WINTER READS...

Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis

I first heard about Rachel and started listening to her podcast, then following her on Instagram.  After reading her book, I can see why she has such a large following.  It's a book about  how to stop believing the lies about who you think you are so you can become who you were meant to be.  She's had a lot of different life experiences including overcoming a family tragedy, being on her own at 18, and building a successful company without a college degree.  She shared how her eyes were opened to diversity as a teenager on a trip, and how in her little hometown church there was only one "right" way to be.  This book helps you realize you need to GIVE YOURSELF GRACE.  She honestly made me feel a little more comfortable about some of my past experiences.  Her conversational approach to writing drew me in and I loved her practical tips at the end of each chapter. The chapters about body image and marriage were especially meaningful to me.  I'm not building a big business like she is, but her teachings are especially for women that are.

The Year of Less by Cait Flanders

A topic I've been interested in for several years, Cait shares her personal story of addiction to shopping, alcohol and food.  She changed her personal habits and discovered what really matters to her.  She doesn't really describe steps to change, but it's an interesting read.

The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin

An interesting book of self-reflection, Gretchen determined 12 ways she could make her life happier and set out to work on each area of her life, one each month of the year.  Some she felt benefitted her, some she did not.  One of the things I thought was interesting was the month she wanted to work on her relationship with her husband.  She decided to quit nitpicking and leave 3 things unsaid each day. She felt like she was happier not arguing over the little things and that her relationship with him did improve.  I thought that was a unique idea, and so I've decided that's something I could try.  Some things are better left unsaid.  It makes you think about some simple things you might do or improve in your life that bring a lot more happiness to your days.  I really like to check in on her blog - she's always discussing interesting things or sharing a new book she read.

Creative Courage by Welby Altidor

Anything on creative leadership piques my curiosity, and this one was really heady.  Welby was a creative director for Cirque du Soleil and reflects on leadership with creative people and even has suggested exercises for those looking to build a creative team.