Rating: 
Summary: I was tired of being one of the 'nice dead people'
Review: "I was tired of being one of the 'nice dead people' in the world, so the title of this book spoke to me. I was totally skeptical that it could really help. But after reading it I really was inspired to start "dancing in rhythm to the beat of my own soul, and learning how to enjoy it when people freak out about it." (A quote from the book.) It really has become my guide from depressed "doormat" through
overly "obnoxious" aggressiveness to an evolved, enlightened, more empathic assertiveness. Kelly's real life stories, hilarious humor and refreshing theories teach the mechanics of integrity and loyalty with oneself. It is convincing me of the self defeating dynamics behind self sacrifice. Plus the pratical principles and tools of Nonviolent Communication are helping me with my only relationship issue - "Self Abandonment!"
Rating:
Summary: I was tired of being one of the 'nice dead people'
Review: "I was tired of being one of the 'nice dead people' in the world, so the title of this book spoke to me. I was totally skeptical that it could really help. But after reading it I really was inspired to start "dancing in rhythm to the beat of my own soul, and learning how to enjoy it when people freak out about it." (A quote from the book.) It really has become my guide from depressed "doormat" through
overly "obnoxious" aggressiveness to an evolved, enlightened, more empathic assertiveness. Kelly's real life stories, hilarious humor and refreshing theories teach the mechanics of integrity and loyalty with oneself. It is convincing me of the self defeating dynamics behind self sacrifice. Plus the pratical principles and tools of Nonviolent Communication are helping me with my only relationship issue - "Self Abandonment!"
Rating:
Summary: A must read, part of the NVC trilogy.
Review: As soon as I finished reading the book, I wanted to reread it right away, which I did. It fits in my top 10, side by side with other books on the same subject: Non-Violent Communication by Marshall Rosenberg and Stop Being Nice, Be True by Thomas d'Ansembourg (in french: Cessez d'etre gentil, Soyez vrai!). At first, when I saw the title of Bryson's book I was afraid it could be a kind of plagiarism of d'Ansembourg's book, since the titles are so much alike. But my concerns were soon dissipated after reading a few pages. This third book is purely a distinctive essay and an astonishing marvel like the other two. It makes its way using a totally different prose, delivering a mean to grasp NVC from a totally different perspective. Bryson puts it down in a colorful language and a wealth of provocative ideas and imaginative ways of thinking. Bryson also departs from the other two because he wants and likes to play with words and language. Thus his book is also an artwork. I had a hard time at first since I am not accustomed to this kind of writing, but it was such a blessing when I finally got to it. Bryson also likes to say what he thinks, which makes it a lively book, and which enables him to talk about what goes on in his head and heart. This also is a departure from established conventions, and I believe it is a deep source of insight into our own way of beeing. It is also congruent with what he teaches: to be real, open and vulnerable, taking the risk to disclose our self. Alas the book has many typos. I like to imagine that Bryson made it intentionaly to refrain from beeing perfect. Also, the last two chapters talk about how today's society is bad compared to ancient ones. But I just don't agree with that. Then he stabs men for being violent and promotes women's values. Well this could be an issue in USA, but not quite here in Eastern Canada. Sure men a more prone to be agressive than women almost everywhere in the world, but after all what counts is how this agressivity gets expressed. Men are men and women, women. Then he talks a lot about religion's power. Again an issue in USA but not here. So I wasn't much impressed by these last two chapters. But anyway, this book is still a goldmine to me, the last two chapters simply being veins of lead instead of gold. Of course this applies to me here and now and may not apply to you there and then. It is certainly an absolute must for whoever is interested in the subject. Enjoy!
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Summary: Thank you, Kelly!
Review: I am slowly reading and assimilating "Don't Be Nice, Be Real!" Kelly's message is definitely triggering a lot of thoughtful introspection in me (bringing up a lot of past and present relationship issues--with myself and others), and helping me to become more honest and authentic--which is one of my main missions now at this period of my life (I'm 54--mid-life crisis time!). Thank you, Kelly, for playing a very significant part in awakening my real Self from under the doormat.
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Summary: I see a light!
Review: I loved Kelly Bryson's book. The book is informative and funny. I saw myself in his explanantions and examples of "nice." I'm now aware of another mind-set I could use to truely express myself. Life-changing. This is for me!
Rating:
Summary: The title of this book says it all!
Review: I rarely like self help books nor am I willing to read them from cover to cover, but this book is a an exception. The book expands upon the theme proposed in the title. It is about being honest and real and really brave. The book was very stimulating and offered a new perspective on deepening communication and intimacy with others and more importantly with myself. It starts where other books on co-dependency begin. A fun and stimulating read.
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Summary: Easy to understand!
Review: I really enjoyed reading Kelly's book and thought it had a lot of very practical advice that was easy to understand and apply. Kelly's book is teaching me how to ask for what I want from others, and that it is OK to put me first. For anyone who tends to be a people pleaser, I highly recommend it!
Rating:
Summary: BE REAL
Review: I received Kelly's book as a gift. It was perfect for me. I took it on a trip back home and read it on the way. It really helped me talk with my Mom about my wants and needs. I would highly recogmend this book- the first couple of chapters are the best!
Rating:
Summary: BE REAL
Review: I thought it was fun finding out what relief it is to follow up ones own needs instead of being "nice" to others. Great book, I highly enjoyed reading it.
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Summary: Speaking & Listening from the Heart
Review: Kelly Bryson uses humor and fun "plays on words" to teach us how learning to communicate compassionately brings us more love, empathy, intimacy, and overall enjoyment of life. This book is a fun read and also caused me to revisit past interactions, and see that by taking this new approach at communication, the end result can be both me and the other people are happy and get our needs met. I highly recommend this book!
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