Loner. Anti-social. Broken! THESE WORDS ARE OFTEN used to describe over 40% of Americans who consider themselves introverts today. Steve Friedmanʼs book, In Search of Courage: An Introvertʼs Struggle with Addictive Behaviors, is more than just a deeply revealing and compelling memoir. It offers a relatable story about fear and the repercussions of making poor choices in order to attempt to cope with introversion. Along his bumpy path, Friedman shares the tools which led him to overcome many challenges in his pursuit of peace, serenity, and courage. In Search of Courage presents an inspiring story that shouts to the reader, "You are not alone!"
“I have finally realized, to be happy I don’t need to change myself, I just need to be myself.” -Steve Friedman
When I wrote my memoir, In Search of Courage, I realized that the common thread of introversion I thought was a curse all my life was actually a blessing. For years I wore a mask at work and coped with my stress by sacrificing my health and personal relationships. Now I embrace my own introversion as a toolkit to become a happier me.
My purpose is to help other introverts accelerate the process by which they discover their strengths and apply them to their personal and professional lives. I seek to inspire others to overcome past obstacles and find joy, pride, and confidence in life.
I’ve retired from corporate America and enjoy sharing articles, books, quizzes, and resources through my website, BeyondIntroversion.com. I’m excited to combine my career experiences and my enthusiastic belief in introverts through my new leadership book, The Corporate Introvert: How to Lead and Thrive with Confidence.
Drawing from very personal experiences, Friedman tears off his mask of introversion to reveal a lifelong journey sure to inspire. Along that path, Friedman reveals stark details, significant revelations, and long-held secrets as a means of confronting what he often considered restrictive perspectives about being an introvert. As impressively, he moves beyond just his personal story to explore how his decisions impacted not only his life, but also the lives of his wife and family, and an array of coworkers to whom he was accountable. I found Friedman's narration sincere, brave, and enlightening.
Steve Friedman has delivered a refreshingly honest accounting of his struggles as as introvert engaged in a full life and a demanding career. His ability to communicate as a thoughtful person and a corporate leader makes this story one chock full of useful insights for introverts and extroverts alike.
This book has changed my perception on my every day actions. Friedman rips open his wounds to show you what it truly means to heal from a troubled past, exposing himself for the world. In Search of Courage is a moving tale of a boy growing into a man that his kids can be proud of. I would like to think they would be damn proud of the guy he is today. If you are looking for a book that challenges you to change your bad habits, this is the one for you. Great read.
Courage is not the absence of fear, but the strength to push through despite fear. Steve Friedman’s honest and well-written account of his journey through life is a courageous look into his personal struggles with adversity. His battles will keep you on the edge of your seat then leave you cheering as he comes through again and again despite many personal and career obstacles. An inspiring read for introverts and extroverts alike.