Anyone else love a good book? *Hand eagerly raised.* When I was young, I was all about fiction. Give me a good novel or a murder mystery, and I would get lost in those pages for hours. I still love these, don't get me wrong. As I've gotten older, I've learned to appreciate the wisdom within the pages of business books and a good self-help and lifestyle book. I realize that many of these books are people sharing their relatable stories, and that we can walk alongside them, learning from their experiences. Lately I've felt a lack of motivation - anyone else feel me on this? Weeeellll.... I thought I would share some books that I revisit when I'm in this funk, as well as some new titles I've added to my collection in the past 6 months that have really given me a kick in the pants. Buckle up!
1. Chasing the Bright Side - Jess Ekstrom
Jess is the founder of Headbands of Hope. She created this organization that gives back to those in need in her dorm room. Talk about girl boss! Her book is all about following your passions and not giving up, while taking a walk on the side of optimism regardless of the challenges that are thrown your way. Buy it here...
2. Essentialism - Greg McKeown
Whether you feel like you need to understand where to focus your energies, or are feeling overwhelmed with the amount of work that your doing, McKeown shares best practices to cut out the unnecessary. This is a huge win if you're struggling to find the time for the ones you love, or need help with work/life balance. I mean, who doesn't want to have more time for all of that fun? Buy it here...
3. Start Something that Matters - Blake Mycoskie
I first read this book when I was working on my Bachelor's Degree. It's one of my favorites for thinking about what do I really need, what are my goals, and how can I help others in doing so? I've revisited it quite a bit over the years. It's one of those beloved books with dog-eared pages marked to revisit, phrases underlined, and notes in the margins. If you've heard of TOMs, then you likely know the business model revolutionized social good, and businesses with a mission to give back. If you're struggling with purpose or how to make your purpose happen, I highly recommend. Buy it here...
4. Year of Yes - Shonda Rhimes
GUYS! Shonda kicked my butt into gear with this book. My mentor recommended this book to me, and he couldn't have been more correct about something I should read. I read it right around New Years, which was perfect, considering that her year of yes was a resolution. If you know me, you might not think that I need a major kick to get out of my comfort zone, after all I often prance around on whimsical adventures and make new friends wherever I go, but you'd be terribly mistaken. It just so happens my comfort zone exists in adventure, but when it comes to things that I may not be good at, I've always struggled. It's been my goal to shatter this for a few years now, and have been creeping slowly towards that goal, but Shonda's story is all the motivation you need to kick comfort to the curb. Definitely a book I'll be re-reading in the future.
5. Hello Fears - Michelle Poler
Sticking to the theme of crushing comfort, Michelle Poler has been a huge inspiration to me this year. I got her book right after it launched, and couldn't put it down. She has a super fun, interactive approach to helping you determine what scares you and helps you overcome those fears. She's also a joy of a human and will instantly make you smile if you follow her or her business page, Hello Fears, on Instagram. Buy it here...
6. Deep Work - Cal Newport
I read Cal's book, and then immediately reread it. If you need to learn how to better focus, prioritize, or get large chunks of work out of the way, this is the book for you. The techniques also teach you how to shut off work when you are not working so that you can have more quality to life. Super insightful and helpful if you're easily distracted or good at procrastinating (ooo pick me!). Buy it here...
There are so many others that I could share with you, but sticking to the theme of getting a kick in the pants, and getting out of a funk, these are the books that have most inspired me, and that I have reflected on and walked through the actions of often. Happy reading!
Cheers!
~Kim
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