Many of us spend decades studying, perfecting, and performing to achieve what’s “next” in our lives. Whether that’s a job, parenting milestone, or credential, we’re wired to learn. And growth doesn’t only feel good, it can help bring more alignment, meaning and opportunity.
Wisdom, however, isn’t a prize on the linear path of tackling goals. It’s dot connecting. The critical thinking that no one book, course, experience or life path can teach. This is the final installment from our “health, wealth and wisdom,” summer learning series, with incredible books to help unlock your next level of clarity and discernment.
Start Your Movement
The Purpose of Power: How We Come Together When We Fall Apart
“If we perpetuate the same dynamics that we aim to disrupt in our movements for change, we are not interrupting power and we are not creating change-we are merely rebranding the same set of practices and the same dysfunctions.”Alicia Garza, Activist, Author and co-founder, Black Lives Matter.
Although Alicia is the co-founder of the Black Lives Matter movement, and it’s referenced, the book isn’t really about that. It’s part memoir and part guide to the crucial elements of movement making. Like community building, inclusive engagement, stakeholder management and thoughtful ways to turn ideas into coordinated action. It’s fascinating and a must read if you’re working or volunteering to evolve entrenched systems of any kind.
Build Trust and Lead from Any Role
Self-Guide to DEI: Understanding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the Workplace
“It’s not about the intent, it’s about the impact.” Su Joun, Entrepreneur and DEI Expert
Many organizations rushed to teach Diversity, Equity and Inclusion principles in 2020 for the first time, in response to collective grief and empathy. However, when a surprising number of those same organizations withdrew not only their commitments, but learning and development efforts, many workers felt adrift.
The good news? You can continue your education to build, nurture and lead a diverse and inclusive workforce. This book focuses on you, and provides a safe space for inquiry about your own beliefs and behaviors. Su’s thoughtful, iterative guide provides a series of writing prompts that spark self-reflection to inform and strengthen your leadership toolkit.
Activate Your Purpose and Live With Presence
Sister Outsider: Essays and Speeches: Crossing Press Feminist Series
“Sometimes we are blessed with being able to choose the time, and the arena, and the manner of our revolution,
but more usually we must do battle where we are standing.” Audre Lorde, Poet, Scholar, and Activist
I’ve read this book multiple times now, and it’s stunning how insightful, clear and powerful scholar and poet Audre Lorde’s words are, decades after her passing. She highlights how to see and unwind socialized distance from ‘isms’ that divide us like race, socioeconomics, gender, sexuality, ethnicity and faith. She also highlights how love, understanding and historical perspectives can free us from feeling alone in our struggles or triumphs.
Honor Your Gifts with Your Voice
Unlearning Silence: How to Speak Your Mind, Unleash Talent, and Live More Fully
“For me, voice is not only the words that we say. Fundamentally it’s, ‘do I get to be who I am?’ Whereas silence of course means, ‘I don’t. Or I have to edit out parts of myself to be accepted’ in order to stay in this relationship or organization.” Elaine Lin Herring, Entrepreneur, Speaker and Consultant
This book is as much about reclaiming selfhood from repression, as it is about tapping confidence to change from the inside out. Elaine’s thoughtful stories, examples, and personal evolution to grow her voice is relatable, at any stage of your self-discovery.
Silence is not ‘one thing’ or even a few things, it’s a way of engaging with certain topics, people, or settings that we often perceive as safer. She explains in the book, you get to choose how, when and what speed you use your voice. Learn more from our conversation, “Learn to Speak Your Truth And Heal From Being Unseen.”
Listen Deeply and Communicate Intentionally
Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillian, and Al Switzler
“Respect is like air. As long as it’s present, nobody thinks about it. But if you take it away, it’s all that people can think about. The instant people perceive disrespect in a conversation, the interaction is no longer about the original purpose—it is now about defending dignity.” Ron McMillan, co-Author, Researcher, Consultant
I’ve also read this book several times. Whether you are navigating an important conversation with a manager, colleague, partner, or children, the book provides a set of tools, scripts, and guiding principles that reduce the likelihood high-stakes conversations will go off the rails. This isn’t simply a negotiation book; it’s for any discussions where feelings and process are as important as the topic or outcome.
Yes, most of us are compelled to learn new skills for our chosen professions. However, we can expand and deepen our wisdom and grow on our own schedules. So, set the learning agenda that’s meaningful for your priorities, at move at the speed that feels right for your current season of life.
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📚 Buy the new book, Repair with Self-Care: Your Guide to the Mom’s Hierarchy of Needs.
Enjoy the gift of more time for wellbeing and growth. Plus delightful self-care packages for Moms, delivered to your door.
Ready to put yourself back onto your to-do list? Take a TimeCheck.
Shared your story yet? Take our quick survey to change how workplaces support parents.
Employers, become Allies@Work
