Does Change Have to Be So Hard: Eight Mindset Strategies to Overcome Self-Sabotage and Take Control of Your Life

5 Star Review

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Editorial Book Review:

By Victoria Smith

Julie Donley challenges the common belief that change has to be painful and overwhelming from the very first page. Instead, she gives us a practical and deeply human roadmap for transformation. This book is like having a caring coach next to you, showing you how to take back control of your habits, thoughts, and choices while also pointing out the ways you unconsciously hold yourself back. It makes readers think, see things more clearly, and even feel better as they start to realize that self-sabotage is not a flaw in their character but a set of patterns that can be understood and changed.

At its core, the book explores the universal themes of self-awareness, resilience, and personal responsibility. Donley’s eight mindset strategies serve as guiding principles, helping readers see how internal obstacles often mask the possibilities for growth and fulfillment. These lessons are applicable across personal, professional, and relational spheres, making the insights relevant beyond any single situation.

Donley's writing is clear, friendly, and easy to understand. It mixes storytelling, personal stories, and advice based on facts. The structure is well thought out, with each mindset strategy building on the last. This makes it easy to understand and use the ideas. She uses clear examples and thought-provoking questions to keep readers interested and encourage them to participate instead of just reading. Readers who want a more theoretical or scientific approach may want more research references from time to time, but the book is easy to read and use because it focuses on practical matters.

Some of the best parts are the exercises that show how people sabotage themselves, the stories of real people going through change, and the phrase "change is not a punishment but a path to alignment." These passages stay with you and give you both insight and encouragement long after you've read them.

Ultimately, Does Change Have to Be So Hard is a guide that empowers, challenges, and uplifts. Julie Donley's book is both inspiring and realistic, giving readers the tools they need to make their own changes. Anyone who wants to take charge of their own growth and live a life shaped by intention instead of habit needs to read this.

About the Author 

Julie Donley

Dr. Julie Donley is a seasoned expert in leadership, coaching, and organizational behavior with over 30 years of experience. A certified coach and former executive nurse in behavioral health, she is dedicated to developing respectful, empathetic, and confident leaders. 

Having overcome significant adversity, including multiple layoffs and ineffective bosses early in her career, Julie learned that leadership begins with self-leadership and understanding the impact of the leader on others. 

She holds an EdD in Organizational Leadership and an MBA and served nearly a decade as a director of nursing. She has coached, mentored, and developed leadership training programs, presented to hundreds of audiences, and authored several books, including "Leading at the Speed of People." Passionate about helping leaders increase confidence, reduce stress, and develop emotional intelligence, she specializes in navigating conflict and enhancing executive presence.