Summer is officially here! School is out. Fun is in. But Summer is not just a time for fun, it is also a time to learn and grow. We love learning new things in our family, whether that be a instrument, a language, cooking a new dish, or something that helps us understand ourselves and the world better. We love to learn and grow and have worked to create an environment in our home where everyone values learning because growth is important. Ken Blanchard said, “When you stop learning you stop growing” and we agree.
So, I decided to share a few books that I love because they taught me a lot. They informed how view myself, the world, and other people.
Mindset: Changing the Way You Think to Fulfill Your Potential
Carol S. Dweck, PhD.
Mindset explores the power of our beliefs, particularly our beliefs about our own abilities. Dweck explains the difference between a fixed mindset, where people believe their abilities are static, and a growth mindset, where individuals see their abilities as qualities that can be developed through dedication and hard work.
She emphasizes that adopting a growth mindset can lead to greater success and fulfillment in both personal and professional spheres. By shifting our perspective on challenges and failures, we can unlock our true potential and achieve more than we ever thought possible.
I read this book every summer because of the way it helps me understand myself and explains why others (particularly my children) do the things they do. It helped me see the connection between a traumatic childhood and a fixed mindset.
Click image to buy book
Click image to buy book
Mere Christianity
C.S. Lewis
Mere Christianity was originally delivered as a series of talks on BBC Radio during World War II. In those talks, Lewis shared the essence of Christianity. He argues for the rational basis of faith, the moral law inherent in all humans, and the transformative power of following Jesus. The book is divided into four sections, covering a range of topics from the nature of God to the practical implications of living a Christian life. I loved Lewis’s simple and logical approach making it a must-read for anyone wanting a deeper understanding of their faith.
The Infinite Game
Simon Sinek
The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek introduces the concept of viewing life and business as infinite games where the goal is not to win but to keep playing and improving. Sinek contrasts finite games, which have clear winners, rules, and endpoints, with infinite games, which are ongoing and ever-evolving. He argues that leaders who embrace an infinite mindset foster innovation, resilience, and long-term success.
By focusing on playing an infinite game, individuals and organizations can thrive in an unpredictable world. Sinek’s insights encourage us to rethink our approach to leadership and success.
I have used the principles taught in The Infinite Game for leadership development with managers and organizational leaders. These principles are applicable for executives, managers, parents, or anyone who wants to help others grow and thrive.
Click image to buy book
Click image to buy book
The Power of Showing Up: How Parental Presence Shapes Who Our Kids Become and How Their Brains Get Wired
Daniel J. Siegel, M.D. and Tina Payne Bryson, Ph.D.
The Power of Showing Up highlights the importance of parental presence in a child’s life. Dan and Tina draw on decades of research to show that children who feel seen, soothed, safe, and secure develop into more resilient and emotionally healthy adults. They provide practical advice on how to be emotionally available and supportive, even during challenging times.
By focusing on the simple yet profound act of showing up, the authors offer a roadmap for building strong, nurturing relationships that foster a child’s well-being and development. Like all of their other books, The Power of Showing Up communicates complex content is easily accessible ways. This book is a must for anyone wanting to understand attachment.
The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog: And Other Stories from a Child Psychiatrist’s Notebook – What Traumatized Children Can Teach Us About Loss, Love, and Healing
Bruce D. Perry, M.D., Ph.D. and Maia Szalavitz
The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog by Bruce Perry offers a gripping and deeply empathetic look at childhood trauma and recovery. Through a series of cases Dr. Perry was involved in, he illustrates how early experiences shape the brain and impact behavior. He shares stories of children who have endured severe abuse and neglect and the therapeutic approaches that have helped them heal.
Perry emphasizes the importance of understanding the neurobiological effects of trauma and the power of love and connection in fostering resilience. This book is both a call to action and a source of hope for those working with traumatized children.
The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog is a difficult and deeply informative book. It offers so much information and the summary of each chapter could be a book in itself. This is a must read.
Click image to buy book
Click image to buy book
The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness
Jonathan Haidt
The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt dives into the rising levels of anxiety and depression among young people. He examines the cultural, social, and technological factors contributing to this epidemic, including the impact of social media, parenting styles, and educational pressures.
He argues that overprotection and a lack of resilience-building experiences have left a generation ill-equipped to handle the challenges of adulthood. Haidt calls for a return to practices that encourage independence, critical thinking, and emotional strength. His book offers insights and practical strategies for parents, educators, and policymakers seeking to address the mental health crisis affecting today’s youth.
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Ryan North is the Co-Founder of One Big Happy Home and creator of The Empowered Parent Podcast. He is a recognized expert on childhood trauma, a TBRI Practitioner, and develops training materials for parents, schools, churches, and child-placing agencies. Ryan is a sought-after speaker known for his engaging and practical approach to communicating complex issues clearly and relatable to a wide range of audiences.