By Sofie Charron, RP
The Dark Side of Light Chasers by Debbie Ford
Admittedly, it has been a while since I've read this one! Debbie Ford challenges the common understanding that our flaws are bad, which often leads to shame and other suffering. Her perspective encourages the reader to find strength within their weaknesses and to discover the gifts hidden in their "dark side". The book is full of challenging self-reflection exercises and truly aims to empower the reader to embrace their most authentic self.
The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer
You know when you read something so good, you just have to read it again? This is one of those books. I fully admit to judging a book by its cover and avoiding this one for a while. There was something about the unicorn-looking creature running along the beach that felt... "hippie dippie", as some would say. Boy, was I wrong! This book was so insightful and cultivated this internal sense of... freedom. Freedom from the shackles of the human mind and emotions. This book is enlightening and inspiring in a most practical way - absolutely worth the read.
Overcoming Perfectionism by Ann Smith, MS, LMFT
I just had to have something about perfectionism on this list because this is a topic that comes up a lot. Ann Smith helps the reader to understand their perfectionism; where it came from, what purpose it serves, at what costs, and what alternatives exist that actually lead to a fulfilling life. A compassion-filled, informative and healing endeavor for any interested reader.
FED UP! By Gemma Hartley Alright, buckle up. This one is going to make you mad - real mad. Then it might make you a little sad, but hopefully, like me, you land on humbling and hopeful. The author originally wrote an article for Harper's Bazaar and got SUCH a massive response that she was inspired to write a book. She tackles the difficult but necessary topic of emotional labour; the invisible, incessant load that many partners (often women) carry in their relationships. Hartley provides challenging points for self-reflection and helpful tips on how their partners can help share the emotional load.
Buddhism for Break-Ups by Meshel Laurie
Another funny and relatable book! Meshel Laurie provides refreshing and helpful perspectives on the art of feelings one's feelings without getting destroyed by them. She provides insight into how our attachment to how we see ourselves and others, and how our attempts to control how we feel ultimately leads to more suffering. Her writing style is witty and informative; a necessary book for anyone recovering from a breakup!
The Courage to Be Disliked by Fumitake Koga & Ichiro Kishimi
Now this one caught me by surprise. I was immediately drawn by the title, but I was not expecting such a different style of book nor the deeply philosophical approach. The book is written as a conversation between a philosopher and his student. They discuss ideas rooted in Adlerian Psychology (if you're like "what now?", I had forgotten about Adler myself, but the book explains everything!) and how these can be used to set ourselves free from suffering and build a rich and meaningful life.
For more reading recommendations on topics such as emotions, relationships, parenting and more, check out the other posts in this series and stay tuned for more! If you wish to discuss any of the topics above with a compassionate therapist, send an email to info@charrontherapy.com.
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