Dreams love a bit of nourishing, and reading is one of the ways I do that. Here’s six of my personal favourite books, that have provided insight, a big dose of inspiration, plentiful encouragement and comfort, and many laughs too.
So here they are, together with a seriously condensed summary of how they have aided me in my dreams for More to…
Who moved my cheese?
by Dr Spencer Johnson
If you were a mouse and your cheese supply suddenly vanished, what would you do? This lovely little story describes different ways of responding to change, with practical tips to handle both the unexpected and new directions you choose to pursue.
What I loved: Actively look for what you want.
Fish!
by Stephen Lundin, Harry Paul, John Christensen
Based on a real fish market in Seattle, this story describes how they turned a miserable, cold, damp, start-at-4am every morning job into fun, energetic place to work – and a worldwide tourist attraction.
What I loved: Fun, and connecting with the people you work with, go together.
Jonathan Livingston Seagull
by Richard Bach
Another fable, about a seagull – which you probably guessed – who lives life his way and follows what gets him exhilarated. For “people who know there’s more to this whole living thing than meets the eye.”
What I loved: If you love it, do it. (Perhaps to be more explicit – if you love it and it does no harm to others, do it!)
Start Where you are
by Pema Chodron
Down to earth acknowledgement of all the stuff of life – tough times, good times and how to function fully throughout them all. A great companion if you feel you have any emotional baggage or current limitations in your way.
I loved: Be patient with yourself, you’re human and that is both a magnificent and a ludicrous condition!
F**k it
by John Parkin
Superb read for anyone who has ever worried, John describes & explains how to let go of ego-related importance and the kind of grasping that has an edge of desperation to it. The result – more caring, more fun, more presence and more generosity – which is perhaps not what everyone expects from the title!
I loved: Hold dreams, goals and people lightly, with a smile.
The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari
by Robin Sharma
A mystical tale, so densely packed with insights into ways of living happily & beautifully that my copy is covered in notes & exclamation marks. It’s unusual, sure, and combines that with practical things any one can put into practise and gain from.
I loved: Find out what you love and then direct all your energy towards doing it.
So now I’m wondering … which books do you reach for when you want a touch of inspiration or encouragement? Can we share a little virtual Inspiration Library?
by Sarah Maliphant
December 30th 2011
With thanks to Linda x
Make time for your dreams this year. Let our friendly and easy-going team feed you home cooked meals made with local produce, guide you on inspiring walks in the peaceful Welsh mountains, give you tea & cake, provide professional masseuse & reflexologist and generally create a lovely bit of space for you to recharge, refocus and create more of the lifestyle that you dream of http://www.more-to.org
lindastories says
Definitely some books there for me – F**k It (gasp did I spell that right!). Surprised you didn’t include the Diving Bell and the Butterfly.
Nicky Kriel says
A great list and I realise that I have more books to add to my list.
Craig says
“The Man Who Planted Trees” (aka L’homme qui plantait des arbes)…stop and think about what you’re really striving for. 🙂