|
My Bookshelf
Here are a few of the books I've enjoyed in
recent years. I've set this up so you can click over to Amazon if
you see something you'd like to have on your own shelf. Enjoy!
|
The
Paradox of Choice: Why More is Less
by
Barry Schwartz
Why do some people struggle with
every decision, large or small, while others breeze through
life -- as someone once said to me (okay, about me)
-- "making twenty decisions before breakfast."
Schwartz draws on solid research to answer that
question. In the process he tells wonderful
illustrative stories to drive his points home. An
excellent book for anyone who tends to agonize over
decisions and wants to stop, or at least understand why. |
|
Ken
Wilber, philosopher and spiritual intellectual, offers a
short (if dense) course in spiral dynamics, integral theory,
science, religion, sociology, sexuality, and modern culture.
Every time I read or hear Wilber I am in awe of the depth
and breadth of his knowledge. One minute he's
"way out there," the next he sounds as practical
and as grounded as anyone I've ever met. I can't say
enough about his work. Required reading as far as I'm
concerned.
|
|
In
Praise of Slowness: How A Worldwide Movement Is Challenging
the Cult of Speed
by Carl Honore
If you ever wonder if
all the rushing around is getting you anywhere, this book will
be an eye-opener on many levels. Decidedly un-preachy
(not at all a "how-to" on taking life easier) the talented
author presents history, facts, stories, and insightful
observations on the new trend toward slowing down. Read
this book slowly and leisurely and you'll no doubt find
yourself questioning why everyone seems to be in such a rush
these days.
|
|
Csikszentmihalyi
says that "It is the full involvement of flow,
rather than happiness, the makes for excellence in
life." When you are in flow time flies by and your
task feels effortless. Some people call it being
"in the zone." The author explains the concept
of flow as it applies in many areas including work,
leisure, relationships, and everyday life. A thin,
thoughtful book with useful insights on each and every
page.
|
|
A
wonderful and inspiring book on finding creativity within yourself. Cameron
packs bits of wisdom into every paragraph, so
have a highlighter handy when you pick up her work.
She'll guide you through a twelve-week process which you may or may not
choose to follow exactly as outlined, but simply reading
this beautifully written book will put you in touch with
your unique creative gifts.
|
|
Anne Lamott uses her witty
style to give great advice to the writer or would-be
writer. If you've ever harbored a fantasy of producing
a novel, Lamott will scare you and encourage you at the
same time with her hilarious and heartwarming tales of
dealing with editors, critics, writer's block, and
even her own friends. Read this book and you'll be
introduced to writing in a whole new way.
|
|
This
edition of a classic bestseller has been revised and
expanded to help readers of all ages and professions
create strategies for achieving their own vision of the
good life. What's the "good life?"
The thoughtful authors define it as "living in the
place I belong, with the people I love, doing the right
work, on purpose."
|
|
With so many books on the shelves about money that it
might seem odd to see a recommendation for one
originally published
in 1992. But this book has such an important message
that it's well worth reading in addition to whatever else
you may devour this year in the financial realm. The basic
premise of the book is this: by making a conscious
effort, you can achieve financial independence.
After that's done you may still choose to work for
money, but it becomes optional. Now wouldn't that be
interesting -- working because you wanted to
instead of because you had to.
|
|
