Book of Moods: How I Turned My Worst Emotions into My Best Life

Martin, founder of online writing community Words of Women, debuts with a thoughtful take on how to prevent emotional responses from becoming negative moods. Feeling frustrated or anxious is universal, Martin writes, and overcoming such feelings is the key to living one’s best life. To that end, she outlines strategies to mentally and emotionally reset, through small acts like taking the time to spoil oneself or giving oneself permission to walk away from an aggravating situation. Martin also shares how she came to recognize and deal with emotional triggers: “My triggers were the unique set of things that had the power to push my buttons. If I could avoid my triggers, I could avoid the emotions that would follow.” While many of the tactics are elementary (taking deep breaths, developing a daily routine), Martin’s buoyant tone will help any reader break out of a funk: “Becoming a strong woman is like becoming a self-made millionaire: It doesn’t happen overnight.” Self-help readers who enjoy the work of Gretchen Rubin should take a look. (Dec.)