The changing of the seasons is nostalgic for many of us. With the changing of the leaves each autumn we’re reminded of our many years of going back to school: fresh shirts and shoes, and desperately trying to hold on to the shards of summertime as we watch our homes wind away through school bus windows.
Though bittersweet, I always loved going back to school. I love the fresh feeling of a brand new year. I truly believed in those days that anything was possible; I was no longer who I was last year, but reborn by choice into a better, smarter, more open me. Thankfully, this adaptability and striving for betterment and growth are traits that I’ve stubbornly held to.
Fall is the season of expectations and bold action. That makes it the perfect setting for committing to discovering your destiny.
As summer days wind down, my reading list is growing with tomes that make me zoom out–to think differently about people, problems or adventures. As I read I discover new iterations of who I am, and who I could be. I try on new thoughts and pick up new roles. I’m here today to share with you my favorite three books to equip you in this exploration of self. I hope they guide you toward your own unique destiny, as they did for me.
1) The Desire Map, by Danielle LaPorte
The Desire Map is a unique approach to life creation that asks first how you want to feel, rather than what you want to do or be. This book changed my entire way of thinking about life. That sounds like an overblown claim, but it’s true. The realization that you don’t have to “be” any specific role, but strive to feel the best you can is worth the read alone.
Luckily, she doesn’t stop there. There are tons of prompts, worksheets and exercises to help you actually work through the book and create some answers for yourself. This is a must read, and one I recommend to each of my one on one coaching clients.
2) Money, a Love Story by Kate Northrup
Does the name turn you off? Then it’s time to read it, girl. This book addresses the role of mindset and limiting beliefs around finances. Money is one of the topics that I’m most often asked about as a life coach, and with good reason! Money becomes the scapegoat whenever we don’t want to do something. I thought I had a pretty good grasp on my own “money story,” but this book surprises me at every page.
3) The Book of Awakening: Having the Life You Want by Being Present to the Life You Have by Mark Nepo
This daybook has short passages for each day of the year. They’re beautifully written, narrative and short, and often end with questions for reflection. This book is one I often use on group coaching calls for a bit of grounding meditation. It’s so simple to add it to your morning routine!
Have you read any of these books, or eager to pick any up? Hit reply and let me know. I’d love to hear your thoughts!