How to Do the Work

Recognize Your Patterns, Heal from Your Past, and Create Your Self

by Nicole LePera

4.8(15,499 ratings)

12 min read

Brief overview

This book explores how our childhood experiences, stress responses, and subconscious patterns shape our adult lives. It demonstrates why genuine healing requires us to examine the connections between mind, body, and spirit. By embracing daily mindfulness, emotional awareness, and personal accountability, readers can learn to break unhealthy cycles and cultivate authentic self-expression.

Introduction

Imagine feeling stuck in repetitive life struggles—returning to unfulfilling relationships, battling rising levels of stress, or ignoring the persistent whispers of your inner voice. This starting point of frustration or emotional exhaustion often signals a turning point, showing that something fundamental must change.

In this book, Dr. Nicole LePera shares the concept of doing the work: consistent, mindful practice aimed at bringing our history, habits, and beliefs into conscious awareness. By peeling back the layers of conditioning, we can break free from old cycles that keep us stuck.

As the pages unfold, you’ll see that real healing often means revisiting childhood wounds, acknowledging stress responses in the body, and learning to integrate mind, body, and spirit as one seamless system. This holistic, proactive approach encourages daily participation in our own growth.

Ultimately, the book challenges us to take responsibility for our health and happiness. It shows that our past need not define our future if we dare to examine it bravely and to transform the patterns that no longer serve us.

Healing begins when you decide to step beyond your familiar comfort zone.

The Mind-Body Connection

One of the book’s central ideas is that our bodies and minds are intimately linked. Emotional distress can manifest through physical symptoms, like chronic fatigue or digestive issues, and bodily stress can worsen our emotional state. Recognizing this link is the first step toward holistic well-being.

Studies on epigenetics show that our environments and choices can switch certain genes on or off. This means we have greater influence over our health than previously believed, and consistent, health-oriented habits truly matter.

In addition, practices such as breathwork and gentle movement help regulate the nervous system, often calming anxious thoughts. Over time, the body learns that it can shift from fight-or-flight mode to a more peaceful, healing state.

The book highlights that we’re not just separate minds living in unreliable bodies. Instead, each daily choice—from how we breathe to what we think—carries the potential to transform our mental outlook and overall health.

When the nervous system feels safe, the mind can open to new possibilities.

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What is How to Do the Work about?

“How to Do the Work” by Nicole LePera explores how childhood experiences and subconscious patterns can affect our emotional well-being and daily lives. Through a holistic lens, the author connects mind, body, and spirit, showing that meaningful healing often requires paying attention to stress responses and unmet childhood needs. By integrating mindful routines and examining our personal stories, readers can address harmful cycles that keep them feeling stuck.

In this book, LePera underscores the power of daily self-awareness and personal accountability. She encourages a balanced blend of psychological insights, body-focused exercises, and spiritual openness. Readers learn why acknowledging past hurts is essential and how everyday choices—like setting boundaries and practicing mindfulness—can create lasting change and invite a stronger sense of self.

Review of How to Do the Work

This book excels in balancing practical guidance with genuine compassion. Nicole LePera shares concrete steps, such as journaling for self-reflection and using breathwork to soothe the nervous system. Throughout, her approachable tone helps readers see how concepts like reparenting and emotional maturity can be integrated into daily life.

Because the author weaves together real-life examples and a clear structure, it becomes easy to note the points where we can pivot to healthier habits. Complex ideas around boundaries, inner child wounds, and stress management are explained in a conversational style. The result is both informative and accessible, making this book suitable for curious beginners and those already on a healing journey. It closes with a persuasive endorsement: if you are ready to leave old patterns behind, “How to Do the Work” offers the tools to help you do so thoughtfully.

Who should read How to Do the Work?

Individuals seeking a practical, mind-body-spirit approach to personal growth
Those recovering from childhood trauma looking for structured internal work
Readers interested in combining psychology with holistic self-care habits
Busy professionals who want realistic tips on healing through daily routines

About the author

Dr. Nicole LePera is a clinical psychologist and author known for her holistic approach to mental health. She was trained in clinical psychology at Cornell University and The New School for Social Research, and also studied at the Philadelphia School of Psychoanalysis. Dr. LePera is the founder of SelfHealers Circle, a global community-based healing membership, and has written the bestselling book "How to Do the Work: Recognize Your Patterns, Heal from Your Past, and Create Your Self." She has over 2 million followers on Instagram and received the 2023 IPRA President's Award for her outstanding contribution to better world understanding.