So, here’s the deal. I’m not a voracious reader. I love a good “sucked me in” type book, but rarely do I make the time to enjoy one. In fact, oftentimes when I am sucked in, it comes at the cost of sleep! Anyway, I did dig into a few books in 2022 that I really enjoyed. Warning: Most of what I read is self-help. (And 2022 was no exception.)
Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life
Bill Perkins
Okay, let’s be honest. A friend loaned me her copy of this book, and the title sucked me right in. If there’s one thing we (Americans) don’t want to talk about, it’s the inevitable: death. This book is about maximizing life experiences and not being so set on a bank account number (read: retirement goal) that you forget to live! I loved everything about it. Takeaway quote: “The business of life is the acquisition of memories . . . you retire on your memories.”
The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters
Priya Parker
I loved this book so much! Reading it on the tail end of a pandemic, which prohibited gatherings, was really profound. The author spent time discussing not just gathering, but meaningful gatherings, which lead to meaningful experiences. So often we gather because we should, not because we want to or even hope to walk away changed or different in some way. This book caused me to pause and rethink the why behind so many gatherings and meetings that I’m a part of.
The Power of One: A Novel
Bryce Courtenay
I struggled a bit with this one, but I’m glad I stuck it out. I loved the slow roll of the character development and the way the characters became a part of my brain. This is an incredible story of a little boy in South Africa and his friendship with an older man who teaches him so much about life. There’s humiliation, abandonment, heroic actions and dreams, superstition, and prejudice. You really experience a wide range of emotions while taking this one in.
Ninja Selling: Subtle Skills. Big Results.
Larry Kendall
Well, this one goes without saying. I love it! Ninja selling is a methodology for sales. Kendall discusses the why and the how of organizing your business database, your schedule, and your daily habits to achieve personal and real estate goals. This one actually sits on my desk because I reference it regularly. Bonus: It’s a super easy read. The work comes in applying the knowledge.
The Lazy Genius Way: Embrace What Matters, Ditch What Doesn’t, and Get Stuff Done
Kendra Adachi
This gal really is genius. I loved this book because it is so practical. The author spends time sharing her life hacks and productivity strategies to do what matters most. When finished, I felt like I had permission to decide what matters to me and what doesn’t. Two biggest takeaways: Decide Once and Live in the Season. Both are critically important to me in this stage of life!
The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living
Meik Wiking
I loved this easy read! So many people poo-poo winter and cold and darkness, and this book gives us every reason to LOVE it. Danes are the happiest people in the world, largely in part to their Hygge living—comfort, togetherness, well-being. I loved the advice and ideas on how to incorporate these ideas into our home. What’s not to love about cozy blankets, shared meal prep, and candles aglow?
First book for 2023: November 9 by Colleen Hoover. I’m hearing rave reviews. And, bonus, it’s not self-help. HA! I’ll be sure to report back!
Leave a Reply