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Finding a good baby carrier is like finding a good man...

It takes a lot of time and you have to go through a lot of bad ones. Before I had a baby, I thought the simplest way to figure out what kind of gear I would need was to read reviews on sites like Baby Gear Lab and Baby Center (if only parenting were this simple.) As ergo was consistently named one of the best carriers, I felt fortunate when my sister-in-law re-gifted me her never used ergo carrier. Unfortunately, my baby did not feel the same way. I quickly discovered why the ergo was never used by my sister-in-law. Whenever I put my baby in the ergo, he cried. Not cute little kitten squeals, but full on pterodactyl type shrieks. So desperate was my little one to escape from the ergo that he would arch his back and use his feet to launch himself off of me in some kind of deranged baby suicide attempt. There was nothing ergonomic about the ergo for my baby or I, so we moved onto the baby k’tan. I loved my baby k’tan – it was soft, comfy, easy to put on and oh so cuddly. It rem...

Reach - A new strategy to help you step out of your comfort zone

Reach: A New Strategy to Help You Step Outside Your Comfort Zone by Andy Molinsky is a self-help book that focuses on challenging yourself by doing things that are typically uncomfortable for you.  The book consists mostly of case studies that Mr. Molinsky has compiled about individuals who have been placed in positions where they had to adapt to challenging situations or face harsh consequences such as losing their business, not getting a promotion, and so on. 
After a series of case studies, Mr. Molinsky usually offers a brief analysis/summary to encapsulate the heart of the message to the reader so that they can have a few take-aways in their pocket.  The book is an easy read and can be finished in single to a few sittings. 
There a few lessons that are taught in this book but ultimately the greatest take-aways are the following.
1)     Do not be afraid of confrontation.  Especially if it will lead to better results.  For example:  In my job I often deal with upset parents, guardians, teachers, students, and other members of a school community.  There are times where I feel like I want to avoid situations because of the confrontations that I know will ensue, but ultimately, I keep in mind what is best for the students and the school.  So, although confrontations can be challenging and uncomfortable.  It is necessary to accomplish your goals.
2)     Do not be afraid to speak positively about yourself.  If you are like me then it is difficult to sing your own praises even if you do some things well.  I have been taught at an early age that it is better to be humble and modest then bold and braggadocios.  However, as we get older and as we aspire to move upwards in our careers or build a business, we must learn how to market ourselves or our organizations.  For example: Don’t hesitate to go to networking events, and introduce yourself to people you do not know.  It can be intimidating but start off small, such as speak to two people you do not know.  Also if you are starting a business do not be afraid to advertise and market your business.  Take the necessary steps to cold call, advertise on social media, or going up to people to let them know about your organization.
This book is about facing your fears head on and reaping the benefits of doing so.  As a book, I would say it is not very good and his writing style is nothing special.  Nonetheless, this timeless message of being uncomfortable to grow is important, and if you are person that struggles with that, then give it a look.


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