The stories we tell ourselves influence far more than our thoughts—they shape our emotions, decisions, relationships, and ultimately the direction of our lives. In The Stories We Tell: CLEAR Thinking – When You Change Your Story, You Change Your Life, leadership coach and mindset expert Liz Brashears introduces readers to a practical framework for recognizing and rewriting the internal narratives that often keep them stuck.
Centered around the CLEAR Framework, the book offers an empowering perspective on personal growth: while we cannot always control our circumstances, we can choose the meaning we attach to them. Through relatable examples, reflective exercises, and actionable guidance, Brashears helps readers become more intentional about the stories they believe and the lives they create.
Book Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Title | The Stories We Tell: CLEAR Thinking – When You Change Your Story, You Change Your Life |
| Author | Liz Brashears |
| Print Length | 175 Pages |
| Language | English |
| Publication Date | June 3, 2026 |
| Genre | Self-Help, Personal Development, Leadership, Mindset |
Review
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its central message that our interpretations of life often have a greater impact than the circumstances themselves. Liz Brashears encourages readers to examine the internal narratives they repeat every day, showing how these stories quietly influence emotions, behaviors, and long-term results. This perspective makes the book both insightful and immediately applicable to everyday life.
At the heart of the book is the CLEAR Framework—Circumstance, Little Story, Emotions, Action, Results. Rather than presenting personal growth as an abstract concept, the framework provides a structured process for understanding how thoughts develop into actions and eventually shape outcomes. By breaking this cycle into clear stages, the author makes self-reflection practical rather than overwhelming.
Another standout feature is the book’s balanced approach to mindset. Instead of promoting unrealistic optimism, Brashears acknowledges life’s challenges while encouraging readers to question limiting beliefs without falling into the trap of toxic positivity. This grounded perspective makes the advice feel authentic and achievable.
The discussion around “Little Stories” is particularly compelling. These are the subtle assumptions and internal beliefs that often go unnoticed yet influence confidence, decision-making, and personal growth. By helping readers identify these hidden narratives, the book offers valuable insight into why certain patterns continue to repeat and how they can be intentionally changed.
The writing is conversational, supportive, and accessible. Personal stories, reflective questions, and practical exercises help transform theoretical concepts into meaningful action. Rather than simply motivating readers, the author encourages them to actively participate in reshaping their thinking through intentional practice and self-awareness.
Leadership principles are naturally woven throughout the book, making it valuable not only for personal development but also for professionals, managers, entrepreneurs, and coaches seeking to lead themselves and others more effectively. The emphasis on personal responsibility and intentional thinking gives the book relevance across both personal and professional settings.
Why This Book Matters
Many people spend years trying to change external circumstances without realizing that lasting transformation often begins with changing internal beliefs. The Stories We Tell reminds readers that while they may not control every event in life, they can choose how they interpret those experiences and what actions they take as a result.
The CLEAR Framework provides a practical roadmap for recognizing limiting thought patterns, responding more intentionally, and creating healthier emotional and behavioral habits. By encouraging readers to become the authors of their own stories, the book offers a powerful message of personal responsibility, resilience, and hope.
Its emphasis on mindset, emotional awareness, and intentional action makes it especially relevant for anyone navigating career changes, leadership challenges, personal transitions, or the pursuit of meaningful growth.
Final Thoughts
The Stories We Tell: CLEAR Thinking – When You Change Your Story, You Change Your Life is an insightful and practical guide to understanding how our internal narratives influence every aspect of life. Liz Brashears combines thoughtful coaching principles with actionable strategies, giving readers the tools to challenge limiting beliefs and create a more intentional future.
For readers interested in mindset development, leadership, emotional intelligence, and lasting personal transformation, this book offers an encouraging and practical framework for rewriting the stories that shape their lives.