LV Life

Dietz influences optimism in book

Dr. Janis Dietz, associate professor of business, recently had her book, "Yes, You Can," published. Last night Dr. Dietz appeared at the ULV Bookstore for a reception and book-signing. She began writing "Yes, You Can" in 1991. Endorsed by the well-known motivational speaker Zig Ziglar, Dr. Dietz's book is $19.95 and is available at the Bookstore. / photo by Matt Wright
Dr. Janis Dietz, associate professor of business, recently had her book, “Yes, You Can,” published. Last night Dr. Dietz appeared at the ULV Bookstore for a reception and book-signing. She began writing “Yes, You Can” in 1991. Endorsed by the well-known motivational speaker Zig Ziglar, Dr. Dietz’s book is $19.95 and is available at the Bookstore. / photo by Matt Wright

by Julia Carachure
Staff Writer

The University of La Verne Bookstore held a book signing last night for Associate Professor of Business Administration Janis Dietz.

Her new book, titled, “Yes, You Can: Positive Responses To Tough Challenges,” deals with how one should react to obstacles that may come in life. It took Dr. Dietz eight years to complete the book and get it published.

Dr. Dietz, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 12 years ago, experienced many challenges herself. Having to give up her job as a regional manager for Peerless Faucet because of her illness, she decided to get her doctorate in executive management at the Claremont Graduate School and teach at ULV. She now teaches students the techniques that she learned as a sales representative.

“I want everyone to know that you always have a choice of doing something,” she said.

The book consists of 16 chapters. It begins with explaining that a person who spends time wishing that things will go back to how things used to be must realize that such an attitude will not change the situation.

In her book, she proceeded to write about how people should learn to make the best out of every situation.

Some examples she used to get her message across were well-known people such as Franklin Roosevelt, who suffered from polio. She talks about his disability and how it did not stop him from doing his job as President of the United States.

The second chapter emphasized on concentrating on what a person can do. One example that she used to get her message across was actor Christopher Reeve, who was injured during a horse-back riding accident. Recently, his wife mentioned in a newscast that his inability to walk would not stop them from making the best out of the situation. Currently, he is now directing movies and still acting.

The third chapter dealt with exploring the positive lessons that can be learned from a difficult experience.

Other topics discussed include counting your blessings, helping others, how to obtain a positive attitude when overcoming a hardship, taking a risk and realizing that a person has nothing to lose when trying that risk.

The last chapters dealt with thinking about the worst situation that can happen to a person and improving on it.

She also wrote about the following topics: relaxing, keeping a sense of humor, relationships, methods on contributing to life and setting goals, taking care of yourself, and not losing hope.

“I think she is a living example of what she advocates. A disability should not stand in the way. When you meet Janis, you would not notice that she even has one,” said Ahmed Ispahani, ULV professor of business administration and economics.

“I would like for it to put people’s lives in perspective and not let people worry about little things,” she said. “Life is not a dress rehearsal and live everyday to its fullest.”

The book is endorsed by Zig Ziglar, a famous motivational speaker. The book costs $19.95 and is being sold at the ULV Bookstore.

“She is a fantastic person and I look forward with enthusiasm to reading the book because of the inspiration it will provide to me. I wish her all the best because she deserves it,” said Claudio Muñoz, associate professor of accounting.

Dr. Dietz wants everyone to remember that, “If you have loved ones and know when your next meal is coming, don’t complain.”

Julia Carachure, Editorial Director
Julia Carachure
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