Tag: self help

It's All a Matter of Attitude, by Justin Herald

I don’t have an attitude problem…
You have a perception problem.

Justin Herald is the master of Attitude. Well, actually, he owns it. His business, Attitude Inc. , was founded with just $50 and has since grown into an international success. Herald now travels the world, spreading his message about following dreams and staying motivated.

In It’s All a Matter of Attitude Herald shares some of the slogans that have appeared on Attitude Inc. merchandise, with each accompanied by an explanation of its meaning and insight into his personal experiences and where the slogan came from.

This little volume could be read cover to cover, or readers may choose to open randomly at a page in their search for inspiration. It isn’t really intended as read-once kind of a book – rather, it is meant to be savoured and revisited as and when needed – both at times when, Herald says, things aren’t going as planned, but also when things are working perfectly. Different slogans are likely to speak to different readers in varying ways at differing times.

It’s All a Matter of Attitude is likely to speak to a range of readers – from those who are starting businesses, to those who want more from life, and would make a good gift.

It’s All a Matter of Attitude, by Justin Herald
Allen & Unwin, 2004

Tibetan Ting-Sha, by Robert Beer

The ting-sha is a simple Tibetan insturument used in Buddhist rituals. One does not have to be Buddhist, however, to feel the power of this little insturment. In Tibetan Ting-Sha noted Buddhist artist and scholar Robert Beer provides a detailed background of the history and uses of the ting-sha, including an explanation of how they are made. He then goes on to show how anyone can use the instrument to create sacred sound in music, meditation and ritual.

The small format hard cover book comes complete with a pair of ting-sha, crafted by Tibetan craftsmen, so that the reader can experience and benefit from its delightful sound. The instrument does have a very captivating and spiritual sound.

This set would be a delightful gift.

Tibetn Ting-Sha, by Robert Beer
Pan Macmillan, 2004

Buddhism for Mothers, by Sarah Napthali

Most advice for mothers is about mothering rather than about being a mother. Mothers are given loads of advice and instructions on what to do for their children, but little help with how to nurture themselves.

Buddhism for Mothers seeks to offer this help. Author Sarah Napthali, herself a mother of two, tries to show mothers how they can cope with the day to day stresses and challenges of motherhood using basic Buddhist philosophies and techniques. She explores ways out of maximising the joy of parenting, and minimising anger and stress.

With chapters on mindful parenting, finding calm and happiness, creating loving relationships and more, the book offers insights which will be fresh to many mothers, yet which offer achievable aims.

Napthali’s advice is wise, yet realistic. She does not encourage parents to set unrealistic aims for themselves or those around them, but rather acknowledges the realities of parenting and of struggling for balance. An accessible and balanced volume.

Buddhism for Mothers, by Sarah Napthali
Allen & Unwin, 2003.

Take 40, by Leanne Mercer

There is no birthday more talked about, more anticipated than a woman’s fortieth. For some it is a daunting age – perhaps signalling the end of youth, and admitting to being middle aged – for others a time of great challenge as they face changes in life, career, relationships.

In Take 40 Leanne Mercer, executive producer of Good Morning Australia talks to 40 women about their experiences of turning – and being – 40. They discuss how they felt at the time and how they feel now looking back.

Amongst those who share their thoughts are radio and television personality Amanda Keller, swimmer Tracey Wickham, singer Marina Prior and Sarah, the Duchess of York. Each woman’s experiences of reaching this milestone are different, but the common thread is that turning 40 is not a signal to sit back and admit defeat, but rather a time to go for it, to move forward and do whatever it is you want to do.

Take 40 also shares tips for looking and feeling good, as well as advice on careers, dating, marriage and more. An excellent gift for a woman approaching this age, Take 40 is an inspirational and insightful read.

Take 40, by Leanne Mercer
Pan Macmillan, 2003

High Life: Balance Your Body Chemistry and Feel Uplifted 24/7, by Matt Church

Residents of the new millenium are expected more and more to be able to balance work, family and social life, often leaving little time to focus on physical and mental health. When a problem does arise we want to be able to pop a pill or take a potion and expect instant relief.

In the short term, this might work, but Matt Church offers a more long-term solution. In High Life, he focuses on ways to feel good every day of the year. Drawing on scientific research, Church explains in easily accessible language how our body chemistry works and how it comes to be out of balance. He goes on to offer practical, straightforward ways to rebalance and maintain a healthy chemistry.

Readers are shown how to map their current chemical balance profile and how to understand the results, before being given page after page of practical techniques to improve wellbeing. There are no magic potions or miracle cures here, but there are manageable and effective ways to increase energy and well being.

Matt Church is one of Australia’s leading conference speakers and a recognised specialist on productivity and burnout. You can learn more about him by visit by visiting His website.

Why Men Don't Listen and Women Can't Read Maps

Why Men Don’t Listen and Women Can’t Read Maps is a book which will have you alternately laughing, crying and nodding your head in agreement. It should be read by everyone in a relationship, or who has ever been in a relationship with a member of the opposite sex.

Allan and Barbara Pease have worked together to produce a book which explores the differences between men and women and the reasons for these differences. Their explanations are based on detailed scientific research, but are presented in an entertaining and informative way. Cartoons, diagrams and one liners punctuate the text, illustrating key points with wit and simplicity.

Because it is written by a couple the findings are balanced – there are as many jibes at men as at women. Despite the humour and simplicity, the book is amazingly accurate and informative.

The Peases explore physiological and psychological differences, illustrating with examples and case studies. Differences in sensory capability, communication, sexual drive, academic ability and more are all explored, with the intention of helping us understand why these differences occur. There are also practical suggestions how men and women can cope with these differences.

Why Men Don’t Listen and Women Can’t Read Maps is an outstanding balance of information and entertainment, making it appealing to all adult readers.

Why Men Don’t Listen and Women Can’t Read Maps, by Allan and Barbara Pease

Pease Training International, 1999