Rating: 3 stars

Judy Smith began her career as a lawyer at the Office of the Independent Counsel and working on the Iran-Contra prosecution of Oliver North. Later she became a prosecutor and Special Assistant at the U.S. Attorney’s office in D.C. prosecuting such high profile cases as Washington D.C.’s infamous crack-smoking mayor Marion Barry.

Currently running Smith & Co., Ms. Smith manages scandal and crises ranging from pandemics to people and just about everything in between; including, clients such as the infamous blue-dress wearing, scarlet-lettered Monica Lewinsky and dealing with the tragic murder of political intern Chandra Levy.

With obvious credentials and experience to pen such a book, Judy Smith has entered the world of self help, providing guidance in layman terms and easy-to-follow advice. In her book, Smith has narrowed down seven traits as being the catalyst for potential problems (ego, denial, fear, ambition, accommodation, patience and indulgence) and counters with a positive way to spin these qualities to work for, rather than against, you.

There may be slight concern that what comes as second nature to the author, may not translate. To those who have issues with one or more of the seven traits—especially denial and ego—may not be able to see their self-destructive habit and therefore be unable to rectify it without actual outside intervention and direction. However, each chapter reflects the author’s meticulous effort to thoroughly delve into each topic by including numerous scenarios and real-life circumstances, and suggesting several solid strategies to counter them.

Good Self, Bad Self provides a wealth of insight and productive suggestions for conducting a successful personal and professional life. To err is to be human. Judy Smith imparts her vast specialized knowledge for identifying potentially destructive behavior and provides practical tools to improve them.
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Hardcover: 272 pages
Publisher: Free Press (April 3, 2012)
ISBN-13: 978-1451649994