ABOUT THE BOOK “We have the power to change the world with our ideas, and we have the power to change the lives of others through our quiet leadership and steadfast approach.” Introverts are idea people. We are great listeners and friends, and form meaningful relationships in our personal and professional lives. That’s the good news. The flip side is that we often struggle with two additional “i” words; invisible and interrupted. We attempt to outpace our work peers with diligence, optimism, and commitment. And we are somewhat surprised to see coworkers earning praise for the visible implementation step of a plan for which we seeded the initial idea, gaining recognition for leadership of a team where we contributed most or all of the behind-the-scenes work, and moving up the organization while we are acknowledged in our supporting role. Supporting? Really? The Introvert’s Guide to Success in Business and Leadership offers author Lisa Petrilli’s experience and advice for overcoming some of the obstacles faced by introverts in networking, interviewing, leading, and excelling in leadership positions. Lisa discusses how introverted and extroverted leaders are both great in leadership and in business; however, introverts may struggle to reach the executive level. In part, introverts are less comfortable seeking the visibility required for company-wide recognition. In part, discomfort with networking effectively and an uneasiness in asking for new opportunities creates fewer opportunities for recognition. MEET THE AUTHOR Kelly Cooper is currently bringing six cooking-related products to market as well as the cookbook Cookies for Grown-Ups (Red Rock Press). Her day jobs include coding for Zen Entertainment and teaching Web Development at West Valley College. She enjoys reading and writing on ideas, technology, philosophy, sociology, and business. EXCERPT FROM THE BOOK I smile inside when I mention to an extrovert than I’m an introvert. Before I finish the sentence the extrovert’s face lights up and he or she begins what seems like a five minute one-sided, fun-based, fact-bending rendition of how there is no way I’m an introvert. I listen and attempt to offer a few bytes of data to the conversation, which brings merriment and another round of reasoning I hear as enthusiastic and watch as hand gestures. Over the years, I’ve explained that introvert does not equate to shy and that I’m simply better in one-on-one or small group relationships. I wonder if this friend or coworker ever noticed that I am the one cooking or doing dishes at a friends and family gathering, taking notes in a meeting, or organizing requirements on development projects. My husband, an extrovert, seems to understand, although reluctantly because I talk a blue streak with him. When he asks what I’m thinking, if I say “nothing” he smiles and says, “not possible.” Buy a copy to keep reading!

Argues that just because introverts have a more difficult time of moving up the corporate ladder, they can still excel in leadership roles as much as extraverts. The author provides tips on being interviewed, becoming more visible in your organisation, networking at events and conferences, motivating teams and communicating effectively.

Are you soul-weary? Do you struggle to make time for God in the midst of a packed schedule? Or do you sometimes stay so busy doing things for God that you can't relax and just "be"? Jesus faced amazing pressure and overwhelming demands throughout his ministry, but he did not experience the burnout so common today among Christian ministers and laypersons. You can learn the rhythm of living that Jesus demonstrates — the Cycle of Grace — throughout the Gospels. Use this workbook and accompanying video about the Cycle of Grace either individually or in a small group. The Cycle of Grace examines 4 components of a grace-filled life: Acceptance Sustenance Significance Fruitfulness Trevor Hudson, a dynamic pastor, author, and speaker, introduces each part of the Cycle of Grace in a short video segment (available on YouTube). The video segments are titled as follows: Cycle of Grace 1: Acceptance Cycle of Grace 2: Sustenance Cycle of Grace 3: Significance Cycle of Grace 4: Fruitfulness Cycle of Grace 5: A Grace-filled Way to Live In the workbook Jerry Haas provides practical exercises for individuals and groups, complete with suggestions for journaling and preparing for group sessions. This 6-week study will help you know that God loves you nurture your spiritual life understand who you are called to be in the world learn how to restore balance to your life The workbook includes a Leader's Guide and several useful appendixes. A must-have resource for clergy and lay leaders, The Cycle of Grace is also an excellent text for seminary and college classes preparing students for ministry.

Carol Howard Merritt, a pastor in her mid-thirties, suggests a different way for churches to be able to approach young adults on their own terms. Outlining the financial, social, and familial situations that affect many young adults today, she describes how churches can provide a safe, supportive place for young adults to nurture relationships and foster spiritual growth. There are few places left in society that allow for real intergenerational connections to be made, yet these connections are vital for any church that seeks to reflect the fullness of the body of Christ. Carol Howard Merritt, a pastor in her mid-thirties, suggests a different way for churches to be able to approach young adults on their own terms. Outlining the financial, social, and familial situations that affect many young adults today, she describes how churches can provide a safe, supportive place for young adults to nurture relationships and foster spiritual growth. There are few places left in society that allow for real intergenerational connections to be made, yet these connections are vital for any church that seeks to reflect the fullness of the body of Christ. Using the metaphor of a tribe to describe the close bonds that form when people of all ages decide to walk together on their spiritual journeys, Merritt casts a vision of the church that embraces the gifts of all members while reaching out to those who might otherwise feel unwelcome or unneeded. Mainline churches have much to offer young adults, as well as much to learn from them. By breaking down artificial age barriers and building up intentional relationships, congregations can provide a space for all people to connect with God, each other, and the world.

Using solid biblical exegesis, Chuck Lawless presents a well-rounded, proven model for fighting the enemy through the development of a spiritually healthy church. This unique book suggests workable strategies and resources for developing disciples prepared for spiritual warfare.

Transcending Generations is a guide for church leaders seeking to communicate and collaborate with adults of all ages—beyond generations. In this new guide to being and doing church, sociologist and culture critic Meredith Gould focuses on issues shared by people of faith, regardless of chronological age, psychosocial development, or generational cohort. In short, easy-to-read chapters and with her characteristic wit, Gould challenges readers to think in more nuanced ways about age to remove false barriers. Readers are guided through practical ways to move forward together while honoring authentic differences. Includes questions for individual inquiry and group discussion.

A New Generation Church is a church with attendees whose average age is at least as young as the average age of the community in which the church exists. Any church can become a New Generation Church that reaches and continues to reach the next generation. The Psalmist writes: We will not hide these truths from our children; we will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the Lord, about his power and his mighty wonders. (Psalm 78:4 NLT) No Christian would purposely hide the timeless truths of Christianity from the next generation. But often we do, not because of the substance of our church, but because of the approach of our church. For A New Generation is not about changing your church’s statement of faith or core beliefs. It is about evaluating and changing, as needed, your church’s programs, ministries and practices in order to more effectively connect with and stay connected with the next generation. Written for both church leaders and members, For a New Generation presents 5 practical strategies that will lay a foundation for a church to thrive for generations to come. It is based on the assumption that accepting the status quo is the greatest threat to your church’s core mission and, perhaps, to the long-term survival of your church.