To get through life, you must leave your baggage behind.

Ethel Mae, a survivor of mental, physical, and sexual abuse, drives that point home in this inspiring guide to leaving guilt, shame, fear, low self-esteem, and more in the rearview mirror.

She shares parts of her personal story and makes observations on life so you can:

appreciate your strengths and love yourself;

confront and overcome whatever is holding you back and bothering you;

take responsibility for your future; and

adjust your attitude to achieve success;

The author also highlights the power of words—and why it’s important to use them wisely—as well as why it’s important to forgive others and set yourself free. To pay attention to the people you surround yourself with, who influences you, basically put “who claps when you win”. She also explains that it’s important to look at life as a cruise where you enjoy the journey instead of being so fixated and anxious on a destination.

Overcome negative thoughts and behavior patterns, reflect on what you must do moving forward, and take meaningful steps to make the changes within yourself to achieve your dreams with the guidance in this book.