The three main points that Dr. Cloud presented was learned helplessness, the three P’s, and reverse learned helplessness. Dr. Cloud presented information I did not know prior to my reading. The information was very thought provoking. As I reflect upon my own seasons of inactivity, I have come to understand that I suffered from the principles Dr. Cloud asserts in this portion of the book. In my previous pastorate, the church suffered from what Dr. Cloud calls learned helplessness. By the time I arrived, the church was in major decline. I came in with fresh ideas and new strategies, but everything I offered was immediately discouraged. At the time, I was unaware of the power of learned helplessness and how it affected an individual’s mindset.
