Montreal newcomer turns dreams of sharing his self-help book with Canadians into reality

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    "Journey toward a better life," said Firas Awar, Montreal newcomer who after having many doors slammed shut - literally - attained his dream of sharing his self-help book with Canadians. Pamela Pagano reports.

    For over seven years, Firas Awar has been an author – but when he immigrated to Montreal from Lebanon back in 2018 he says his journey of sharing his writing was anything but easy.

    “I love writing to help people overcome their obstacles,” said the author. “And unlock their full potential by going beyond self-development.”

    Author, Firas Awar, with his book in Montreal on Jan. 3, 2025. (Pamela Pagano, CityNews)

    “I couldn’t just sit and wait for people to find my book,” said Awar. “I had to find them.”

    “So I take a bold decision,” he explained. “I started going door-to-door. At first it was terrifying. Every knock felt like a challenge. Some people politely said no, others slammed the door.”

    But others he said, led with kindness.

    People began reading his book which is…

    “A guide for people feeling stuck,” said Awar. “Unsure how to start their journey toward a better life.”

    Feeling stuck, something he’s felt after experiencing personal and professional obstacles.

    So he decided to reflect on his inner self — studying concepts about personal growth, and happiness – now sharing his enlightenment through these pages.

    “You have nothing to lose until you give up,” read Awar from his book.

    And he hasn’t given up – like the tree on the cover, his mission has grown, now giving workshops about the book’s concepts.

    Firas Awar holding his book “Beyond Self-Development” in Montreal on Jan. 3, 2025. (Pamela Pagano, CityNews)

    “I feel, I can’t explain, there’s no words to explain the exact feelings,” said Awar on his accomplishments. “I feel the feeling of success, of resilience.”

    Resilience – that’s how people seem to feel after reading it – he says he’s received thank you emails, and positive feedback on social media.

    Firas Awar (left) in Montreal on Jan. 3, 2025 speaking with Antoine Tayar (right) who read his book “Beyond Self-Development.” (Pamela Pagano, CityNews)

    “This one is one of the books that I’ve decided to embark on,” said Antoine Tayar, who read Beyond Self-Development. “It’s a journey and I believe it’s important to look at our potential and win over our fears.”

    “Success can come only when we want it,” he added. “And nothing can stop us except ourselves.”

    And nothing has stopped Awar.

    This is the author’s second book, it’s available in English and French, and he hopes nothing stops his readers from attaining their own dreams.

    Author Firas Awar speaking at his workshop in Montreal. (Submitted by: Firas Awar)

    “Keep knocking and eventually one door will open,” said Awar.

    “And when it does, it will all be worth it.”

    Page from Firas Awar’s book “Beyond Self-Development” in Montreal on Jan. 3, 2025. (Pamela Pagano, CityNews)

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