Customer Reviews

Positive Psychology (Introducing a Practical Guide)

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

At the start of this 'small but perfectly formed' book, the author sets her stall out by offering the reader "something useful, inspirational or thought-provoking". She doesn't disappoint, or, stated positively, she succeeds for me! Having studied positive psychology, it is no mean feat to summarise this huge field, and in 22 brief chapters the reader is treated to an up-to-date scientific overview of each of the dominant topics (such as: strengths; emotional intelligence; mindsets and optimism)as well as plenty of 'how to's'. It is the latter that sets this book apart. There are quite a lot of books on the market that will summarise positive psychology for you, but very few that show you how to apply it in such a practical, easy to absorb way. If you want a book on positive psychology that is fresh and modern, easy to read and packed full with ideas for applying it to your own life - I suspect this will be the best value for money you can buy.

This is a very accessible, practical and comprehensive guide to positive psychology. Bridget writes with a style that is wonderfully straightforward while being hugely informative. I love that she keeps reminding readers to take what they need from the information rather than just swallow it all. Her expertise and knowledge of the subject shines through this is a book that will be of great value to anyone who wants to know more about how to improve their life skills and develop their wellbeing and happiness. A wonderful resource and the perfect size for a handbag.

This book provides a well-written, clear and succinct overview of the key concepts in Positive Psychology,
containing PP tools/activities, ideal for use in coaching settings.

I found this an excellent read and a great introduction to Positive Psychology. As with her other books the author's style is a perfect balance between presenting the academic side of the subject and also making the subject personally relevant. This pocket size book will, I have no doubt, prove to be an invaluable asset both for students starting in the discipline and for those wanting to understand how to make the most of their strengths and personal assets.

If you have been wondering what Positive Psychology is and what it can do for you then this is the perfect introduction. Bridget writes clearly and concisely to show you around the world of positive psychology which is the scientific study of optimal wellbeing. Each chapter introduces a subject area and offers ideas you can try out for yourself. She encourages you to explore what will work for you at your own pace. The resources section at the close of the book recommends websites where you can continue to explore this new and interesting branch of psychology.

I really like this book, as it was an easy to read explanation to the principles of Positive Psychology.

I particularly liked the practical elements that really did work in helping maintain a positive outlook on a daily basis. So often books like these are full of academic babble with very little in the way of practical solutions. This book is not one of those books.

A great gift for anyone wanting to acquire simple strategies to a happier life. Even if you are a "Glass Half Full" person.

Keep an eye open for the online resources. I found them a lot of fun as well as being informative.

Highly recommended.

This is a dip in and out of book. It is psychology at a basic level and would be useful for anyone wanting an introduction to the subject. Very readable and useful for a quick reference.

As a coach and teacher of online courses in Positive psychology, I'm always on the look out for good introductory texts to recommend to clients and students. I found this book easy to read, broad in its scope and practical in its emphasis. I liked the way it brought in related themes like appreciative enquiry, mindfulness and nutrition. There were a few places where the broad brush strokes of an overview seemed to over-simplify, for example, acknowledging some downsides to being an optimist though not saying much about what these are. But adding more depth would have made the book bigger, and I liked its small size and readability. For someone new to the field, I'd recommend this book. It offers an engaging and practical introduction to positive psychology.
Chris Johnstone, co-presenter of The Happiness Training Plan: practical strategies for a happier life from the new science of positive psychology, [...]

Thoroughly enjoyed this book. Nice pocket size book which gives you a great overview of the industry. Would defiantly recommend

I am writing this review after finishing the book some time ago, and it probably speaks volumes that I cant remember much about it, other than being a bit dissapointed with the fact I was expecting some real insight into how I could apply some new scientifically sound pricipals to be of real benefit. I seem to remember that there was nothing new to really inspire.