If you find reading a chore, there is a high possibility you are reading the wrong book. Find something you are interested in and stick with it. Sometimes a book can take a couple of chapters to get into, just like your favourite series. Why not introduce this as a New Year goal? Once you feel comfortable enough, try heading to a quiet coffee shop and let yourself slip slowly into a world of literature. Of course, the books selected are subject to my own personal opinion, but the books below have been chosen to re-align your emotional intelligence and primarily focus on everyday relationships.
- 101 essays that will change the way you think by Brianna Weist
You may have seen the philosophical writing by Brianna Weist before. This is seen and unseen features which teach us how to embrace negative thinking, seeing the wisdom in daily routine, and become aware of the cognitive barriers that are preventing you from living a more fulfilled life. “Almost every great master, artist, teacher, innovator, inventor, and generally happy person could attribute some similar understanding to their success.”
- Surrounded by Idiots by Thomas Erikson
Have you ever felt like you are completely surrounded by people who don’t think like you? This book is wonderful at delving into the four types of human behaviour. Or, to be put simply, how to understand those who cannot be understood. Erikson colour codes the four personality types and looks at how we can understand the way each personality type might think, look at a particular situation, or the way they speak to others. It also allows space for you to look at your own communication skills and address how you can become a better listener, handle conflict with others with confidence and help you get the best out of people you manage or work with. He also offers advice on when to speak up and likewise, be quiet.
- Women who think too much by Susan Nolen-Hoeksema.
How to break free of over thinking. A cycle many of us wish we could escape from. Women who think too much provides strategies to help push aside negative thinking. Written by renowned psychologist Dr Susan Nolen-Hoeksema who is the author of five books and professor of psychology.
- Fiona and Jane by Jean Chen Ho
Described as a “Knock-out of a book”, Fiona and Jane is a fiction novel diving into the perplexities of friendship. Growing up as best friends, they try to navigate their teenage troubles but stumble upon a house move that they weren’t prepared for. When Fiona moves across the country, their bond weakens. This book highlights the power of female friendship and investigates both perspectives in this dual narrative.
- The Strength In Our Scars by Brianna Sparacino
“You are not broken, you are becoming”. A complete mixture of poetry and prose from philosophical writer Brianna Sparacino. The Strength in Our Scars addresses self-love and learning to heal. Within this book you will find strength, understanding and peace. “Whatever is lost within you has also brought you back home to yourself. Whatever is hurt within you is also healing you in ways you may not understand at that moment in time.”
By Hollie Warwick