Michael Katz (8) (1945–)

I've become so cynical of self help books in the past few years that I almost didn't pick this one up, despite countless people recommending it to me. I'm so glad I was able to overcome my skepticism of the industry as a whole to grab "I Need Your Love - Is That True?" As a perpetual people pleaser, I didn't just read this book; I devoured it!

Full disclosure: a few years ago, I learned a version of "The Work" from another coach. I see now that what she was teaching was a diluted and much less impactful version of Byron Katie's inquiry.

Reading this book felt like I was having a heart-to-heart conversation with a wise friend who isn't afraid to ask some very tough questions, but in a loving and understanding manner. Katie doesn't tiptoe around the uncomfortable realities of seeking validation and love. Instead, she asks: "Do you really need someone else's approval to feel worthy?" Spoiler alert: The journey to answering that question is transformative.

I love that this book didn't just preach about compassion; it showed me how to be truly compassionate with myself, which, in turn, transforms my interactions with others. It's one thing to be told to practice self-love and acceptance, but it's another to be handed the tools to do so effectively and to see immediate, applicable changes in your life. This book does just that, making it an invaluable companion for anyone on the path to self-discovery.… (mehr)

I don't really know what to make of this book, so I went with 3 stars.

On the one hand I understand some of the things she is saying, such as it is impossible to change someone, and that rather than being angry and hateful, you can move on rather than staying in the relationship being in pain and bitter all the time.

That said her concept of 'staying in your business ' and we cause our own suffering no matter the words or actions of others, are a lot harder for me to swallow. She used an example of a cheating husband and saying it is 'his business ' who he sleeps with. Huh ? If I am married to him, it automatically becomes my business. I am also not a fan of believing we choose our own suffering when we are victimized by unbelievably cruel treatment, especially when we are young and can not fight back against parents and harsh unrelenting words.

I have to cherry pick this book - take what I find helpful, leave the rest behind.… (mehr)