Read: I am Definitely, Probably Enough (I Think) (#53-2022)

I am Definitely, Probably Enough (I Think): Revelations on the Journey to Self-Love by Tori Press

This is just such a cute, needed way to remind myself that I'm actually okay. And enough. It's well thought out, using the phrases and words that are most poignant for someone who is questioning themself and their enough-ness at any given moment. 

And the best part is that it didn't take a lot of effort to read it. It's simple and does exactly what it needs to do in very few words. 

(#53-2022)

Read: Daring Greatly (#45-2022)

Daring Greatly by Brene Brown

As a shame researcher, Brene Brown takes an interesting perspective to teach us how to live our best selves. In Daring Greatly, she encourages us to embrace our vulnerability and imperfection, to live wholeheartedly, and to courageously engage in our lives. Every moment where we choose to experience uncertainty, risk and emotional exposure gives us the chance to dare greatly in our life. 

Read: Enough Already (#11-2022)

Enough Already: Learning to Love the Way I am Today by Valerie Bertinelli

The third biographical book by Valerie Bertinelli switches pace from her previous books to talk about life, loss and joy.  This book isn't about a particular journey or struggle, but about all the journeys and struggles that make life what it is. And about learning how to be (and love) yourself today, despite societies expectations.

Read: Losing It (#08-2022)

Losing It, and Getting My Life Back One Pound at a Time by Valerie Bertinelli

Valerie Bertinelli shares her story up to losing weight as a Jenny Craig spokesperson. She talks about her time on One Day at a Time, through marrying Eddie Van Halen, divorcing him, having her son and the acting roles she played up to and between. Her struggles with self-image and societal/Hollywood expectations are central to her continuing story, which she shares herself in a way that helps to motivate and inspire her reader, even if it's not necessarily her intention.

I Read: Successful Women Speak Differently

Successful Women Speak Differently: 9 Habits that Build Confidence, Courage & Influence by Valorie Burton

This is the third of a pack of Valorie Burton books that I picked up and each book dovetails in and reinforces the others nicely. Much of what is included in each book is repeated in some form or another in the other books. 

Much of what is included is common sense information - but it's the kind of common sense that requires someone else to tell you before you make the realization. Burton is conversational and non-judgemental. Her writing style is easy to read so the information is easier to take in. 

My goal is not to be traditionally "successful" - I just want to lead a happy life.  These books can help with that. 

 

#63-2021

I Read: Happy Women Live Differently

Happy Women Live Differently: 13 Ways to Trigger Your Happiness Every Day by Valorie Burton

I love the logic with which Valorie Burton writes. Nothing she says in her books is particularly groundbreaking, or earth-shattering, but most people would never reach these conclusions on their own. 

The thirteen triggers or areas that we each need to look at in order to live our best life are fairly simple to see. And taken individually they are also easy to adapt into your own life. You may not want to change all of them, but you can acknowledge that making the changes might increase the happiness in your life. 

The biggest take away from the book is to be at least content with your life the way that it is now. Dream big, keep striving, but don't expect reaching those goals to provide the miracle of happiness. Be happy now. Be happy with what you have now. Then strive to be better. 

#48-2021