Growth Junkie Gets a Hit

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There's nothing quite like a good book. Oprah talks about her 4 and 5 star experiences, and me curled up in a comfy seat, with a blanket, a cup of chai, and a good book is about as 5 star as they come. I've always been a bit of a book nerd. Growing up, I didn't get much "stuff" in excess but my mom would never say no to buying books. She would say, "As long as you read them." And so I did.
When personal development became a part of my job, I grabbed a hold with both hands. And I still prefer the old school way of a real book, flipping pages.
Truth be told, I wouldn't have made it through entrepreneurship without the valuable stories, skills, and mindset techniques that I've grabbed along the way. I think I have now become addicted to finding that next book that will take me to that next level of me. I need my growth fix.
And my recent mindset has had me longing for less noise, more connection, less comparison, and more strength to be the best me. I always feel there aren't enough books out there by mommas out doing big things, sharing their triumphs and struggles of building and momming. But that's what my soul really needed and these are the three I found and that all made a huge imprint on my heart and subsequently my parenting and coaching. The Magnolia Story, Present Over Perfect, and Braving the Wilderness.
Here are my biggest takeaways:
1) Every overnight success has a mountain of failures that you don't see. Most successful entrepreneurs or stars, really are taken to their knees before they rise.
2) You won't rise, ever, unless you stay true to you. Way harder these days when so many of us are consumed with comparison that we can't even get quiet enough to find who we are to even stay true to.
3) Take up space. Fill up the world with the really awesome you.
4) Some things cost too much (that's actually from Jim Rohn). But the lesson is clear. It's not worth compromising your health, your love, your family, and you. Don't sacrifice the best you. Don't sell out.
5) We are more alike than different. All of us yearning for love and belonging and recognition and purpose.

SO often I read these things, apply them for the moment until my "what's next" cycle starts. But right now, I am still dwelling in these concepts. Still marinating and breathing through. I am taking a conscious pause to really create permanent growth so that I can make a lasting impact in my life and others.

Which books have changed your life? I have a few more over in my library.