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Bookstores. Libraries. Facebook. Amazon. YouTube. Sounds True. NPR. Suggestions from friends. Textbooks for class. I am sometimes overwhelmed by the volume of intriguing and inspiring resources that flow through my life.
Somehow, though, a subset of the whole rises to the top and I read or listen or watch...and learn...and am inspired. Today I am sharing my take on the year's "best-of-the best" new resources for personal growth.
So Many Books, So Little Time
Just One Thing: Rick Hanson. In this sequel to Buddha's Brain, Hanson translates the complex findings of neuro-psycho-spiritual research into simple steps for greater calm, wisdom, and connection with others.
The Now Habit: Neil Fiore. Procrastination is core challenge for many, an annoying tendency for many more. This book helps us to stop putting things off by building "the now habit" into our lives.
The Power of Habit: Charles Duhigg. We struggle with the disconnect between what we want long-term and what we do from day-to-day. Duhigg demonstrates that the effort of building a new behavioral pattern is more effective than relying on will- power in the moment of choice.
Eat What you Love, Love What You Eat: Michelle May. May believes that we have an instinct for healthy, delicious food. She suggests that a lifetime of rule-based deprivation can derail our inner food wisdom, and she offers an approach to getting onto the right track.
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking: Susan Cain.
The author shows not only how our culture rewards extroverts, but also how introverts can optimize their strengths as minorities in an antagonistic environment.
But it's not just about books!
In the past year, I have begun to explore the universe of recorded lectures and interviews, podcasts, and practices that complement the written word. That universe is so large that, rather than specific titles, I will suggest some favorite sources:
Sounds True: Hundreds of titles that range from guided meditation and yoga downloads to soothing music, extended audio courses, and interviews with experts in a variety of psychological and spiritual traditions. A subscription to their e-newsletter brings a weekly e-mail with a sampler of 3-4 free audio links.
Audible: This Amazon affiliate features audio in the full range of genres. I find it user-friendly, both for finding resources and ordering them.
You Tube I enjoy "surfing" this site in search of a new favorite author. When I see and hear these teachers in person while reading their books, the books themselves become more personal.
Websites: I also enjoy finding the website for an author or speaker who has impressed me. Links to related materials make for a virtual treasure hunt.
What were the best of the best for you in the past year?
What inspired you? Challenged your assumptions? Generated more ambitious visions of who you can and want to be? Made you smile? Or cry?
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