View source for Say Yes to New Opportunities! by Ruth Pearson

{{infobox
|title=Say Yes to New Opportunities!
|author=Ruth Pearson
|reviewer=Peter Magee
|genre=Lifestyle
|summary=A well-written, easy-to-read guide to turning problem times in you life into opportunities. Definitely recommended.
|rating=4
|buy=Yes
|borrow=Yes
|pages=124
|publisher=AuthorHouseUK
|date=February 2017
|isbn=978-1524676612
|website=https://www.listeningtoyourvoice.co.uk/
|video=
|amazonuk=<amazonuk>1524676616</amazonuk>
}}

Ruth Pearson was deputy headteacher of her school and was studying for a Masters degree. She was made redundant from this school and was working in another school when she suffered an emotional breakdown as a result of the stresses of the job.  The breakdown was so severe that she was afraid to return to the classroom, but rather than sitting back and letting the circumstances overwhelm her she allowed what had happened to become a catalyst which would help her to change her life.  In ''Say Yes to New Opportunities'' she shares what she learned from the experience.  To come back from this situation requires strength, honesty and a sense of purpose, all of which Pearson demonstrates quite clearly throughout this book.

Ruth's business, [https://www.listeningtoyourvoice.co.uk/ Listening to Your Voice] offers coaching, mentoring and many other developmental services, but don't think that this book is essentially an advertisement for the business - it stands on its own merits and is worth reading regardless of whether or not you want to take her other services.  In easy learning steps you find out how to appreciate the importance of motivation, realise what motivates ''you'' to take action, listen effectively and be positive when faced with a challenge.  I was particularly impressed by her emphasis on the benefits of working with others and avoiding the negative - points which it's all too easy to dismiss when you are in the depths of a crisis.

So, what's the book like to read?  Everything is laid out clearly as a simple and effective strategy to follow.  The object is to gain a greater insight into who you are and you're encouraged to set goals which you want to achieve.  Along the way you will learn to Listen effectively, Engage with others, develop a positive Attitude, Reflect on your actions and set out New steps for the future.  If you look back at my capitalisation in that last sentence you'll find a handy mnemonic!

I found it was particularly helpful that there was a step-by-step guide at each stage and at the end of each chapter to help ''you'' to discover how you were doing.  Ruth emphasises the importance of concentrating on a few things, but doing them well and where you need help, seeking that help from others.  Everyone can benefit from reading this book and it would have been particularly helpful to me at challenging times in my life.  I cheerfully read this book in one sitting.

What everyone can do is to develop their strengths and work on areas of weakness, remain true to your own personal values and beliefs, know your self worth but don't be afraid to ask for help when needed.  Seeking help makes you stronger not weaker - and this book could be a good place to start!

You can read more about Ruth Pearson [[:Category:Ruth Pearson|here]]

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