Cathy Liska The review is done by: Susan Nkwanzi
Summary
This book through an engrossing retell of the author’s life events addressing the steps an individual can take to overcome self-defeating beliefs and a negative self-image in order to live an empowered life. In chapters 1-3, the author tells her personal story which lays the foundation for the profound lessons she shares in the chapters that follow. In chapter 4, the author addresses the need to define personal boundaries. In chapter 5, the author shares about finding purpose. Identity is discussed in chapters 6 and 7. In chapters 8, 9 and 10, the author shares her story of liberation which gives so many useful nuggets to anybody that might be navigating issues regarding self-identity and purpose. In chapter 11, we read the author’s affirmations which can practically be used by the reader. The author finally shares some helpful resources at the end of the book.
Dissolving the Anchor is a comprehensive guide for anyone seeking to create and maintain an empowered life. The book is also about people finding what causes them emptiness so they can discover how to thrive in life.
Through an engrossing narrative, Hailima shares a story of growth. The book is carefully structured to show the amount of work that goes into the growth process and how it is all worth it in the end. In the preface, she lets us know that she no longer seeks validation of her worth through the lens of others.
The author shares her story from childhood, citing the events that affected her and caused her to become suicidal. She writes about her family, parents, friends, teachers, and neighborhood which all affected her childhood and growth. She also writes about the work she did to be able to find healing and empowerment. The purpose of the book is to introduce people to their true self and help them discover courage and resilience that they have residing on the inside of them. The book addresses the ability of the individual to find answers. It takes the reader on a journey of personal growth. The themes addressed by the author among others include: suicide, depression, growth, failure, forgiving oneself, relationships, confidence, learning, knowing your worth, having a purpose, making wise choices, and awareness. The book is about growth, and it is also about thriving.
The Good:
The author warns the reader of the possibility of triggering trauma. This is a good warning because it helps to mentally prepare the reader. She also offers tips on dealing with the triggering thoughts in the event they arise.
The story is engrossing. The story is true hence relatable.
Dissolving the Anchor provides practical steps on how people can deal with suicide. On page 71, the author also gives practical tips on how to deal with a suicidal person. On page 72, we find tips to deal with depression. The hotline to call in case someone is feeling suicidal is also shared. It is more than a book – it is a resource!
The author takes people on a personal journey and emphasizes throughout the book how while it is not so easy it is doable. She offers a realistic view of the journey to healing and self-empowerment. For instance, on Page 16, the author says she did not notice any considerable change until three years from the time she started working on healing and growing.
The book addresses the role of awareness and personal responsibility. She does not offer any false hope or cast responsibility on another person.
The language is precise and easy to understand plus the graphics keep the book light and interesting to read. She summarizes the story in a few words for example on Pages 35 and 36.
The book includes affirmations on Page 31 which are a great tool on the journey of self-empowerment. The use of the word “we” by the author on Page 32 makes the experience feel common to many people which is actually a source of hope for anybody dealing with a similar situation.
She gives practical tips for dealing with a number of issues for example lost/failed relationships.
The many writing techniques including poetry, pictures, and summaries help the author to reach different audiences.
Hailima also cites legitimate sources of statistics which makes it pass for a very well researched book.
The Bad:
I did not find any bad thing about the book. The pictures on pages 190-191 aroused a bit of fear.
Conclusion:
“Dissolving the Anchor” provides a unique blend of an engrossing narrative, insights, and practical strategies. The book addresses the whole person as it delves into relationships, self-image, and purpose. It is a gentle call to action. This is a good read for anyone struggling with trauma or depression.
It is also a good book for coaches, therapists, counselors, and anyone dealing with a suicidal or depressed individual or individual seeking to become empowered.
I recommend the reading of this book by every coach because it addresses so many of the areas people usually want to be coached on. It also discusses tools for example affirmations.
Hailima is also a Mindset and Self-transformation course which makes the book a good coaching guide.
In conclusion, “Dissolving the Anchor” is a beautifully written resource.
