Title: Believe in You
Author: E. Lloyd Smith
Publisher: Self-published
Reviewer: Paul H. Williams

A familiar message is what this book will convey to readers, as the title implies. What it is saying has been said many times before in other words. It's 68 pages of inspirational words, spanning nine chapters of different themes, with chapter eight bearing the same title as the book's. Below are excerpts, one from each chapter. They speak for themselves.

1. "It is absolutely important therefore that at every step of life's journey people take full control of their minds and bodies. Whatever thoughts, dreams and desires we deposit into our minds, more so those that we strongly believe in, usually result in either desirable or undesirable actions."

2. "Stop mind abuse wherever it exists, whether at home, on the job or among peers. Escape from the pain and anguish associated with it by letting go (of) the negative perceptions of yourselves. Do not believe the lie."

3. "The act of taking responsibility for your action is a powerful statement of confidence in your ability and character. Instead of resorting to blaming others, you should accept when you do poorly, acknowledge your mistakes and your faults."

Restrictions

4. "Self-imposed restrictions will serve to block the creative process of the mental system, making a mockery of your existence, consuming you with doubts and apprehensions, and dash your hopes and dreams."

5. "Patience is an extremely important virtue that so many of us take for granted. Indeed, it represents the capacity or quality that can make a huge difference in our entire existence."

6. "One of the means of achieving personal triumph is reflected in the concept that through perseverance, people can take important small steps and gradually remove themselves from unacceptable and undesirable circumstances."

7. "The recognition of who we are and getting in tune with and being aware of how our emotions can assist in altering our conduct, behaviours and responses will increasingly lead to a better quality of life. Emotional intelligence allows us, for instance, to handle and resolve issues using a reasonable approach."

8. "There is enough evidence to suggest that positive habits and mindsets have improved people's outlook on life and, as a consequence, has substantially boost their self-esteem. Your words and your thoughts have the power to create conditions in your life."

9. "Find the time to take care of yourself, do not abuse and misuse the gift of life. Life is precious, so despite what some people may think, it can only be lived once in your lifetime. Why waste it away? Make life on Earth enjoyable; remove the aches and pains as much as possible. They are not to linger in or ruin your system."

Believe in You is a philosophical look at life and living. The lessons are easy to understand, but whether they can be easily applied is another story. Each person's circumstances are different and will have to be addressed from different perspectives. Nevertheless, this small book is not a bad idea. It will get you thinking about you.