Happy New Year, book lovers! 2023 has officially kicked off, and while having a clean slate can be exciting, the New Year can also be quite stressful for some. Between the hustle and bustle of one of the busiest times of the year to the pressure to jumpstart resolutions, New Year Overwhelm is very real.
During these first few weeks, prioritizing mental health is incredibly important. It’s crucial to remember to take things at your own pace and to set aside time for yourself. One great way to do this is through reading. So, without further ado, here are three new self-help releases that we think you’ll love.
Hot Pick
The Perfectionist’s Guide to Losing Control
by Katherine Morgan Schafler
SYNOPSIS:
If you’re a perfectionist who struggles to let go and find balance, then this new release might just be the one for you! In it, Katherine Morgan Schafler, a psychotherapist, argues that you can be healthy and a perfectionist at the same time. While reading, you’ll discover which one of the five perfectionist types you are, as well as how to manage your form of perfectionism to work for you. By the end, you’ll know how to complete the greatest trade you’ll ever make in life, exchanging superficial control for real power.
WHY:
This book is a must-read for high achievers who struggle with the concept of letting go. While the idea of losing control can be scary, Schafler demonstrates why it is so important in order to accomplish everything you truly desire. This especially holds true at the beginning of the new year, when so many are looking to make changes and begin new goals. Further, the stories within are both humorous and empathetic, making it a great read.
Coffee Shop Read
The Way of Nagomi
by Ken Mogi
SYNOPSIS:
Life is short and ever-changing. In Japan, the term for this is ukiyo, which means “floating world.” In order to adapt to the ups and downs of life without being completely overcome, neuroscientist Ken Mogi suggests following the way of nagomi. Nagomi is a philosophy of balance, and also the secret to a harmonious life. By using wisdom from Japanese history and culture, Mogi shows how following nagomi can help you in all aspects of your life. This includes, but is not limited to, fostering healthy relationships, accepting imperfection, striving for improvement, and preserving the environment.
WHY:
Combining both philosophy and advice, this read packs a powerful punch. The practice of nagomi is all about achieving balance and peace. And, during a busy time like the start of a new year, we could all use a little balance in our lives. Additionally, if you have any New Year’s resolutions that relate to health, work, relationships, and sense of self, this book could definitely come in handy for accomplishing them!
Dark Horse
How to Be Weird
by Eric G. Wilson
SYNOPSIS:
It’s all too easy to get caught up in the monotonous nature of day-to-day life, moving from one task to the next only to repeat it all the following day. However, Eric G. Wilson assures there is an antidote—weirdness. Anything that is quirky, eccentric, and peculiar can take us out of our normal habits, and remind us that there is so much more to life than the mundane. In order to break free of the everyday, Wilson provides 99 fun exercises, ranging from aimless walks to creating a reverie nook.
WHY:
This read serves as an invitation to lean into the weird and in turn, live a fuller life. Not only that, but it is also a refreshing reminder to not always take life so seriously. Further, Wilson’s quirky philosophical exercises can offer a fun escape from everyday stressors and the New Year Overwhelm.
Here at Bookstr, we hope you have a wonderful start to 2023! For more Three to Read line-ups, click here.
FEATURED IMAGE VIA GRIFFYN TIJAMO / BOOKSTR