Below is a short list of some of our favourite - tried and true - books, links and odds and ends we'd like to share with you. Check back now and then for new additions. And feel free to CONTACT US and let us know what you think!
READINGS
Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway by Susan Jeffrers
Susan Jeffers’ book is a classic about courage. Single most inspiring idea: “Success is...living a full and balanced life in partnership with others to create a joyful feeling of love, contribution, appreciation and abundance—despite how our endeavors may turn out.”
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
Steven Covey’s insights are all about making life purposeful and good. He talks about everything from parenting to relationships, mediation to counseling. Single most inspiring thought: “Happiness, like unhappiness, is a proactive choice.”
Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus by John Gray
John Gray writes with clarity about how we give and receive love—differently, depending on our sex. He answers the question of why many men tend to withdraw when wounded, and how this can cause conflict with the women in their lives.
The Seven Principles For Making Marriage Work by John M. Gottman
John Gottman shares extraordinary information about couples who stay together. The good news: they do argue, and they don't resolve every problem like diplomats. The book’s quizzes, checklists, and exercises are useful and enlightening.
Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
Brené Brown brings us the insight that “Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen.” She shows us that, “Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability, and authenticity. If we want greater clarity in our purpose or deeper and more meaningful spiritual lives, vulnerability is the path.”
How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk by Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish
Authors Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish teach parents the techniques to truly help our kids. It’s all about staying calm and carrying on, communicating and resolving family conflicts peacefully. Lots of reviewers call this their “favorite parenting book.”
The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman
One of Gary Chapman’s greatest insights about couples: “People tend to criticize their spouse most loudly in the area where they themselves have the deepest emotional need.” The secrets to making love last: trust, security, and being fluent in your partner’s love language.
His Needs, Her Needs by Willard F. Harley, Jr
Knowing your partner’s emotional needs—and courageously addressing those needs. This is how Dr. Willard Harley motivates us to make marriage fulfilling—and exciting.
The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck
This is M. Scott Peck’s classic book about coping—and finding clarity and satisfaction in life. Being truthful and responsible, knowing how to balance needs and delay gratification: these are the keys we’re given in life.
LINKS
Great lists and fun words to support your life:
http://www.marcandangel.com/
How to work your way toward lasting happiness:
http://www.happify.com/
Great site for young adults and teens who want coaching, not therapy. Coaching is online, in an age-appropriate way.
http://www.joinblush.com/
Fostering peace and tolerance among children:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4BAfrJUWiQ
How to succeed—gently. A TED talk by Alain de Botton.
http://www.ted.com/talks/alain_de_botton_a_kinder_gentler_philosophy_of_success
Brené Brown talks about the people who really count in your life (spoiler alert: it’s not the critics who really matter)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8-JXOnFOXQk
Daring Greatly—the book, the author, and the inspiration
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdN9-DN09vk
The power of vulnerability—powerfully presented by researcher Brené Brown
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEPbkvhPuRk
How to get more love into your relationship—from The Five Love Languages author Gary Chapman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2Nscf6D7nQ
INSPIRATION
Otherwise by Jane Kenyon
I got out of bed
on two strong legs.
It might have been
otherwise. I ate
cereal, sweet
milk, ripe, flawless
peach. It might
have been otherwise.
I took the dog uphill
to the birch wood.
All morning I did
the work I love.
At noon I lay down
with my mate. It might
have been otherwise.
We ate dinner together
at a table with silver
candlesticks. It might
have been otherwise.
I slept in a bed
in a room with paintings
on the walls, and
planned another day
just like this day.
But one day, I know,
it will be otherwise.
from Otherwise, 1996
Graywolf Press, St. Paul, Minn.
