The Art of the Possible: The Path from Perfectionism to Balance and Freedom

As she reflects on the beauty of a balanced life, the author of Making Choices shares her ideas on ways to seek excellence, the importance of cherishing special moments, and how to live with simplicity and grace. 50,000 first printing. Tour.

A popular lifestyle guru (Creating a Beautiful Home) here tackles the perfectionist traits that, she claims, frustrate people. "Balance, the middle path, is the key to a happy and purposeful life," counsels Stoddard as she illustrates her ideas about graceful living with anecdotes, personal revelations and aptly chosen marginalia. Her Martha Stewart-like enthusiasm for creativity is tempered by her personal philosophy of Zen-based quietude, and perhaps also by her encounters with life-changing events like death and divorce. By describing her own release from the thrall of perfectionism and her subsequent enjoyment of moments spent in a simplified atmosphere, Stoddard offers inspiration and motivation in a way her followers should enjoy.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.

In her latest work, Stoddard (e.g., Living a Beautiful Life, LJ 10/15/86) tackles perfectionism with aplomb. Elegantly and simply narrating her message, Stoddard offers a personal, anecdotal story that explains the need for balance in living an easier, happier life. Perfectionism is symptomatic of a life out of balance, according to Stoddard, and it doesn't mix well with parenting. She stresses the need for play and personal time to remain centered and separate from a busy work schedule. On each page her journalistic style is augmented by special quotes, and eloquent chapters on love, healing, and death are inspirational. Recommended for public libraries where Stoddard's other works are popular.
Lisa Wise, EBSCO, Springfield, Va.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.