Facing the music and Living to talk about it by Nick Carter

 

Published on September 17th, 2013 by Bird Street Books, Inc 

256 pages

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This book is Nick Carter’s autobiography and self-help hybrid in which he chronicles his struggles with a dysfunctional family and the unimaginable rigors of becoming an internationally successful pop-star at the age of 12. From his battle with addiction to serious health complications and the pain of his younger sister’s tragic death, Nick leaves nothing to the imagination and offers true and heartfelt advice to help readers overcome obstacles in their own lives. 

My review

First, I would like to say this book is part self-help and part biography. I read some comments from people that thought it was only about Nick ‘life and they were disappointed. It was not my case; I know he was going to talk about his journey about improving his life and he had been through a lot. The book was release 9 years ago, but you can still find it on Amazon. 

It’s been the third time that I read it because I did not have a blog back then and I wanted to share it with you. I grew up with BSB music and it’s probably the band that will be part of my life for many years to come. If you are a fan of Nick like me, you might want to discover more about his life. I also recommend it, if you are going through dark times. It doesn’t have to be only about alcohol or drugs, it can be any addiction or even if you are only unhappy with the life you are living at the moment. It’s helped me to understand the author better. While I was in high school, I did not listen to his music, but I heard a lot in the media about what was happening to him. 

The concept he explains in this book are basic, but it can help to open your mind about improving your life which is a good thing. If you really need help, it’s always better to talk with a professional. Each person is different and a professional will help you to find the right tools for you. I’m the first person who will do my best to reduce my stress and anxiety, so I like to read about advices and see what I can do. 

I have to say to be careful when you read self-help book, especially if you need medical help. Yes, most of advices can help, but it will never replace a specialist who studied many years in the field and asks you the right question. 

Excerpts

What you must realized is that until people want to help themselves, nothing will cure them. They have to have a real desire to get better, otherwise they’ll fall back into their old behaviours as soon as they get out. (p.23)

I’m grateful for all of the success I’ve had, but I’ve also come to understand that real happiness isn’t about how many nice things you can buy. It’s about finding what you love to do and doing it in ways that make a difference to those around you. (p.25) 

Its defenders say that pot a gateway drug, but for me and for many of those I know, marijuana definitely led to other drugs. Mine is not an unusual story; in fact, it’s all too common. (p.38) 

You may have to reach down deep inside yourself and become your own source of encouragement and motivation, which is not ideal, but it certainly can be done. (p.64)