If you read our last blog post on 10 Easy Ways to Spark a Healthier Happier You - you'll know we love a good read to unwind, Press Pause, and enjoy some me time.
On to January - with its fresh starts and well-intentioned resolutions, it feels like the perfect time to dive into stories and ideas that inspire reflection and growth.
This month, we’ve selected three compelling reads to set the tone: a memoir of resilience, a guide to embracing imperfections, and a manifesto for productivity. Each offers a unique perspective on mental health and wellbeing, with a touch of dry wit and wisdom – just how we like it.
So, without further ado, here’s what we’re reading this January:
1. The Outrun by Amy Liptrot
A raw and poignant memoir, The Outrun chronicles Amy Liptrot’s journey to sobriety amidst the rugged beauty of the Orkney Islands. It’s a vivid exploration of addiction, recovery, and the healing power of nature.
January, with its “Dry January” movement, is a fitting time to reflect on our relationship with alcohol and the value of clarity in both mind and body.
Liptrot’s story reminds us that while the path to recovery may be challenging, it’s also filled with hope, self-discovery, and the grounding force of the natural world.
For those seeking inspiration in their journey to better mental health and sobriety, The Outrun is a must-read.
This book is truly the apple of our eye for starting the year right.
Love a movie adaptation? The Outrun was recently released as a movie (2024) starring Saoirse Ronan and rated 4/5 by The Guardian.
2. The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown
Ah, January – the month of lofty goals and the ever-elusive “perfect” fresh start. Enter Brené Brown, a master of making imperfection downright inspirational.
The Gifts of Imperfection invites us to ditch the impossible quest for perfection and instead embrace authenticity, courage, and self-compassion.
In a world that often equates success with spotless Instagram feeds, Brown’s wisdom is a much-needed reminder that our imperfections are what make us human – and quite frankly, rather fabulous.
If you’re grappling with unrealistic expectations for the year ahead, this book offers a refreshing perspective to cultivate a more balanced and joyful mindset.
Pear-haps (ha!) it’s time we all learn to relish our perfectly imperfect selves.
3. Eat That Frog! by Brain Tracy
Resolutions, meet reality.
Eat That Frog! takes a refreshingly pragmatic approach to tackling life’s most daunting tasks. Brian Tracy’s philosophy is simple: prioritise what matters most, do it first, and watch the rest fall into place.
This isn’t about setting unattainable goals or berating yourself when they falter; it’s about being kind to your future self by focusing on what will truly make a difference.
Tracy’s advice is the antidote to New Year’s guilt trips and a gentle nudge toward progress over perfection.
For anyone looking to make meaningful progress in their personal or professional life, this book is an absolute game-changer.
It’s a fruitful way to kickstart your productivity and get things done.
As we turn the page...
to a new year, let’s remember that self-improvement isn’t about grand declarations or overnight transformations. It’s about small, intentional steps toward a more grounded and fulfilling life.
Whether you’re:
- Finding solace in nature with Amy Liptrot
- Embracing imperfection with Brené Brown
- Conquering your “frogs” with Brian Tracy
we hope these books offer a dose of inspiration, perspective, and perhaps even a chuckle or two. After all, it’s the zest we can do to keep our spirits high.
Drop a comment below to let us know if you've read these books and your review, or let us know what we should be reading next month!