It's All Under Control by Jennifer Dukes Lee

Me in all my crazi-mess glory

Since I've started reading this book, I've had to come to terms with the fact that I am very much not in control. My kid turned another year older and is starting high school, no control over that. The lawn mower decided to stop working, we fixed it but still, can't control when that will happen. My computer stopped working and had to get a new one, can't control that. One of our cats has been sick for the past week and it's not looking so good for her, can't control that. All sorts of small things busting, breaking, ripping, just not doing what I expect of them.

But this book, it's about more than just those things that are out of your control. It's also about empowering you to really grasp and take charge of the things you are in control of. The overarching message that I got while reading this book is "There are some things that only I can do. I can't pawn them off on others and I can't ignore them to take on work that isn't mine in the first place." I have to be me and do what I was created to do.

There are several quizzes, flowcharts, etc in the book and available as a free resource on the book's website (www.itsallundercontrolbook.com) that are meant to help you figure out where you're needed and where you need to let go.

This book is a great tool for not just those that pride themselves on being busy but all of us who are connected with the world. There are things that we are in control of, things that we are the only ones that can make the decisions about for our life. And we need to make sure that we aren't wasting time taking care of so many other things that we aren't responsible for because we feel like no one else will do them, or do them as well as us, or even because we've always done it and don't know how to quit.

I could tell you about all the chapters and ideas discussed but the truth is, I have a feeling that this is one of those books that everyone who reads it will discover something different inside. Some will hear one thing, the next something completely different. For me, the book ultimately brings to mind one of my favorite quotes from the movie The Holiday "You're supposed to be the leading lady of your own life." And if you're too busy playing bit and side roles then when are you ever going to take on the things that are meant to make you shine?

A free copy of this book was given to me by Tyndale Publishing House for the purpose of review. I'm never required to share a positive review but I'm always thankful when I can.

PS check back tomorrow for a guest post from Jennifer Dukes Lee herself!

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