I’m a sucker for a good romance novel, but one of my goals this year is to incorporate some non-fiction reading into my repertoire. I’ve got five nonfiction books currently stacked on my nightstand, waiting for me to dive in.

Do Less by Kate Northrup

I first heard about Kate Northrup’s book and theories on Jenna Kutcher’s podcast (listen to the episode here for the scoop). Northrup has a scientifically-proven and data-driven strategy for women to be more productive. The book promises to help you explore ways in which you can save time, make more money, and experience less stress. And as busy moms, isn’t that what we are all looking for? I’ve read some of the book already and SO much about this makes sense to me – why one week of the month I’m at peak creativity and in another I just want to crawl under a blanket and think. Turns out, there’s a whole science to this, and it has to do with your period. Yep. That thing.

Toxic Positivity by Whitney Goodman

Whitney Goodman (@sitwithwhit) is one of my favorite accounts on social media. She is a psychotherapist who is always posting such great, useful content. It is also honest and most of the time, exactly what I need to hear. Her publisher was kind enough to send me a copy of the book, and I’m really looking forward to getting into it. This book talks about society’s obsession with positivity and how that can be a toxic culture in itself. If you’ve ever been told to “Look on the bright side” when you’re in the middle of a really terrible situation, then you know exactly what I’m talking about.

Be Where Your Feet Are by Scott M. O’Neill

A few weeks ago, we were on a drive back from somewhere and Eddie and I were listening to a podcast. Scott O’Neill was the guest, and I really loved what he had to say. Of course, they mentioned his book during the podcast, and I ordered it on the spot. I have always had this desire to be as “in the moment” as possible, and this book by the CEO of the Philadelphia 76ers and New Jersey Devils offers his own story of grief and healing, and shares his most valuable lessons in what keeps him present, grounded and thriving as a father, husband, coach, mentor, and leader. 

The Grace of Enough by Haley Stewart

I ordered this book last summer and haven’t had a chance to finish it yet, so my goal is to finish it ASAP. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the pace of life, and the amount of things that seem to be necessary for just living nowadays, this book by Haley Stewart, a Catholic writer, blogger, and podcaster, might interest you. My first ever Word of the Year was Simplify, and ever since then, I have been looking for small ways to simplify our lives on a regular basis. In this book, Stewart chronicles her family’s move to a farm identifies elements of Catholic social teaching that will enhance your life and create a ripple effect of grace to help you overcome the effects of today’s “throwaway” culture and experience a deeper satisfaction and stronger faith. I’m looking forward to this one!

A Pint of Patience with a Dollop of Love by Dr. Rachna Buxani-Mirpuri

This book was gifted to me by Dr. Buxani’s practice, and I’m looking forward to being able to use it as a resource for some of the harder moments in parenting. This might not be a book I read cover to cover, but something I will refer to when I need it, Dr. Buxani covers things like character, social anxiety, helping children adjust to a new school, and encouraging positive behavior (plus a lot more topics). Dr. Buxani’s approach is one of compassion and understanding, and always from a place of love for our children.

xoxo