The Lightmaker's Manifesto

How to Work for Change Without Losing Your Joy

By: Karen Walrond

Narrated by: Karen Walrond

Many of us have strong convictions. We want to advocate for causes we care about - but which ones? We want to work for change - but will the emotional toll lead to burn out?

Leadership coach, lawyer, photographer, and activist Karen Walrond knows that when you care deeply about the world, light can seem hard to find. But when your activism grows out of your joy - and vice versa - you begin to see light everywhere.

In The Lightmaker's Manifesto, Walrond helps us name the skills, values, and actions that bring us joy; identify the causes that spark our empathy and concern; and then put it all together to change the world. Creative and practical exercises, including journaling, daily intention-setting, and mindful self-compassion, are complemented by lively conversations with activists and thought leaders such as Valarie Kaur, Brene Brown, Tarana Burke, and Zuri Adele. With stories from around the world and wisdom from those leading movements for change, Walrond beckons listeners toward lives of integrity, advocacy, conviction, and joy.

By unearthing our passions and gifts, we learn how to joyfully advocate for justice, peace, and liberation. We learn how to become makers of light.

©2021 Broadleaf Books, an imprint of 1517 Media (P)2021 Tantor

life changing and authentic

Karen, whom I've never had the pleasure of meeting, is my Soul Sister. Embark on this journey with her and she will become your soul sister, too! Her authenticity, vulnerability, generosity, kindness and compassion shine through in every chapter. She is a teacher, sage, and lightmaker, and teaches us how to tap into our light to become lightmakers as well. Beautiful...

What I was looking for!

An interesting book on how to find purpose and joy in your activism practice. Not 5 stars because I think that a pdf file with light makers manual (last chapter) should have been made available for free. Had to transcribe the exercises into notes so I don’t forget.

Amazing book… a must read

Whether you are an activist, a job seeker, or in an un related profession. This is a great tool for finding joy

Inspiring and unexpected

When I first saw this book, I was drawn to the beauty of the cover. Though “they” say, don’t judge a book by its cover, in this case, I’m glad I did. Had I realized in advance that the book was, ostensibly, about activism, I may not have picked it up. I’m so glad I did. While the author did write a lot about finding joy in the frustration-fraught world of activism, the lessons she shared about seeking joy, and practicing gratitude can be applied to every part of one’s life. Relationships, your job, your volunteerism, whatever. Being intentional about finding joy reaps so many more rewards than sitting back and waiting for joy to find you. Go out and look for it. You will find it everywhere.

Simply put, it changed my life

I heard Karen on Brene Brown and at first I struggled to connect but when I did, it was like turning on a light in the dark. I journal every day because of the guidance Karen offered.

Inspiring!

The Lightmaker’s Manifesto is a thoughtful and inspiring story and guide to making a difference. Each of us has our own path. Karen Walrond has given us the tools to find & expand upon it!

Thought Provoking and Inspiring

I loved this book. I've just started the exercises and have already had some new insights and ideas sparking in my mind, so wonderful after previously feeling stuck. I'm so grateful to have found this book!

Excellent Book

This is an excellent book for choosing your passion for working for change and not lose your joy. The Manifesto at the end is a perfect way to determine what you want.

Fabulous!

Read this book! I learned of Karen Walrond On Brené Brown’s podcast. I bought it on audible and listen to the reading read by the author which was wonderful. I am buying the printed copy because there’s a treasure trove of guidance, examples, prompts. This is the most impactful self development book I have ever read.

Excellent

This book is about living with intention and investing in your environment as well as yourself. Brilliant.