What to read May ‘24
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 May ‘24:
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown
The more we try to do, the less we actually accomplish. This paradox haunts our productivity-obsessed culture, where "busy" has become a status symbol rather than a warning sign.
McKeown's "Essentialism" isn't just another productivity manifesto – Through compelling case studies and behavioural science, he demonstrates how successful people aren't those who do everything but those who do the right things.
McKeown's framework suggests that every "yes" you say is actually saying "no" to dozens of other opportunities. The real question isn't "Can I do it all?" but "Should I even try?"
Read this if:
You keep on apologising for delayed responses
The phrase "I'm just so busy" has become your personal mantra
You secretly envy people who seem to accomplish more by doing less
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? Burnout isn't a personal failure; it's a systemic response to impossible expectations. When you understand that your exhaustion is a rational reaction to irrational demands, everything changes.
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 Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* by Mark Manson
In times when everyone's trying to optimise their happiness, Manson presents his view: maybe the pursuit of perpetual positivity is part of the problem. Drawing from both stoic philosophy and contemporary psychology, he makes a compelling case for selective caring.
What sets this book apart isn't just its colourful language—it's how Manson uses behavioural research to challenge self-help.
People who try to care deeply about everything end up caring effectively about nothing. Manson's framework helps you identify what actually deserves your limited emotional bandwidth.
Read this if:
You're exhausted from pretending everything's "fine"
You need permission to stop caring about things that don't matter
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?
https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/tracking-wonder/202312/curiosity-is-key-to-boosting-work-engagement-and-creativity
https://thiscuriouslife.uknica.co.uk/the-curious-path-to-longevity-how-being-curious-can-help-you-live-longer-and-better/#:~:text=For%20instance%2C%20one%20study%20published,than%20those%20who%20did%20not.&text=While%20it%20may%20be%20tempting,Better%20Age%20positive%20photo%20library.