The process of writing my own book has made me really appreciate every book that has ever crossed my hands. It is funny how I have found myself pulling them off the shelves to flip through. Some, I reread a chapter or two. Like old friends, filled with highlights and notations in the margins.
The difference in looking at them with new eyes is I can see the blood, sweat and tears that goes into crafting a good narrative. How much the author thought about the reader and what was being given or asked of them.
Given my love and respect for books, I actually never considered myself someone skilled enough to write one myself. Alas, I have written one and a chapter for another. Strangely, it was easier than I thought but also one of the most challenging things that I have done so far.
Writing challenges you in ways that you may not expect. Yes, the how to say things that make sense and resonate, but also how to be honest and brave. It takes courage and, at least for my writings, a tremendous amount of vulnerability. I am not writing about fictional people. Many times, I am channeling personal experiences and putting them on display.
With the newfound respect and love, I thought that I would share a few of the books that have most inspired me. It is not an exhaustive list for sure. But, it is a nice mix of works that have inspired me, as well as many others that I know. So grab a cup of something yummy and settle in!
A few books that inspire me
PS~ I am not sponsored to share these titles. Just a true fan.
- Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert. Seriously. This book spoke to me and continues to do so. Her messaging is why I wrote the book that is currently in the editing phase. She has been a tremendous inspiration for my writing.
- Untamed by Glennon Doyle. Again, this woman blew open so many constraints placed on women, many we may not even realize. Easy to read, fun, compelling insights.
- No Ego by Cy Wakeman. Brilliant look at how ego shows up in the workplace. She has such a fresh and practical approach to leading and working with others. Just love her.
- The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown. This was the first book that I read by her and before I knew who she was. I was a bit late to the game. I share this with my mentees because it is a wonderful look at authenticity and change. She makes hard topics very approachable, which I really admire.
- Essentialism by Greg McKeown. He helps his readers really hone in on what matters. Not just adding more things to the to-do list, but adding the right things and saying no to those that aren’t really important. It was a wonderful book to challenge my thinking on what I was doing, why I was doing it and what really mattered in getting me to what was most important in my life.
- Design Your Work Life by Bill Burnett & Dave Evans. Again. You might be noticing a trend. They provide a great framework to challenge your mindset, to take ownership of your journey and to make choices that make sense in getting you closer to happiness and fulfillment. The workbook is great!
- Full Catastrophe Living:Using the Wisdom of Your Body and Mind to Face Stress, Pain and Illness by Jon Kabat-Zinn. I was exposed to this during my Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) training. It helps connect you to your body and how mindfulness can be used to help you. Again, very approachable and easy read despite the title.
And For Fun…
I am still a kid at heart. I love the classics and some of the screen adaptations.
- The Harry Potter Series – I know that there has been a lot of controversy around the author, but my love for the stories transcends. I love the strong female characters and the emphasis on friendship. Go Gryfindor!
- Anything Jane Austen – Yes, I am an Austen fan. I have read her books several times over. Given her story, I am always impressed by her ability to make a way for herself when this wasn’t a societal norm. Kudo to strong women!
Alright. That was a really brief list but it packs a punch!
Now for the good stuff. What are some of your favorites that need to be added to my “Must Read” list? Let me have them!
