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Rootbound


Synopsis


'Breathtakingly beautiful' i
'Tender and wholehearted' Helen Jukes

LONGLISTED FOR THE WAINWRIGHT PRIZE
A BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR IN THE INDEPENDENT, FINANCIAL TIMES, I and GARDENS ILLUSTRATED

When she suddenly finds herself uprooted, heartbroken, grieving and living out of a suitcase in her late twenties, Alice Vincent begins planting seeds. She nurtures pot plants and vines on windowsills and draining boards, filling her many temporary London homes with green. As the months pass, and with each unfurling petal and budding leaf, she begins to come back to life.

Mixing memoir, botanical history and biography, Rootbound examines how bringing a little bit of the outside in can help us find our feet in a world spinning far too fast.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Rootbound Mindset

* Summary: Introduces the concept of being "rootbound," a mental state where beliefs and assumptions limit growth and potential.
* Example: A person who believes they're not good enough to succeed in a particular field, hindering their ability to pursue opportunities.

Chapter 2: Uprooting Your Limiting Beliefs

* Summary: Explores the origins of limiting beliefs and provides techniques to challenge and replace them with empowering ones.
* Example: A woman who overcomes the belief that she can't be a successful artist by seeking support from a mentor and focusing on her strengths.

Chapter 3: Expanding Your Growth Zone

* Summary: Discusses the importance of stepping outside of comfort zones to cultivate resilience and adaptability.
* Example: A man who initially fears public speaking but gradually embraces opportunities to improve his skills and increase his confidence.

Chapter 4: Watering Your Roots

* Summary: Emphasizes the need for self-compassion, support, and positive affirmations to nurture growth and well-being.
* Example: A student who overcomes exam anxiety by practicing mindfulness, seeking guidance from teachers, and reminding herself of her past successes.

Chapter 5: Repotting for a Bigger Future

* Summary: Encourages individuals to re-evaluate their life and make bold changes to align with their aspirations.
* Example: A woman who quits her unfulfilling job to pursue her passion for writing, despite initial fears and financial instability.

Chapter 6: Harvesting the Fruits of Your Growth

* Summary: Discusses the rewards and benefits of overcoming rootbound limitations, including increased confidence, personal fulfillment, and a sense of purpose.
* Example: A therapist who experiences greater job satisfaction and client impact after breaking free from the limiting belief that they couldn't be an effective therapist due to their own personal challenges.

Chapter 7: The Rootbound Trap

* Summary: Examines the pitfalls and setbacks that can occur when individuals fall back into limiting beliefs and behaviors.
* Example: A person who overcomes procrastination but later encounters a stressful situation that triggers their old habits.

Chapter 8: The Antidote to Rootbound

* Summary: Summarizes the key principles and strategies for overcoming rootbound limitations and achieving sustainable growth.
* Example: A woman who creates a personal growth plan that incorporates self-reflection, goal setting, and support from others.