My reading has been focused around the subjects of purpose and sustainability, and all that comes with this. The aim has been to help me develop a deeper understanding of the matters I really care about, to make sure my actions serve a true and positive purpose, in both a business and personal sense.
There is No Planet B, by Mike Berners-Lee
As an individual who deeply values the environment and the future of our planet, reading this book has been a captivating and enlightening experience. The author’s compelling arguments and well-researched insights have reinforced my existing beliefs, while expanding my understanding of the urgent need for environmental action.
What truly resonated with me throughout the book is the author’s emphasis on individual responsibility and the power of collective action. They highlight the importance of personal choices in reducing our carbon footprint, from adopting sustainable lifestyles to supporting eco-friendly initiatives. By showcasing inspiring examples of individuals and communities making a positive impact, the author instils a sense of hope and empowerment.
By the time I finished reading There Is no Planet B, I felt not only informed but also inspired to take action. The book reinforces the notion that we all have a role to play in preserving our planet for future generations. It has encouraged me to make more conscious choices in my daily life, support environmental causes, and advocate for sustainable practices in my community.
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck, by Mark Manson
What I gained from this was a true, honest, life check. This is about taking responsibility for yourself and really acknowledging what you actually care about, and how you live your life. It’s a real ‘look inside’ moment to stop listening and looking for others’ influence — you are the master of your own destiny, so make sure it’s the one you actually want!
I enjoyed reading The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck for several reasons. First, the book’s blunt and unconventional approach to self-help really resonated with me. Instead of promoting constant positivity and unrealistic expectations, Manson emphasises the importance of accepting and embracing life’s inevitable struggles and limitations. This refreshing perspective allowed me to develop a healthier mindset and let go of unnecessary worries.
Manson’s emphasis on personal responsibility also struck a chord with me. He encourages readers to take ownership of their lives and make choices that align with their values, rather than seeking external validation or living up to societal expectations. This empowering message inspired me to focus on what truly matters, and let go of others’ opinions or societal pressures.
Overall, the book served up a refreshing and practical perspective on life, helping me to embrace authenticity, personal growth, and a more meaningful existence.
The Year of Less, by Cait Flanders
This one is similar to The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck, but it really looks at how you spend your time and money, and questions whether the hours you put in are reflective of the value you get from them.
Memoir in style, it documents the author’s personal journey of embracing minimalism and intentional living through a self-imposed shopping ban. She abstains from unnecessary shopping for a full year in an effort to regain control over her finances, reduce clutter, and reassess her relationship with material possessions, and the book features excellent tips and guidance for leading a more minimalist lifestyle throughout.
Overall it encouraged me to think more deeply about the meaning of happiness, and to look beyond material possessions to determine what the notion of ‘being happy’ really means.
The Time Traveler’s Wife, by Audrey Niffenegger
This is my favourite book of all time. It still addresses the themes of purpose and sustainability, and while fiction-led, it’s very much a thought provoking read. It takes the reader on a unique and emotional journey through time, love, and the human experience, by exploring the questions surrounding fate and free will. It raises intriguing questions about the nature of time, and the impact of our choices.
Featured image: The Year of Less, by Cait Flanders