What to read August ‘23
A curated list of books that don't just fill your shelves—the kind of books that sit with you long after you’ve turned the last page
‘What to read’ is my end-of-the-month recommendation and round-up of the books I read last month, which I think you would enjoy during your coffee breaks.
It is a short, curated list of books that don't just fill your shelves—the kind of books that sit with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
These could be the books which provoked:
The ideas that changed my mind unexpectedly (and could do the same for you)
The reflections that inspired me to see the world a little differently
Curiosity. You should know that curiosity not only boosts creativity but also helps you live longer, according to recent research...”1
Best discoveries from August ‘23:
Overwhelmed by Brigid Schulte
Americans work 47 more hours per year than in 1979, yet feel less accomplished. Schulte's book reveals why: we've confused busyness with productivity.
The most striking finding is that women perform 65% more unpaid work than men, creating a "second shift" that compounds overwhelm.
Read this if:
Your to-do list has become your identity
Your "free time" feels like a joke
You're exhausted all the time
Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily and Amelia Nagoski
The Nagoski sisters’ research reveals what previous burnout literature got wrong: it's not just about managing stress, but completing the stress cycle. Think about it – our bodies still react to work deadlines like we're running from predators, but instead of fighting or fleeing, we're sitting in meetings pretending everything's fine.
The most fascinating finding is that burnout isn't a personal failure; it's a systemic response to impossible expectations. Everything changes when you understand that your exhaustion is a rational reaction to irrational demands.
Read this if:
You're tired of being told to "just meditate more"
Your role of [fill in the blank] feels unsustainable
You need evidence-based hope that recovery is possible
The Upside of Stress by Kelly McGonigal
The data is fascinating: people who view stress as helpful show 23% lower cortisol levels than those who see it as harmful. McGonigal's book turns everything we thought we knew about pressure upside down.
Most provocative finding? Stress avoidance is more damaging than stress itself, leading to more anxiety and less resilience.
Read this if:
You've tried to eliminate stress (and failed)
That’s my list, what is yours? You know me, I’m always eager to get good book recommendations. What have you been reading the past month?