Matthew Olinger-The Overcomer

Author of Book: Dedee Cai
Date Read: September 27, 2023

Book Report

Why I read The Overcomer:

I chose to read “The Overcomer” by Dedee Cai because I was drawn to the author’s unique perspective and the book’s focus on how to manage fear. I am also connected to this book because she talks about how she faced financial failure and had to reset her life. With a passion for stories of individuals surmounting life’s challenges, I was excited to dive into the narrative’s journey of personal triumph. Dedee Cai’s work appeared to offer a fresh outlook on overcoming obstacles and navigating adversity, which piqued my curiosity. I anticipated finding inspiration, valuable life lessons, and a deeper understanding of the human spirit within the pages of “The Overcomer.”


Lessons I Learned from The Overcomer:

I was able to learn about how to manage fear and turn it into something positive. Fear can be a potent catalyst for personal growth and achievement. By acknowledging and embracing fear, you can harness its energy to propel yourself forward. Define your goals clearly and visualize your success to counteract fear’s negativity. Break your objectives into manageable steps, and remember that discomfort and setbacks are part of the process. Maintain a growth mindset, see failure as an opportunity to learn, and take action despite your fear. Seek support, stay accountable, and celebrate your small victories. Fear, when properly channeled, becomes a driving force in your journey toward success and self-improvement.


How will reading The Overcomer contribute to my preparations for success upon release?

Managing fear is essential for a successful reintegration into society after being released from prison. Here’s how it can help:

Emotional Stability: Managing fear helps you maintain emotional stability, which is crucial for making rational decisions and handling stress effectively.

Resilience: Fear management builds resilience, enabling you to bounce back from setbacks and cope with the challenges of reentry.

Setting Goals: Identifying and managing fears allows you to set achievable goals for life after prison, such as finding employment, housing, and mending relationships.

Self-Confidence: When you manage fear, your self-confidence grows. This self-assuredness is vital for job interviews, social interactions, and rebuilding your life.

Positive Outlook: Fear management can help shift your perspective from one of fear and uncertainty to a more positive and hopeful outlook on the future.

Decision-Making: You’ll be in a better position to make informed decisions, which is critical as you navigate complex choices in your reintegration process.

Managing Cravings: Fear management can help you resist the urge to return to a life of crime by dealing with the fear of relapse and managing cravings or triggers.

Seeking Support: Fear can deter individuals from seeking support or assistance. Managing fear can make you more open to seeking help and guidance, whether from family, friends, or support organizations.

Building Relationships: Learning to manage fear helps in building and repairing relationships with family and friends, which is an integral part of reentry success.

Staying Compliant: Fear can sometimes lead to rule-breaking. Managing fear can help you adhere to the conditions of your parole or probation, reducing the likelihood of legal complications.

Personal Growth: When you manage your fears effectively, you can focus on personal growth and development, leading to a more productive and fulfilling life.

Employability: Confidence and emotional stability make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers. Managing fear can increase your chances of securing and retaining employment.


Remember that managing fear is an ongoing process, and it may involve counseling, therapy, or support from reentry programs. It’s essential to acknowledge and address your fears, seek help when needed, and remain committed to your journey towards success and a fulfilling life after prison.