Book Review: Refuse To Choose by Barbara Sher, continued from Part 1
Scanner-Types Everywhere… Rejoice!
“Refuse To Choose!” is the next generation of Barbara Sher’s original ground-breaking book, “I Could Do Anything If I Only Knew What It Was.” It was in this book that she introduced the term “Scanner.” Ms. Sher enlightens the reader that a Scanner is “a very special kind of thinker… you’re genetically wired to be interested in many things.” She further endears the reader by telling them they have an “exceptional gift. You are the owner of a remarkable, multitalented brain!”
For Scanners who have spent a lifetime assuming something was wrong with them, Barbara’s words are a welcome relief. Hearing themselves described in positive terms, usually for the first time, was a new feeling. Newly-identified Scanners declared, “I’m not a quitter, there’s nothing wrong with me!”
Real Advice That Works, Even in Reality Land
Once Ms. Sher gets that revelation out of the way, it’s full steam ahead! Barbara starts building you up and providing tools to work with your strengths (I do say she did a great job of making me feel good about myself and embrace my gifts, especially since Scanners have often spent a lifetime of belittling themselves). I like how Barbara has counter-arguments for everything; she’s heard all of the excuses. The real-life examples and letters from her readers are further proof that her message rings true.
It was actually the Youtube video that endeared her to me. She announced with her matter-of-fact delivery that it annoys her when the self-improvement experts drill on the “Be positive!” “Love yourself!” and “You can do it!” advice. Pep-talks have a short life-span, according to Barbara. Us “lifers” out here in reality land have stuck to jobs (maybe that we don’t like) because we have bills to pay and families to raise. Hallelujah, Ms. Sher! Ok… she has my attention and I’m listening…
What Really Works
Another golden gem from Ms. Sher: “If something’s missing, go find it and get it!” If there is any inkling of a feeling of dis-satisfaction, don’t settle. You are doing a dis-service to yourself not to let your scanner-self explore it deeply like only a Scanner can.
My own busy mind has been stitching together and filling in the voids to weave my personal Scanner success story. I still hunger for “finished.” On Ms. Sher’s very good advice, I “listen” to hear at what point the bad feelings creep in and note when I shut down (resist), especially within feet of the finish line.
Barbara Sher’s words of wisdom doesn’t stop with this book. She has remained interactive with her many fans on her website groups and Facebook pages. Barbara, a Scanner herself, has learned to harness the power of her Scanner brain and share her gifts with the world.
Here’s to your Scanner success!
Did you miss Part 1 of my book review “Refuse to Choose” ? Catch it here…
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