Reddit meter
The Gift of Fear
384 pages, 1999
True fear is a gift. Unwarranted fear is a curse. Learn how to tell the difference. A date won't take no for an answer. The new nanny gives a mother an uneasy feeling. A stranger in a deserted parking lot offers unsolicited help.
The threat of violence surrounds us every day. But we can protect ourselves, by learning to trust—and act on—our gut instincts. In this empowering book, Gavin de Becker, the man Oprah Winfrey calls the nations leading expert on violent behavior, shows you how to spot even subtle signs of danger—before its too late.
Shattering the myth that most violent acts are unpredictable, de Becker, whose clients include top Hollywood stars and government agencies, offers specific ways to protect yourself and those you love, including... how to act when approached by a stranger... when you should fear someone close to you... what to do if you are being stalked... how to uncover the source of anonymous threats or phone calls... the biggest mistake you can make with a threatening person... and more. Learn to spot the danger signals others miss. It might just save your life.
Gavin De Becker emphasizes the importance of trusting your gut feelings. If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. He encourages us to listen to that inner voice that alerts us when something is off. So, next time you feel uneasy, don't ignore it, explore why you're feeling that way.
The book's title, The Gift of Fear, is a key takeaway itself. Fear is not always a negative emotion. It can be a lifesaver, alerting us to potential danger. Gavin De Becker sees fear as a gift that can help us avoid harmful situations. So, don't be afraid of fear, see it as a protective tool.
Gavin De Becker argues that violence is not random but predictable. He provides insights into how to recognize the warning signs. By researching these signs, we can prevent or avoid violent situations. So, take a look at the signs and learn how to read them.
In The Gift of Fear, he advises that if someone is bothering you, cut off all contact with them. Any response, even a negative one, can encourage them to continue their behavior. So, if you find yourself in such a situation, remember the no contact rule.
Gavin De Becker introduces the concept of Pre-Incident Indicators (PINS). These are behaviors that could signal a potential threat. By learning to recognize these indicators, we can better protect ourselves. So, dig into the book to find out more about PINS and how to spot them.
Quotes 3
The Gift of Fear is a profound lesson in trusting one's instincts. It's a must-read for anyone who wants to make themselves and their loved ones safer.
Oprah Winfrey - Talk show hostThe Gift of Fear is a compelling examination of our society's fear culture and a guide to trusting your instincts to stay safe.
Roger Ebert - Film criticThe Gift of Fear is a brilliant and practical guide to personal safety. It's a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the nature of violence and how to protect themselves.
Sam Harris - Philosopher, neuroscientist
The Gift of Fear found in libraries
3Best Books for Self Growth
Achieve the greatest potential in everything you do with the Best Books For Personal Growth we can offer.
Books About Mental Health
Become the best version of yourself full of hope, dreams, and self-confidence with the Best Books About Mental Health.