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Strong Like Water: How I Found the Courage to Lead with Love in Business and in Life
Laila Tarraf was the Chief People Officer for Peet's Coffee and Tea, the iconic Berkeley coffee roaster that launched the craft coffee movement in America, but she had a secret: she was failing in the most important relationships in her life. Yes, she was a strong and effective business leader, the successful daughter of immigrants, and the mother of a toddler; but she was also disconnected from her own feelings and had little patience for the feelings of others.
All that changed when life handed her a trifecta of losses: her husband died of an accidental drug overdose, and her parents' deaths followed in quick succession. Laila had spent her life leading from the head, convinced that any display of vulnerability would make her soft. What she didn't expect was that soft would turn out to be strong. As she reconnected to her heart, one painful step at a time, something remarkable happened: she became a better leader, a better mother, and a better person. Her heart turned out to be the true source of her power, at home and at work.
This is a book about healing, about waking up, about learning who you are--who you really, truly are at the core--and reclaiming and embracing all the pieces of yourself you long ago abandoned in the name of survival. Women longing for balance will discover a path to infusing our leadership and relationships with love, compassion, and authenticity.
All that changed when life handed her a trifecta of losses: her husband died of an accidental drug overdose, and her parents' deaths followed in quick succession. Laila had spent her life leading from the head, convinced that any display of vulnerability would make her soft. What she didn't expect was that soft would turn out to be strong. As she reconnected to her heart, one painful step at a time, something remarkable happened: she became a better leader, a better mother, and a better person. Her heart turned out to be the true source of her power, at home and at work.
This is a book about healing, about waking up, about learning who you are--who you really, truly are at the core--and reclaiming and embracing all the pieces of yourself you long ago abandoned in the name of survival. Women longing for balance will discover a path to infusing our leadership and relationships with love, compassion, and authenticity.
224 pages, Paperback
First published April 13, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
April 1, 2021
I was a little hesitant to join this tour, seeing that I have been out of the business world for some years now. But Tarraf’s Strong like Water is not a dry, how-to be successful manual. Instead, I found it to be a memoir that read as fluidly as a novel, full of heartbreak, emotion, and self-discovery.
Laila, born in Lebanon, grew up witnessing her parents argue, even becoming physical. Laila took the role of the mediator for her family; this role would only increase as the family moved to the United States when she was only seven years of age.
Always a bright student, after receiving her MBA, she landed a position at Walmart.com and then became Chief People Officer at Peet’s Coffee and Tea. While her career was expanding, Laila married Daniel and had their beautiful daughter, Nadia. But personally and professionally, she was leading two very different lives.
It was during her tenure at Peet’s that she withstood the shock of Daniel’s death and both her parents. With the help of friends, therapists, and life coach training, Laila began to see that the way she was leading at work and at home needed to change. She didn’t need to be so “tough” to be effective, that leading from the heart was not a show of weakness.
I raced through this book. Tarraf had me pulled in and though my heart was breaking at times, I was absorbing the nuggets of wisdom she had to offer from her life experiences.
🔨👂One huge takeaway for me was a statement from Laila’s life coach instructor James: “Problem-solving is the opposite of compassion.” How many times when someone comes to us and tells us their “feelings” on a matter or issue, do we try to fix it or solve it, instead of just listening and being there for them? Which do you think you do?
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours and @laila.tarraf for this #gifted copy.
Laila, born in Lebanon, grew up witnessing her parents argue, even becoming physical. Laila took the role of the mediator for her family; this role would only increase as the family moved to the United States when she was only seven years of age.
Always a bright student, after receiving her MBA, she landed a position at Walmart.com and then became Chief People Officer at Peet’s Coffee and Tea. While her career was expanding, Laila married Daniel and had their beautiful daughter, Nadia. But personally and professionally, she was leading two very different lives.
It was during her tenure at Peet’s that she withstood the shock of Daniel’s death and both her parents. With the help of friends, therapists, and life coach training, Laila began to see that the way she was leading at work and at home needed to change. She didn’t need to be so “tough” to be effective, that leading from the heart was not a show of weakness.
I raced through this book. Tarraf had me pulled in and though my heart was breaking at times, I was absorbing the nuggets of wisdom she had to offer from her life experiences.
🔨👂One huge takeaway for me was a statement from Laila’s life coach instructor James: “Problem-solving is the opposite of compassion.” How many times when someone comes to us and tells us their “feelings” on a matter or issue, do we try to fix it or solve it, instead of just listening and being there for them? Which do you think you do?
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours and @laila.tarraf for this #gifted copy.
April 4, 2021
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Laila is a strong character that easily connected with me. I could picture her ups and downs, and I loved the bond she shares with Nadia. Although Nadia is a young child, there are instances where she shows maturity and depth that made me feel like I could learn things from her.
The author also does an excellent job of toggling between the past and present. The story is compelling as Laila balances the present and reflects on past experiences that impacted her decisions. I loved the moments where she worries about Daniel and how she reacts to the situation. There are many moments where I could connect with Laila’s emotions, especially in the scenes where she talks to Dr. Okin. I also adored a Daddy Box idea to put your thoughts and feelings for a loved one on a side note.
The author also writes the story in a personal manner where you feel like you are a member of her family. I got emotional reading the scenes between her and George. Similarly, Laila’s moments in Nicaragua were beautiful, and I loved how the experiences gave her a new perspective.
I also loved the author’s minor details about Beirut, like the Lebanese Civil War, the conflicts between Christians and Muslims, and other trivia about the place. Some moments are genuinely profound, like how the author mentions spiritual transformation and the various chakras, Buddhism and Hinduism. I love when stories inspire you to research further on topics that would enlighten you.
Overall, I enjoyed “Strong Like Water” a lot and thought it was a lovely memoir that makes you appreciate your family and friends and motivates you to live life to its fullest.
April 6, 2021
Linda’s Book Obsession Reviews “Strong Like Water” by Laila Tarraf, She Writes Press, April 13, 2021, On Tour with Suzy Approved Book Tours
Laila Tarraf, author of “Strong Like Water: How I Found the Courage to Lead with Love in Business and in Life” has written a motivational and intriguing memoir. The genres for this book are also self-help, success in business, and bereavement and grief. The author became extremely successful in business, and when she was working for Peet Coffee, she was a positive force to deal with.
Unfortunately, the author was not as successful in her personal relationships. She did not have the same patience, understanding, and compassion as she did in the workplace. Laila’s immigrant parents were always fighting, and she felt she was not understood or loved by them at times. The author married a man that was immature in many ways and younger than her. They had a daughter that was the love of her life.
After several tragedies in her life, Laila made sure that her very young daughter had therapy, and Laila tried several approaches to a better understanding of what was going on. Through therapy, research, exercises, yoga, and many other things, Laila went on a journey of healing. Laila realized that you had to know who you are and what your goals are.
I appreciate that the author discusses finding a balance and moderation in life and business. Also important is trying to understand family dynamics and relationships, and knowing who you are. I would recommend this helpful and motivational book to other readers.
Laila Tarraf, author of “Strong Like Water: How I Found the Courage to Lead with Love in Business and in Life” has written a motivational and intriguing memoir. The genres for this book are also self-help, success in business, and bereavement and grief. The author became extremely successful in business, and when she was working for Peet Coffee, she was a positive force to deal with.
Unfortunately, the author was not as successful in her personal relationships. She did not have the same patience, understanding, and compassion as she did in the workplace. Laila’s immigrant parents were always fighting, and she felt she was not understood or loved by them at times. The author married a man that was immature in many ways and younger than her. They had a daughter that was the love of her life.
After several tragedies in her life, Laila made sure that her very young daughter had therapy, and Laila tried several approaches to a better understanding of what was going on. Through therapy, research, exercises, yoga, and many other things, Laila went on a journey of healing. Laila realized that you had to know who you are and what your goals are.
I appreciate that the author discusses finding a balance and moderation in life and business. Also important is trying to understand family dynamics and relationships, and knowing who you are. I would recommend this helpful and motivational book to other readers.
April 16, 2021
An inspirational journey of self discovery and overcoming obstacles.
Laila was a very successful businesswoman, determined, motivated and earning her place up the corporate ladder. Her personal life though, not so much. Growing up with parents that often fought she felt unnoticed. Then she got married and had a child with a man years younger than her. A man battling his own demons and when he died her parents were emotionally distant, unable and unwilling to give her and her daughter support in their grief. At work she carried on, refusing to show any weakness or vulnerabilities. Then she lost both her parents shortly thereafter and she knew she needed professional help to sort her feelings.
This put her on a path of becoming whole, connecting her personal life with her business life and learning that there is strength in allowing herself to be vulnerable at work. It's through these self discoveries that she became a better person both at home as a better mother and at work becoming a better leader.
This very well written memoir is an emotional journey that offers insights into what makes a successful leaders in today's world.
I highly recommend this thoughtful memoir to men and women alike as there is much to be gained in reading it.
.
Thank you to the author, She Writes Press and Suzy Approved Book Tours for my gifted copy and including me on this tour.
Laila was a very successful businesswoman, determined, motivated and earning her place up the corporate ladder. Her personal life though, not so much. Growing up with parents that often fought she felt unnoticed. Then she got married and had a child with a man years younger than her. A man battling his own demons and when he died her parents were emotionally distant, unable and unwilling to give her and her daughter support in their grief. At work she carried on, refusing to show any weakness or vulnerabilities. Then she lost both her parents shortly thereafter and she knew she needed professional help to sort her feelings.
This put her on a path of becoming whole, connecting her personal life with her business life and learning that there is strength in allowing herself to be vulnerable at work. It's through these self discoveries that she became a better person both at home as a better mother and at work becoming a better leader.
This very well written memoir is an emotional journey that offers insights into what makes a successful leaders in today's world.
I highly recommend this thoughtful memoir to men and women alike as there is much to be gained in reading it.
.
Thank you to the author, She Writes Press and Suzy Approved Book Tours for my gifted copy and including me on this tour.
April 4, 2021
This book is all memoir, self-help, and inspiration. I loved that while it discusses ways to be stronger in a business setting, this story really prepares you to be successful in life.
Tarraf takes the reader on her emotional journey of heartbreak and growth. I was saddened reading about Laila’s childhood where her parents’ fighting turned physical, creating a poor home environment for her. After she started her own family, she endured a devastating loss of her husband as well as both of her parents. Her story talks about her therapy and finding a way through her grief. The things that she learns, she speaks to us about applying in our daily lives, both personally and professionally.
I found Laila’s story to be so emotional. I couldn’t imaging going through what she went through. While I found it to be so heartbreaking, it was also uplifting, and carried a strong message with it. I had some great takeaways from this, and I loved the way the messages feel like a friend providing wisdom.
I was provided a gifted copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
Tarraf takes the reader on her emotional journey of heartbreak and growth. I was saddened reading about Laila’s childhood where her parents’ fighting turned physical, creating a poor home environment for her. After she started her own family, she endured a devastating loss of her husband as well as both of her parents. Her story talks about her therapy and finding a way through her grief. The things that she learns, she speaks to us about applying in our daily lives, both personally and professionally.
I found Laila’s story to be so emotional. I couldn’t imaging going through what she went through. While I found it to be so heartbreaking, it was also uplifting, and carried a strong message with it. I had some great takeaways from this, and I loved the way the messages feel like a friend providing wisdom.
I was provided a gifted copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
May 4, 2021
Such wisdom in this book!
Laila Tarraf conveys so much wisdom and hope about how we fear, hide from, need, and can recover our true emotions. Tarraf’s memoir is both a dramatic outer story—growing up with cold, unsupportive parents and marrying a man who withdraws and dies of an accidental drug overdose—and a wise inner one, as she traces her journey to open up to her feelings in the aftermath of her husband’s death for the sake of herself, her young daughter, and her work life. This is also an inspiring business story of a woman gaining her strength as an executive and leader in a big corporation (Walmart.com) and in a passionate, well-loved, local business (Peets Coffee and Tea) during its tumultuous growth years. Tarraf weaves these threads of personal drama, inner growth, and professional challenges so skillfully together and hits the emotional beats so genuinely that I felt carried along on an exciting but safe river trip. Her honesty often brought me to tears as her deep longing for real connection tapped into my own. Listening to the audio version, beautifully narrated by the author, added to the emotional and dramatic impact of how hard she fought and how much she won in the battle to create an authentic personal and professional life. A gripping, enlightening, and satisfying read.
Laila Tarraf conveys so much wisdom and hope about how we fear, hide from, need, and can recover our true emotions. Tarraf’s memoir is both a dramatic outer story—growing up with cold, unsupportive parents and marrying a man who withdraws and dies of an accidental drug overdose—and a wise inner one, as she traces her journey to open up to her feelings in the aftermath of her husband’s death for the sake of herself, her young daughter, and her work life. This is also an inspiring business story of a woman gaining her strength as an executive and leader in a big corporation (Walmart.com) and in a passionate, well-loved, local business (Peets Coffee and Tea) during its tumultuous growth years. Tarraf weaves these threads of personal drama, inner growth, and professional challenges so skillfully together and hits the emotional beats so genuinely that I felt carried along on an exciting but safe river trip. Her honesty often brought me to tears as her deep longing for real connection tapped into my own. Listening to the audio version, beautifully narrated by the author, added to the emotional and dramatic impact of how hard she fought and how much she won in the battle to create an authentic personal and professional life. A gripping, enlightening, and satisfying read.
March 1, 2021
Tarraf grew up in a household where her parents often argued and got,physical with each other. Her husband unexpectedly died and then she lost both parents shortly after. Her book is about coping. She went to therapy, yoga, and focused on improving herself so she could be a better mother to her daughter and cope with all the things life threw her way. She discussed her career quite a bit and how elements in her jobs had impacted her. I think her book will resonate with others because most of us have grappled with loss and how to cope with all the ramifications. Thanks to She Writes Press and NetGalley for the early read.
April 22, 2021
I thought this book was very moving. Laila went through so much in her personal life but still thrived professionally, that takes passion and drive.
June 19, 2021
Tarraf writes of how the deaths of her husband, father and mother in quick succession ultimately compelled her to look inside at the transformation she needed to make to live a more whole life. She learns that the strength she always relied on to get her to midlife was actually a cover for the vulnerability she was afraid to show.
April 26, 2021
🦜What a fabulous read, full of heartfelt emotions, honest life experiences & life lessons!!
Thankyou dear Laila, for penning down your life in this beautiful autobiography.
Releases 13/04/2021.
🌸 We all had learnt properties of water, in our school curriculum.
Which property of water 💧 do you resonate/ believe with the most?
🦜𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙨𝙢𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙣 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙋𝙍𝙊𝙇𝙊𝙂𝙐𝙀. It includes a synopsis of the author's childhood..domestic violence..bitter memories which made LAILA, think her strength, her power lies in being her own hero & in helping others ease their pain.
𝙎𝙏𝙍𝙊𝙉𝙂 𝙇𝙄𝙆𝙀 𝙒𝘼𝙏𝙀𝙍- 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙄 𝙛𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙗𝙪𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 & 𝙞𝙣 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚.
The book is beautifully formatted in 13 chapters, 195 pages. Each chapter begins with a beautiful, relevant quote & has font variations to highlight certain portions.
𝙎𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙢𝙚 𝙖 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙤 & 𝙞 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙬𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖 𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙜𝙚𝙙𝙮.
The author shares her personal & professional life, the journey, with its ups & downs & the lessons. She also shares her childhood memories & tells us how they shape our tomorrow. We need to take our innermost fears, feelings out from deep down before they ruin us, rotting us from the inside.
When we share, its not necessary that people will always judge, some will emphatise & relate to their own experiences.
We need to heal & grow. We all need space to know how to feel. Laila, also talks about her loss, grief & forgiveness. No more hiding- face the pain.
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡 𝙜𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩..She also talks about her separation, divorce & anxiety & also losing her husband.
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪. This segment was very imp. I feel. It talks about therapy, when Laila took professional help to sort out her thoughts & emotions.
𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙩, 𝙖 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙨𝙞𝙢𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙩: 𝙄𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩....
𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙨𝙚𝙚 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙡𝙮; 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙖𝙡 𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙫𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙮𝙚. There are so many versions of life to live..things change so quickly. Laila, finally realised, she didn't have to save everyone to be loved. Also she will be the heroine of only her own story. I liked the fact that she named her daughter, as her mother. She dealt with the loss of her husband, father & mother..but with conscious effort was able to be with her mom in those last precious moments.. Her experiences, her life lessons, resonated with me at so many instances. I took way long to finish this read than was required.. but I treasure the experience. I learnt so much. Thankyou laila.tarraf & like I always say, the right book comes into your life at the right time.
Thankyou dear Laila, for penning down your life in this beautiful autobiography.
Releases 13/04/2021.
🌸 We all had learnt properties of water, in our school curriculum.
Which property of water 💧 do you resonate/ believe with the most?
🦜𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙨𝙢𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙣 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙋𝙍𝙊𝙇𝙊𝙂𝙐𝙀. It includes a synopsis of the author's childhood..domestic violence..bitter memories which made LAILA, think her strength, her power lies in being her own hero & in helping others ease their pain.
𝙎𝙏𝙍𝙊𝙉𝙂 𝙇𝙄𝙆𝙀 𝙒𝘼𝙏𝙀𝙍- 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙄 𝙛𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙗𝙪𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 & 𝙞𝙣 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚.
The book is beautifully formatted in 13 chapters, 195 pages. Each chapter begins with a beautiful, relevant quote & has font variations to highlight certain portions.
𝙎𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙢𝙚 𝙖 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙤 & 𝙞 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙬𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖 𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙜𝙚𝙙𝙮.
The author shares her personal & professional life, the journey, with its ups & downs & the lessons. She also shares her childhood memories & tells us how they shape our tomorrow. We need to take our innermost fears, feelings out from deep down before they ruin us, rotting us from the inside.
When we share, its not necessary that people will always judge, some will emphatise & relate to their own experiences.
We need to heal & grow. We all need space to know how to feel. Laila, also talks about her loss, grief & forgiveness. No more hiding- face the pain.
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡 𝙜𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩..She also talks about her separation, divorce & anxiety & also losing her husband.
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪. This segment was very imp. I feel. It talks about therapy, when Laila took professional help to sort out her thoughts & emotions.
𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙩, 𝙖 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙨𝙞𝙢𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙩: 𝙄𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩....
𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙨𝙚𝙚 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙡𝙮; 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙖𝙡 𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙫𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙮𝙚. There are so many versions of life to live..things change so quickly. Laila, finally realised, she didn't have to save everyone to be loved. Also she will be the heroine of only her own story. I liked the fact that she named her daughter, as her mother. She dealt with the loss of her husband, father & mother..but with conscious effort was able to be with her mom in those last precious moments.. Her experiences, her life lessons, resonated with me at so many instances. I took way long to finish this read than was required.. but I treasure the experience. I learnt so much. Thankyou laila.tarraf & like I always say, the right book comes into your life at the right time.
March 16, 2021
Published: April 13, 2021
She Writes Press
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Laila Tarraf is a senior human resource executive with over twenty-five years of professional experience. After graduating with her MBA from the Haas School of Business at the University of California at Berkeley, she became one of the founding team members at Walmart.com. She then served as chief people officer at Peet’s Coffee and Tea, an iconic Bay Area premium coffee company. Currently, Laila works as the head of people and employee experience for AllBirds, is an advisor to entrepreneurs and investors and serves as a guest lecturer at Berkeley Law School.
“Less talk, more action.”
This is a heartfelt and beautifully raw memoir of Laila's journey to discover who she is and what it means to be strong.
Everything within this book is beautiful. Laila grew up in a rather tumultuous home with parents who fought often. At a young age, Laila learned that she is a protector. She was often pushing her personal feelings down or aside to provide security for those she loved.
As this story unfolds and Laila continues to learn about life, she shares her insights professionally and personally. Laila experiences so much loss, and instead of crumbling to pieces- she keeps moving forward.
Laila is strong, she is brilliant, and she has learned what it means to be present. She has tackled many obstacles, and through it all, she has learned what it means to lead.
Laila started her growth journey at a young age when she stepped in to be the strong force for her mother. As she grows, Laila continues to be strong for those she loves. Until one day when she has a realization. It’s time to be strong for herself.
This memoir is filled with heartbreak. It is filled with loss. It is filled with so much hope. Laila has achieved so much in her life, and she has discovered her inner strength. This is a memoir about realizing that there is so much more to life than the mundane work-home-sleep-repeat.
This is a journey of appreciation. A tale of growth and believing in yourself. This is such a raw and hot water account of how we can control our circumstances and grow from any situation. If you are looking for a book filled with humanity, compassion, and the truth- you have found it.
She Writes Press
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Laila Tarraf is a senior human resource executive with over twenty-five years of professional experience. After graduating with her MBA from the Haas School of Business at the University of California at Berkeley, she became one of the founding team members at Walmart.com. She then served as chief people officer at Peet’s Coffee and Tea, an iconic Bay Area premium coffee company. Currently, Laila works as the head of people and employee experience for AllBirds, is an advisor to entrepreneurs and investors and serves as a guest lecturer at Berkeley Law School.
“Less talk, more action.”
This is a heartfelt and beautifully raw memoir of Laila's journey to discover who she is and what it means to be strong.
Everything within this book is beautiful. Laila grew up in a rather tumultuous home with parents who fought often. At a young age, Laila learned that she is a protector. She was often pushing her personal feelings down or aside to provide security for those she loved.
As this story unfolds and Laila continues to learn about life, she shares her insights professionally and personally. Laila experiences so much loss, and instead of crumbling to pieces- she keeps moving forward.
Laila is strong, she is brilliant, and she has learned what it means to be present. She has tackled many obstacles, and through it all, she has learned what it means to lead.
Laila started her growth journey at a young age when she stepped in to be the strong force for her mother. As she grows, Laila continues to be strong for those she loves. Until one day when she has a realization. It’s time to be strong for herself.
This memoir is filled with heartbreak. It is filled with loss. It is filled with so much hope. Laila has achieved so much in her life, and she has discovered her inner strength. This is a memoir about realizing that there is so much more to life than the mundane work-home-sleep-repeat.
This is a journey of appreciation. A tale of growth and believing in yourself. This is such a raw and hot water account of how we can control our circumstances and grow from any situation. If you are looking for a book filled with humanity, compassion, and the truth- you have found it.
January 14, 2021
I received an ARC from the author, Laila Tarraf, and publisher She Writes Press for an honest review. Laila was an effective businesswoman and she had a husband, daughter, and parents. Her husband and she were split up and he died of addiction. When they had the funeral her mother wanted her daughter to comfort her instead of her mother comforting her. That was the first clue that something wasn't right. When her young daughter kept trying to comfort her and try to make her mother feel better, Laila decided it was time to go to counseling. She learned a lot about herself and her parents while she was in counseling. She put her daughter, in counseling too. Laila was broken by her parents not being there for her when she was young. Through counseling, she learned that what she thought was weakness was actually her strength. As she started to heal, she was able to break the cycle and be truly there for her daughter. Her daughter lost her father and her grandparents.
This story deals with many issues, it deals with counseling which seems to have a stigma to it, so this opened my eyes, that there are good counselors that will help you and you can heal. Because of finding the right counselor and doing the work, she was able to move forward in life, and teach her daughter that being a mommy she was the one that was supposed to be comforting her. She asked her daughter and I love comforting you and you don't want to take away my joy do you. It was nice to read about a strong woman, and even though she was strong, she had issues she needed to work on. Once she realized it, she had the courage to take the steps to do what she had to do in order to make herself whole. I think this story is going to help many see that it has been done, and there is someone out there that could help them too.
This story deals with many issues, it deals with counseling which seems to have a stigma to it, so this opened my eyes, that there are good counselors that will help you and you can heal. Because of finding the right counselor and doing the work, she was able to move forward in life, and teach her daughter that being a mommy she was the one that was supposed to be comforting her. She asked her daughter and I love comforting you and you don't want to take away my joy do you. It was nice to read about a strong woman, and even though she was strong, she had issues she needed to work on. Once she realized it, she had the courage to take the steps to do what she had to do in order to make herself whole. I think this story is going to help many see that it has been done, and there is someone out there that could help them too.
May 29, 2021
Extremely captivating book for any reader!
Who said the Chief People Officer of a billion dollar company can’t write a book and impact thousands?!
Laila has done it! She is the new author of Strong Like Water: How I Found the Courage to Lead with Love in Business and in Life!
She was the CPO for Peet’s Coffee and Tea but had a secret, she was failing in the most important relationship in her life.
As a successful, strong business leader, daughter of immigrants, and the mother of a toddler, she was slowly losing herself and disconnecting from her own feelings.
Life hit her with a 3 punch combo when her husband died of an accidental drug overdose and lost both her parents in quick succession.
This unexacting curveball led her down a path of embracing vulnerability and reconnecting with her heart, one painful step at a time. As a result, she became a better leader, better mother, and better person.
She is Strong Like Water!
The exteriors of a person only reveal so much. You may never know what is happening under their skin. This book is about healing, waking up, learning who you truly are to the core, and embracing all pieces of yourself to ultimately find yourself!
I bet you’ll see a bit of yourself in reading the words by Laila as if you were staring at your reflection in water.
I encourage you to grab a copy of this breathtaking book - it will definitely leave a lasting imprint on you!
Who said the Chief People Officer of a billion dollar company can’t write a book and impact thousands?!
Laila has done it! She is the new author of Strong Like Water: How I Found the Courage to Lead with Love in Business and in Life!
She was the CPO for Peet’s Coffee and Tea but had a secret, she was failing in the most important relationship in her life.
As a successful, strong business leader, daughter of immigrants, and the mother of a toddler, she was slowly losing herself and disconnecting from her own feelings.
Life hit her with a 3 punch combo when her husband died of an accidental drug overdose and lost both her parents in quick succession.
This unexacting curveball led her down a path of embracing vulnerability and reconnecting with her heart, one painful step at a time. As a result, she became a better leader, better mother, and better person.
She is Strong Like Water!
The exteriors of a person only reveal so much. You may never know what is happening under their skin. This book is about healing, waking up, learning who you truly are to the core, and embracing all pieces of yourself to ultimately find yourself!
I bet you’ll see a bit of yourself in reading the words by Laila as if you were staring at your reflection in water.
I encourage you to grab a copy of this breathtaking book - it will definitely leave a lasting imprint on you!
November 28, 2020
Laila Tarraf has a strong career and knows it. She worked hard to get a MBA from Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley. She is offered a high-end job with Peets Coffee and Tea in the Bay Area after interviewing with the CEO who admires her no-nonsense work ethic. But her home life is different. She carries an emotional baggage from her childhood and struggles with relationships. Life isn't rosy until you can figure things out and Laila Tarraf was thrown into a world where she said "huge waves were crushing upon me" with three major deaths in her family. She lost her husband, father and then mother and left with a young daughter trying to make sense on how to cope. This is how: she found two excellent therapists.
The first part of the book was a little slow but then I was engaged in her life story and how she was able to resolve issues. While she was searching for help, she said, "My bookshelf looked like the self-help section of a bookstore." She talked about Michael Singer's book "The Unthethered Soul" (also recommended) and how it helped with fear and discomforts in life. In her book, each chapter starts with a quote that relates to the words she shares of how she found a way to balance her career with her home life.
My thanks to the publisher and NetGallery for allowing me to read this advanced copy.
The first part of the book was a little slow but then I was engaged in her life story and how she was able to resolve issues. While she was searching for help, she said, "My bookshelf looked like the self-help section of a bookstore." She talked about Michael Singer's book "The Unthethered Soul" (also recommended) and how it helped with fear and discomforts in life. In her book, each chapter starts with a quote that relates to the words she shares of how she found a way to balance her career with her home life.
My thanks to the publisher and NetGallery for allowing me to read this advanced copy.
April 18, 2021
About the Memoir:
Laila’ parents had a very volatile relationship while she was growing up and Laila intervened regularly until she left for college. This skill helped her in business working as the Chief People Officer for Peet’s Coffee. But Laila’s personal life was one of avoidance.
After her husband tragically dies and Laila becomes a single parent to 4 year old Nadia, Laila realizes that she must learn “to connect her head with her heart” which changes her entire perspective.
During this time of self growth, Laila faces other family difficulties but as she becomes more in tune
with her heart-centered heightening, she finds triumphs in every facet of her life.
My Thoughts-
This book was very thought provoking for me. Not because I’m some high powered executive trying to increase my leadership potential but because I find myself using avoidance as a survival tool much like Laila did prior to figuring out and fixing how she dealt with life.
The concept of balance that Laila so eloquently shares in her book has given me awareness of how I can become softer, present, and intact.
I think her journey is told in a wonderfully honest manner and that authenticity makes it extremely relatable no matter what your profession may be.
Laila’ parents had a very volatile relationship while she was growing up and Laila intervened regularly until she left for college. This skill helped her in business working as the Chief People Officer for Peet’s Coffee. But Laila’s personal life was one of avoidance.
After her husband tragically dies and Laila becomes a single parent to 4 year old Nadia, Laila realizes that she must learn “to connect her head with her heart” which changes her entire perspective.
During this time of self growth, Laila faces other family difficulties but as she becomes more in tune
with her heart-centered heightening, she finds triumphs in every facet of her life.
My Thoughts-
This book was very thought provoking for me. Not because I’m some high powered executive trying to increase my leadership potential but because I find myself using avoidance as a survival tool much like Laila did prior to figuring out and fixing how she dealt with life.
The concept of balance that Laila so eloquently shares in her book has given me awareness of how I can become softer, present, and intact.
I think her journey is told in a wonderfully honest manner and that authenticity makes it extremely relatable no matter what your profession may be.
June 11, 2021
"Strong Like Water" has been described as a leadership book disguised as a memoir. It covers a period when the author lost her husband to an accidental overdose and her parents. At the time, she had a three-year-old daughter. Those losses ended up being the catalyst for her to recognize that I had numbed myself out to life. The story is about her journey through processing her grief, which made her stronger as a mother, a friend, and a leader.
The fact that the author could share this story with the rest of us was a gift. I felt like I related to her in so many ways. This book reminds us that our value is not in the doing, but in the enabling of others. She brings to light what usually is hidden—broken pieces, flawed pieces, and ashamed pieces. It's about understanding ourselves as we grow through self-reflection and doing the work that brings down our blind spots, our constructs, and our narratives. The author says that is how we show ourselves more. I love that women are telling their stories now.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://zibbyowens.com/transcript/lai...
The fact that the author could share this story with the rest of us was a gift. I felt like I related to her in so many ways. This book reminds us that our value is not in the doing, but in the enabling of others. She brings to light what usually is hidden—broken pieces, flawed pieces, and ashamed pieces. It's about understanding ourselves as we grow through self-reflection and doing the work that brings down our blind spots, our constructs, and our narratives. The author says that is how we show ourselves more. I love that women are telling their stories now.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://zibbyowens.com/transcript/lai...
January 16, 2021
This is a terrific nonfiction book – part memoir, part guidebook for success in business and in life. The author, Laila Tarraf, speaks from the heart without ego or fear – the two qualities that unfortunately rule most of us.
“….she was a strong and effective business leader, the successful daughter of immigrants, and the mother of a toddler; but she was also disconnected from her own feelings and had little patience for the feelings of others.”
After tragedy strikes, she is forced to look at her life honestly. Through being open, and having a really good therapist, she starts to unravel her past and figure our what kind of future she wants to have for herself, her daughter, and all she comes into contact with.
I found the book helpful, uplifting, and a worthwhile read.
Thanks to the publisher, the author, and NetGalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review.
P.S. And, kudos to the author who gave the book a 5 star rank on Goodreads. We should all believe in ourselves!
“….she was a strong and effective business leader, the successful daughter of immigrants, and the mother of a toddler; but she was also disconnected from her own feelings and had little patience for the feelings of others.”
After tragedy strikes, she is forced to look at her life honestly. Through being open, and having a really good therapist, she starts to unravel her past and figure our what kind of future she wants to have for herself, her daughter, and all she comes into contact with.
I found the book helpful, uplifting, and a worthwhile read.
Thanks to the publisher, the author, and NetGalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review.
P.S. And, kudos to the author who gave the book a 5 star rank on Goodreads. We should all believe in ourselves!
March 20, 2021
Strong Like Water is written as a narrative of the life of the author Laila Tarraf.
My favorite quote from the book is in the first chapter. She is told, "The point is not to be right or to be the first one to get there. The point is to bring everyone along and to get their buy-in," (p.16).
She is a very smart, motivated person. She knows the answers and cannot figure out why others are taking so long. It takes a journey of personal and professional growth to learn that being right isn't always the answer. This is further reinforced for her when she loses her husband, and parents in a short span of time and has to learn her true worth and strength.
The book is a quick read, but I will definitely be reading again and again. I think it may be one of
"those books" that the more I read, the more information I can pull out and apply to my connections personally and professionally.
Truly a five star read.
I was given the opportunity to read Strong Like Water, by NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
My favorite quote from the book is in the first chapter. She is told, "The point is not to be right or to be the first one to get there. The point is to bring everyone along and to get their buy-in," (p.16).
She is a very smart, motivated person. She knows the answers and cannot figure out why others are taking so long. It takes a journey of personal and professional growth to learn that being right isn't always the answer. This is further reinforced for her when she loses her husband, and parents in a short span of time and has to learn her true worth and strength.
The book is a quick read, but I will definitely be reading again and again. I think it may be one of
"those books" that the more I read, the more information I can pull out and apply to my connections personally and professionally.
Truly a five star read.
I was given the opportunity to read Strong Like Water, by NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
April 18, 2021
Laila Tarraf tells the story of her life in alternating timelines between present and past. Her story includes being the daughter of immigrants, growing us as the "fixer" in the family and being disconnected from her emotions. But as she rises to leadership and faces three deaths, she discovers that she needs healing.
This book is heavy on emotional health information and business coaching. As Laila's story unfolds, she shares insights she gains about mindfulness, healing and vulnerability. Through grief, loss and trauma, she discovers resiliency, hope and authenticity. She also shares tidbits about her leadership style and what worked/didn't work.
I appreciated the emotional connection she was able to make in her life. I almost felt like I was sitting in a lecture as I read, though. The book is less memoir and more coaching session. However, it includes plenty of helpful insights that can help readers move toward healing and discover their own authentic selves.
This book is heavy on emotional health information and business coaching. As Laila's story unfolds, she shares insights she gains about mindfulness, healing and vulnerability. Through grief, loss and trauma, she discovers resiliency, hope and authenticity. She also shares tidbits about her leadership style and what worked/didn't work.
I appreciated the emotional connection she was able to make in her life. I almost felt like I was sitting in a lecture as I read, though. The book is less memoir and more coaching session. However, it includes plenty of helpful insights that can help readers move toward healing and discover their own authentic selves.
May 8, 2021
I truly loved this book. I read Strong Like Water in just a few days. I couldn’t pull myself away from the story and I wanted to continue on Laila's journey with her. I found myself reflecting on many aspects of my own life; my career as a young HR professional, a mother, a single mother, a daughter, a sister, and all the roles we may own during our life.
We all suffer losses along the way, and Laila’s ability to share her experiences of the most difficult of those losses is both beautiful and heart breaking. I could feel the pull of having to be present as a mother, while at the exact same time, you are needed to be present as a daughter. Her ability to dig deep and find her strength during these times is inspiring. Her wisdom in bringing her vulnerability and authenticity to the corporate world is brave and exactly what is needed.
This is a book I will be recommending and sharing with many.
We all suffer losses along the way, and Laila’s ability to share her experiences of the most difficult of those losses is both beautiful and heart breaking. I could feel the pull of having to be present as a mother, while at the exact same time, you are needed to be present as a daughter. Her ability to dig deep and find her strength during these times is inspiring. Her wisdom in bringing her vulnerability and authenticity to the corporate world is brave and exactly what is needed.
This is a book I will be recommending and sharing with many.
October 8, 2021
I was introduced to the book by the author, Laila, and since we knew each other, I thought I would give it a try. After a few chapters, it was clear that I didn’t know Laila. All that she had experienced and gone through in her life was largely unknown. I think there is a lesson in that itself, you never truly know what people have had to deal with, how they processed the experience, and how it shaped them into the person they are.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It had some great business insights that I have shared with my peers, staff and management. The bigger story, and one which brought out a lot of emotion, was the actual personal life that played out, sometimes compartmentalized from the work life. It created empathy and reflection (and considerable admiration). It also created a path forward.
The book teaches without trying to teach. A memorable story by a remarkable storyteller.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It had some great business insights that I have shared with my peers, staff and management. The bigger story, and one which brought out a lot of emotion, was the actual personal life that played out, sometimes compartmentalized from the work life. It created empathy and reflection (and considerable admiration). It also created a path forward.
The book teaches without trying to teach. A memorable story by a remarkable storyteller.
April 28, 2021
I enjoyed so much about this book. Tarraf's writing is strong and clear, like her voice. As a main character, she and her struggles are easy for us to relate to: wife, mother, daughter, business leader, people inspirer. What happens then when the most important person to inspire--ourselves--isn't!? If you are looking for a book that will help you figure out ways to be your own heroine, and what happens to our lives when we're the star of our own story then this book is for you. And Tarraf's ability toward the end of the book to meet her mother where she is and with compassion touched my heart so deeply. I have discovered this truth in my own way, but when we're soft we are indeed stronger. Finding our way to becoming our authentic self is the most important journey we will ever undertake. This book demonstrates beautifully why.
August 3, 2021
Laila Tarraf has written a beautiful and raw memoir about surviving personal tragedy that doubles as a lesson in leadership. In this journey of self-awareness and discovery, Laila who was an executive at Peet's coffee, realizes that leading with her mind has its limitations. It took a tragic event for Laila to look inward and learn that she spent her life building up a tough exterior to insulate her from emotional pain that had been gathering most of her life. Laila ultimately uncovers the sources of the pain and eventually becomes a far more empathetic and effective leader by learning how to lead with both her head AND her heart. Anyone who has struggled with that challenge in their own work life, should read this book. Strong Like Water reads like a novel, but has the lessons of a business book.
August 15, 2021
Growing up in a household where her parents were mostly mean to each other, Tarraf never believed in having soft vulnerabilities of her heart displayed. Evolving into an effective frontline business leader, the fact that she was lacking the same charisma on her personal side did little to bother her, until losing her husband and her parents in quick succession turned her world upside down. Taking this as an opportunity to rediscover and reconnect with herself, Tarraf figures out how letting the softer side take over at times helps her be a better leader and mother. I found this memoir thoroughly riveting and I am thankful to Tarraf and the publishers, She Writes Press and AuthorBuzz, for gifting me with a copy of this book.
June 6, 2026
One of the best books I’ve read/listened to. So good, this in one that I’m going to buy the hard copy, and read it again, with a highlighter in my one hand and a journal in the other, and space and time, to ‘sit’ in those ‘aha’ moments in the book.
Laila, thank you for sharing your journey of finding strength in becoming gentle. It has been a journey, and continues to be, but what an incredible solid foundation living our lives in the present is, for a healthier heart, spirit and soul and even body. Love how you ended with being a heroine of your own story!
If you’ve experienced trauma, grief and sadness, with relationships in life, read this. Be brave, as it will not be an easy read, but it can transforming, if you take a step in being more present.
Laila, thank you for sharing your journey of finding strength in becoming gentle. It has been a journey, and continues to be, but what an incredible solid foundation living our lives in the present is, for a healthier heart, spirit and soul and even body. Love how you ended with being a heroine of your own story!
If you’ve experienced trauma, grief and sadness, with relationships in life, read this. Be brave, as it will not be an easy read, but it can transforming, if you take a step in being more present.
March 19, 2021
When I work with clients, I often say, "Work and life is one big pot of soup. We may try to separate the two but it does not really work." Laila Tarraf's beautiful and deeply personal book provides evidence of why this is so true. She offers a brave account of how to lead with love through heartbreaks and successes ultimately,(after a lot of work) landing in a place that is honest, integrated, and powerful. I have read countless leadership books, which usually have to be digested in small bites over weeks. I read this one in two sittings over three days. It is soul food for anyone who believes in the power of love and compassionate leadership.
April 10, 2021
Laila Tarraf bares it all in this riveting memoir and courageous story about her life, as a child in the glamorous Beirut of the 60’s, to her stellar career at Walmart and Peet’s Coffee, and her heartbreaking personal life as a mother, wife and widow.
Her book is truly an inspiration to women, to immigrants, and to working mothers everywhere. From her own experience and life stories, we glean and learn how to balance life even in the midst of tragedy and loss, in order to live a life full of love, success and compassion. She certainly teaches how to live a happier, fulfilled and a more authentic self.
I really enjoyed this well written memoir!
Her book is truly an inspiration to women, to immigrants, and to working mothers everywhere. From her own experience and life stories, we glean and learn how to balance life even in the midst of tragedy and loss, in order to live a life full of love, success and compassion. She certainly teaches how to live a happier, fulfilled and a more authentic self.
I really enjoyed this well written memoir!
February 10, 2021
Laila Tarraf is a remarkable woman. She is the daughter of immigrants, she got an MBA from a prestigious business school and she has a very successful career with Peet’s Coffee. She didn’t know how strong she was until she endured three major deaths in her family and was left to care for her young daughter on her own.
This was powerful book, written in a very engaging style about a strong woman who is easily a role model for other young women.
I loved how each chapter started with a quote that relates to how Laila balances her career and home life.
This was powerful book, written in a very engaging style about a strong woman who is easily a role model for other young women.
I loved how each chapter started with a quote that relates to how Laila balances her career and home life.
May 29, 2021
This book had me extremely interested throughout it all. Laila did a fantastic job sharing her upbringing and the troubles life threw her way, all while connecting the hardships to deeper meanings and the blessings they ultimately gave her. There is definitely a lot of purpose in the pain we all go through. It is the work by us to dive deep internally, lean into our feelings, and find the blessings in them. Laila found the courage to lead with love in business and her life and after reading her book, you can, too!
August 6, 2024
This poignant read is for anyone that strives to be a better human, in life and in leadership. Please note trigger warnings for generational trauma and addiction. I listened to the audiobook version, which is voiced by the author. Her voice cracks when she recounts her stories of love and loss, making the storytelling incredibly authentic and captivating. She approaches each situation and life lesson with raw emotion, and positive and negative self talk that is relatable to our human experience. She also shares her quest for grace, love, and understanding with humility. Very well done!
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