How Not to Be Afraid of Your Own Life: Opening Your Heart to Confidence, Intimacy, and Joy

"Susan's book was both heart-softening and heart-strengthening....her honesty when sharing her own inner world, made me feel not so alone in my own struggles. Her suggestions about antidotes for common challenges in our lives are still with me...now when I am feeling afraid of something-anything...I think of a way to bring myself gentleness. It works beautifully! Her outline of a meditation retreat inspired me to plan one for myself, and in the meantime, I am doing a little bit of "retreat" more often..daily finding small bits of time...and weekly a half day of my own to sense what is going on inside of myself. Her sense of humor and candid tone make this a very enjoyable book to read and keep nearby. "
~ Written on 2010-03-11

"Susan Piver's book is a very good place to start if you want to get familiar with the basics of a beginning Buddhist meditation practice. Her easy, honest, straight forward style takes the woo-woo factor of spiritual jargon down to a real life level...which is where a spiritual practice starts and ends, anyway. I find I return to this book as a refresher when I have read pithier texts and I just want my spiritual big sis to translate for me. It is also a handy book to share with curious friends who want to know what this Buddhism thing is all about. I agree with other reviewers who are a little off-put by the title...it sounds like one of those magic bullet self help books, but don't let that put you off. For a beginner, it is a lovely introduction to what can be a lifelong practice."
~ Written on 2009-01-05

"How Not to Be Afraid of Your Own Life by Susan Piver is for anyone actively seeking to make a change. Based on years of study on meditation and Buddhism - and her own experiences - Piver helps make meditation an easy tool to integrate into day-to-day living. Part self-help book, part self-discovery mentor, and part Buddhist guide, this book is 100% valuable, applicable, and relevant. Piver goes far beyond the "big picture" of meditation as she delves into the everyday aspects of Buddhism and healthy living. She provides the tools that can make a life centered on meditation and Buddhist teachings possible.

How Not to Be Afraid of Your Own Life contains everything a person needs to improve their state of mind and well-being, and to accept the aspects of their lives and themselves that they can't change. Piver argues that no one need wait for the "right time" to make a positive change in their life. As a result, this book is an extremely accessible guide for almost anyone ready to embark on an inner journey of incorporating meditation and Buddhist living into everyday life.

The most valuable feature of How Not to Be Afraid of Your Own Life is the "Try This" tips scattered throughout the book. These are practical, relevant, and easy tips that aim to integrate mediation into everyday situations. The book culminates with Piver's detailed guide to creating a personal meditation retreat - no expensive classes or exotic destinations are required. The reader is empowered in making an immediate and profound change through the power of self-reflection and self-discovery. Everything thing you need is within yourself, and Piver shows you how to access your own personal wealth of knowledge. Piver's sense of humor is refreshing and revitalizing. Not only is this book an invaluable tool for teaching and reference, it's also an absolute joy to read. "
~ Written on 2008-09-22

"I first got acquainted with Susan Piver via the internet and her articles for the Shambhala Sun. I am new to the practice of meditation and am just beginning to study Buddhism, and this book was perfect for me. She writes in a humorous, straightforward, jargon-free way to clearly explain how you can train your mind to open itself up to an easier, happier way of life. I loved it. I am in the process of reading everything of hers I can get my hands on. She manages to take what can be complex, esoteric topics and makes them totally accessible. And she seems like she would be a great friend and teacher. Thanks, Susan."
~ Written on 2008-07-13

"This is very easy reading. Everything she talks about is unpretencious and easy going. She gives good examples of how her life was stuck in fear and how to over come that with meditation. There is a seven day plan that I can't wait to start! If you are open to making a change in your life then you will enjoy her suggestions."
~ Written on 2008-05-08