Sunday 17 December 2017

The Best of "On The Shelf"


Top 10 Reads for school, work and home

If you are looking to catch up on some reading over the Christmas Holidays, here are a few selections that may peak your curiosity.

"Together: Be Kind, Be Curious, Be Well"

Together:

"When Breath Becomes Air" by Abraham Verghese



This is a heartbreaking work of pure genius.  It allows us all to sit back and consider what is really important in our lives; being together with our families.  

Be Kind:

"Permission to Screw Up: How I learned to lead by doing (almost) everything wrong." by Kristen Hadeed


In a day and age where we are compelled to overachieve and shoot for perfection, it was empowering to hear Kristen Hadeed's adventures in imperfection.  It is also an insightful look into the brain of an accomplished and driven millennial.

Be Curious:

"Barking Up The Wrong Tree: The surprising science behind why everything you know about success is (mostly) wrong." By Eric Barker



I absolutely loved this book and it's approach to exploring all the current research in the area of social psychology.  Eric Barker neatly compartmentalizes some of the big questions we grapple with in our work and family lives.

Be Well

"Braving the Wilderness: The quest for belonging and the courage to stand alone." By Brene Brown


Like all of Brene Brown's work, this book is a triumph of story telling, of venerability, of empathy and of empowerment.  More than any other book I listened to this year, I enjoyed the quality of Brene Brown's voice and the personal energy she shares with her listeners.


Other Highlights from  "On The Shelf":

1. "The Originals: How non-conformists move the world forward," by Adam Grant


Adam Grant is quickly becoming one of my favourite authors.  He is a steadfast author who continually looks past the obvious to illuminate thoughts and ideas that can easily overlook.

2. "The Power of Moments: Why certain experiences have extraordinary impact," by Chip and Dan Heath

If you ever want to understand more about the human experience, turn to the Heath Brothers.  Each of their books is a slam dunk and will eave you with a better understanding of why we do and feel what we do and feel.

3. "Designing Your Life: How to build a well lived and joyful life," by Bill Burnett & Dave Evans

As we look further into the power of design thinking, this book really brings home the thought that we are empowered to design our best lives.  This book is filled with great tools for assisting us in our pursuit of a life well lived.

4. "Bored and Brilliant: Rediscovering the lost art of spacing out," by Manoush Zomorodi


In an era of distraction and overcommitment, this book is the perfect antidote.  Manoush will challenge you to take a hard look at your digital habits.

5. "Born a Crime: Stories from a South African childhood," by Trevor Noah



Another book that is really worth listening to.  Trevor Noah reads his own memoir and it is both hilarious and heartbreaking.  A journey worth taking!

6. "The Innovator's Mindset: Empower learning, unleash talent and lead a culture of creativity," by George Couros.

I first met George Couros in during my undergraduate education degree in Saskatoon.  From that moment forward, he continues to inspire me and anybody who reads his book or hears him speak.