn and grow. He also writes of his own difficult relationship with his father, and how he used it to become a better person. He warns readers that 'we need to become very adept at dealing with disappointment,' as it is sure to come eventually. He also points out that his philosophy extends to the past as well; it doesn't matter what a person's background is, he says, because each new starting point is a gift... with his friendly, encouraging tone, Epperson does a fine job of offering practical ways to overcome Mental Gravity, and many of his tips can be put into action rather quickly... A useful guide for readers aiming to conquer negative thinking."--Kirkus Reviews Table of Contents: - Acknowledgements - Introduction PART I: JUST THINKING POSITIVE IS NEVER GOING TO CUT IT. - Gravity is a Bitch - You Don't Get to Choose Who You Are. Deal With It. - Do You Even Have a Plan, Or Are You Just Stumbling Around? - Thermals Can Rip Your Wings Off - You Are Never Going to Be in Control - You Are Doomed To Crash - So What, You Crashed. Get Over It. - You Are Five Steps from Being Fearless - The Desires of Others Can Kill You - Go Ahead - Wreck Your Life PART II: MASTER YOUR DESTINY - You Really Believe That? - Science and Religion Are the Same - And They're Both Wrong. - Without Faith, I Don't Believe You Can Do Anything. - Man, You Really Need... Something - You Are a Genius! - Seriously - What do You Mean? - The Raw Power of Discernment and Determination - The Media Has the Power to Fix the World - How to Become an Expert - You Can't Fly Without Fire - Your Destiny; Own It! - Summary - About the Team - About the Author