What it is: Innovative set of tools and exercises for recognizing where you get stopped by fear, and suggested practices to overcome, that most chilling of emotions.

Growth Potential: A female in a world of male self-help authors. Jeffers’ book was revolutionary when it came out in 1987. There must have been some real magic in the air that year, as it was also the same year that Suzanne Vega released the most addictive song ever, Luka (of “I live on the 2nd floor…” fame).

“Get Real” Potential: Folks who see it on your bookshelf may think you’re a little wimpy. “Uh, a book on fear huh? Wow, I had no idea you were so afraid…I…I’m sorry I invited you to that scary movie last week…had I known…I…“

Also: This is an older book, many of the points and distinctions have been reused in other works. Much of it feels like review, and some is straight-up cliche.

What we got out of it: Fear is a natural reaction to many situations, and unavoidable. But it’s just an emotion. Most people’s internal dialogue says, “I won’t be able to handle it if X happens” Jeffers says this is BS…we can handle way more than we think…and letting go of this belief can help you mow right through your biggest challenges. Breaking the mold of all self-help guru’s to-date, she even tells you how.

Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway