The first guide to self-realization addressing both outer and inner self showing balance in all things as the only means to having it all.......... Going Through The Change started out first as a personal journal, notes I had taken on a journey back through a troubled childhood that had led to an even more troubled adulthood. It forced me to embrace the pain I concealed as a means to let it go. I had done what I believe so many accomplished women do. I carefully built a façade designed to portray strength and character to those who might look upon it, while at the same time hiding my secrets from those who might pass judgment. I tended my garden on a daily basis, happily waving to neighbors as they came and went, all the while failing to comprehend the erosion consistently, painstakingly eating away at the very core of my existence. It wasn't until sometime after my forty-second birthday I came to the cruel realization my energy reserves were completely exhausted and my will to continue the charade had altogether vanquished. Virtually addicted to sleep medication and alcohol, I was crumbling underneath the pressures of a life I failed to recognize, much less appreciate. I was the victim of an absentee marriage trying to raise two teenagers by myself. The demands of running a household whose appearance had to be no less than perfect, while conducting myself in a calm, controlled manner at work had taken its toll. Departures from reality took me on out-of-control shopping binges I couldn't afford and through numerous affairs with men I couldn't stand, all culminating in a failed suicide attempt, which landed me in an institution. It was there I found strength through necessity. If change was inevitable, then I wanted to change for the better. I examined the social morays of women throughout the 40's, 50's, 60's and 70's, which had all served to influence my life, and from there I began a personal inventory, which began the healing process. It's mission is to help other professional women, as well as housewives coming of age to identify the wholes and drains in their own lives in order that they may make any necessary repairs, thereby propelling them into a more honest and productive mature life where change in not only inevitable, but preferable. It provides a step-by-step guide organizing and streamlining this process so that it is easily understandable and most of all manageable. It's purpose is first and foremost to tell women it's okay not to be perfect in a world that all too often places unreasonable demands upon you, and to tell you you're not alone when you sometimes feel like a failure. It's overall concept is to convince women no matter how many mistakes you may have made, it's never too late to effect positive change not only in your own life, but in every life you touch.
About the Author: Joyce Stacks has worked as a professional interior designer in excess of twenty-five years where she spear-headed both national and international projects. Well into her career, she decided renovation was something that needn't be limited to just homes and buildings. Going Through The Change represents her own personal guide to growing not just older, but better in a world that all too often places impossible demands upon women. She resides in Hot Springs, Arkansas near her family.