Wall of Love

I was skeptical of the price point of this book at first, but after receiving it and diving in, I’ve realized the cost is a minuscule fraction of the value I’m getting. Thank you for writing this important book!

I am experiencing burnout with my work. I attended Ruth's webinar "The Science of Hope". What I took away from it after a little over one hour was a renewed sense of serenity in that I know I am on the right path. What I need is rest. And to continue my efforts in shifting some of my time to allow new experiences, or cultivate a new skill or craft. I am a pretty well experienced purveyor of HOPE, but I cannot always find a new path to a desired outcome in working with my clients. I will attempt to take the essence of what she has just taught me and try to show my clients that there is a way to visualize a desired outcome, and combined with actions, making it more tangible in their imagination... and then reality. I would recommend this to others - colleagues, clients, people in friends or family circle - as a primer in using their own belief to transform at least some of their reality. Her talk today was a dose of medicine for those who work with other humans for a living.

Ruth ...expertly manages group dynamics while also positioning herself as a learner amidst the group, encouraging engagement and the sharing of their own expertise.

Ruth is a top-notch facilitator of deep conversations. She is humble yet wise, enthusiastic yet measured, and intellectual yet down-to-earth.

Ruth is a highly talented and skilled facilitator and coach... The takeaways and insight were no less than superb.

To start, she had the group participate in an activity that truly calmed the mind and allowed everyone to re-center and focus. In an online setting, this could be challenging but Ruth was able to accomplish this (connection) with more than 150 participants on the webinar!

...My final assessment is; "When Ruth Pearce speaks, you would be wise to listen"!

I rarely write these so count that as a testament to the talent of Ruth Pearce! ...She's a terrific educator/presenter and writer who knows how to tailor material to optimally benefit her audience(s) toward flourishing and resilience.

"With a background in communication, professional development, and adult education, Ruth's presentation was one of my favorite [International Project Management] Day presentations in the past two years!

Ruth masterfully brings her favorite topics to life, connecting with the audience in a way that feels both personal and powerful.

Her unique ability to make each listener feel as though she’s speaking directly to them creates an intimate and engaging experience.

Ruth happens to be one of those rare speakers who is high in intellect, careful about basing her suggestions in research, and yet able to communicate ideas in a way that is universally understood.

...Ruth makes it clear from the start to the end of her workshops and keynotes that she is focused on delivering value to her audiences.

Ruth is a remarkably effective speaker! She communicates in a way that is clear, entertaining, and, most importantly, transformative!

Ruth Pearce is an inspiring and transformative force... I have seen firsthand her ability to move an audience to explore how to create healthier, more resilient workplaces.

Every presentation created a safe, warm, intelligent, and fun place to be and learn.

Ruth ... conveys with metaphor and relatable story and the energy comes through camera when she shares her ideas.

Ruth is an exceptional speaker whose ability to connect with her audience is unparalleled... Ruth doesn’t just speak to inspire; she empowers and equips her audience with the tools to grow and thrive.

Ruth is an expert... She allowed our experiences to lead how she was going to teach instead of a "one size fits all" approach.

Ruth’s talk was a fantastic reminder that our own energy is the most critical resource we have.

I can't explain it, but [Ruth] has a talent for bringing people on a journey of self-exploration and learning that I've rarely encountered in my career.

... I heard her speak, and it was a surreal experience for me. It was like she reached way down into a place I didn't know existed within myself. It was life-changing.

This book is both a compass and a map to a new version of you. Buy this book, read this book, and step into something bigger!

Ruth has the unique ability to challenge us with profound questions and encourage us to face the future with active hope and bravery. She demystifies the coaching process, offering valuable insights to overcome obstacles on the journey toward purpose and meaning. Renata Rangel

With this incredible new book, I now have Ruth's coaching advice at my fingertips. It's a must-read for anyone hungry for guidance. She is incredibly insightful, deeply committed, and passionate about unlocking her clients' true potential.

...the presentation delivered by Ruth Pearce JD, MSc, PCC, was particularly remarkable ... [and] resonated profoundly with the audience. You go occasionally to a program for the PDUs… and you walk out with something of much greater worth.

Please explore booking her to speak at your conferences and departments.

The highlight of the evening was an insightful presentation by Ruth Pearce on the crucial topics of managing our energy and practicing whole self-care. Ruth’s talk was a fantastic reminder that our own energy is the most critical resource we have.

Ruth makes working with a coach feel approachable and genuinely worthwhile. Her book helped me reframe a few things I’d been stuck on, and I’d definitely recommend it if you’re looking for a mindset refresh!

This brilliant book considers coaching from every angle. It demystifies the coaching process and is the best practical guide I’ve ever found to support anyone who is considering coaching. It asks wise and tough questions and is filled with aha moments. It is pleasant to read and thought provoking. Most of all I appreciate that the author defines her terms so it is crystal clear what is being discussed and evaluated. If you have ever cringed at the thought of being coached or wanted support but felt overwhelmed by all the different coaching programs, this book is for you. It’s clear, concise, and will help you discern if coaching is right for you and how to advocate for your needs in the process and find the right coach.

I think what I loved most about your ethics discussions was your ability to both have an agenda AND follow the energy and interest of your group. This demonstrates a very comfortable command of the material and willingness to address questions, concerns, and issues as they came up. Masterful! I found the rich discussion did more for me in growing curiosity around this subject than a course with bullet points and things to memorize. thank you! I highly recommend this program to further cultivate this essential dimension of our coaching skills.

Be Hopeful, Be Strong, Be Brave, Be Curious is insightful and actionable. It's filled with practical and immediately useful advice - both to use on your own and with a coach. One insight that stuck with me is the idea that bravery isn't about being fearless, it's about acting even when we are uncertain or afraid... to keep striving for what's important, despite feeling uncertain or afraid. Highly recommend for those on a journey of personal growth or healing.

Ruth’s book is a powerful blend of wisdom, strategy, and heart. She has a unique way of making you feel seen while challenging you to grow. Whether you’re just starting your coaching journey or looking to deepen your impact, this book offers practical tools and fresh perspectives that actually work. It’s clear, inspiring, and incredibly grounded. Ruth doesn’t just talk about coaching—she embodies it. Highly recommend for anyone ready to level up their coaching game with purpose and authenticity.

I'm a bit of a skeptic when it comes to coaching, but this book made me re-evaluate. Ruth lays out the benefits of coaching in clear, concrete terms, and illustrates the concepts beautifully with case studies that follow the same few individuals throughout the book. I realize this may not have been Ruth's intended audience, but I think this book would be particularly helpful for coaches - I'm a teacher myself, and a lot of her views on motivation and inspiration really resonated with me. I'll be incorporating some of her advice into my teaching going forward.

Ruth's class on ethics was engaging, thought-provoking, and educational. Because the ethics scenarios Ruth presented were "gray," meaning there were no right or wrong answers necessarily, a combination of Ruth's professional experience, along with her coaching expertise was just the set-up we needed to engage in meaningful conversation. I'm so glad I attended and was sad when it ended. I think we all were. Thank you, Ruth, for your expert facilitation!

Ruth is a top-notch facilitator of deep conversations. She expertly manages group dynamics while also positioning herself as a learner amidst the group, encouraging engagement and the sharing of their own expertise. She is humble yet wise, enthusiastic yet measured, and intellectual yet down-to-earth.

One of the best courses I've taken [in my time here]. I hope there are many more like it

Great Course! I would attend again!

Great Lesson ... Well delivered

The instructor was engaging, and made the information fun! This course could be more than 1 day!

Amazing facilitating! Ruth was great and [incredibly] knowledgeable. Hope to take another course where she is a facilitator.

Excited for the next training. Loved it! Ruth is an expert. She knew how to keep us engaged. She allowed our experiences to lead how she was going to teach instead of a "one size fits all" approach.

She had me at hello. Honest to goodness she is a breath of fresh air, substance and charm. You feel her energy before she gets started and it's better than what one might imagine. I have a lot of time and respect for Ruth. Her career path, her perspective, her bag of tricks that never ends - are all impressive and evidence of someone committed to being their personal best, who does the work in ways that makes what she does on stage look so easy. I'm a better person for knowing Ruth. Two big thumbs way up. If you get the chance to work with her, jump.

What an inspiring session! Last Saturday, at our community event of Women PowerUP Network, we explored what it truly means to challenge assumptions, break invisible barriers, and step into leadership with confidence, clarity, and courage. Thank you, Ruth, for inspiring us !

This facilitator is extremely engaging. I enjoyed the thought provoking class discussions.

Ruth skillfully demonstrated that many answers are not found in the black and white; many nuances. The most valuable element that I took away is that it is especially important, as a coach, to have crystal clear boundaries before beginning any relationship. This class made me extremely grateful for my healthy coaching boundaries.

LOVE this session!! Very thought provoking and challenging situations were presented and I loved the input of others

The session was great. Ruth was amazing. The case studies really resonated.

The event was wonderful! In a short amount of time Ruth delivered great content and sparked reflection! We're leaving with fresh ideas, insights and a bit of self-reflection! Congratulations!

Looking forward to day 2

Ruth was able to talk about a wide range of scenarios that I actively run into as an assistant project managers. She provided a widened perspective to understanding teamwork and project management

Kept everyone engaged

The group coaching sessions were spectacular. That was my first time experiencing such a thing. I did not know what to expect but thought I would give it a whirl. Thank you to Ruth and the team for the rich discussion!

I love how Ruth is presenting the topics, she actually moves my mindset from theory into practice, from thinking to doing indeed! That is huge to me!

"Shifting my focus from aspirations to contributions", is an answer generated by Ruth Pearce AI's Coach Assistant. As I navigate a career path change, Pearce Insights' coaching programs keeps me committed to my learning, it includes a 24/7 mentor, guiding each step to find your purpose tailored with Pearce visions. Don't just aspire — contribute. Let Pearce's coach help you on your path.

I was part of a hybrid coaching group with Pearce Insights, and it has been a great experience. I was able to take valuable insights from every session, had profound conversations with interesting individuals and definitely discovered more about myself. It was a great blend of human connection and possibilities of modern technology. Indeed powerful!

We were thrilled to have Ruth Pearce join us at the University of Kentucky’s Job Club to share her insights on staying hopeful, strong, brave, and curious throughout the job search process. Her presentation was both inspiring and practical, providing our attendees with actionable instruction and a renewed sense of confidence. She engaged the audience with her expertise and enthusiasm, leaving everyone feeling empowered to tackle their next steps with positivity. It was truly a pleasure to have her, and we look forward to collaborating again in the future! Amy Gamblin, Associate Director of Alumni Career Services, University of Kentucky

Ruth Pearce has crafted a true masterpiece. I just finished reading this book and it’s a treasure-trove of advice for us as coaches as well as those being coached. I really liked how Ruth threaded throughout the book the stories of Tegan and Jamal and their respective journeys with their coaches. Plus she very cleverly speaks from the coaches perspective - giving us coaches much to think about - while at the same time speaking from the coachee perspective - helping put anyone being coached in the shoes of the coach and what to expect from this relationship. It is obvious the time and effort that Ruth put into this book. I’d recommend you add this book to your library of worthwhile reads. My bottomline: I would say it is very much worth your time and effort to not just peruse this book - instead, I’d recommend you read it cover to cover. Whether you are a coach or someone being coached, there are numerous takeaways you will find from this book as you head into the future.

I attended Ruth's hybrid group coaching course in November, 2024. While I had never before attended this kind of group coaching class before, I was pleasantly surprised at how useful it was for me. Ruth's coaching style is not forceful, but more encouraging and supportive. Her framework of looking at hope, bravery, and curiosity forced me to become more introspective than I normally would have and ask myself some tough questions. The results of the personality profile questionnaire also proved to be useful in understanding my baseline and motivations in how I tend to deal with the people and world around me. The AI tool I used in conjunction with the group coaching sessions also proved to be a useful companion. While I know the tool was in a pilot stage, I see it only improving with time. In fact, I'm looking forward to taking the course again to see how it can further benefit me. Highly recommend this course to anyone looking to understand themselves better.

Ruth was my coach for four months in 2024. I loved working with her! She is intuitive, insightful and asks good (sometimes tough) questions. I loved how she would pick nuggets out of what I was saying and break open issues I wasn't aware of. She was personable, funny, and it was a pleasure working with her. I am a better leader, thanks to Ruth's help.

Ruth is an exceptional speaker whose ability to connect with her audience is unparalleled. Her eloquence and engaging presence leave a lasting impression, making complex concepts feel relatable and actionable. Beyond her speaking abilities, Ruth's superior human skills shine through in every interaction. She demonstrates deep empathy, active listening, and a genuine commitment to understanding diverse perspectives. What truly sets Ruth apart is her remarkable cultural intelligence. She navigates cross-cultural dynamics with grace and insight, fostering inclusivity and collaboration. Ruth doesn’t just speak to inspire; she empowers and equips her audience with the tools to grow and thrive. It's always a privilege to witness her in action and to learn from her profound expertise and authentic leadership.

I’ve worked with Ruth several times to produce online courses for LinkedIn Learning. Ruth is a consummate professional in teaching, presenting and inspiring learners. Her adaptability and openness to feedback always made the creative process seamless, and her easygoing nature makes collaboration great fun. Ruth always brings forth fresh ideas, thoughtful insights, and quick solutions. She’s able to be flexible but she also stands firm in her beliefs which ensures that her content is both authentic and impactful. Her dedication to excellence and passion for delivering value shines through every step of the process!

Ruth has a way of connecting with the audience even over a webinar format. She conveys with metaphor and relatable story and the energy comes through camera when she shares her ideas. Finally, she gives specific bite-sized actions that we can take ourselves to apply the concepts. Thank you!

She is an amazing and engaging presenter who focuses on the audience's needs while staying true to the message. Every presentation created a safe, warm, intelligent, and fun place to be and learn. I highly recommend Ruth to all of my network looking for presenters.

Ruth is an amazing speaker, coach and human being! I had the honor to learn from her as she was a Teaching Assistant at Wholebeing Institute and to be led by her in a big project to create an Appreciative Inquiry Summit. Her leadership skills are outstanding!

Ruth’s experience, authenticity, and uncanny ability to handle hecklers makes her a great choice for your virtual or real life stage. I’ve shared the stage with Ruth and left feeling motivated, inspired and impressed!

If you don't invite her to speak, you'll miss out on what could have been a pivotal moment in your and your audience's lives. ~Dr. Josh Ramirez

Ruth Pearce is an inspiring and transformative force. A popular guest on the Positive Psychology hour at the JCC Manhattan, I have seen firsthand her ability to move an audience to explore how to create healthier, more resilient workplaces. Ruth brings unmatched expertise, warmth, and authenticity to her work. Her insights, drawn from a career spanning financial services, government, and nonprofits, are practical and profound. She’s a joy to collaborate with—thoughtful, compassionate, funny, and always grounded. And she adores dogs!

Ruth is a remarkably effective speaker! In a world where too many speakers are focused on themselves, Ruth makes it clear from the start to the end of her workshops and keynotes that she is focused on delivering value to her audiences. She communicates in a way that is clear, entertaining, and, most importantly, transformative! Andy K.

Ruth happens to be one of those rare speakers who is high in intellect, careful about basing her suggestions in research, and yet able to communicate ideas in a way that is universally understood. This is her gift - translation. Add in a wicked sense of humor and healthy skepticism and she is exceptional.

Ruth is a captivating speaker whose presence, whether in-person or virtual, leaves a lasting impression. Her unique ability to make each listener feel as though she’s speaking directly to them creates an intimate and engaging experience. Ruth masterfully brings her favorite topics to life, connecting with the audience in a way that feels both personal and powerful. Having her as a speaker at my project management events has been an absolute privilege.

I recently read Be Hopeful, Be Strong, Be Brave, Be Curious on a long-haul flight to Malaysia. Since I'm a coach myself, I thought I would skim the book before watching a movie or two. Not. Pearce grabbed my attention at the first chapter and wouldn't let go. Pearce masterfully combines her decades of project management and coaching experience into a step-by-step approach to living your best life. Her conversational tone and evidence-based tools make Be Hopeful, Be Strong, Be Brave, Be Curious a must-read for coaches and anyone considering hiring a coach.

This book and its author clearly have your best interests at heart. The writing is very approachable with case studies to give you "real world" examples of how her ideas play out. I've read other books that were so dry and boring I couldn't get through them. This book kept me engaged cover to cover. I hope to attend a seminar in person sometime soon. Ms. Pearce's knowledge and enthusiasm for her subject is very apparent in her writing. It's contagious! Highly recommend.

I am a champion for the book, "be hopeful, be strong, be brave, be curious" by Ruth S. Pearce. Ruth Pearce explores the potential of coaching and its transformative effect through the eyes of both the client and the coach. The book is divided into three sections that follow Tegan and Jamal's journey to understand "what coaching is, how it works, and what the results are." Ruth walks the reader through the power of coaching for self-discovery, meaning, and progress, rather than simply achieving external goals. She also shares inspiring stories of revolutionary action. I appreciated how each chapter focused on a specific topic. For instance, "Meaning and Purpose" encourages readers to use coaching to align their lives with their beliefs and purpose. She explains how coaching helps people clarify their goals, achieve fulfillment, and positively impact their communities. "Hope" allows the reader to look at how, through coaching, someone may learn to develop hope even in challenging situations by picturing a brighter future, setting meaningful goals, and unleashing their potential for the best results. "Strength" invites the reader to study how coaching might help people develop their inner talents and skills. There are tools in the book for individuals to practice building these qualities to better outcomes. "Bravery" invites both the coach and the client to be vulnerable, to take risks, and co-create a trusting and supportive relationship outside of their comfort zones. "Curiosity" explores a mindset of growth and openness, challenging assumptions, asking questions, etc. Practical tools, exercises, and journaling prompts to let readers participate in their own coaching experiences are included. It is informative and an enjoyable read for prospective clients and for coaches interested in self-discovery, resources, and the coaching process. Someone who is uncertain about things or concerned about the effectiveness of coaching can gain insight from this book. Get this book, find out for yourself. I share it often with new coaches, mentees and coachees.

It is with immense gratitude and admiration that I write this recommendation for my dear friend and mentor, Ruth Pearce. Ruth is truly a force of nature, transforming dreamers into doers and thinkers into action-takers. Her unwavering passion for advancing mental health in the workplace and empowering people to be strong, brave, and hopeful has been a guiding light for many, myself included. The first time I shared my story, "The Ambidextrous Project Manager", with Ruth, her reaction was profound. She was astonished, immediately recognizing the unbreakable will behind my journey, and insisted that I share it with the world. That moment was a catalyst for me. Fast forward a few weeks, and I returned to her, not with hesitation but with a sense of accomplishment: “Done!” The book was written. Ruth’s involvement didn't stop there. She dove into the first edition and was impressed, but being the insightful and deeply thoughtful person she is, she pushed me to dig deeper. She noted that while the story was powerful, it was missing something essential—the why! That realization was pivotal, and it led to the creation of a new edition of "The Ambidextrous Project Manager"—one that captures not just the spirit of my personal journey but the essence of the Island Spirit and the resilience behind it. Ruth’s influence on this journey is undeniable. Her encouragement to tell my story and her guidance in refining it has turned the book into a powerful tool for project managers and anyone seeking to make a more significant impact. Her belief in my story and her excitement for how it will inspire others speaks to her incredible ability to see the potential in everyone. Ruth, you are a true inspiration, and I am honored to have your support. Your coaching and mentorship have been instrumental in my journey, and I know countless others feel the same. Thank you for everything you do to lift others and empower them to be unbreakable!

I’m grateful that the author - Ruth Pearce - wrote this book! For coaches, for clients of coaches, and really for all of us willing to coach ourselves, this book is a must read. I love the addition of character to the coaching lexicon.

I reached out to Ruth for advice and insights and was genuinely impressed by her generosity and expertise. She shared her experience with me providing me with invaluable advice. Thank you so much Ruth for your willingness and dedication to support people.

If you’re reading this and willing to gain a different perspective on your approach to life or just need to get a deeper understanding of the value you bring to an organization then I recommend connecting with Ruth. Ruth was an amazing coach! She often challenged and allowed me to see a side of myself that I was uncomfortable with. Her coaching brought out a confidence that I didn’t always showcase which resulted in me getting a promotion, I believe. With coaching I’m not sure I would have had the same positive outcome. Aside from the promotion, I have developed life long tips that I can take with me and use along my career journey. I am super thankful to have had her as my coach when I needed it the most. If you are as fortunate as me to have her as a coach, be prepared to rise up.

Buy this book if you are looking for a guide to becoming a more hopeful, stronger, braver, and more curious version of yourself. It has many coaching questions and suggestions that can help you make progress on your own journey. It also helps you explore how a coach might help you and know what to expect if you choose to hire one.

I really enjoyed Pearce’s insights into coaching from both the perspective of the coach and the client. The book is filled with practical questions, evidence-based strategies, and thought provoking ideas. I would recommend it to coaches and anyone hoping to understand the benefits of working with a coach.

"With a background in communication, professional development, and adult education, Ruth's presentation was one of my favorite IPM Day presentations in the past two years! It reiterated to me that our society focuses on detriments, not strengths, and that this is a passion of mine - strength-spotting along with the power of play. I also appreciated the nudge that strengths don't always need to be used: are you overusing your strength or do you need to dial it down a bit or even take a day off of engaging a strength. We can choose how we want to put ourselves out in the world each day. Leaders who use what she's recommending, likely Servant Leaders, will find this a wonderful addition to their toolkit and can increase employee satisfaction, engagement and productivity. She gave helpful recommendations and great reminders to own our superpowers (ones that are energizing, essential, effortless). Who doesn't remember the teacher who could have written 99% but instead wrote -1...PMs, let's empower by focusing on the strengths!"

As a professional coach Ruth has the ability to engage and motivate. She has the gift to guide her clients toward realizing their true potential. Ruth provides a unique blend of empathy, wisdom, and practical guidance and has a profound impact on everyone she works with. Whether it’s navigating career transitions, personal growth, I can highly recommend!

I really liked how the book walked through the examples, and as someone who has a love of learning and I'm looking forward to being more observant of others strengths

Ruth's book completely flips the script to the person being coached. Why is this important? As a behavioral scientist, I've studied a lot about human cognition and how our brain can be so much more powerful through perspective. What Ruth's book does is show how you, as someone being coached, can be empowered by the coaching experience and get perspective and insights into yourself that maybe you hadn't been previously aware of. We often think of coaching as something that's done to 'fix' oneself. That perspective really undersells the importance of coaching. Coaching is like opening doors to new pathways in your brain, and Ruth's book is the first, that I'm aware of, that really gives this perspective from the coachee's point of view. There's been a lot of books on coaching, but not from this perspective! I can't recommend this book enough! Dr. Josh Ramirez Institute for Neuro & Behavioral Project Management

As a coach myself, I find this book a great way for potential clients to explore coaching and get a better understanding of what the coaching relationship looks like. The case studies and self-reflective questions bring coaching to life. I also appreciate the author's storytelling, which is entertaining, accessible, and vulnerable, and includes her own personal experiences with working with a coach. Great read!

In this book, Ruth elegantly unfolds the journey of coaching not just as a profession, but as a transformative practice that can deeply enhance one's life. Starting from the very roots of where you are, Ruth’s methodical approach in visualizing outcomes and fostering motivation is not only practical but also deeply moving. Her discussion on the pivotal role of a coach and the ethical considerations involved provides a clear framework for what effective, respectful coaching should look like. What sets this book apart is Ruth's ability to make the reader feel understood and supported. She provides an array of thought-provoking questions that coaches might ask, which I found incredibly helpful for self-reflection. Moreover, her emphasis on the importance of finding a coach who can truly meet you where you are in your journey underscores a personalized approach to coaching. This book is an essential read not only for those aspiring to become coaches but also for anyone seeking a coach. Ruth has gifted her readers a compass to navigate their own transformation with hope, strength, bravery, and curiosity. Highly recommended for its profound insights and actionable guidance.

Having met Ruth when she facilitated the VIA Mindfulness-Based Strengths Practice, I was eager to read how she would weave character strengths into coaching language. Not only does Ruth make a case for strengths use, she provides practical case study wisdom throughout the book. Referring to her own strengths, and carefully crafting language that honors the whole person, Ruth does an exceptional job in making the work practical, easy to follow and with ample instruction throughout, easy to apply. I bought another copy for one of my colleagues and fellow coach. Thank you Ruth!

I’d highly recommend this book, I really liked how Ruth illustrated her lessons with real stories and it made it easy to digest and understand. She truly has a passion for this work, and it shines bright in her book!

Ruth Pearce is a joy, both to know and to learn from! I have had the opportunity to hear from her several times in the course of earning my law degree. Each time, her wit, passion for justice, wisdom, and encouragement, were all on display! She not only helps her listeners determine their own strengths, but also helps with applying that knowledge to daily life, and interactions with others. Her life stories call out her own strengths of courage, humility, leadership, and kindness! These inform my belief that Ruth would be an effective and engaging coach, speaker, and teacher, in any space you could wish to invite her. My life has certainly been blessed by knowing Ruth, and I am confident yours will be, too!

This book is inspirational and helps the reader grasp a better level of personal thought and interjection. She is an amazing author!

Ruth Pearce, the way I know her, is not just a professional expert but a very warm person too. She has always been very responsive, helpful and approachable. Her inputs and suggestions in my work has made a huge difference in the quality of my workshops. Her thought process and expertise in coaching, especially strengths in positive psychology is remarkable. I strongly recommend her as a go to coach. I wish her all the very best for her present and future endeavours.

Learn from the best positive psychology coach there is—this book will show you how to be curious about your strengths and resources, how hope reveals opportunities in front of you, and how bravery helps you follow your plan and make decisions that lead to your better future! Marjorie Aunos, PhD, Psychologist, Speaker, & Accessibility Consultant

Her coaching literally expanded my world I have been following and admiring the work by Ruth on social media for a long time and over the past few weeks I was lucky to have experienced her coaching and mentoring personally. Being a coach and mentor myself, it was an invaluable experience to learn directly from her. But the greatest impact came from the insights that I had during her sessions. I generally have a high level of clarity of thought. My world is not foggy or dark and it is not a labyrinth; I have a very good visibility of my mental room. But coaching with Ruth, I had a few instances when her perfect hints or questions helped me to open a door to a different room in my consciousness. Suddenly, I could see the whole new dimension, that offered opportunities and led to more thoughts and creative ideas. Her coaching literally expanded my world. Thank you, Ruth, I’ll make sure to find ways to continue these experiences with you!

Ruth Pearce is an exceptional writer and storyteller. In this book, Ruth explains how and why coaching works—written with positivity and hope, sharing vulnerability about her own successes and failures while staying curious about why. The case studies showcase exactly how coaching works and the coaching questions invite self-reflection. Practical and accessible for anyone considering coaching.

I am not a coach, but I’ve used coaches for years. I really appreciate the practical advice, honesty and integrity of this book There is a lot to work with here, many ways to access a more meaningful coaching relationship. My challenge is that when there are many many coaches of all varieties, how can I find the right one and make the most of that relationship. So this book gave me a positive approach and model for changing and evolving via coaching. Well done!!

As a coach I am often asked the question "Does coaching really work?". Ruth has managed to answer this question covering all angles, for coaches as well as coachees. The case studies bring to life the magical aspects of coaching which are the 'light bulb moments' when coachees discover the power/strength within themselves. The guidnace notes for selecting a coach are spot on. Absolutley amazing book, I highly recommend!

This book is a masterclass for coaches, coachees, and anyone who wants to go on a journey of self-exploration. Thank you for writing this important book!

I rarely write these so count that as a testament to the talent of Ruth Pearce! Ruth is an extraordinary, one-of-a-kind coach, who I would put money on as being helpful to just about any coachee/client that walks through her door (or her Zoom link). She's a terrific educator/presenter and writer who knows how to tailor material to optimally benefit her audience(s) toward flourishing and resilience. And most of all, she is a wonderful human being…her curiosity melds with perspective/wisdom which is driven by zestful bravery but that is just the starting point with her character strengths. Ruth and I have collaborated numerous times in numerous ways; one of my favorites was when she was VIA's project manager and we decided we wanted to take immediate action to "care for the world" and people suffering as COVID hit hard in early 2020. We knew that character strengths were one of the best kept secret-resources residing within people and that we could help them then when they needed it most. We immediately went to work collaborating on "United in Strengths" offering free in-depth weekly webinars focused on character strengths application, mindful living, and social connection. We didn't stop bringing people together, innovating on programs, and sharing resources until we hit more than 80 weeks in a row. I'm also proud Ruth is on the prestigious VIA Institute Faculty which contributes to the global leadership on the science and practice of character strengths. If you are thinking about connecting with or requesting Ruth's services/support, my suggestion is to err toward "yes, do it!"

It was an absolute pleasure to have Ruth Pearce from Pearce Insights lead a training session during our recent strategy meeting for the NCPMI Board of Directors. Ruth's expertise in tailoring her presentation to resonate with our specific needs was exceptional. Her ability to speak in the language of her audience, adapting to our unique context and challenges, was not just impressive but incredibly effective. Ruth's session was engaging, informative, and perfectly aligned with our strategic objectives. Her insights and approach to training were instrumental in helping us refine our strategies and enhance our leadership skills. This, in turn, contributes significantly to our goal of achieving the Chapter of the Year 2024, a milestone we are passionately working towards. I strongly recommend Ruth to any group or PMI chapter looking for a dynamic and impactful trainer. Her sessions are more than just educational; they are transformative experiences that leave lasting impacts on leadership and team dynamics. #LeadershipDevelopment #PMIChapter #Strategy #TeamBuilding #ProfessionalGrowth Thank you, Ruth, for your invaluable contribution to our chapter. Your dedication to delivering tailored, high-quality training is evident, and your willingness to support our chapter's success is greatly appreciated.

With one specific amazing opportunity and privilege to be taught, by the one and only Ruth Pearce, who not only taught me how to be a better coach. But, much more importantly how to be a much better version of myself. Ruth is truly a special human being, with the gift of bringing her authenticity, wisdom and humility into the coaching realm that encourages the highest levels of listening, understanding, leadership, and emotional intelligence among other qualities. Her level of insight transformed our entire team of people from all walks of life during our time together. She is uniquely qualified by life to change lives and inform future coaches and leaders. The reality is, we need more like her and our world will be a much better place to not only live but thrive together. Ruth, I can’t thank you enough 🙏🏻🫶 I have coached tens of thousands of people for over twenty-five years. The life lessons, the character, the learning of the steps to success, the using of failure and how motivation, and a really good mindset can transform lives. This was the most rewarding of paths for any person blessed to do what they love. Despite all of this, In my professional and personal journey, I also need to evolve, learn and grow….

"Be Hopeful, Be Strong, Be Brave, Be Curious" is a treasure trove of strategies that will help you conquer your inner demons and emerge victorious. Ruth Pearce isn't just a coach; she's a magician of motivation. With her guidance, you'll discover how to turn stumbling blocks into stepping stones, embrace challenges with unshakable courage, and find beauty in life's uncertainties. Ruth's insights are practical, actionable, and backed by years of expertise. It's like having a personal coach cheering you on every step of the way. Grab it, read it, and let Ruth Pearce be your guiding star!

Ruth embodies what she teaches others, and she has such a positive influence on the people. Being part of her network means that I benefit enormously from her encouragement, her influence, her wisdom and her hands-on mentality. When I shared with her a personal contemplation, she immediately helped me by offering me a warm and safe space to feel brave and curious, and she connected me with other people from her network for additional support. What inspires me most is how she speaks up and takes matters in her own hands, thereby demonstrating that influence and bravery can be used for positive impact. I love how being part of this professional community stretches my thinking, and Ruth is doing it in a very stimulating way. Many thanks!

Ruth is brilliant and insightful as a coach. She is also very engaging and has a wonderful sense of humor! She has helped me work through and overcome some very difficult personal and professional challenges. The insights and focus I have gained have been extraordinary. I highly recommend Ruth as a coach as I am confident you will find working with her is a truly rewarding experience.

There were several coaches available to me through the Better Up program and I wanted to find the perfect [coach] for me. After reading several bios, I found Ruth. All I can say is…damn, was I right! I’ve had several sessions with her and always found her to be 1000% engaged. She’s dialed in, focused, listens intently, looks straight at me. And when I finally stop talking, here it comes. The probing question that turns me on my head, that forces me to consider and think through options or scenarios I hadn’t considered. Others have said she’s direct, agreed. I not only love that, it’s what I wanted. Someone who is no-nonsense, someone who can offer impactful and seriously thought-provoking insight. Others have also said her sessions are like ‘therapy’. It’s funny, I said that to Ruth during one of my sessions. She helped me understand that ‘therapeutic’ is different from therapy. Another learning moment. Whatever your need, if you’re really ready to tackle it, to learn, to grow, etc, then book that coaching session with Ruth today.

Ruth is a phenomenal coach. She approaches her work with the most lovely curiosity--and a palpable desire to support the very best in others. She's warm, funny, candid, direct and has a way of leading me to questions without asking them--simply, masterful coaching. I recommend Ruth without hesitation--she's a gem.

Ruth’s expertise and coaching allowed me to look beyond my own barriers when it came to my career. Before long, you begin to realize that she is exactly what you've been looking for in a career coach. Her coaching was extraordinarily insightful and will help me throughout the rest of my career. She is genuinely passionate about career coaching and helping others identify and reach their career aspirations. Advice has not been just career focused, she has advised and supported in other life matters. Ruth has pushed me to dive deeper into thought processes and understand the “why” in patterns of behavior's. By unlocking these cycles, I have been able to not only move forward but be more mindful in how I approach things in a very conscious way. Which subsequently has led to different outcomes for me. I really like Ruth’s skill in being able to listen to me talk through scenarios or thought processes and respond with observational, logical, tangible statements that help me to process why I have come to those conclusions. This has bought for me, an eye-opening level of self-awareness that has enabled me to be kinder to my inner self. Which subsequently has led to personal growth that is benefiting all areas of my life.

Ruth's coaching has been life altering. Her method of asking pointed questions has challenged and empowered me to find solutions to management challenges I've faced. And, in turn, I've been able to use Ruth's coaching techniques to become a coach to the people I manage. Ruth's attention to detail and memory is stunningly sharp -- she is an active listener, challenging my premises and always encouraging me to think about difficult situations from a different lens -- and always with empathy. Ruth's diverse and impressive background serves as a tremendous asset to her coaching abilities, and I'm constantly amazed at her ability to find the right anecdote or analogy. And she went above and beyond to help me when I was up for a promotion, for which I will be forever grateful.

Ruth's experience and her diverse background enable her to offer a unique perspective. She has continually challenged me to think outside the box, by holding me accountable to explore different thought pathways. She is able to adapt and tailor her approach based upon the individual she is working with and I truly appreciate her insight and candor. Ruth is an excellent coach and I highly recommend her!

Ruth is the best coach I could have ever asked for, so I consider myself lucky to have found her. All sessions we had were eye-openers, intriguing and life changing. After every session, I was looking forward to our next session. I could have sessions with her every day – not because it was necessary, I merely loved to have conversations with a person full of resources and knowledge. The way she approaches you shows that she actually cares for her clients. The questions she comes up with help you find the right answers that you need to move to the next step/place that you want to be in. That’s exactly what happened to me. Thanks to Ruth, I am in a better state and position right now which I needed to make the next steps. Although our sessions have ended, the effects of them are definitely still with me and they continue to help me tackle many issues that come my way. I know to whom to reach out next time I need support.

Ruth is THE person you want to work with. From her knowledge of Positive Psychology and the VIA Character Strengths to her capacity to see clearly and reflect back with clarity, she has the capacity and talent to coach you and make you realize (1) what you truly want, (2) where you want to go and (3) how you can get there. And she does all of that from a stance of acceptance and non-judgment. And then there is Ruth as a speaker and a trainer. On stage, physically or virtually, she captivates the audience from the moment she starts to speak. She is the one that will elevate your audience by informing them and inspiring them. Her strengths of Teamwork and Humour make her a delight to work with - every single time!

I had the pleasure and honour to follow a course on LinkedIn by Ruth. She talks about some things that are so important and it would be great to learn from her, either as individuals or as companies. I personally found truth and relief in her words. Looking forward to reading her book too!

My Goodness... RUTH is Ruthless in her discovery, coaching and guiding. She is compassionate, caring, deep, intelligent, she is also pretty funny and has a relaxed side to coaching if you "require" such as I personally or personality does :). I met Ruth during a tough time in my personal life, I had a son suffering his first mental health crisis not even a year after I relocated to PA for a new executive level position. I was an complete mess... My company was immensily supoportive and actually signed me up/ and paid for a year and half of Ruths (therapy) coaching. (I still call it Therapy-- It was AMAZING)..... Actually, its still amazing. So much so, as the company sponsorship has come to an end, I personally have committed to a monthly fee to continue with RUTH. What I know is ...I am a great leader and coach, however, coaches need greater coaching and guidance! RUTH is is the Greater for me and hopefully for you. In Mail me anytime for questions about her, I am more than happy to assist in your decision making. Believe me its one of the BEST decisions I have made in my Executive Career thus far. Let me be honest, RUTH is not for the faint at heart... she is ruthless in her quest to help you achieve, thrive and not just survive. If this is what you need she is the best at it. She will question, probe and help you to self discover your own path for success.