Exhilarating, compelling, and often intimate—reading is a simple, yet timeless activity that can easily and effortlessly expand our minds and engage our imaginations. Whether it’s the fantasy of “Lord of the Rings,” the swashbuckling adventure of “The Princess Bride,” or the mystery of “The Da Vinci Code,” books have the magnificent power to make the unbelievable believable. They can simultaneously teach, inform, and inspire!
As we performers huddle more deeply into our nuclear worlds for just a while longer, and eagerly await the arrival of a brand new year, this is a perfect time to cozy up in our blankets to read a book! So, in that spirit, here are some books that hopefully will motivate you to hope, dream, and create.
1. “The Power of Vulnerability” by Dr. Brené Brown
This one really is a no-brainer. One of Dr. Brown’s most famous Ted Talks, this session is also available as an audiobook. A deep exploration of human connections, the book offers a deep insight into emotions like love, fear, and shame—and how we connect it with vulnerability. It’s full of relatable anecdotes from Dr. Brown’s life and research, and in the end, it allows you to be more courageous toward yourself and more empathetic toward others. It’s a must-read or listen!
2. “Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand in the Sun and Be Your Own Person” by Shonda Rhimes
This book will always be memorable to me for the simple anecdote that Rhimes shares about going to President Obama’s inauguration. To get the full cliff-hanger account, you’ll have to read the book! For those of us creators who struggle with insecurities, lack of confidence, and willpower, this book is a gentle reminder that even the best among us are prone to these limiting beliefs. Rhimes, in her characteristically emboldened and authentic way, reveals the herculean effort it takes to consciously change our lives for the better and to keep charging ahead.
3. “The Slight Edge” by Jeff Olson
As we radically altered our lifestyles to adapt to a “new normal” during this tough and often frustrating year, this book helps in easing the pressure and carving out a more acceptable path. Instead of getting overwhelmed and eventually burning out, the book shows that by staying consistent and doing a little every day, we can seamlessly incorporate our desired habits into our lives—without fear and stress; strategically and systematically.
5 TV Shows + Movies Actors Can Turn To for Inspiration 4. “Twilight” and “Midnight Sun” by Stephenie Meyer
The entire “Twilight” saga is definitely written for a younger audience, and at times can be long-winded about the wonders and the intensity of first love. However, if you want to understand the subtle development and the complex journey of a character, these books are an exciting read! “Twilight,” the first book in the series, introduces us to Bella and documents her inner turmoil and anguish upon falling in love with Edward and finding herself to be not good enough for his love. “Midnight Sun” tells us the same story, but this time from Edward’s perspective and the anguish he experiences about finding himself to be not good enough for her love! It’s amusing to see both of them put on a brave face while hiding their real emotions. The story brilliantly emphasizes the difference between inner monologue vs. spoken dialogue, while serving as a staunch reminder of just how flawed, broken, and imperfect human interactions are. The story itself is endearing and exciting, and leaves you yearning for a happy ending!
5. “The Alchemist, 25th Anniversary: A Fable About Following Your Dream” by Paulo Coelho
This masterpiece about self-discovery remains a perennial favorite among artists, athletes, and creators all over the world! Here’s how Neil Patrick Harris describes his experience of reading this book: “It’s a brilliant, magical, life-changing book that continues to blow my mind with its lessons.” I’ve read this book multiple times over the years, and I’m always humbled by the simplicity and the depth of the lesson—that which we seek lies within us and to journey outward we must first travel inwards. But can we be courageous enough to take the journey?
6. “Across That Bridge: Life Lessons and a Vision for Change” by John Lewis
A civil rights icon and a humble and devoted public servant, the late congressman championed social justice through non-violence. I’m forever awe-struck by people who face severe challenges in their lives and yet somehow transform into compassionate warriors for peace and equality. Read this book to truly get inspired and motivated to become a force for positive change.
I hope these books will help wash away the holiday blues and wipe away the frustration of the year gone by to fill you with excitement for the bundle of joy that will be the year 2021.
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