The Success Principles for Teens: How to Get From Where You Are to Where You Want to Be [Paperback]

The authors of, "The Success Principles for Teens" could have titled their book, "The Success Principles for ALL."

I came across their book by accident and after reading several passages, I added it to my collection of books. The authors have done an excellent job in putting across the theme of, `...taking full responsibility for everything you do, think, and say. The book doesn't tell you how to live your life. It does provide the reader with instructions on how to achieve a better and happier YOU. According to the authors, "This book contains what [they] call the timeless `ingredients of success.' Just like there's a recipe for your favorite dish, there is a recipe for achievement too."

Their book consists of twenty chapters. At the end of every chapter the authors include a "My-to do-List." An example of the list after the first chapter is as follows:

1.The Kids on the Block"Realize that the person in charge of my life is ME. I am accountable for the quality of my life.

2.Search for the facts and look at things as they are, so I can improve them. Then create a new vision by seeing things as I'd like them to be.

3.Eliminate my excuses because (a) no one wants to hear them and (b) all they do is slow me down.

4.Acknowledge that blaming stems from denial and doesn't accomplish anything because no matter how much I blame things outside of myself, blaming won't change me or my circumstances.

5.Realize that I can change anything and everything simply by doing or thinking something different. Understand that it's not what happens to me; it's how I respond that matters. And how I respond is completely up to me.

6.When I ask myself a different question, I will trigger a different response, which will, in turn, create a different outcome.

7.Remember that results don't lie. The easiest and fastest way to find out if something isn't working is to pay attention to the outcome I am currently getting. [based on the equation E + R = O; Event + Response = Outcome]

8.Pay attention to alerts or signals that I get from other people or my intuition. These are often signs that can help me prevent unwanted consequences later on.

9.Keep in mind that I have everything I need to get the results I want."

The contents of the book are challenging, fast and easy reading. Best of all, however, once you start reading you don't want to stop, or put the book down. The reader, more often than not, will say, "I never thought of it that way." Or, "That really makes sense."

The contents, even though, directed to Teens, can definitely be helpful to adults as well. It is never too late to learn and practice how to take full responsibility of one's life in order to be more successful and happy. As the authors say in one of their many side, and inspiring notes "Surround yourself with the best, and you'll achieve more than the rest." The last chapter's side note states: "Nobody can prevent you from choosing to be exceptional."

I strongly recommend, "The Success Principles for Teens" to all Teens having a difficult time in life. To adults, and to the young at heart who feel they have missed something in their lives. "The Success Principles for Teens" is also excellent reading for Social Workers, parents, teachers, school administrators, to the clergy, and in particular, to everyone who wants to improve the quality of life.

This book is great for the practical steps to take to achieving what you want. I really like all the real life stories incorporated into each chapter, it gives the reader a better understanding that fits your daily life. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!

Teens will definitely relate to this book. Healy and Canfield have done an excellent job in writing about the things teenagers need and want to know about succeeding in life. The book is filled with real-life examples, amusing illustrations, and space for writing one's personal challenges. This book is like a mentor for teens.

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