Today's topic is all about reading! Reading is definitely a favorite hobby of mine, however, I don't always make as much time for it as I'd like. At the beginning of 2021, I decided I'd make it one of my goals to read one book each month this year. This goal felt manageable and practical and I'm happy to report...so far so good!
I thought it might be fun to share my reads thus far, now that we're half way through the year...so here's 6 books (non-fiction) that I've read so far this year (in no particular order) and my hope is that they will prove to be inspiring to you as well!
1. The Art of Aliveness by Flora Bowley
A book after my creative heart. This whole book is absolutely beautiful and a great read for any and all artists. The Art of Aliveness is all about infusing creativity into everyday life. Flora Bowley tells her story in such a beautiful way, and also gives many practical life tips for those who desire a creative life as well. I would absolutely recommend that you add this book to the top of your must read list, especially if you're an artist!
2. Love Does by Bob Goff
Each book that I've read by Bob Goff has proven to be a true inspiration to me and Love Does is no exception. Bob has lived an absolutely fascinating life in my opinion, and tells great stories throughout the entire book all about his adventures. Not only does he share his stories, but he also shares so much wisdom that you can carry with you throughout your life. This book discusses ways to share God's love in the most ordinary moments, creating a more incredible life for yourself and others. Bob encourages his readers in such beautiful ways, reminding us that we're all part of God's much bigger plan for the whole world.
3. I Am Here by Ashley Lemieux
In this book, Ashley discusses both personal examples and experiences as well as practical tips for the journey from fear to freedom. One of my favorite things she discusses is what she calls "Clarity Mapping" which seems like a very actionable way to help when you're feeling stuck. This book also walks through five questions to help move forward in life. I'm really looking forward to journaling and mapping out her suggestions for my own journey!
4. Free to Focus by Michael Hyatt
Full of practical tips, this book helps you figure out your time management. Michael Hyatt walks you through ways you can do your work better, faster, and even enjoy your work more than you could imagine. He says that "Productivity is not about getting more things done; it's about getting the right things done." This book helps you figure out the right things for you to do in order to live a more fulfilling life.
5. Chasing the Bright Side by Jess Ekstrom
This book was a true joy to read. I loved the stories that Jess told throughout, as well as the practical life tips that Jess gives. This book is seriously so full of inspiration (the author is actually the founder of an amazing company that makes headbands for children battling cancer called Headbands of Hope!) I love the focus of this book which is all about embracing hope and optimism in order to activate your life purpose. A great read, indeed!
6. Energy Bus by Jon Gordon
This is a fun and easy read. A book full of practical tips for life and business, yet it's written in a unique story style making it easier to follow along with. Positive energy is a major theme throughout this story/fable...one of my favorite "rules" discussed in this book is "Enthusiasm attracts more passengers and energizes them during the ride." A step by step action plan list is included in the back of this book, adding to the value for sure!
BONUS! Yay! This is actually a book that I read at the very end of 2020 and definitely one of my favorites (and one that I plan to hopefully re-read each year!)
7. Dream Big by Bob Goff
I'm definitely a dreamer...always dreaming big and encouraging others to do the same, so when I saw the title of this book I just knew it was going to be the perfect read for me. I'd go so far as to say that it will always make it on my favorite books list from now on! My very favorite quote from this book (on page 76) is "He (God) painted a bit of Himself on your canvas- a wild, extravagantly unique, one-of-a-kind expression." This book is FULL of inspiration and ways to help you find and reach your biggest dreams. Trust me, add this one to your must-reads list!
And there you have it! My book suggestion list so far for this year...I really hope you enjoyed and found some new books to inspire you! Do you have any books to recommend?? I'd LOVE to hear your suggestions, leave a comment below so that everyone can have even more reading inspiration :)
So grateful!
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