by Dewitt Rowe
Self-Published, $9.99 140 pages
The Conversation That Matters Most is a brief book that begins with one basic concept: that we have some of our most important conversations with ourselves. Think of the time we spend inside our heads debating career decisions, relationships, or even a big purchase. Should I or shouldn’t I?
DeWitt Rowe, the author, uses each chapter to address one of nine basic situations every person faces in their life. He defines the situation, explores why it may be happening, who is responsible—ourselves, others, or a combination of the two, what we may be telling ourselves in our inner conversation, and how to make the best of the situation—in a sense, what we should be telling ourselves. Some of the common situations Rowe writes about are guilt trips, overextending ourselves, appreciating your achievements, and facing setbacks.
In the hands of another author, The Conversation That Matters Most could be a very annoying book. The situations that Rowe addresses are common situations that we’ve all faced and, we would like to think, have figured out. Having Rowe pointing out how so many of us aren’t effectively dealing with these situations could make you want to “kill the messenger”. But Rowe manages to share his thoughts and experience with you in a positive manner, probably because, along with advice, he shares his own experiences. All the times he thought he was effectively dealing with life and, well…wasn’t. Rowe’s attitude is, “I’m learning from my mistakes and I’d like you to learn along with me.” Although for the most part Rowe relies on short chapters that are effectively broken up into shorter sections using questions, lists, definitions, and journal entries, his musings about dealing with life get long-winded. His book could have benefited from additional devices to break up the text to help keep the reader focused.
This brief book will make readers think and see common situations from a new perspective. Many readers will think it improves both their professional and personal lives.
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