Joy of Reading

Lately I've rediscovered the joy of reading and it got me thinking about all the books that I've read. There have been plenty of genres covered but there are just a few books that have really shifted my perspectives of the world around me.

With the wonderful season of autumn approaching bringing us beautiful blue sky days, golden colours and chilly evenings, I thought it was the perfect time to reflect on these books as what better time to snuggle into a cosy spot and devour the written word! This time I'm focusing on the books that are shaping the person I am becoming and helping me create a life that I actively participate and thrive in.

The Alchemist - Paulo Coelho

This book was recommended to me by someone I admire greatly and it's become an annual read. It's a wonderful, soul warming story of a boy called Santiago who essentially sets out on a treasure hunt only to find that the treasure was within all along. This is a book I consumed over just a few days with its easy reading and every time I pick it up I discover another treasure myself. If you haven't had the pleasure of experiencing The Alchemist I really do encourage you to discover it for yourself.

The Power of Now - Eckhart Tolle

I found myself with my mouth gaping open so many times reading this. It has literally changed me. Things that I used to tolerate - no fu%k*&g way now - and I'm talking about my own behaviours and ego here! Again its a super simple message but its so out of whack with what we have created as a society. It left me with the hope of the type of world we could live in, the type of lives we can lead and the state of being. This is one of those books that I think will find its way into your hands at just the right time. I'm still in the process of implementing the information I discovered within its pages, to the wisdom to be conscious everyday. This really is a game changer - you (and your ego) have been warned!

Atomic Habits - James Clear

I found this book through listening to a Brene` Brown podcast that James appeared on. Holy shite he is good! I first read the e-book through the app Libby (available to anyone with a library card and was great during lock down when trips to the library weren't an option) and now have my hands on my own copy as I dive in again and again to get little snippets of brilliance to help me create a life that I actively participate and thrive in. Doesn't matter what the habit is you are wanting to start or stop, this book has you covered. It's another one of those books that makes you wake up to your own bullshit (hmmm seems to be a trend in my reading at the moment). It's a book I think should be taught in schools from day one. The difference small habits make on our lives should not be underestimated. Do your future self a favour and check this one out - either via Libby or get/borrow your own.

These are three books I will carry with me throughout my life. Each of them helps keep me grounded in the now, grateful for everything I already have and excited for the future experiences that are coming my way. They have shown me that I am responsible for me and that we are all connected in this world so our behaviours should reflect that truth. There are a whole lot of other books that I would highly recommend, and maybe future posts will include those, but these three have really sat me up and given me a literary slap.

What books have changed your world view and perspectives? Are there any that you think should be a must read for everyone? I'd love to hear what they are - leave a message below or email me.

Nadine xx