This book proposes a new model, GAIN (Generating, Appreciating, Internalizing, and Newness) that shifts negative thinking patterns many find themselves in today’s society. Whether from extremely short-termed, thus unrealistic, expectations or general victim thinking, many people, particularly professionals, consider past experiences that don’t lead to immediate and tangible benefits as a waste of time. They forego long-span self-reflection to acknowledge their progress in life. This book uses mindful practices to shift these negative thought patterns into constructive ones that reveal personal purpose and growth, and thus, positive self-leadership and development. Featuring practices and exercises to support the GAIN model, this book will help readers see every life experience as a gain rather than loss, even if it may take some time to see the benefits from it, if at all.

Joan Marques is Professor of Management at Woodbury University, Burbank, CA, USA. She teaches, presents and writes on workplace spirituality, ethical leadership, Buddhist psychology in management, and leadership awareness. She is a widely published author in both scholarly and practitioner based journals and is author/co-author and editor of over 35 books on management and leadership topics. Joan has founded and led multiple business and non-profit entities over the past decades. A former media producer and presenter, Joan still presents a bi-weekly radio-program, in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, through Mart Radio.