Brene Brown! I like her a lot! She is is renowned for her work on courage, shame, and vulnerability. And yes I have a copy of Atlas Of Heart on my shelf, and I became an even bigger fan after seeing her interview with Ellen DeGeneres: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PKMjBC56l4
I stumbled upon books recommended by her.
1. The Power of Starting Something Stupid (2012) by Richie Norton
There's HOPE for Danna Bananass after all! 🌈🍌💪😂💛
“Already getting me in a heap of trouble. As I was reading it, I made notes to Steve (my husband). When I was done I handed it to him and said, ‘This could change the way we live.'”
Norton runs the successful blog ‘Start Stuff’ and in this book he helps readers learn to recognize ideas that are the New Smart. Plenty of products that are now success stories were initially dismissed as stupid. This book will help you judge which ideas are worth pursuing, and give you the courage to live your dream. Norton advises readers to reassess throughout the process to ensure the idea remains relevant and innovative. He also speaks of the importance of networks, and expressing your gratitude to those who help you along the way.
2. Imperfect Courage (2018) by Jessica Honegger
“Both an invitation and a challenge to bravely show up for ourselves, for the people we love. I say, ‘Amen!’”
Drawing on her own experience as an entrepreneur with a successful fair-trade business, Honegger inspires readers to be courageous and chase their dreams. Her story shows the rewards you can gain from taking a risk. If we chose imperfect courage over comfort, our lives can be changed for the better. Honegger addresses the fact that women are encouraged to stay quiet – she shows that facing your fear and speaking out will open up many opportunities. It is clear why this book is one of Brown’s book recommendations as it shows the value of embracing your vulnerabilities.
3. Self-Compassion (2011) by Kristin Neff
“[The author]’s powerful research and her ability to explain how self-compassion affects our everyday lives makes this book a transformative read.”
This book teaches readers to treat themselves more kindly. Neff explains how many of us have a deeply-ingrained habit of self-criticism that stems from childhood and societal pressures often reinforce this sense of inadequacy. Neff shows that self-compassion is a better and ultimately more helpful alternative, and in this book of the same name, you will learn about techniques such as self-soothing and creating distance between yourself and negative emotions. Like Brené Brown, Neff encourages readers to be courageous and strive for better.
4. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
“There’s a great quote in this book: When you’re on the right path the universe conspires to help you!”
“The Alchemist” is a transformative tale that explores the journey of self-discovery and following one’s dreams. Brené Brown highly recommends this book for its profound insight into the human spirit and because it reminds us of the importance of cultivating courage, listening to our hearts, and daring to pursue our deepest desires. Coelho’s inspirational story showcases the power of resilience, intuition, and the pursuit of personal legends through the protagonist’s travels. Readers are reminded of their own limitless potential and are encouraged to embrace uncertainty and trust in the path that unfolds before them.
“There’s a great quote in this book: When you’re on the right path the universe conspires to help you!”
5. The Moment of Lift (2019) by Melinda Gates
“An urgent call to courage. It changed how I think about myself, my family, my work, and what’s possible in the world.”
This book focuses on empowering women and draws on the author’s experience as founder and co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Their mission has been to increase access to healthcare and reduce poverty. Tackling gender inequality was not originally one of their aims, but they came to realize that empowering women was essential to achieving their goals. The book shows how access to contraception and community healthcare initiatives can be transformative. Gates also strives to promote workplace diversity, particularly in the tech field.
6. Thirst by Scott Harrison
“About what matters most. Love.”
A captivating memoir that chronicles the transformative journey of the author from a nightclub promoter to a philanthropist and founder of charity: Water. In this book, Harrison shares his personal struggles and redemption, revealing the power of purpose and the profound impact one person can make in the lives of others. Brown praises Harrison’s vulnerability in recounting his own shortcomings and ultimate redemption, which encourages readers to confront their own fears and embrace vulnerability as a catalyst for change. She believes that “Thirst” is a powerful reminder that we all have the capacity to create positive change in the world, no matter where we come from or what we have been through.
7. Man's Search For Meaning by Viktor Frankl
Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor, writes about his experiences in concentration camps and how they shaped his understanding of life's purpose. He explores the concept of logotherapy, which is a form of psychotherapy focused on finding meaning in life, even in the most tragic circumstances. He found meaning in life despite suffering unimaginable grief.
The book is divided into two parts: the first focuses on Frankl's experiences in the camps, while the second delves into his theory of logotherapy and how it can help individuals cope with suffering by discovering a deeper sense of purpose.
Brene Brown did not recommend this one, but I did.
8. Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown
Brené Brown provides tools for embracing vulnerability, resilience, and empathy in everyday life.
— Danna B
I recommend Atlas of the Heart because it offers a deeply insightful exploration of human emotions and experiences, helping readers understand and navigate the complexity of their feelings. In the book, Brown identifies and defines 87 different emotions and experiences, providing rich context and research-backed insights into each one.
On that note, let's be kind and empathetic to each other. It might sound a bit corny, but it's true, don't you think?
other book suggestions via blinkist