FLYING IN THE FACE OF GRAVITY

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. There are a few startling requests to “download my free report” on various topics, which feel out of place and would have been less obtrusive at the book’s end. Still, 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. For example, with a hat tip to self-help guru Tony Robbins, he advises readers to pretend they’re movie producers, in order to reframe negative memories as positive ones. He also advises writing a list of at least 101 positive memories, and making it one’s goal to collect more.

A useful guide for readers aiming to conquer negative thinking.