I loved reading for as long as I can remember. I discovered my first favorite author, Roald Dahl, in elementary school, and I credit his books for sparking my interest in reading. I strayed away from reading fiction books throughout most of college; probably from burn out after all the required readings I was doing. Right after I finished grad school, I was struggling with anxiety, specifically intrusive thoughts and ruminations. For me, distraction is one of the most helpful techniques to cope with intrusive thoughts and ruminations, and since I was no longer being required to read for school anymore, I decided to start reading fiction books again. Immersing myself in someone else’s world, through books, became one of my favorite ways to cope with the anxiety I was experiencing.
After grad school, I was adjusting to no longer being a student after a total of 18 years. I think anyone who chooses to be in school that long must have a love of learning, and I knew I had to find a way to fulfill my need to learn after I graduated. I quickly became obsessed with nonfiction books related to my interests, and how they allowed me to keep learning and growing personally and professionally.
Obviously I am super interested in fiction and nonfiction books, and I want to share what I’m reading each month. It is my intention for you to understand a little bit about me by knowing what I’m reading, as well as give you ideas of books to check out, whether it’s for fun, to cope, or to learn.
February
Fiction:
The Wife Between Us, by Greer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen
Wow! There were many jaw-dropping moments in this book, which rarely happens to me. I think this book shows the power of perspective, can increase our empathy for others, and shows how our interpersonal relationships effect us more than most people realize. I absolutely love the psychology and mental health that is woven throughout this book. I highly recommend!
Nonfiction:
How to do the Work, by Dr. Nicole LePera
I think Dr. LePera is amazing. Her viewpoints on mental health are very similar to mine, in we both think it is of utmost importance to conceptualize and view humans holistically. Her beliefs also align with mine, being that hour-long therapy sessions every other week are typically not enough, and people must being willing to put in work outside of sessions if they want to see long-lasting results.
January
Fiction:
Malibu Rising, by Taylor Jenkins Reid
This story came highly recommended, and I definitely enjoyed it. If you are like me, and are interested in family dynamics and generational trauma, I recommend Malibu Rising! I also found it fascinating to be introduced to so many different characters throughout the book. If you’ve read this, or are going to, I’d love to know who your favorite character is!
Nonfiction:
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff and it’s all Small Stuff, by Richard Carlson
This book is amazing for my fellow overthinkers and catastrophizers! Each chapter teaches a concept for how to not sweat the small stuff. I read one chapter every morning (1.5 pages), write down what the concept means to me, and how I am going to be intentional about it. For example, chapter two is “Make peace with imperfection”. When I focus on the things that aren’t perfect, it takes my attention away from all the other good things. This usually looks like focusing on things I don’t have and want to buy online, instead of appreciating the things I already have. I applied this to my day by being mindful of focusing on all the things I already have, instead all of the things I don’t. I noticed my urge to buy new things decreased, and it felt good to be content with what I already had!
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