Lady and the Tribe
by Brenda Billings Ridgley
GENRE: Non-fiction, Self-help
BLURB:
Wives, mothers, and career women—we have all fallen victim to the silent epidemic that is, literally . . . letting ourselves go. Not the makeup free, yoga pants, weight gain routine. Little by little, we have allowed our preferences, interests, and individuality to slip away until we no longer recognize ourselves outside of our role as wives, mothers, or professionals. Who we are has become what we do.
In the process, our friendships have become the casualty of a “busy life” and lack consistency and depth. We have a gaping hole inside us that longs to be filled. How do we reclaim who we really are and fill this empty space that seemed to appear from nowhere? The answer lies in our Tribe. Our best friends see us more clearly than we see ourselves and are representations and extensions of our individuality. They are our companions, cheerleaders, and counselors—always in our corner. They are the branches of our tree of life that lift and support us, so we can flourish. Our Tribe is the family with whom we choose to live our life . . . with no strings attached.
Lady and the Tribe is a blueprint for building deep connections. As you read, you’ll be swept away on a journey of friendship as the author shares her own personal stories and those of other women. In the process, you’ll discover how to find, nurture, and deepen friendships and create a Tribe culture that is unique to you.
We can become whole again through the power of connection.
When three or more gather, we are Tribe.
Excerpt:
Loneliness Can Be Lethal
Since we live in this global, socially connected world, how is it possible for anyone to be lonely? Psychologically speaking, loneliness does not necessitate social isolation. Being lonely means feeling detached from others yet having the desire for a connection or a relationship.
Why is loneliness so lethal? As human beings, one of our greatest needs is to be seen, acknowledged, and cared for. We want to belong and be a part of something larger than ourselves. More so than men, women need to maintain close connections. Relationships increase serotonin and oxytocin, the bonding hormone. In times of stress, women don’t just experience the drive toward fight or flight—they also release oxytocin. This hormone surge can compel women to “tend and befriend.”
Research is clear. Close friendships are necessary for optimal health and well-being. A longitudinal study of aging found that strong social networks lengthen survival among older people. Dr. Amir Leving suggests that social connections are the most powerful way for us to regulate our emotional distress and that proximity to someone you are securely attached to is the most effective way to calm yourself.
An article in the New York Times reported that close relationships create positive mental and physical reactions in our body, mind, and heart. We are less likely to experience high levels of loneliness when we feel supported by intimate and close relationships. Strong relationships with close friends or family benefit us greatly and fulfil our social needs.
Interview with Brenda Billings Ridgley
What book that you have read has most influenced your life?
Conversations with God by Neal Donald Walsch. The dialogue spoke to me in a way that brought me peace. I was introduced to the book with the movie they produced about the author’s life. When I learned it was based on his book, I immediately added it to my reading list. A few months went by and I hadn’t picked it up yet, however, I found a copy on my father-in-law’s bookshelf after he passed. I said, “This one’s for me!” and I truly believe it was.
Tell us a little about yourself? Perhaps something not many people know?
I am driven to create memorable experiences with my family, friendships, and my Tribe. Creating special memories brings me joy and I hope it does the same for the people around me. When we get together, I try to come up with something unique that will set that encounter apart in our minds so that we have many fun times to reflect on.
Can you tell us something about your book that is not in the summary?
As we begin to consider building our relationships for support, we must first focus on ourselves… even be a little selfish. Many women have forgotten what lights them up and gives their life meaning beyond their roles. We need to do a little digging to remember or find our interests, preferences, and friendships.
When writing a book do you find that writing comes easy for you or is it a difficult task?
Writing Lady and the Tribe was the most rewarding, free-flowing, and creative work I have ever done, and I can’t wait to get started on the next one!
What is your favorite childhood book?
Danny Champion of the World by Roald Dahl
What were your goals and intentions in this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them?
My goal is to help women connect for joy and wholeness. I am on a mission to help create 1000 new Lady Tribes in 2022. I am just getting started so I will let you know at the half-way point!
Thank you for this great opportunity to share!
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
BRENDA RIDGLEY is an author, speaker, and girlfriend guru who loves helping women connect, find success, and discover joy through friendship. Her mission is to start a movement: women coming together to build thousands of new Lady Tribes around the globe. Through her workshops, vlogs, blogs, and book clubs, Brenda helps women connect and communicate with respect, love, and trust. She holds an MA in human resources and has spent decades cultivating her own Tribe. A Colorado girl at heart, Brenda lives in the Carbon Valley area with her husband, Parker, two kids, Parker Jr. and Gillian, and pooch, Perry. She enjoys hiking and has conquered Longs Peak and several other 14’ers.
To connect with Brenda, visit her website.
Invite Brenda to speak at your next event: Email
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3 comments:
Sounds like a great book.
Thank you for featuring Lady and the Tribe today! I am available for your readers questions!
I enjoyed interview and the excerpt, Brenda and your book sounds like a must read for me! Thanks for sharing it with me and have a spectacular holiday season!
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