Better Than You Think You Are

by Ardeth Greene Kapp

When we feel the need for encouragement, when we wonder about our worth or our ability, we need a little reassuring note or whisper in the ear, "You are better than you think you are." This book offers that needed boost, acknowledging that we all face weighty responsibilities that seem overwhelming at times. We all have doubts and fears. Drawing on Christ's love for us, we can remove the dark clouds that challenge our confidence, even in adversity. Writes bestselling author Ardeth Kapp, "With the Lord's help we are always far, far better than we can be by ourselves."

Genres: Religion, Lds, Nonfiction, Inspirational, Christian, Spirituality, Lds Non Fiction

212 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 1, 2005

Reviews

[Camille]

This book was a great pick-me-up! I love Ardeth Kapp's writing, it's filled with personal stories from her life and she is always optimistic. I think the chapter I enjoyed the most was entitles "Cherish The Time"; it was a good reminder to take the time to slow down and enjoy life, rather than try to hurriedly get to the next phase of your life, which you assume will be better. She suggests that in order to help us do this, we should "Stop, look, and listen" (page 78). I really recommend this for a anyone who wants a great, uplifting read!

[Jenette]

Ardeth Green Kapp is truly in tune with how others feel and what it is like to suffer trials. She also knows how to pull out of herself and seek out others to lend a compassionate hand to. She teaches why it is not good to sit in a pity bowl. I have always loved her and the words of advise and wisdom she has to offer. She was the General Young Women's Pres. When I was in Young Women's. I have always admired her strength and courage.

[Wendy Bonzo]

This was a very good book. It reminded me to live my own life, that I'm better than I sometimes think I am. We shouldn't live cookie-cutter lives, where we try to fit into someone else's mold. It is written by an LDS author who shared many of her own experiences.

[Elaine Maynard]

This is an excellent book that helps build self-esteem and self-confidence, using gospel principles - the scriptures, words of the modern-day prophets, etc. It's a MUST READ for all those who struggle with self-esteem, self-confidence, depression, etc.!!

[VeNicia]

This was given to me by my sweet friend who lifts me up with her influence! She is going through chemo right now, and I miss seeing her at school. Her inscription in my book is as uplifting to me as anything the author wrote. I hadn't read it until this weekend, but it's a week I needed the reminder of it's overall message. The anniversaries of both my parents' heart attacks, my mom's death, and my divorce finalization are all within a 2 week period, and I have an added feeling of disappointment atop those things.

My friend, who was in a head-on collision the other day, asked our congregation as he led our Sacrament meeting today, "How do I live the gospel in times of trial?" I believe most all of us are trying our best.
I believe Orson F. Whitney's comments (p163): "No pain that we suffer, no trial that we experience is wasted. It ministers to our education, to the development of such qualities as patience, faith, fortitude, and humility. All that we suffer and all that we endure, especially when we endure it patiently, builds up our characters, purifies our hearts, expands our souls, and makes us more tender and charitable, more worthy to be called the children of God...And it is through sorrow and suffering, toil and tribulation, that we gain the education that we came here to acquire and which will make us more like our Father and Mother in heaven." (I love him for including "Mother".)

At times I've wondered if He is still listening to my unceasing petitions. But I have a testimony that He hears us! This book, and my Father, have motivated me to write and memorize my own personal Strength Mantra...Because I know satan gets to me through what my mom would have called "stinkin' thinkin'". I gathered thoughts throughout the book, and will formulate from them and other things, my mantra to recite when satan is spewing his fiery darts at me. "Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not," Jesus tells us. Dad told me: "When satan discourages you with thoughts of your past, remind him of his future." God is my strength. He is who I depend on for sustenance. I can do hard things. And I do believe that we are "better than we think we are." Ours is a divine lineage and inheritance. What have we to fear?

[Marcy]

I had a hard time getting into this book. It should have only taken me a day or 2 at most to read it. But I've been reading it for a couple of weeks. I forced myself to finish. But interestingly enough, it was worth it. The last chapter was what I needed today in my life. It is the answer my heart is seeking. But it was slow reading for me for some reason. Odd, because I really love Ardeth Kapp & have loved her other writing. So I'm not sure why this one was so hard to read for me.

[Genevieve]

Ardeth Kapp is one of my heroes. I loved reading this book of hers and I plan on reading more. I just felt like I was a friend she was chatting with. Someday I would love to have the love she has for people.

[Kristilin]

I was able to attend a private function where Ardeth G. Kapp spoke. She was very inspiring! I purchased a copy of this book at the function and was glad I did so. I feel every woman can benefit from reading this book. It has helped me see things in a new light.

[Tisha]

I really enjoyed this book. It made me feel uplifted and like I had a grand purpose for my life. It was a church book, but didn't come off as too preachy. There was the right mixture of stories/personal experiences and gospel thoughts.

[Vicki]

I read this again when I'm feeling inadequate or unworthy. It helps me realize I'm not alone, that I have a Heavenly Father who loves me, guides me and answers my prayers. I continue with renewed confidence and with the knowledge that with Heavenly Father's help, I am better!

[Erin]

Ardeth has a gift of telling you what you already know with your brain but in a way that will help you feel it with your heart. Her stories and examples and fun to read. This book especially speaks to women and girls. A short, good read.

[Deb]

This book was written about ten years ago, but no matter, the truths it presents are still relevant today. It is a great, quick, positive read for anyone who ever feels discouraged, distracted or weighted down with cares.

[Grandma]

This is an encouraging book if you have moments of doubt as to how important you are.

[Lisa Withers]

I love her inspiration and she reminds me that I'm good just the way I am.

[Sarah]

This book helped me feel like the path I was taking was the right one. It made me feel good about myself.

[Keeley]

Started reading this book but there are so many others I want to read more. So I'm putting it down for a while. Very good so far!

[Jodi]

Excellent, excellent book. This is one of my favorite "church" books. It is very inspiring, encouraging, and uplifting. I highly recommend it.

[Marilee]

We are too hard on ourselves. We need to give everyone the benefit of the doubt, including ourselves. Loved It.

[Marita]

I should buy this book for Marianna.

[Carolyn]

This is a book about how important a person is in the Savior's eyes. I loved the book and would recommend everyone read it.

[Amy]

I loved the writing style, analogies, stories etc. It's a great book to remind you that you are probably doing, "better than you think you are".

[Annalee]

Excellent and a must read when you are feeling down in the dumps and when you need a postive boost!

[Amanda Rollins]

This is a great book to assist in gaining self worth. I felt inspired and uplifted when I read it.

[Carol]

Terrific book!

[Katie]

I wanted this book to be better. The author is no Sherri Dew. Still an uplifting read, good for Sundays.

[Ane]

I LOVE Ardeth Kapp! She is such an amazing person and example! Her writing style is easy and inspiring! I loved this book! A great pick me up when you're having a blue/overwhelming day!

[Kristina]

This was my second time reading this book and I still really enjoyed it. Ardeth Kapp tells great stories from fer life and I love her insights.

[Danni]

I have been pretty stressed lately and this book was the perfect medicine. It helped me have confidence even though things are getting hard. I would recommend it to anyone who is stressed.

[Andie]

A very good book! I enjoyed the stories and the heartfelt truths that were in it. I appreciated that the stories were mingled with scriptures and quotes by church leaders. A very positive book!

[Candice]

This book is very inspirational. If you need to be lifted :-) read it!