Is This All There Is: Living a Life Beyond Obligation

Category: Self- Help
Author: Monique Verpoort
Publisher: Friesen Press
Publication Date: December 12, 2019
Number of Pages: 273
ISBN-13: 978-1-5255-5836-8

Monique Verpoort's Is This All There Is? Living a Life Beyond Obligation explores the emotional and spiritual landscape of the individual who finds themselves ensnared in the web of obligation and unworthiness. Verpoort’s insightful book draws readers into deep introspection, urging them to confront the detrimental beliefs and stories they tell themselves—beliefs that often take root in childhood experiences. The book is structured to guide the reader through understanding the genesis of these limiting beliefs, how they manifest in adulthood, and the powerful techniques such as Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) that can help dismantle them. Verpoort emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in recognizing one's beliefs and how they influence one’s approach to life. The themes of guilt, perfectionism, and self-sacrifice are profoundly examined and illustrated through the deeply moving stories and examples integrated into the book.  

One of the critical elements of Verpoort’s message is the necessity of prioritizing one’s well-being. This concept is often overlooked in a society that tends to glorify self-neglect in service of others. She challenges the notion that caring for oneself is selfish, presenting it as a prerequisite for being genuinely present and effective in caring for others. This perspective is essential for readers who might resonate with the “superwoman” ideal, feeling pressured to meet high standards while sacrificing their own needs. Verpoort’s application of EFT as a tool for emotional mastery and liberation from negative past experiences provides a practical angle to her insights. By stressing that change requires courage and commitment, she encourages readers to embrace vulnerability as a path to authenticity and peace. Is This All There Is? is a self-help guide and a memoir of personal transformation. Verpoort’s candid reflections and actionable strategies provide a path for readers yearning for a life that transcends obligations—a life rich with joy, fulfillment, and self-acceptance. The confident tone and wisdom that punctuate this book keep readers engaged from page to page. 

Reviewed By: Meg McKinnon

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Date: August 15, 2024

NonFiction