STAYING ON TOP WHEN YOUR WORLD TURNS UPSIDE DOWN

by Kathryn D. Cramer ‧ RELEASE DATE: May 24, 1990

Stress-management consultant Cramer details a four-stage program for handling the emotional, mental, and physical trauma that follows a loved one's death, a career setback, a divorce, etc. Strategies for coping with the initial period of disorganization include writing down feelings, thoughts, and dreams in an ""empowerment journal,"" and repeating upbeat self-messages to replace self-defeating thoughts; Cramer also includes tips on how to avert physical illness. Actual recovery begins when one starts evaluating future options and pinpointing the positive benefits and challenges presented by the traumatic event. Goal-setting and strategies to put them into effect come with stage three: e.g., a ""burnt out"" executive mapped ways he could improve his physical and mental health while maintaining a busy travel schedule. With the final stage, goals are achieved and one's life is on course once more. Throughout, Cramer eschews lock-step programming and the ubiquitous cheer-leading of the self-help genre. Her book is likely to appeal to an intelligent, highly motivated readership.

Pub Date: May 24, 1990

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Viking

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 15, 1990

Categories: NONFICTION