Elizabeth Whitworth, Author at Shortform Books

8 Radical Acceptance Exercises to Help You Be Fully Present

Is anything negative going on in your life right now? Is your body trying to tell you something? Are you holding on to any regret or resentment? Radical Acceptance is a practice in which we acknowledge what we’re experiencing—positive or negative—and welcome it. It’s a powerful tool that allows us to be fully present in each passing moment. It helps us avoid getting stuck in our own heads. Continue reading for eight Radical Acceptance exercises based on the book of the same name by Tara Brach as well as books by Eckhart Tolle and Ryan Holiday.

4 Core Communication Skills + Tips for Making Them Your Own

Do you have a reputation as a good listener? Does it feel like you have to repeat yourself a lot? Do you get easily triggered, or do you seem to set other people off emotionally? Communicating effectively with others is a crucial skill—it’s how we build and maintain relationships, solve problems, and accomplish tasks. However, James Williams explains that good communication skills don’t come naturally—instead, they’re built up over time through intentional practice. Keep reading to learn about four core communication skills and how to practice them in your everyday life.

2 Major Benefits of a One-Person Company: Is It for You?

How quickly can your company pivot when it needs to? Do you crave independence, not just for yourself but for your business? In Company of One, Paul Jarvis advocates for one-person companies. He argues that, by owning such a business, you can exercise more control over your work and create your own schedule. Also, your company is more likely to ride the waves of external changes better than larger businesses can. Keep reading to learn about these two significant benefits of a one-person company.

How to Resolve Misunderstandings in Communication

Does “That’s not what I said” sound familiar? How often do you say it or hear it? No matter how careful you are with expressing yourself and listening to others, misunderstandings are bound to happen. Extend some grace to yourself and others, and develop a few skills that can help clear things up and smooth things over. Continue reading to learn how to resolve misunderstandings in communication.

Why Did Malcolm X Change His Name—Twice?

Why did Malcolm X change his name? What do his name changes tell us about his life? You might know him only as Malcolm X. But, that wasn’t his original name, nor was it his name at the time of his death. The fact is that Malcolm X changed his name twice in his lifetime, and the reasons reflect his evolving beliefs and experiences. Read more to learn why Malcolm X changed his name, as presented in his autobiography.

Malcolm X and the Nation of Islam: The Rise & Fall of an Alliance

What’s the Nation of Islam? Why did Malcolm X join it, and how did it impact his life? When he was in prison, Malcolm X embraced the Nation of Islam. It changed his life for the better in many ways, culminating in the beginning of his civil rights career. But, the partnership didn’t last, and Malcolm X eventually went his own way. Continue reading to learn the history of Malcolm X and the Nation of Islam.

Paul Jarvis’s Company of One: Book Overview & Takeaways

Do you have a great business idea? Are you overwhelmed or even intimidated by the thought of growing a large business? Fear not. According to Paul Jarvis’s Company of One, you can start a business by yourself and keep it that way—a company of one. In his book, Jarvis explores the pitfalls of companies that grow fast and large, presents the benefits of single-person companies, and outlines how to start one. Continue reading for an overview of this book that just might be the entrepreneurial green light you’ve been looking for.

Effective Feedback Discussions: 4 Ways to Avoid Defensiveness

Does feedback tend to bounce off your walls of defense? Do you shy away from giving feedback to others because of how they might react? Feedback can be gold. But, regardless of its value, it’s an inescapable part of life. So, it’s wise to learn how to give it, receive it, and respond to it well. In Communication Skills Training, James Williams shares advice on how to make the most of conversations that entail feedback. Read more to get four recommendations for breaking through defensiveness in order to have a constructive feedback discussion with anyone.

How to Start a One-Person Company: 3 Steps for Solopreneurs

Do you have a great idea for a business? Are you ready to get started except for that bit about knowing how to start? According to business consultant Paul Jarvis, starting and building a one-person company entails three steps. He says that you must build your skill set so that you’re prepared to run your own business, set up a strong financial and legal foundation, and develop strong customer relationships. Continue reading for details on how to start a one-person company.

How Malcolm X and Elijah Muhammad Became Enemies

How did Malcolm X and Elijah Muhammad become allies? Why did they later become enemies? What changed? Malcolm X joined the Nation of Islam when he was in prison in his early 20s. Elijah Muhammad was the leader of the movement at the time, having succeeded founder W. D. Fard. What began as an alliance between Malcolm X and Muhammad eventually turned into a bitter division between these two leaders. Read more to learn about the relationship between Malcolm X and Elijah Muhammad.