Yep. That's the goal. 40 books by the end of this year... I can't tell you the last time I read 10 books in a year that were not school related.
Backstory: A co-worker and I have challenged ourselves to read 40 books by the end of this year back in March. Seemed like a pretty achievable goal at the time, but it is now May 11th and I have read 1.5 books. With summer approaching and a more routine schedule for the next few months in sight, I have a good feeling a can check off a good chunk of that 40 this summer. While I have all the intentions in the world, I lack the motivation because #TheHandmaidsTale. (have any of y'all started that show?!? it's soooo good & 10/10 recommend).
Nevertheless, I will complete this challenge and will keep you updated as a complete each book, following the same layout below for each one.
Side note: if you have any book recommendations, let me know!
The journey of 40 books starts with page 1
Book 1/40 The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are
by Brené Brown
Amazon Review: 4.6/5 stars
Amazon Description: In The Gifts of Imperfection, BrenĂ© Brown, a leading expert on shame, authenticity, and belonging, shares ten guideposts on the power of Wholehearted living—a way of engaging with the world from a place of worthiness.
Each day we face a barrage of images and messages from society and the media telling us who, what, and how we should be. We are led to believe that if we could only look perfect and lead perfect lives, we'd no longer feel inadequate. So most of us perform, please, and perfect, all the while thinking, "What if I can't keep all of these balls in the air? Why isn't everyone else working harder and living up to my expectations? What will people think if I fail or give up? When can I stop proving myself?"
In her ten guideposts, Brown engages our minds, hearts, and spirits as she explores how we can cultivate the courage, compassion, and connection to wake up in the morning and think, "No matter what gets done and how much is left undone, I am enough," and to go to bed at night thinking, "Yes, I am sometimes afraid, but I am also brave. And, yes, I am imperfect and vulnerable, but that doesn't change the truth that I am worthy of love and belonging."
My Thoughts: WOW WOW WOW! I absolutely loved this book and its life changing words of wisdom. The Gifts of Imperfection has been a source of inspiration for the Wholehearted living thing that I have begun to adapt as a lifestyle. I checked this book out at the Lubbock Public Library and found myself desperately wanting to underline everything that was amazing and good, but instead now have 50+ pictures of chunks of text that I literally finger snapped and said 'preach' to as I read. As soon as I finished the book, I immediately purchased it off Amazon. I have a feeling this book will come in handy in the future - whether as a refresher for myself or something I can lend to a friend. I HIGHLY recommend this book for anyone who is struggling to truly let go of who they think they are supposed to be & want to embrace who they truly are.
