Synopses & Reviews
Those who have never experienced an abusive or violent relationship often believe that upon finding a way out, victimsa (TM) difficulties are solved: their life is good, they are safe, and recovery will be swift. However, survivors know that leaving is not the end of the nightmare -- it is the beginning of an often difficult and challenging journey toward healing and happiness. Ita (TM)s My Life Now offers readers the practical guidance, emotional reassurance, and psychological awareness that survivors of relationship abuse and domestic violence need to heal and reclaim their lives after leaving their abusers.
Since its publication in 2000, It's My Life Now has been highly successful as a working manual for survivors who are starting their lives over after an abusive relationship. This valuable book combines direction on practical and emotional issues with worksheets and self-exploration exercises. Now, in the second edition, Dugan and Hock include updated information and resources while encompassing a wider range of individuals and the relationships in which abuse and violence occur. The new edition also provides a new emphasis on safety assessment, which has increasingly been shown to be a critical factor in recovery. In addition, this new edition includes current resources and information about organizations for victims along with revised and enhanced strategies to help survivors move forward on the path of recovery.
Review
“I have never shared the fact that I was a child of domestic violence. And, if I had not met Brian Martin, I dont know if I would have. What appeals to me most about Brians approach is that it is based on empowerment. Our experiences as children living with domestic violence have given us the equipment—a secret weapon, if you will—to overcome all kinds of obstacles in our lives. It means we are
not victims, we are victorious.”
--Tony Robbins, bestselling author and Peal Performance strategist
“Attention-grabbing and revealing, giving us insight into the world of CDV. It will be a valuable tool for our staff and New York Citys most vulnerable population—its children.”
--Trevor M. Johns, acting associate commissioner, NYC Administration for Childrens Services
“Martins kindness shines through this book. And though many purported self-help books often have the stench of the obvious—House too cluttered? Throw out stuff! Overweight? Eat less, move more!—Invincible has the air of honesty and hard work, and the feeling of someone who wants to help. It is not easy reading. It is not pleasant reading. But for anyone who grew up in a violent household, it could very well be the most important reading.”
--NJ.com
“After reading Invincible, I was struck by the sheer magnitude of children and adults whose lives are impacted by childhood domestic violence. The stories will touch your heart and make you aware of this huge crisis facing our children throughout the world.”
--Marlene Lund, executive director, Center for Urban Education Ministries
“Packed with inspirational stories of those who through courage and compassion have transformed their lives, this is a helpful book for anyone who grew up living with domestic violence. It shows that it is possible to overcome the obstacles of a childhood filled with violence and move forward.”
--Stephen Joseph, Ph.D., author of What Doesnt Kill Us: The New Psychology of Posttraumatic Growth
“Invincible can be a catalyst for change in the lives of millions who grew up living with domestic violence, as it gives them a compelling roadmap on the journey to heal and attain the lives they were always meant to have. It is a valuable resource that can renew their hope and guide them on the path to reaching their full potential.”
--Caryl Stern, CEO of the U.S. Fund for UNICEF
“Invincible is poignant, challenging, illuminating, and compassionate—all at the same time. Brian does a fantastic job of illustrating points with real-life stories and a fresh perspective. The book goes way beyond describing the issue; it provides clear insight into the thinking and behavior patterns that result from these experiences. Readers are not alone.”
--Chris Newlin, M.S., L.P.C., executive director, National Childrens Advocacy Center
Synopsis
Offering the practical guidance and psychological awareness that female survivors of relationship abuse and domestic violence need to heal and reclaim their lives after leaving their abusers, the second edition of this manual now includes updated information and resources.
Synopsis
When you grow up living with domestic violence, witnessing those you love tear each other down with physical and verbal blows, your brain doesnt know how to deal with that.” --from the foreword by Tony Robbins
According to UNICEF, growing up with domestic violence is one of the most pervasive human rights violations in the world, affecting more than a billion people. Yet too few people are aware of the profound impact it can have.
Invincible seeks to change this lack of awareness and understanding with a compelling look at this important issue, informing and inspiring anyone who grew up living with domestic violenceand those who love them, work with them, teach them, and mentor them.
Through powerful first-person stories, including the authors own experiences, as well as insightful commentary based on the most recent social science and psychology research, Invincible not only offers a deeper understanding of the concerns and challenges of those who grew up with domestic violence, but also provides proven strategies everyone can use to reclaim their lives and futures.
The author is donating all net royalties to the Children of Domestic Violence Foundation (CDV).
About the Author
Brian F. Martin grew up living with domestic violence. The impact of this experience lasted into adulthood, but his quest for answers to long-unasked questions eventually led him to a revelation: the unlikely gifts that the experience gave himand has given the hundreds of millions of who have lived through the same circumstances.
By rejecting the lies that he believed throughout his life, he set himself on a course to reach his full potential. He founded several multimillion-dollar global businesses, built a healthy and strong body, cultivated a confident mind-set, forged loving relationships, and developed a deep connection with his children.
In 2007, he founded Children of Domestic Violence (CDV), an international nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting and supporting anyone who grew up living with domestic violence.
Brian and his work have been featured in The New York Times, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, and Forbes. He has testified before Congress, appeared on national television programs including Dr. Phil, and produced the award-winning documentary The Children Next Door.
He was born outside of Newark, New Jersey, and lives there today with his two favorite people in all the world: his daughter, Ella, and his son, Frank.