This month burgeoning a new year, feels like the "perfect" time to recommend Arianna Huffington's "On Becoming Fearless...in love, work and life". While there are many, many books (some of which ARE excellent) on the subject of fearlessness, there is a tantamount difference in Ms. Huffington's work. This book speaks to women, not because we are innately more fearful than our male partners. "There is a professional double standard so that the same behaviors that help men get ahead and prove their worth on the job are discouraged in women." Don't believe this? Have you ever heard or thought of the assertive women in the office as the "bitch". In addition, she makes the case for the fact that (at least those of our generation, and the ones who came before us) were taught to reside in fear AND how (we have, or can) move through that, into "extraordinary strength, courage and resilience".

HOW? By taking an honest look at such questions as: What do I feel about my physical body? What are my beliefs about money? and What have I been taught, and what are my current beliefs, feelings, etc. about Speaking Out and being a Leader? among others. Now, for the best part! She does not leave us "stuck" in our emotions and beliefs. Instead, through inspiring stories from her own life, and others, in each situation presented, in how to Become Fearless. This book offers the choice to do so, by outlining the benefits and consequences to our souls in deciding against it, deciding that the risks are too great.

In this work Ms. Huffington "shows us how all of us can become bold from the inside out - whether our goal is feeling comfortable in our own skin, getting what we want in love or at work, or changing the world". She challenges her readers to face whatever holds you back, overcome our fears and insecurities and align with our purpose. I've rarely, if at all,  heard or read a better description of our lives' lessons given so succintly and simply.