Your Personal Renaissance: 12 Steps to Finding Your Life's True Calling

by Diane Dreher

Overview

We've all asked ourselves, “What should I do with my life?” “Where am I going?” “Is this what I really want?” Whether you're graduating, changing careers, getting divorced, retiring, or just confused about what's next, Your Personal Renaissance will help you find your calling. Combining the lost wisdom of the Renaissance with groundbreaking research in positive psychology, this book approaches a calling in its original definition-not just a job, but a joyous, meaningful life. The book features an innovative program of contemplative steps (Discovery, Detachment, Discernment, and Direction) and practices that help readers combat overscheduling, stress, and depression-and change their lives.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781600940019
Publisher:	Hachette Books
Publication date:	05/13/2008
Pages:	288
Product dimensions:	5.70(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.80(d)

About the Author

Diane Dreher, Ph.D., is the author of the bestselling The Tao of Inner Peace. She lives in the San Francisco Bay area.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments     ix
Introduction: The Sense of Calling: Creating Your Personal Renaissance     1
The Discernment Journey: Renaissance Wisdom for Your Life Today
Discovery: Realizing Your Joys and Talents     17
Detachment: Clearing the Path Within     39
Discernment: Embracing Your Values, Living with Heart     59
Direction: Turning Your Ideals into Action     75
Making the Renaissance Practices Work for You
Faith: Trusting Your Life and Your World     97
Daily Examen: Staying on Course with Your Dreams     115
Renaissance Community: Gaining Support from Mentors and Friends     129
Contemplation: Finding Your Inner Oasis of Peace     147
Creativity: Making Your Life a Work of Art     165
Reading and Reflection: Exploring New Worlds Within and Around You     183
Physical Exercise: Building Strength and Wisdom     199
Discipline and Dedication: Bringing Your Dreams to Life     215
Notes and Resources     233
Permissions     259
Index     261

Editorial Reviews

Boston Globe, 6/1/08
“While initially I thought it might be just a tad forced to put the Renaissance together with self-help, this wise little book soon changed my mind… The book's message is bolstered with empowering success stories about Renaissance figures like da Vinci, Galileo, and Giotto. ‘Renaissance’ means ‘rebirth,’ and when you think of it, what could be a more perfect metaphor for transformation?”

San Jose Mercury News
“For those direction-less souls among us [Dreher] has some answers…A book for those who strive to make their life a work of art”

Suite101.com
“Dreher lays out an orderly, well presented plan for moving to a life based on purpose…Following Your Personal Renaissance will require dedication, discipline, and a willingness to explore your inner thoughts and beliefs. Success at building life around purpose is well worth it.”

Career Planning and Adult Development Journal, 2009-2010
“Dreher provides a powerful antidote to the get happy quick style of all too many self-help books…[A] well-written collection of practical and inspiring advice…Intentional career changers, people responding to changes in the economy and employment opportunity, and career professionals will all find this book profoundly valuable.

From the Publisher