#probably helps that i relate to alan on many levels and unlike some of my other faves...it's like i can idk recover with him in a way?

[ilkkawhat]

no no but really, now that i'm already three drinks in tonight and just feel like sharing, there is just something about the koskela commercials that add to this weird sense of nostalgia when I play aw2, added in with just the general beautiful scenery, listening to the pat maine radio show and hearing filth by national nightmare in that early part of the game...it just makes bright falls feel like home in a way that i never quite expected, esp given that i never played any remedy verse game, let alone alan wake (though like many things i get utterly obsessed with, i was at one time exposed to it i think during the peak of my twin peaks hyperfixation), and to just have that much of a connection to a game i got into literally at the end of november (the 23rd of 2023 to be precise) and maybe it's just because i have been so desperate for an escape and that's what this game gave me and not just that, it has inspired me so much to the point where i'm fucking drawing again--something that i was like traumatically discouraged from at a much too early age--and giffing and making graphics and writing when i swore i never would again...just fuck man. i feel like i have a few "cornerstone" pieces of media that have impacted me on such a highly personal level to the point where they might even change me a little but this....alan wake, remedy-verse, ilkka, all of that is just......something special

[amerasdreams]

I have been listening to True Spies podcast on Spotify. It’s apparently connected to a thing called Spyscape, which has a museum/experience thing in New York. They also have an online test for your personality and intelligence.... well those intelligence tests all of course have to do with math. and they are TIMED. somehow I got thru guessing most of them.... didn’t score 0 but didn’t score great. 

so guess what I scored on intelligence!  and personality scores mean I’m more prone to health problems and being unhappy.... :( 

(here I woke up thinking I can be uniquely me, I don’t want to be like anyone else anyway, I can embrace that... but how can I when what I am is this pathetic)

I shouldn’t have done this, I know what these tests do, make me discouraged and hate myself more. they even said I’m not imaginative and creative-- things I value most besides intelligence (and intuition/empathy...) 

they did say the “spy role” I was most suited for, which is what I’m most interested in, intelligence analyst. But in the more “practical” side, for jobs, it mentioned medical things, technical things, which I wouldn’t be good at and don’t like, business marketing-- working for a business I don’t care about, a job with no meaning....  it even had mathematician! when I’m obviously not good at math. the only jobs I might be interested in are psychologist/criminologist... idk.... to late for me to get any career anyway, let alone somehow what I really want

they did a risk assessment, where you blow up the balloon before it pops to get “money” - yesterday I started it and panicked when the balloon popped the first time and closed the window. then when I was walking the dogs it occured to me it was a test lol and I would just have to keep risking popping the balloon... so today I saw it as more of a game and not the ‘scary balloon popping oh no I lost money!” -not even real money. idk about fun.... all these things were stressful esp the intelligence test. 

today I started the test, thinking it might help me, get insight into what I can do, instead, it discouraged me, I’m what I thought, mediocre and not suited for much, they only gave a “role” to me because they had to give me something. It said the intelligence analyst is inquisitive--when it just said I wasn’t -  idk how this even fits with the test bc analytical? that wasn’t one of the dimensions and doesn’t seem like I scored high on implied analytical powers, same with determined-- 

how can i live with myself being like this, having no role and no future according to any dimension that really counts. don’t want to be plodding away at menial tasks when I want to do something Imaginative, Creative, Intellectual-- ha can’t even do that

oh I’m proving them right, easily stressed and sensitive and reactive -- 

I’m not including the risk assessment bc I don’t think it’s accurate-- I’m really very risk averse in all cases... oh we know that already so. 

~

results (bold/parentheses is mine)

MENTAL HORSEPOWER

Unlike Alan Turing would, you scored moderately low {yay!:(} on this attribute. The result, driven by your performance in the personality tests, suggests that, on the whole, you struggle with complex mathematical and analytical problems. {so how can I be an analyst?} That said, you can usually spot patterns and find links in data – as long as the information you have been given isn’t too abstract. (I like big picture things.... abstract things... apparently I’m not good at it)

IN YOUR DAILY LIFE

Like other people with a moderately low Mental Horsepower score, you are more likely to ‘go with your gut’ when making decisions rather than to apply logic and reason (that’s true.... logic is mystifying. fits with being INFP-- logic is my weakest point). It is unlikely that you will sit down and win a game of chess, and you probably rely on your satnav rather than read a map yourself. (yep.... chess is too much strategy... I can’t see ahead like that .. hm how could I be an analyst)

IN YOUR WORK

Because you are not a very conceptual thinker, you are better in roles where you can do things ‘automatically’ rather than applying any abstract reasoning skills. You are not bad at visual-spatial or mathematical tests though, and with training and practice, your skills will definitely improve.

THE SCIENCE

Mental Horsepower relates to our general cognitive ability and our capacity to think about, reason with, and understand abstract concepts. It particularly links to analytical and mathematical skills, but also covers memory, comprehension, language, learning capacity and judgement. These are hugely significant skills for success at work and in everyday life.

Psychologists have developed all kinds of tests to measure cognitive ability. Some of these involve predicting outcomes from patterns in data (also known as inductive reasoning), while others focus on mentally flipping and rotating images. We use both of these approaches in our Mental Horsepower tests at SPYSCAPE.

Recent neuroimaging research shows that intelligence is linked to brain patterns, and that these patterns are unique to each of us (meaning you can’t change them :(  )– much like our fingerprints. In one study, these brain ‘fingerprints’ were used to successfully predict people’s scores in IQ tests.

While IQ tests are probably the most common method for determining cognitive ability, there is some debate over whether they provide a complete picture. For example, theories suggest that there are many different types of intelligence which are not accounted for in these tests. Still, it is generally accepted that people who score highly on tests of cognitive ability are on the whole better at completing intelligence-related (so that career’s out... if it was ever in lol) tasks in the real world.

~

COMPOSURE

Unlike Jason Bourne, you scored extremely low (low on everything! what a wonderful person!) on this attribute. The result, driven by your performance in the personality tests, suggests that you are far more vulnerable to stressors than most people (I knew that). You are likely to have a very strong emotional reaction to negative events and your brain becomes highly active when you see something you perceive as unpleasant (like this test!). Although this means you find it hard to relax, it also means you are really tuned in to your surroundings ( and what’s the upside of that? nice consolation prize....)

IN YOUR DAILY LIFE

Like other people with extremely low levels of composure, you are highly likely to experience anxiety and burnout. (with things that aren’t really stressful to anyone else. just stepping outside. just being inside-- doing thigns like this.. doing most things actually-- help how can i live) You can be far too critical of yourself (well how do i stop? if this is how I am like), especially when you are stressed (which is almost all the time), and this can make it tricky for you to overcome problems (which is never, which is why I’m still living w my parents). You also dwell on the past far more than people with high composure.

On the positive side, you are responsive to your environment, which means you are more likely to anticipate negative outcomes and find ways to avoid them (like almost everything). You are also sensitive and caring, and your observant nature means you look out for yourself and the people close to you. (what’s the point of that when you can’t do anything, or get to know new people)

IN YOUR WORK

It is unlikely your colleagues will turn to you when there is an emergency or crisis at work. This is because you struggle to keep your emotions in check, and challenging situations can get the better of you. When this happens, you are not great at maintaining focus or making tough decisions.

THE SCIENCE

Composure relates to how our brains respond to stress. In tense situations, your brain activates an area called the hypothalamus, which releases adrenalin and cortisol – also known as stress hormones.

A bit of stress now and then is important for survival, because it alerts us to the dangers around us. Small amounts can be useful, but too much over a long period of time is bad for our health (oh goody). Studies show that the adrenal cortex, the part of the brain that releases stress hormones, is also linked to the healthy function of our immune system – and people who are more prone to stress are also more likely to get sick.

There is also a connection between composure and working (short-term) memory. Composed people perform better on tasks where they need to recall and use relevant information while they’re doing something else – for example remembering the steps of a recipe when cooking a meal.

PEOPLE SCORING HIGH IN COMPOSURE ARE

LAID-BACK

RELAXED

COOL

FOCUSED

POISED

PEOPLE SCORING LOW IN COMPOSURE ARE

EMOTIONAL

SENSITIVE

PERCEPTIVE

RESPONSIVE

VIGILANT

~

Contentiousness

Unlike diligent Mission: Impossible hero Isla Faust, you scored moderately low on this attribute. The result, driven by your performance in the personality tests, suggests that unlike Isla, you find it difficult to keep focused on long-term goals {Idk about this. goals are all i focus on.... well. I think about them often but Idk how to create the steps to get there and so things fizzle out and I get-- discouraged what else is new). You get distracted or bored quite quickly and are often drawn to new ideas and projects instead of finishing what you are currently doing (well.... hm. I finish novels...). You understand what is important in life, but you sometimes skip the details. (I’m not a detail person... I can be but they often seem irrelevant)

IN YOUR DAILY LIFE

Because you prefer not to a follow a schedule, hobbies that require regular training are not for you. In fact, your interests change quite regularly, and you find long-term commitment a challenge whatever the activity. Friends and family know that if they want you to do something, they need to encourage you to get organized. When they press you, however, you do things pretty well.

IN YOUR WORK

You take a relatively flexible approach to work. As such, you get distracted easily and do not always complete the task in hand. Because of your tendency to do this, you are likely to change jobs – and perhaps even career – fairly regularly (I want variety... Idk, this sort of fits, sort of doesn’t).

THE SCIENCE

Conscientiousness shapes how likely you are to follow rules, regulate your own behavior and get yourself organized. The more conscientious you are, the more motivated by goals and tasks you are likely to be.

According to what psychologists call the ‘Big-5’ model, conscientiousness is a core dimension of personality – and one of the five key traits that drive human behavior. Whether you are high or low in conscientiousness can help predict your success in social, academic and professional situations.

If you have high levels of conscientiousness, you are probably more productive and better at adapting to new situations (that’s true, I’m not) that come your way. However, this does not mean that being conscientious is always a good thing, because research also shows that being too conscientious can lead to overthinking. (I do that too...)

Some studies suggest that people who are more conscientious are healthier – and they might even live longer. This might be because conscientious people are more likely to exercise regularly, eat healthily, and avoid smoking or drinking too much alcohol.

It’s hard to say where conscientiousness comes from. One study found a link with areas of the brain relating to attention and cognitive control. There is also evidence to suggest that genes play their part. It’s likely that social factors such as your upbringing influence how conscientious you are, too.

PEOPLE SCORING HIGH IN CONSCIENTIOUSNESS ARE

HIGH-ACHIEVING

ACCOUNTABLE

THOROUGH

DRIVEN

SELF-DISCIPLINED

PEOPLE SCORING LOW IN CONSCIENTIOUSNESS ARE

IMPULSIVE

FLEXIBLE

EASY-GOING

SPONTANEOUS

ADAPTABLE

(I think I’m sort of this, sort of not because I’m borderline INFP -- P is flexible, impulsive while J is more structured-- I’m slightly more Perceiving. goes to show Myers-Briggs is pretty good at describing personality accurately....)

~

INQUISITIVENESS

Unlike Carrie Mathison in Homeland, you scored moderately low on this attribute. Your score was driven by your performance in the personality tests, and it suggests that you are pretty cautious about new ideas, beliefs, cultures and theories.

IN YOUR DAILY LIFE

Like other people who scored moderately low on this attribute, you are not so willing to take on board other people’s views (that’s true). You will consider what people have to say, but you are likely to stick with your own opinion. You feel more comfortable in familiar situations and surroundings (well, yes...), and you do not really feel the need to explore new places (I kind of do, though... I want to but I often... don’t. because it’s too hard).

IN YOUR WORK

Because you aren’t motivated to learn or acquire new skills (Idk about this... depends on if it’s something I’m interested in. I’m learning like 15 languages on Duolingo...), you are less likely to seek out new opportunities at work. And the longer you stay in a job, the worse your motivation is likely to get. In general, you tend to perform better when you start a new position, although you will carry this out using the same approach you always have, rather than approach it in a new way. You like real-world, practical work that has straightforward solutions.

THE SCIENCE

Inquisitiveness is an important trait for discovering new things and building a better understanding of people and of the world around us. Psychologists have developed tools for assessing and measuring how inquisitive a person is.

These are based on extensive research into personality and are designed to evaluate five facets related to inquisitiveness: (i) intellectual curiosity; (ii) aesthetic sensitivity; (iii) active imagination; (iv) attentiveness to inner feelings and; (v) preference for variety.

Furthermore, personality researchers have identified two types of inquisitiveness; ‘epistemic’, which refers to information seeking ( I think I’m more information seeking?) behaviour and ‘perceptual’, which refers to experience seeking.

PEOPLE SCORING HIGH IN INQUISITIVENESS ARE

CURIOUS

OPEN-MINDED

IMAGINATIVE AND INVENTIVE

CREATIVE

ADAPTIVE

PEOPLE SCORING LOW IN INQUISITIVENESS ARE

PRACTICAL

CONSISTENT

TRADITIONAL

HABITUAL

PRAGMATIC

~

SOCIABILITY

A bit like Alec Leamas in The Spy Who Came in from the Cold, you scored extremely low (yay. well I knew this... and from answering the questions... )on this attribute, which suggests that you prefer to spend time alone and keep yourself to yourself. You avoid parties, meet-ups and other noisy gatherings because you find them overwhelming (wayyyy). If you really have to socialize, you need plenty of quiet time afterwards to help you rest and recharge.

IN YOUR DAILY LIFE

Like others with an extremely low sociability score, you don’t like being the center of attention and often struggle to start conversations. You think a lot before speaking and regularly find it hard to express your thoughts and ideas. Because of this, you often let others do the talking, and you don’t take part in small talk either. This behavior means you might come across as socially reactive, and people may think you only talk to them when you feel you really have to (as in, extremely negative, and I shouldn’t exist. although... i do talk to them if I have to.... haha I do take part in small talk because I think I have to. or people will think I’m rude. but I don’t like it. I’m sensitive to how I’m perceived and don’t want to be seen as too antisocial, but I talk to others out of fear not of want... yikes. no wonder no one wants to be around me. well I don't want to be around them. well - I want to be around people I know well. for limited amounts of time... need less to recharge from people I know than strangers. I want to be with them, I don’t want to be with strangers-- it’s only stress and not fun at all. but how do i get past the stranger part to the friend part if I don’t like being with strangers and it’s all stressful adn overwhelming? How do i participate in society, have people to talk to, have any sort of success??? - shouldn't exist.).

IN YOUR WORK

Because you are more comfortable working independently (please. HOW???? besides working for myself... haha can’t work for anyone else bc can’t get past the interview, these ^ traits are obvious and not something any employer in their right mind wants), you will be more productive – and much happier – managing your own workload, tackling problems alone, and avoiding company brainstorms and powwows.

THE SCIENCE

How sociable you are can be linked to your levels of happiness, positivity, and wellbeing. In fact, sociability relates to a variety of positive outcomes in life, including how successful you are at work, how well you cope with challenging situations, and even how physically and mentally healthy you are. (yay. I’m doomed. I might as well kill myself now)

People who are highly sociable are more positive emotionally (case in point!) than those who are less sociable. In one brain imaging study, people with a high sociability score had higher levels of brain activity when they saw images of happy faces and other positive emotions.

The same part of the brain that processes emotions also helps interpret information from social contexts, which means we can judge a social situation and then respond appropriately (social situations, like math problems and logic, are mystifying to me. yay the things that are highest linked to success--).

There is some evidence to suggest that highly sociable people might be better at detecting and decoding the meaning of social cues –  including how they analyze and read people’s faces (oh, I know that. I have a hard time judging people’s faces, in fact I often think they are mad at me or judging me by their faces when they probably aren’t. I even have trouble finding out what emotions go with what emoji! besides the basics. i mean why, how are there so many emojis....). This means they are likely to find social interaction easier to deal with than others (lol yes. it’s . not easy. why. do i have to be born like this. always been. hell..).

There is also research to suggest that highly sociable people have more connections between regions of the brain that involve visual stimulus and regions that process social and emotional stimuli. (brains are better, we get it)

Sociability might also be associated with the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is linked to reward-seeking behavior. It is thought that people who are highly sociable may have an enhanced response to dopamine in the brain, which makes them pursue rewards such as attention, status, power or pleasure. This would explain why, when they get these things, they feel happier or more satisfied.

PEOPLE SCORING HIGH IN SOCIABILITY ARE

TALKATIVE

FRIENDLY

ENTHUSIASTIC

ENERGETIC

EXCITABLE

PEOPLE SCORING LOW IN SOCIABILITY ARE

QUIET

RESERVED

INTROSPECTIVE

PRIVATE

SHY

^ ALLL negative attributes, I need to just kill myself now, no future. 

[rigelmejo]

February Progress Update, March Goals:

(Updated as it’s now the end of the month) How February went:

Chinese novel chapters read in February (so far): 27 (a huge amount! Last month’s was 8. This month - 4 were Guardian, the rest are 寒舍)

Chapters I studied with Listening-Reading Method: 2 (Catch me barely doing L-R and just reading Guardian instead...)

Chinese shows watched: 6. (I expected this number to shoot up and I was right! Word of Honor - tian ya ke adaptation - is airing and I am watching the raws first then the English subs as they release. I’m also maybe going to start Anti Fraud League since I finally finished ep 1. YouTube recommended me another Zhen zhehan drama - he plays Zhou Zishu in woh. It’s called Demon Girl and I’d had it in my list to practice anyway with when I got bored since it’s set 1920-1940s, one of my fave drama settings, featuring a demon heroine in which demons are like mutants who live among us. Which happens to be my LITERAL favorite story setup - mutants/monsters/etc sci fi or supernatural setup in which the story uses it to tell fantastical tales while also commenting on real social issues. Some stories do it better than others - In The Flesh and Bureau of Transformer do excellently, Love and Redemption and Guardian do some fascinating stuff with it, Heroes touches on it only a little compared to Xmen which is known for it, and Merlin often failed to commit to a strong message. But regardless - if a story has this Setup I will ultimately wanna see. So that show definirely has 3 selling points now: my Fave story setup, a heroine as the lead, and an actor I like as the other lead. I also found Mystic Nine and LORD Critical World in HD on a chinese site so I’m very tempted to just watch them in chinese only since it’s more convienient then the english sub links I have for the shows. An interesting update: trying to watch a show this month was easier than in the past - last month I could barely watch Any shows, and before that I distinctly remember shows being harder to catch the details. I watched Anti Fraud League ep 1 fully this month and caught all details roughly without pausing - and like 3 sentences of exposition on main character Mi Huo I paused and replayed the scene just to catch all the chinese subtitles and clarify I understood correctly. I think I got about 90% of the details - because I was a little vague on some word meanings and just guessed on those. And grasped 100% of the overall plot. which is well beyond where I was at month 10-11ish last time I tried watching shows. Also yay! A detective show felt as easy as watching a fluff romance which is so great, because I like this genre much more! Although I am going to give a grateful shout out to Granting You A Dreamlike Life because... while the shows first 15 eps I did watch are Not My Thing, I watched it like 8+ months into learning and it was both a challenge and easy enough TO watch and keep watching. Which made it great for improving. I really think it helped a lot. And I also think... at this point I probably could rewatch guardian without eng subs and be fine. When I watch shan he ling today I guess I’ll find out if I can handle a wuxia plot though without eng subs lol)

Japanese Audio listened to: 14 (no change, this is since start of year)

Personal books read: 11 (since 2021 started - so 6 books in February. I have been reading SO MUCH lately, I’m really excited? I’ve been meaning to read so many of my books I just hadn’t gotten around to it. This is also likely to increase as I’m about to finish dmbj 2 next time I pick it up).

Some other things:

@a-whump-muffin​ u inspired me and sometime soon I will be trying to play KH in japanese again, and looking at ur super amazing grammar guide u made ToT (I might try nier automata if its bearable just because I’m playing all the drakengard/nier games right now but... the language is a lot more sci fi so i’m not sure that’d go well... also i want to check if my final fantasy type-0 has japanese language settings...). But like... I am definitely up for looking at a grammar guide, and looking up words on my phone as I play. Now that’s a study method i could DO maybe ToT and also like!!! ultimately i want to do it anyway!!! i just figured it would be drowning and chickened out! but like. to study doing what u wanted to do anyway in the language??!!! wowwww ;-; i mean that’s basically why i’m reading chinese but u get the idea

Other japanese updates: I’m still listening to quickleur I just haven’t done any listening lately (u can tell by the L-R status above lol). It did help a lot though even the bits I listened to, as far as refreshing my mind on particles and verb endings. And the explanation on sentence structures u gave @a-whump-muffin​ !! (who is god tier if ur studying japanese they are <3 <3 )

Part of the ‘personal books read’ goal - I’m counting any textbooks I read in that category, in the hopes if I frame it in my head as reading for personal interest instead of studying, I will do it. Ideally I would LIKE to read my DeFrancis Chinese books, Chinese Nature Method grammar book, Chinese Sentence Patterns book, 2 books I just ordered, my japanese reading books (the 1st one a good refresher the 2nd one literally could be... my textbook for years its got so much). Those chinese books in part because WOW I am so used to so much grammar in context when reading, but when I go to produce language I’m a hot MESS. And I think just like... I really should read those books and fill in the gaps in my understanding and like solidify the correct understanding of what I can comprehend. Sometime.... I ALSO should read my Alan Hoenig chinese characters book. But will I???? AHA. I forgot to mention in my last reading post - but brute forcing learning the hanzi has been going fine actually. I was concerned just looking up hanzi when reading, that I would struggle to learn the new ones. But I can confirm that reading has gotten easier, and I’ve picked up a LOT of hanzi I was previously brute force looking up repeatedly while reading. So like... as long as this keeps working, I’ll keep doing it. I’m very lazy and the path with least resistance and mental exhaustion is what I’ll keep doing, if it works, even if it might be slower. (Although I do think the hanzi books I have are very useful and have helped me speed up progress when I used them).

I learned how to make gifs this month and I’m overwhelmed with all the stuff I could try to do? Idk its very cool i’m very excited about it.

Goals for March:

Basically, we’re sticking to the quite steady study plan I’ve had the past few months, which has boiled down to: read chinese, L-R, listen/watch if desired, do something listening related in japanese if desired. It’s not well rounded or anything but I’m making steady progress and its easy to keep doing.

Anything in bold is what I’m doing right now/likely to do (although we know how often I just derail).

Read chinese novels. (This can include Guardian. Currently includes: hanshe, guardian. On hiatus: Tian Ya Ke).

Listen-Read Guardian. (Reading guardian in Any way is the priority so if this happens yay, but if it doesn’t I’ll be happy if I’m still working through guardian and just postponing the listening part).

Optional. Play video game in japanese, use a dictionary and grammar guide when confused af. This one’s imminently likely just because the instant I get Nier remastered I’m playing it, and also playing Nier Automata etc games, so like... the opportunity and desire to play the japanese versions of games I want to do that with WILL hit me. 

Optional. Watch chinese shows. This one’s also likely because a priest novel drama adaptation just dropped (Word of Honor, shan he ling, tian ya ke/Faraway Wanderer’s adaptation) and I don’t want to wait for the english subs. 

Optional - unlikely (I’m not in the mood to listen to stuff lol). Audios. Keep listening to Japanese Quicksleur when there’s down time (like playing games), and Chinese Spoonfed audio if I feel like it. 

Personal. Keep reading while I’ve got the motivation to. I am really enjoying getting through all these books I’ve wanted to read for so long. 

BELOW I will eventually link a list of story recs (also see tag rec list for more):

Poyun 破云 (recced)

Poyun 破云 2

一级律师 by 木苏里 (recced)

盗墓笔记 series

默读 by priest

他们的故事 by 一根黄瓜丝儿 

寒舍 by 夏灬安兰 pingxie supernatural au

818 (pingxie)

鎮魂 by priest (chapter 4)

天涯客 by priest

Qi Ye 七爷 by priest

六爻 by priest

FGEP

犹记斐然 foxghost rec

一受封疆 foxghost rec

女主大人 我错 gl

将军府小妾生存报告 gl

夜半衣寒 by 夏灬安兰 pingxie (can u tell i like this author)

(瓶邪同人)所谓一切发生在网配+番外 (writer and radio voicer pingxie au)

死亡万花筒 kaleidoscope of death

将军府小妾生存报告  

女主大人，我错了  

魔女霓裳

公主饶命 GL

民政局领到了媳妇

In progressing difficulty, books I want to read and should be ready to read now, a la foxghost’s recommendations:

那些風花雪月 by Gong Zi Huan Xi (took 14 months of study before I tried to read this, did try, did not click with me lol)

不正當關係 by Gong Zi Huan Xi (foxghost said this was the same difficulty as the story above, so I’m probably ready for this one too).

*SCI 谜案集 by ErYa (I’ve heard this somewhat easy to read, is a good story, and since its case-centered I think it would be a good intro to later reading books like Silent Reading by Priest)

龍圖案卷集  by ErYa (There is an audiobook on Ximalaya!)

黑風城戰記  by ErYa (sequel to novel above)

Then the recommendation says you should probably watch a lot of shows for some vocab (I sort of do so I’ll see how that helps me out), and you can start tackling xianxia, like Priest’s “六爻, and then 鎮魂, then 殺破狼, and pretty much any other of GZHX’s works.” I would guess this point is when Tian Ya Ke would be more my reading level, when 六爻 is, at the beginning. I would guess after 鎮魂 is when I could try to tackle Can Ci Pin. Sha Po Lang is steampunk and fantasy, so I would guess it has some of the sci fi type words - so if I’d be ready for that, I might be ready for Can Ci Pin at the same time.

[themotivationjournals]

25 of the Best Self-Improvement Books To Read Before You Turn 25

Topic: Literature, Books, Lists || by STAFF

When it comes to self-improvement books, readers’ opinions don’t meet in the middle. Others feel empowered and committed by the helpful words they encounter, while the other half believes self-improvements book are phony. Regardless, every human being should read at least one self-improvement book in their life, and we have rounded up the best 25 to check out before turning 25!

Whatcha Gonna Do with That Duck?: And Other Provocations – Seth Godin

This book is a masterpiece, and unlike most self-improvement books, this one targets an infinite array of areas in which you can, and ultimately must, improve. With its ruthless honesty and genuine inspiration, Godin makes you ponder the difficult questions you wouldn’t ever dare to ask yourself. The result is a completely new perspective of the world- a fresher, more vibrant perspective, packed with new and bold possibilities. If you need a friend that understands, a boss that forces you to venture deep in your non-comfort zone, a wise guru that tells you what needs to be left behind and a sage that proclaims the coming of a new age, then look no further; you will find these shrewd voices all tied together in this magnificent book. Make sure to get this one.

Fooled by Randomness: The Hidden Role of Chance in Life and in the Markets – Nassim Nicholas Taleb

Perhaps it is the fact that randomness played such a significant role in my years as a poker player that I find this book utterly important. We often attribute skill where there is only luck; we confuse correlation with causation and we underestimate the incredible effect small changes can have. This book and my time at the tables gave me a perspective I unfortunately rarely encounter in others: you can do everything right and still lose, or do everything wrong and still win. It is thus not about the outcome; it is about your actions that have lead you there. This important message is central to many of my decisions I make in my life and this book by Taleb helps you develop such a perspective so you will be able to live in a world one cannot fully understand, where the results are not always clear markers of performance and where chance seems to play games with our fates. Stop being fooled by randomness!

The 48 Laws of Power – Robert Greene

I read this book in a time where I thought power was something I should attain. Power for power’s sake. And while I disagree with my former self on this point, the fact remains that power is very real, it forms the invisible scepter of all hierarchical relations around us. I still recommend this book; I believe it is important to know how people use power for their own benefit and what to do to protect yourself from certain abuses of power. Besides the fact that all stories in this book gravitate around power, it contains many life lessons, amazing historical anecdotes and, if read in a certain light, the ability to use power for good. From Caesar to Goethe, Sun-Tzu to Machiavelli, this eye opening book spans a wide range of human development. If you, like me, would rather be interested in something less egotistical, perhaps Greene’s latest book Mastery will suffice (I haven’t read that one myself). Another great book in the same style, but this time around, covering a wider scope, and, perhaps, something that will make the world make a better place.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change – Stephen. R. Covey

The title of this book doesn’t capture it all. Covey shares with us seven habits one should adapt to become truly effective in whatever you would like to achieve. Of course, it is not as easy as it sounds. He stresses the fact that we need to go through a paradigm shift – a fundamental change in how we perceive the world and ourselves. This book can be read as a guide, with practices and everything, to go through the stages in order to make such a shift happen. Part shock-therapy, part ageless spiritual wisdom,Covey’s book is packed with wisdom that actually makes a difference. And, as I mentioned, don’t let the title of the book fool you; it is about much more than just becoming more effective. It is about becoming a whole integer person who not only seeks the best in oneself, but also in the people around her. A must read for anyone who feels there is always something left to learn.

The Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide: Safe, Therapeutic, and Sacred Journeys – James Fadiman

While finding a book on psychedelics in a list of books on self-improvement might come as a surprise, I believe any metaphysical distinction between tools such as books, meditation or molecules hold no ground and they should all be solely judged on their merits. And the merits of certain chemical keys, used in a constructive way, are perhaps bigger than any book in this list. The Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide will teach you how to prepare yourself and your surroundings, what and how much to take, and what do do when something goes wrong, so you can safely enhance your thinking, creativity, introspection and emotional balance. This book contains everything you need to know about using psychedelics as a tool for self-improvement while drawing on extensive scientific literature and personal wisdom. A must have for the beginning and experienced psychonaut alike.

Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time – Brian Tracy

We all know how that destructive downward spiral feels. We have to do some big task, of which the thought alone triggers resistance, not sure how and where to begin and feeling overwhelmed before we start; we get easily distracted to get rid of that feeling, only to suddenly realize that hours went by- precious hours- and then find ourselves in the same position as before, still not knowing where and how to begin, but now, feeling guilty on top of it which expresses itself in more craving for distraction.

To break this spell of procrastination before it paralyzes us, Tracy advises us to Eat That Frog, to set our priorities straight, deconstruct larger tasks into smaller ones, learn when to tackle the big frog first or to start out with something else. Tracy is truly a motivational writer, and while I wished he had gone a bit deeper into the psychological reasons why people procrastinate, it is still a must have for anyone who wants to break the spell and get shit done. 

Think and Grow Rich: The Original 1937 Unedited Edition – Napoleon Hill

A from 1937, this book by Hill is a masterpiece. Don’t bother with the edited versions since they all omit important and controversial information: some historical, and some pertaining to the goal of the book, which is to think and grow rich. The word rich might imply that this book is all about material gain, and while it certainly covers that area, it is about much more than that. Perhaps the first explicit mention of positive thinking, on how to care not just about the cash in your pocket, but also the thoughts in your head, this book has been able to withstand the destruction of time. It covers all the basics from planning, decision making and persistence, to the more advanced techniques as auto-suggestion, transmutation and what we can learn from fear. This is not a grow rich book, but a timeless guide to find out what actually matters. As it says clearly in the beginning ‘Riches can’t always be measured in money!’

The Attention Revolution: Unlocking the Power of the Focused Mind – Alan Wallace

In a world that is dominated by ever stronger technologies designed to grab hold of your attention, a way to empower yourself is to bring that attention back to where you want it to shine. This book offers just that; in The Attention Revolution, Wallace describes the path to attaining Shamatha, a buddhist meditation state of mind that is free from any flickering of distraction. It is a hard and long path, probably not possible for us to reach in this lifetime. However, even getting to stage two or three will make everything in life easier. A wonderful introduction to meditation, The Attention Revolution will inspire you to take on the challenge and see what training your mind can actually achieve. Once you have achieved such a level of focus you can put it to use to open your heart with the practice of The Four Immeasurables or deepen the practice with this wonderful commentary by Dudjom Lingpa, both by Alan B. Wallace.

The Paleo Manifesto: Ancient Wisdom for Lifelong Health – John Durant

In the last 10,000 years or so it seems we have been propelled into an ever faster paced world forged by our own hands and minds. Only recently have we been able to reconstruct our journey and reflect back upon our humble origins. This amazing book is such a reflection. It goes back to the paleolithic searching for answers to health and longevity. Between science and his personal experiments, Durant weaves a mind blowing story that will convey the importance of an evolutionary perspective on how to live well. It covers everything from nutrition to exercise, from sleep to fasting, from ancient practices to modern biohacking and even has an outline for a vision of the future where depression and obesity have become obsolete. If you only have room for a couple of books on this list, make sure this one is included.

Mindsight: The New Science of Personal Transformation – Daniel J. Siegel

As my Burmese meditation teacher often proclaimed, ‘Mindfulness alone is not enough!’ Siegel seems to have taken this to heart and made an unique synthesis between meditation, psychoanalysis and neuroscience which he calls ‘Mindsight‘, as he says himself, a potent combination between emotional and social intelligence. All of us deal with some disorder or another, something that seems to disturb the very core of our being at ease, and while it might not always be the best strategy to want to get rid of it, it certainly helps to understand and have compassion for that little aspect that upsets that perfect image of ourselves. Brimming with techniques, insights and epiphanies, this book contains everything you need to know to reprogram your brain and to optimally use its capacity of neuroplasticity. A great book for spiritual seekers and scientists alike.

How to Win Friends & Influence People – Dale Carnegie

This is the first self-improvement book I have ever read and it is also probably one of the oldest in this category. Written in 1937, mainly for the door to door salesman of that era, this book by Carnegie can truly be called a classic. It shows what we all intuitively know: it doesn’t matter what your line of work is or what you want to achieve- if you are doing business of any kind, you need to make it about the other person. Being nice helps, a lot. And while I might not fully defend the premise of this book, because it doesn’t distinguish between genuine interest and faking it to get what you want, it still contains a treasure chest full of timeless wisdom. Everybody wants to feel appreciated, and rightfully so. Learning to take a small effort to make someone’s day will make the world run smoother, no matter what your goal is. I still spontaneously remember some of his guidance, and perhaps this quality is the reason why this book still draws millions of readers to this day.

Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy– David D. Burns

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the most effective therapy used by psychologists today; it consists of identifying thought patterns that have a detrimental effect on your self-image and mood, and deconstructing these in order to break out of these destructive cycles. If you want to know how this works, which moods are central in your life, what thought patterns are causing your depression, how to overcome self-judgment and guilt, how to defeat approval and love addiction and how your self-perfectionism is hindering you, then don’t look further; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has helped millions of people and it can help you, and this is the best book for the job. Packed with scientific research, exercises and examples, this is the best improvement your self is going to get.

Psycho-Cybernetics, A New Way to Get More Living Out of Life – Maxwell Maltz

What can a plastic surgeon tell us about happiness? By dealing with his patients, Dr. Maxwell Maltz experienced firsthand that having your expectations come true doesn’t automatically result into a more positive life experience. Their outward appearances did indeed change but their inner insecurity remained. This caused him to find other means to help his patients, resulting in visualization techniques. He found a person’s outer success can never rise above the one visualized internally. This book carries a very honest and humbling story, loaded with fundamental truths about our psychology and how our own philosophy affects us, all told by a very compassionate writer. Of some books it can be said that it will be valuable for years to come, and I am absolutely positive that this is one of them.

Thinking, Fast and Slow – Daniel Kahneman

This brilliant book by Nobel prize winner Daniel Kahneman is a lucid account of all the amazing research he has done over the years. He is the founder of behavioral economics – the way our psychology affects our decisions – and explains in simple prose how our thinking is divided in two systems: one fast and one slow. The fast one is almost instant; it consists of the hardwired instincts that govern emotions, a remnant of an evolutionary past, an unconscious irrational machine. The slow one is deliberate, self-reflexive and logical, but can easily be distracted and takes a lot of effort. Both play a large role in our lives and Kahneman explores when the fast system fails and why the slow system is often not utilized. Packed with mind blowing examples and sharp analyses, this book teaches you how to learn to make sound judgments, and use the best of both systems.

An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth: What Going to Space Taught Me About Ingenuity, Determination, and Being Prepared for Anything – Chris Hadfield

A few extraordinary people journey to the edge of our world and come back with a unique story to tell. Colonel Hadfield is such a person, and his story is perhaps the most important one in this list. While the other books in this list teach you to be independent, visualize your future and dream big, this astronaut’s guide turns these all upside down. A truly remarkable book, overflowing with mind-blowing stories that illustrate the life lessons he learned as one of the most accomplished astronauts that ever lived.Full of compassion, warmth and genuine self-reflexive humor, he conveys to us to be prepared for the worst and never let yourself be swayed from enjoying every moment. Part action story, part no-nonsense hard truth and part timeless spiritual wisdom, this book makes you feel like you stepped onto a rocket ship and experienced what he did while learning these most valuable lessons on the way.

Perfect Health Diet: Regain Health and Lose Weight by Eating the Way You Were Meant to Eat – Paul Jaminet & Shou-Ching Jaminet

No self-improvement list is complete without a nutrition book and the Perfect Health Diet is arguably the best diet book on the market now. If you are overweight or not, feel sick, or just looking for an extra boost in health (and keep it this way), then look no further. From reading decades of studies the authors construct the optimal way to eat, destroying popular food fads in the process. They explain in sufficient detail the optimal macro-ratios, which starches are safe, which vitamins and supplements to take and what foods, or what they call toxins, to avoid. This book is a great supplement to the Paleo Manifesto as it shares its basic evolutionary perspective; we were evolved to eat non-toxic, high fat, moderate protein and carbohydrates. And, sometimes, going around with no food at all, can be a very healthy thing. If your body is not in optimal health, then it is almost no use to read the other books. Make this your priority number one.

Failing Forward: Turning Mistakes into Stepping Stones for Success – John C. Maxwell

At one time or another, we will all fail. What matters most is how you deal with it once you do. Will you give up? Or will you use it as a stepping stone for success? I recently read an article about new start-ups in silicon valley. Its hypothesis was the more you had failed in the past, the more likely you were going to get funding. Why? Because failing teaches you invaluable lessons, and if you decide to continue after you hit the pavement, the more you have it in you to deliver. Now, this is not in anyway our instinctual reaction to failing. Most of us dread it, avoid it or refuse to fail at all costs. All three are by far sub-optimal. It is far better to accept failure where it arises, to accept responsibility and use it as a way to learn about yourself and your weaknesses. Only when you are absolute honest with yourself with respect to failure can you hope to grow. This wonderful book will teach you how to do exactly this. A honest book for everyone searching for a clean mirror.

The Power of Now – Eckhart Tolle

The Power of Now hardly needs any introduction. It is perhaps the book that has had the most impact on our collective consciousness in recent years. It inspired millions of people all over the world to live a more fulfilling and compassionate life, all through the practice of mindfulness. Mindfulness consists of moment to moment non-judgmental awareness. It is a technique that alleviates depression, increases emotional intelligence and develops compassion- and only recently has come to the west, which remained weary and skeptical until science had validated a wide array of its claims. The brain can be trained. The Power of Now teaches you how to release your attachment to certain thoughts and states of mind, thereby clearing the mind to fully embrace the present moment. If you already have read this book and are looking for deeper understanding, read Wherever You Go, There You Are.

The Last Lecture – Randy Pausch

At some point or another, almost all of us has come across The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch. (If you haven’t, watch this powerful message here.) What would you say when you only have a few months left to live? This was probably Pausch’s question he posed to himself when he had to deliver his lecture a week later. But being confined to an academic setting and short time frame he felt he had more to share, thus marking the birth of this book. Filled with stories about his childhood, it is a very down to earth exploration of what it means to chase your dreams, to be a good person and live a life that gives value to others. A beautiful mixture of humor and optimism, his tender voice will be a source of inspiration for everyone who will take the time to listen, something he tried to impart on his readers. A very lovely read. And don’t forget, ‘It’s not about the cards you’re dealt, but how you play the hand.’

Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead – Brené Brown

I love Brené Brown’s books. She writes about an insight that I have found to be scary but true at the same time.Vulnerability, unlike we have been taught, is not a weakness, but a power to be tapped. Growing up with the idea that we have to hide certain parts of ourselves, to look strong and persevere at all costs always seemed a facade to me. And now she has the research to back that up. From that place of vulnerability comes a sense of worthiness, which for most of us, needs to be cultivated every day. Only if we get in touch with that tender spot of our hearts can we connect with others and develop genuine compassion, which are prerequisites, Brown tells us, for living a ‘wholehearted life.’ The reality, however, is that we often close down, feel neglected and misunderstood, and rather want the vulnerability and perhaps even ourselves to disappear. This book is an amazing antidote for that common instinct. Want to be truly convinced? Check out her amazing ted talk here.

The Demon-Haunted World: Science as a Candle in the Dark – Carl Sagan

We all find UFO’s fascinating. We all really want to believe in magic or visiting aliens (surely the crop circles are conclusive proof!) and some of us believe the government is poisoning us with chemtrails. At the same time we are fascinated by the progress made by science, by all the new technology and medicines and the fascinating discoveries being made on a daily basis. Clearly, for the average person, it is quite hard to make a distinction between one claim or another – most of us are scientifically illiterate.Carl Sagan fought his whole life against such unreason and claimed that missing this ability to distinguish valid claims from hogwash could plunge us back into the dark ages. This book is perhaps his best on this subject, filled with examples and his eloquent mesmerizing voice, The Demon-Haunted World is a How To guide to arm you against manipulation masked as information. A must read for anyone who still feels the temptation to click sensationalist sophistry.

Philosophy for Life – Jules Evans

As philosopher Sloterdijk puts it; ‘philosophy is a beautiful child of an ugly mother.’ Philosophy first arose when the old Greek polis states were at the brink of destruction. Philosophy, according to Sloterdijk, was not just a way to make sense of the world, to come to knowledge or truth, but to serve as a psychological immune system. This book is an amazing expression of this perspective. From the stoics to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Jules Evans writes about some of the amazing philosophical techniques we can use to train and improve our cognitive immune systems. He weaves ancient stories with modern applications, from heroism to cosmic contemplation, Philosophy for Life a beautifully written book that makes it easy to understand the practical nature of philosophy. Perhaps the book would have been better if he would have gone deeper into the subject matter, but nonetheless he captures the essence of what philosophy can mean for the modern person. A must read.

Man’s Search For Meaning – Victor. E. Frankl

If I had to pick one book from this list for mandatory reading I would choose this one. For three years Viktor Frankl labored in four different Nazi concentration camps, including Auschwitz. He tells us about his experience and that of his fellow prisoners. Both chilling and uplifting, confronted with the idea that they would be trapped there for the rest of their lives, he gives us an account of those who found meaning and those who succumbed to nihilism. A blend between a memoir, a psychological investigation and a self-help book, Frankl delivers a powerful message: finding meaning lies at the core of being human. From his own experience as a psychiatrist combined with anecdotes from his time in the concentration camps, he tells us how important it is to find meaning in our own lives and what we can become if we don’t. Suffering, he conveys to us, is inevitable. But as to how we cope with it is dependent on ourselves. If we can find meaning, even in the worst acts our species has ever inflicted upon his fellow man, we will be able to move forward with renewed purpose.

Simplify – Joshua Becker

This is a fun little book written by Joshua Becker, a big proponent of minimalist living. We all know that quote from Fightclub: “Advertising has us chasing cars and clothes, working jobs we hate so we can buy shit we don’t need.” Well, this is ending. Slowly we are outgrowing an era where the unquestioned mantra ‘more is always better’ dictates our behavior. Rather, we now find ourselves, our lives and our homes cluttered with too much information, too much stuff and just too much shit we don’t need. This simple book helps you become aware of the freedom gained from living with less. It is a small book, easily read under an hour, but it carries a persuasive punch to start living live in a very different way.

Love Yourself Like Your Life Depends On It – Kamal Ravikant

The fundamental ground upon which all true self improvement is build is called self-love. Because in the end, no matter which way you turn, if you don’t love yourself, you will sabotage yourself at one point. You will think that, for some reason or another, you are not worthy. And if you think that, why would you truly want to achieve anything? And this is not just about achievement. This is about how you approach yourself every day; this is what you see when you look in the mirror. We make so many snap-judgments about ourselves- often without being conscious of them- that are filled with negativity, haltering us before we can even begin to heal. This powerful book shows you the antidote. Self love. Not to be confused with creating some narcissistic image of ourselves that some previous books in this list implicitly endorse, but self love, that inner gratefulness that no external condition can take away. Self love, that infinite source you can share with others.

Which one is your favorite?

Is a book missing in the 25 Best Books on Self-

Improvement You Need to Read Before You Turn 25? Thank you for reading :)

[THIS ARTICLE WAS ORIGINALLY WRITTEN BY LIFEHACK]

[not-wonderlandd]

Dancing With The Stars - Week One

So I've never done any kind of review/predictions post, or even anything dwts related if we're being really honest. However, since season 23 I've become a big fan of the show (TeamStopAndGo won me over and I'm still not over them not winning) and after watching last nights show I just felt like putting into writing how I felt. 

 After watching them dancing and reading a whole lot of opinions I've decided to do a kind of predictions post and split them into 3 groups: Longshots, Wildcards and Frontrunners. So here we go.

LONGSHOTS 

Barbara & Keo - Here we go, giving Keo the way too enthusiastic older lady of the season. I actually couldn’t help but smile throughout her entire routine, but having the lowest scores of the night and such a big personality can really hurt someones run. She could be the next Tommy.. or the next Charo.

Terrel & Cheryl - After writing 12 names down I had to actually go and search for who was the 13th couple on the show, and that goes to show how forgettable this guy is. I’m actually kind of sad for Cheryl cause I think she’s great, and he’s actually not a bad dancer in general, but I’d take something pretty huge for him to get people’s attention in the right way.

Debbie & Alan - I am kinda sad by this one, because Alan’s excitement is one of the most precious things in the world and Debbie’s story is really moving. On the other hand, their performance was way too forgettable and aside from people excited about Alan, I have genuinely not seen anyone talking about them. If they make it through the first double elimination it will already be a big win.

Drew & Emma - I’ve read a lot of people saying not to count him out yet because HGTV has a big fanbase, but if 3 weeks into learning one routine it came out this messy imagine how 2 routines in one week will look like. Although if he does pull that out I’ll be willing to reconsider big time. Side note, his personality is really getting tired already, but that’s just my personal opinion.

Nick & Peta - 4/1 odds my a**. Everything he’s got in terms of attention came from other people, whether it was Peta, who’s a pretty popular pro, Drew, who definitely didn’t share the dancing genes, or the damn married v married thing, which by the way is getting real old real fast. Once you get past all those layers there’s nothing he brings to the table, unlike the other half of the couples quarrel.

WILDCARDS

Sasha & Gleb - She is is no way on the same level as the rest of the people in this group, but have you been to the dwts tag on twitter? You’d think the show was about her by the amount of support by her fanbase, so I’m taking them in consideration. Also, she has a really nice personality and I do see a lot of potential coming from that first dance once she gets rid of the nerves.

Vanessa & Maks - All preseason long Vanessa would only be referenced as Nick’s wife but as soon as her package started she automatically became so much fun and relatable. To top it off she has some actual dance skills as well, the better half of the couple. I will be truly pissed if TPTB pimps Nick instead of her or if Maks slacks on coreography.

Frankie & Witney - Jury is still out on this one tbh. Sure he was one of the most pleasant surprises of the night, specially considering how much he had talked about nerves and stuff. His partnership with Witney is adorable, the dance was really good and he was one of the most talked about last night. Still, we have yet to see him in a more upbeat latin dance, than we can actually rule him as a contender or not.

Derek & Sharna - Talk about a pleasant surprise, Derek came out week one with stage presence, confidence and right from the start commanded the stage, dancing front and center in a number with troupe and props. To top it off his partnership with Sharna looks like so much fun and doing lifts for week one? Of course there is still a lot of room for growth, technique wise, but he just jumped from first out to actual contender in the eyes of so many people that I can’t help but let myself create expectations. C’mon Sharna.

FRONTRUNNERS

Nikki & Artem - When there are only two people dancing the same style comparisons are somewhat inevitable, and when the other person was the best of the night you might suffer from it. Having said that, the hype around Nikki is still strong and she checks every box when it comes to dwts success: Physique, personality,  work ethic, age, fanbase...

Lindsey & Mark - Lindsey getting in the final is almost too obvious, and that might her. She has some past experience with ballroom, having danced with Derek before, she obviously has rhythm from being a musician, and she’s got Mark, who is not only brilliant in choreography but is still riding on the buzz of being back. Seriously, unless there is a huge upset (Heather style), I don’t see any way she is not in that final.

Victoria & Val - The sweetest personality in the cast, tearjerker backstory of overcoming all obstacles, pretty good technique for week 1 with lots of room for improvement, and that’s not even taking in account the fact that she can’t feel her legs. Add to that the most popular pro on the cast and it becomes pretty hard to screw up that recipe.  

Jordan & Lindsay - Talk about a match made in heaven, Lindsay and Jordan are such a perfect fit that the only thing between them and the finals is if the ringer thing gets too intense. And even if it does, by that time he will most probably have won everybody over with his personality. 

[makemoneyonlineprofit-blog]

12 Retail Examples That Will Inspire You to Run a Better Business

https://120profit.com/?p=2340&utm_source=SocialAutoPoster&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=Tumblr One of the best ways to get inspired in your retail business is to see merchants like yourself who are killing it. So for this post, we’re putting the spotlight on retailers that are doing a great job at running their stores. We handpicked a number of retailers (mostly SMBs) from various industries and highlighted some their successful business practices in this post. Our hope is for you to leave this page brimming with inspired ideas to implement in your business. Dive in below or select an industry from this list: Examples of fashion and accessory stores Do you run a fashion or accessories boutique? Here are some retail examples in your market that are worth checking out: 1. Gossamer & Grace Bra Fit Studio: a lovely shop that sells bras for women of all ages, sizes and body types Founded by Kelly Franko, Gossamer & Grace Bra Fit Studio (formerly Kelly’s Elite Boutique) in Cortland, OH, originated after Kelly grew tired of watching her mom struggle with finding a good-fitting bra. “I decided to start a new journey into bra fitting,” she said. “I love helping my customers find what they need. There are few places that offer what we do or provide the service we provide.” Retail practice we love Gossamer & Grace Bra Fit Studio is more than just a bra store. This boutique has professional Fit Stylists that handpick selections for each client. So, every woman who walks into the store enjoys a curated assortment of products as well as remarkable customer service that can’t be found anywhere else. According to Kelly, “I soon realized that I wasn’t really selling bras, I was selling confidence. Women often come in feeling unhappy with the way they look. Once supported properly, their outlook changes and they leave my store with a new confidence about their image. It’s a great way to serve others.” 2. Solfire: an athleisure apparel company with a big focus on building their community Solfire is a Brooklyn-based active retail company that launched just a few short years ago. Their goal? To create a strong athleisure apparel brand that brings together individuals who are passionate about fitness. Retail practice we love Two things make Solfire successful: first is their solid commitment to producing high-quality products. The company only works with manufacturers that meet their standards to ensure that everything they sell is top notch. Another thing we love is the effort that Solfire exerts to build a community and cultivate relationships with patrons. In their brick-and-mortar store, for examples, they set up a juice and smoothie bar along with a “fitness oasis” — an area for clubs to meet and exercise. Additionally, the retailer set up a community board to showcase “all the studios, all the places people sweat, all of that within the area around the store.” The folks at Solfire also gather customer details so they can further engage them. They do this by handing over their iPad POS at checkout, so shoppers can fill in their information. According to Solfire, they have a near-perfect customer engagement rate. Almost 100% of shoppers input their details so Solfire can stay in touch and inform them of happenings in the community. 3. Dresden: an eyewear retailer that sells personalized and sustainable products Dresden isn’t your run of the mill eyewear store. The company produces upcycled eyeglasses and sunglasses made from plastic waste and discarded fishing nets, then sells them at affordable rates. Retail practice we love In addition to selling great products, Dresden also offers an interesting in-store experience. Unlike other eyewear retailers that sell ready-made stuff on their shelves, Dresden lets shoppers create their own pair of eyeglasses or sunglasses. Starting from just $49, customers can get lenses and frames made up as they wait. They can choose their frame styles and color combinations, which means they can get a pair that’s made just for them. Key takeaways Ponder what you sell beyond your products. For example, at Gossamer & Grace, Kelly doesn’t just sell bras, she sells confidence. Apply the same thinking to your business and use the insights you gain to improve your customer experience. Focus on your community. Think of ways to bring people together in your store. Can you hold classes or events? Perhaps you can set up in-store facilities like what Solfire did with their smoothie bar. Can your incorporate personalization into your business? Is there a way to let customers “build” their own products through mix and match and other tactics? Personalization is growing trend. Consider exploring how you can use it in your business. Retail examples of homeware stores and gift shops If your store sells gift items or products for people’s homes, here are a couple of similar retailers that you can draw inspiration from: 4. Christmas Elves: a holiday store that grew 250% in three years Christmas Elves, as its name clearly states, is a holiday store that sells Christmas trees, lights, decorations, costumes, and more. The store’s owner, Jason McIntyre always loved Christmas, so when the chance to own a holiday store came up, he left his job as a software architect to follow his retail dream. Retail practice we love Jason implemented several action steps that led to the growth of Christmas Elves, but the thing we love most is his clever use of retail data and reports. Specifically, he looks closely at his sales velocity — i.e. the speed at which products are selling. “I have to place my Christmas orders in January or February each year, so we pretty much get one shot at purchasing. If I under-purchase and sell out then I lose sales opportunities. But if I buy too many or the wrong types of products then I’ll have to look into discounts and promotions.” That’s when the sales and velocity reports come in, he says. By looking at when sales spike and which products are selling the most, Jason and his team can get a clearer idea of how many units to order. Jason says he looks at sales velocity reports for specific products and their overall categories, and this allows him to figure out what items to order and if there are any related products that he could purchase. 5. MyDIY.ie: a multi-channel retailer that sells home improvement products MyDIY.ie is your go-to source when it comes to your home DIY needs. Whether you’re looking for power tools, decorating and wood care, or workwear, MyDIY has you covered. According to Alan Grant, owner of MyDIY, his business has experienced 30% year on year growth, and he attributes that success (in part) to smart inventory management. Retail practice we love Expanding their product range was one of the top actions that led to their growth, said Alan. “We’ve expanded our range by probably about 40%, but we really haven’t expanded our stockholding because we have to keep our stocks nice and tight,” he shared. “That has been a massive help for us. Before we would order 6 or 12 or 48 units of a product. But by looking at our inventory information from Vend and the previous years’ trading, we’re able to stay on top of stock purchasing and keep our inventory levels optimal.” Doing this also helped them offer more choices, which shoppers loved. “We offer a customer experience that gives them more options. If they’re looking for a hammer, they don’t have a choice of just three, they have seven different hammers.” Another great practice? The store uses their loyalty program to sell slow-moving products. According to Alan, they offer double or triple loyalty points when shoppers purchase items that the store wants to move. Doing so helps them move inventory without resorting to huge discounts. And since the effort is tied into their loyalty program, shoppers have an incentive to buy and come back. 6. TheSuperCool: a gift emporium that curates interesting objects from all over the world Based in Melbourne, this six-year-old retailer has a brick-and-mortar shop, an ecommerce site and a mobile store that serves as TheSuperCool venue for pop-up events. Retail practice we love We truly admire TheSuperCool’s commitment to “supporting small business makers that offer organic, fairtrade, and handmade products and helping their small family businesses grow.” TheSuperCool is also very in touch with their community and they use social media to drive word of mouth and traffic. “We’ve been in business for nearly six years, and we began as a mobile emporium that went to the people. We had no fixed address and would use social media to keep our fans on their toes with our next location. We’ve been fortunate to be recognized locally and internationally with awards for innovative retailing and visual merchandising,” says co-founder David “Noonie” Nunez. “Fast forward to now, and we’ve had 30-odd pop-ups in various locations, from two-day events to 12 months! We now have a huge emporium within the design space (SO:ME Space) of the iconic South Melbourne Market. And in the last two years, we’ve expanded into TheSuperCool Kid (offering all those SuperCool families a place to shop for their kids!).” Key takeaways Forecast demand by looking at the speed at which your products are selling. Pay attention to your sales and inventory reports and use the data to make inventory decisions.  Do you implement loyalty in your business? If so, use your loyalty program to help move lingering stock. Strive to support other businesses that stand for something. It could prove to be a smart move for your company, as shoppers increasingly want to align themselves with businesses that focus on being ethical and real. Examples of sports and outdoors retail Looking for examples of sport and outdoorsy retailers? Here’s a couple that you’ll find super interesting: 7. Sitka: an environmentally conscious surf retailer that sells socially responsible goods Founded in 2002, Sitka was started by two friends shaping surfboards out of their garage. The business has grown quite a bit since then, and today, Sitka designs and sells clothes as well as outdoors goods that are sourced in the most environmentally responsible way possible. Retail practice we love We love how much passion and purpose goes into each of Sitka’s products. According to Sitka’s Managing Director Andrew Howson: “At Sitka, the products we create are unique and purposefully designed, and everything we make has a story behind it. Almost all of our decisions are based on environmental stewardship, encouraging others to learn about the environment, and teaching them how to become passionate about it. This, in turn, inspires many and puts a smile on my face.” 8. Rockets & Rascals: a bike-shop-slash-cafe that helps people fall in love with cycling Based in the UK, Rockets & Rascals is a bike emporium and cafe that sells high-quality bikes while serving top-notch coffee. According to Steve Toze, Marketing Director at Rockets & Rascals, their purpose is to share their love of bike riding with the community. Retail practice we love Aside from the huge focus on their creating a strong biking community, we love how Rockets & Rascals implements their loyalty program. The retailer uses a simple structure where shoppers earn loyalty whenever they spend money at the store. Best of all, the store doesn’t use physical cards. The entire loyalty program runs on their POS platform and all shoppers need to do to earn and redeem their rewards is to give their name to the cashier. “It’s a wonderful lifesaver for a cold, wet cyclist that’s come in without their wallet,” shares Steve. Key takeaways Be more thoughtful with your product assortments. See to it that each item has a story and purpose. This will help your merchandise stand out. And when shoppers can relate to the stories you tell, they’re more likely to become customers for life. Make it easy for customers to participate in your loyalty program. And if you’re still using physical cards, do yourself (and your patrons) a favor and switch to a digital solution! Retail examples in the food and beverage sector Moving on to the food and beverage space, here are some F&B merchants with delicious products (and awesome retail strategies and tactics): 9. Grain & Vine: an omnichannel retailer that sells boutique wine and spirits Grain & Vine’s purpose is to give people a better way to shop for beverages. Their spacious and easy-to-navigate store features a curated assortment of drinks from all around the world. Grain & Vine currently has 10 employees, two New York outlets, and an online shop. Retail practice we love Grain & Vine is truly an omnichannel retailer. They sell in-store, online, and on mobile through same-day delivery apps such as Postmates, Minibar, and Drizly. All of their sales channels are tightly integrated, so inventory and product data are synced across all platforms. How do they juggle their POS, ecommerce, and delivery apps? Two words: tight integrations. Grain & Vine takes advantage of the solid integration between Shopify and Vend to ensure that they’re able to stay on top of sales and inventory. The two systems can “talk” to each other and share data in real-time — so when orders come in, Grain & Vine’s inventory is synced across its physical and digital stores. As for the different delivery apps,  they use an XML file to sync their inventory with the apps. According to Michael Nagdimunov, the shop’s owner: “We’ve created an XML file that constantly pings our Shopify platform for inventory updates. And because Shopify and Vend integrate almost natively, both inventories are always in sync. Those XML files are then being sent to our providers [i.e. delivery apps] and they, in turn, have constant access to updated inventory. That way, we’re never in a situation where they sell something we don’t carry.” 10. Collingwood Olive Oil: an olive oil and balsamic vinegar tasting bar and retailer Collingwood Olive Oil is run by Alex Yuen and Cheryl McMenemy, a husband and wife team based in Ontario, Canada. Founded in May of 2014, they source and sell the freshest extra virgin olive oils, along with a selection of natural balsamic vinegars. Retail practice we love Collingwood Olive Oil is all about the customer experience. According to Cheryl, customers can taste any product before buying, and they ensure that their employees are well-trained and are true product experts. Collingwood Olive Oil has won plenty of awards because of this. They’ve earned accolades such as Small Business Owners of the Year, Innovative Business of the Year, Metroland Reader’s Choice: Favorite New Business, and #1 Retail Shopping in Collingwood on TripAdvisor. Key takeaways If you’re selling food and beverages, let your customers experience your products through taste tests. It’s a fun experience! Plus, it will help shoppers find the best product for them, which in turn leads to higher satisfaction! Are you selling on multiple channels? You should. A study of 46,000 shoppers found that 73% have used multiple channels throughout their shopping journeys and those shoppers are more loyal and spend higher amounts in-store and online. Check our in-depth guide (with detailed steps) on how to seamlessly sell online, in-store, and on mobile.  Examples of electronics retail Now it’s time to put the spotlight on high tech retail. Here are a couple our favorite electronics stores. 11. LifeLine Repairs: a retail chain that offers repair services for your electronics LifeLine Repairs is a chain of 20+ stores that provides repairs for electronic devices including smartphones, tablets, and computers. Retail practice we love LifeLine’s local expansion strategy is remarkable. With over 20 stores across the US, LifeLine has managed to strike a great balance between brand consistency and localization. According to Kestas Masanauskas, the Chief Operations Officer at LifeLine Repairs, they’re able to achieve consistency by standardizing their processes and equipment. For instance, all of their stores use the same point of sale system (Vend) and their headquarters shares and uploads products to the various locations. They also have standardized procedures and use guidelines and flowcharts to provide information on things like equipment handling, inventory storage, and more. As for their local strategy, Kestas says they do a ton of research when expanding to a new location. Then, Kestas and his team cook up unique outreach initiatives for each market. For example, when they established a new store in Boise, Idaho, the LifeLine Repairs team discovered that the location has an incredibly strong biking community. So to grab their attention, the retailer ran an event where people can borrow bikes for free.  12. Sennheiser: a brand that uses retail to help customers experience sound in a whole new way Sennheiser is a leading global brand specializing in the design, production, and retail of both consumer and high-fidelity audio products. Retail practice we love Sennheiser is known for their amazing concept stores in various parts of the globe, but some of our favorites are the popups that they set up in New York City (one in SoHo and another in the Westfield World Trade Center) in 2016. Both stores allowed New Yorkers to experience Sennheiser sound first hand through their products and innovations. According to the press release: The new SoHo store has been designed to transport visitors sonically and visually: Stepping into the store guests enter via the sound tunnel, which has been carefully engineered to damp external noise levels bit by bit – making the buzz of the city streets outside recede as you go further inside. This transition in sound is complemented by what you see. The tunnel brings visitors into an area where large screens show the company’s core: the Sennheiser logo, a milestone product from the company’s 70-year history and Sennheiser’s vision to shape the future of audio. Key takeaways If you’re running multiple stores (or are planning to), be sure to find the right balance between brand consistency and localization. Check out what LifeLine Repairs is doing and see if you can apply their tactics to your business. Make your store more experiential. Find a way to make people feel like they’re entering a new world when they walk into your shop. Your turn We talked about some amazing retail examples in this post, but now we’d love to hear from you. Can you name retailers that are thriving in today’s market? What are some of the things that they’re doing right? Let us know in the comments. About Francesca NicasioFrancesca Nicasio is Vend's Retail Expert and Content Strategist. She writes about trends, tips, and other cool things that enable retailers to increase sales, serve customers better, and be more awesome overall. She's also the author of Retail Survival of the Fittest, a free eBook to help retailers future-proof their stores. Connect with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Google+. 120profit.com - https://120profit.com/?p=2340&utm_source=SocialAutoPoster&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=Tumblr

[mikeyd1986]

MIKEY’S PERSONAL BLOG 117, August 2018

On Monday morning, I attended the Midday Music (formerly Morning Melodies) social function at the Cranbourne RSL. Like every Monday, I was basically in “recovery mode” from the weekend with low energy levels, lack of concentration and poor quality of sleep. However it was nice to be in the company of family and friends including Angela Dixon, Jen Angee, Judie Hedrick, Jules and Jim.

Today’s performer was Garry Johns singing the hits of the great American singer-songwriter Neil Diamond. He certainly looked and acted the part rocking a red and blue sequinned top, studded belt and black pants. I found myself half-tuned out and distracted after finding out that my clinical neuropsychologist Dr. Yasmin Baliz was suffering from a migraine and had to cancel my appointment at the last minute.

This plus a handful of other notifications which end up being anxiety triggers for me. It’s something that I’ve been trying hard to work at, essentially taking long periodic breaks away from social media and turning notifications off on my phone. It was becoming far too much for me to handle. I’m learning to “log off” and disable apps much more frequently now and focus on doing more productive activities during the day. Facebook, Messenger and Instagram in particular are very good at sapping all of my energy and time away so I really need to limit myself every day.

Anyway, back to Neil Diamond. Garry played many of Diamond’s classic tunes especially from the 1972 album Hot August Night including Crunchy Granola Suite, Solitary Man, Cherry Cherry, Sweet Caroline, Red Red Wine, Cracklin’ Rosie, Song Sung Blue, I Am...I Said and Desiree. http://www.australianentertainmentservices.com.au/gary-johns/ 

On Monday night, I attended my Men of Doveton program held at Doveton College. This session was very similar in structure to the previous week in that we spent the first half doing footy training and the second focusing on mental health awareness. The footy training this time we facilitated by Alan is who one of the program leaders. I think a few of the guys had mixed feelings about his teaching style especially during the criss-cross hand balling exercise which had most people very confused and uncoordinated. 

The thing I’ve really learned the most about participating in team sports is that it’s always been a struggle for me. I remember playing Auskick for a short time as a child and feeling intensely intimidated by the other boys. I was gentle, fragile and sensitive (and for the most part as an adult, still am). It just wasn’t for me back then. I was not the “sporty” type.   

You can’t simply unlearn 25+ years of being scared of having a ball flying into your face or feeling self-conscious about being tackled by somebody or sitting on the sidelines wondering what the hell I should be doing. It takes time to build those skills up and honestly I was having a fair crack at it tonight. Whilst I was obviously not the most involved player nor had the most possessions of the ball or kicked any goals, I still tried and I still participated. That’s all that matters. Full stop.   

The second half of the session involved listening to a talk called “BE WELL - How to Build Positive Mental Health and Wellbeing” presented by Troy Macris who the mental health team leader for the City of Casey. I found his presentation to be very informative, funny, entertaining and thought-provoking. He started by getting us all to brainstorm what mental health and health in general means to us and wrote a list of words up on the whiteboard. 

Next we gave us the definition of mental health by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and discussed the ways in which we can all stay mentally healthy. The major areas include diet, physical activity, sleep, social connectedness, self-esteem, dealing with failures and challenges, relaxation and personal values. Whilst I pretty much knew most of the material in Troy’s presentation, I still appreciated the parts he chose to emphasise. He used YouTube videos to drive the point home about the importance of having good relationships and how challenges can be opportunities for learning and personal growth. 

Being part of the Men of Doveton program has already been a good learning experience and showed me aspects that I still need to work on. Like embracing the fact that I’m often quiet, shy, reserved and don’t speak up much in large group settings. And to be honest, there’s nothing wrong with that. I’m still a value member of this group and do make important contributions to these meetings. Hence why I love the ideas behind this program being about  including, encouraging and supporting each other. It’s exactly what I need in my life. 

On Tuesday morning, I attended my second NDIS information session held at the function room inside Bunjil Place in Narre Warren. Unlike the intense and stressful Amaze workshop last week, this info session was much more casual and relaxed. Once again it was lead by a lady named Sharna from the NDIA who somehow reminds me of Tammy May from My Budget. I found her presentation to be a lot more constructive, informative and helpful than Pamela’s one was hands down. https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/events/vic   

Surprisingly, the function room was only half full of attendees which indicates that a lot of people must have pulled out at the last minute. But this allowed me to concentrate more and take lots of notes. Sharna guided us through the various sections of what an NDIS Planning Conversation will entail. This includes your personal details, community and government services, how you manage everyday activities, your safety, participant statement, your goals, reasonable and necessary supports and how your plan will be funded. https://www.yooralla.com.au/news-and-media/blog/posts/How-to-prepare-for-your-NDIS-planning-meeting 

It was information overload for 1-1.5 hours especially when she started talking about the transition from planning into supports which involves connecting with providers, making a service agreement, placing a service booking and then having supports delivered. It is a tonne  of stuff to process but the slides were very clearly arranged and organised so I can go away and slowly go through it in my own time. https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/firstplan 

On Thursday morning, I went to Degani Casey Central to catch up with my support worker Ally Lamb from PHaMs. Honestly I’ve been feeling like such a scatterbrain this week with trying to process all the NDIS information I’ve learned at the workshop and info session, dealing with multiple changes at work, lack of sleep and disrupted sleep patterns, dealing with lots of stress and pressure whenever I’m out and about. 

I’m finding that it only takes a couple of hours before I’m worn out and mentally drained so I never stay out too long at one place. Grocery shopping is a classic example of this. At least I’ve now learned to put coping strategies in place before I go out. I make sure to bring a load of reusable shopping bags and write out a list before I even walk into Woolies, Coles or ALDI. Being overwhelmed with product choices is a lot harder but most of the time I usually end up buying either whatever is on special or my trusted brand. https://themighty.com/2017/08/anxiety-grocery-shopping/     

And then there’s dealing with the general public and other shoppers. People are always in a hurry. Nobody is mindful of other people, nor takes two seconds to think before they act. I constantly feel pressured and stressed out whenever I’m in a crowded aisle or standing in a long queue at the checkouts. People constantly judge you if you're in their way or take too long deciding what to buy. It’s all in their body language and impatient stares. 

And then there’s the social awkwardness of not knowing what to do when the cashier is processing your order. Should I say something or remain quiet? Where do I look? I’ll just smile and pack my trolley. So getting my grocery shopping done ends up being a massive relief for me once I’m out of that supermarket. http://keepyourcalm.com/blog/how-keep-calm-and-confident-grocery-store 

On Thursday night, I attended a social night with the 30+ Adult Aspergers Victoria group at Taco Bill Mexican - Blackburn. I was honestly in two minds about coming to this tonight considering how low and tired I’d been feeling most of the day. But after spending most of the afternoon in bed, I was determined to drag myself out of it. It’s been a few months since I last attended an event with this particular group of Aspies after the discussion went off the rails and felt like I needed to take a break. https://tacobill.com.au/locations/blackburn 

My feelings were still pretty much the same tonight but that didn’t mean I wasn’t going to try. Mexican food is pretty well out of my comfort zone and I spent 5-10 minutes browsing the menu. I was pretty indecisive about most of the options on there plus I wasn’t especially hungry so I chose to get a single hard-corn taco with shredded beef, a sticky date pudding and a stubbie of Carlton Draught. 

The guys I was sitting with at my table were all intellectuals and difficult to relate to but I did attempt to chime into the conversations when I could. Plus it was a good opportunity to practice my active listening skills and be more comfortable making eye contact. Thankfully the LCD screen and Mexican decor (Tequila anyone?) did offer some brief moments to diffuse my social awkwardness but a shitty reality TV show like The Bachelor isn’t exactly going to hold my attention for long. 

After about 1-1.5 hours, I was eager to leave as I was getting bored and restless and had a long drive back home. As usual, at any social gathering, leaving is probably the most challenging aspect for me and so I resorted to the shift ninja escape method of having a toilet break then swiftly walking straight out the exit. It may seem rude but I’m really terrible at saying goodbye to people especially when I don’t really know them that well. Still I’m glad that I made the effort to even attend and face my fears. https://aspergersvic.org.au/events-groups 

On Friday morning, I had an appointment to see my Clinical Neuro-psychologist Dr. Yasmin Baliz at CNS: Comprehensive Neuropsychological Services in Narre Warren. I was burning the candle at both ends a little as I was determined to get a workout in at the Casey Arc Health Club and gym. This week I’ve been really been struggling a lot with my sleeping patterns, anxiety and motivation. Besides my footy training session on Monday night, I haven’t done much exercise at all which is pretty unusual for me. Something is definitely up.    

We met inside her usual office on the first floor of building 64, Victor Crescent. I literally had half a reusable shopping bag full of notes on the NDIS plus my diary so I was very prepared for this appointment. The NDIS is still a massive web of confusion for me, although it is slowly becoming clearer the more advice I get about it. 

There are so many options and factors to consider before I’m ready for my planning conversation. What goals do I have now and for the future? Which providers and services do I want to use? Do I want to self-manage my plan or have it managed by an agency or the NDIA? What things do I need help and assistance with now and in the future? Who are my “go-to” supports? At least I can say I’ve partially answered some of these questions so it’s a work in progress for me. https://bettercaring.com.au/blog/disability/prepare-ndis-planning-meeting/ 

The next thing to tackle was my sleeping problems which has recently been getting increasingly worse and severely impacting on my daily living and brain functioning. Yasmin suggested the M word, medication, which I’ve been pretty reluctant about as I’m worried about the side effects and getting dependent on them. But she recommended only taking them 1-2 times a week to avoid that from happening. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/safe-use-of-sleeping-pills 

She also advised to start making a sleep diary again, improving my sleep hygiene and look into buying a digital sleep monitor of some kind. I’ve tried so many different strategies to help me fall and stay asleep at night (lavender spray, natural sleep vitamins, lighting candles, playing guided meditation and nature sound videos, using a eucalyptus vapouriser, drinking a cup of herbal or chamomile tea and soon using a weighted blanket) with varying degrees of success. So I’m hoping that Yasmin’s suggestions will work better than what I’ve tried. https://sleepfoundation.org/sleep-topics/sleep-hygiene 

“The same sun shines one everyone. If I stumble or fall, it’s good to know we share it all. Singing yeah. We’ve come undone. Yeah there’s water in my lungs. Yeah we’ve come undone. This heart it weighs a ton.” Evermore - Shines On Everyone (2012) 

“Everything is fragile. Everything will come and will go. Everyone is fragile, but most don't let it show. Sometimes it's easy, sometimes it's not. And you know sometimes you've got to give it all you got.” Evermore - Sometimes It’s Easy (2012)        

“Here you go again, rainy day friend. Your head in your hands, won't you understand That you, are not the first to fall into pieces...So it turns out all your plans. They were built upon the sand. You're afraid to take a stand. But I know that you can.” Evermore - Pieces (2012)        

[trendingnewsb]

The 25 Best Self Improvement Books To Read Before You Turn 25

I remember the first time I got my hands on a self-improvement book. I was baffled. At that moment I realized my fate was not set in stone. I could become my own drill master and coach. The books I read would set out the training course for me to overcome. All I had to do was listen to that voice that aspired to climb higher and higher. Every time I committed to a new challenge I knew it was going to be outside my comfort zone, but after enough iterations, I also knew it will not just be part of my repertoire, it will be part of me.  By the time I was 25 I’d read over a hundred self improvement books.

Not all self-improvement books are made equal.  Some help start you out on your journey, others give you a boost when you’ve achieved experience in certain areas.  Here are the best ones that I recommend to read before you’re 25.

Whatcha Gonna Do with That Duck?: And Other Provocations

by Seth Godin This book is a masterpiece, and unlike most self-improvement books, this one targets an infinite array of areas in which you can, and ultimately must, improve. With its ruthless honesty and genuine inspiration, Godin makes you ponder the difficult questions you wouldn’t ever dare to ask yourself. The result is a completely new perspective of the world- a fresher, more vibrant perspective, packed with new and bold possibilities. If you need a friend that understands, a boss that forces you to venture deep in your non-comfort zone, a wise guru that tells you what needs to be left behind and a sage that proclaims the coming of a new age, then look no further; you will find these shrewd voices all tied together in this magnificent book. Make sure to get this one.

Print | eBook

Fooled by Randomness: The Hidden Role of Chance in Life and in the Markets

by Nassim Nicholas Taleb Perhaps it is the fact that randomness played such a significant role in my years as a poker player that I find this book utterly important. We often attribute skill where there is only luck; we confuse correlation with causation and we underestimate the incredible effect small changes can have. This book and my time at the tables gave me a perspective I unfortunately rarely encounter in others: you can do everything right and still lose, or do everything wrong and still win. It is thus not about the outcome; it is about your actions that have lead you there. This important message is central to many of my decisions I make in my life and this book by Taleb helps you develop such a perspective so you will be able to live in a world one cannot fully understand, where the results are not always clear markers of performance and where chance seems to play games with our fates. Stop being fooled by randomness!

Print | eBook | Audiobook

The 48 Laws of Power

by Robert Greene I read this book in a time where I thought power was something I should attain. Power for power’s sake. And while I disagree with my former self on this point, the fact remains that power is very real, it forms the invisible scepter of all hierarchical relations around us. I still recommend this book; I believe it is important to know how people use power for their own benefit and what to do to protect yourself from certain abuses of power. Besides the fact that all stories in this book gravitate around power, it contains many life lessons, amazing historical anecdotes and, if read in a certain light, the ability to use power for good. From Caesar to Goethe, Sun-Tzu to Machiavelli, this eye opening book spans a wide range of human development. If you, like me, would rather be interested in something less egotistical, perhaps Greene’s latest book Mastery will suffice (I haven’t read that one myself). Another great book in the same style, but this time around, covering a wider scope, and, perhaps, something that will make the world make a better place.

Print | eBook | Audiobook

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change

by Stephen. R. Covey The title of this book doesn’t capture it all. Covey shares with us seven habits one should adapt to become truly effective in whatever you would like to achieve. Of course, it is not as easy as it sounds. He stresses the fact that we need to go through a paradigm shift – a fundamental change in how we perceive the world and ourselves. This book can be read as a guide, with practices and everything, to go through the stages in order to make such a shift happen. Part shock-therapy, part ageless spiritual wisdom,Covey’s book is packed with wisdom that actually makes a difference. And, as I mentioned, don’t let the title of the book fool you; it is about much more than just becoming more effective. It is about becoming a whole integer person who not only seeks the best in oneself, but also in the people around her. A must read for anyone who feels there is always something left to learn.

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The Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide: Safe, Therapeutic, and Sacred Journeys

by James Fadiman While finding a book on psychedelics in a list of books on self-improvement might come as a surprise, I believe any metaphysical distinction between tools such as books, meditation or molecules hold no ground and they should all be solely judged on their merits. And the merits of certain chemical keys, used in a constructive way, are perhaps bigger than any book in this list. The Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide will teach you how to prepare yourself and your surroundings, what and how much to take, and what do do when something goes wrong, so you can safely enhance your thinking, creativity, introspection and emotional balance. This book contains everything you need to know about using psychedelics as a tool for self-improvement while drawing on extensive scientific literature and personal wisdom. A must have for the beginning and experienced psychonaut alike.

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Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time

by Brian Tracy We all know how that destructive downward spiral feels. We have to do some big task, of which the thought alone triggers resistance, not sure how and where to begin and feeling overwhelmed before we start; we get easily distracted to get rid of that feeling, only to suddenly realize that hours went by- precious hours- and then find ourselves in the same position as before, still not knowing where and how to begin, but now, feeling guilty on top of it which expresses itself in more craving for distraction. Ad infinitum. To break this spell of procrastination before it paralyzes us, Tracy advises us to Eat That Frog, to set our priorities straight, deconstruct larger tasks into smaller ones, learn when to tackle the big frog first or to start out with something else. Tracy is truly a motivational writer, and while I wished he had gone a bit deeper into the psychological reasons why people procrastinate, it is still a must have for anyone who wants to break the spell and get shit done.

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Think and Grow Rich: The Original 1937 Unedited Edition

by Napoleon Hill A from 1937, this book by Hill is a masterpiece. Don’t bother with the edited versions since they all omit important and controversial information: some historical, and some pertaining to the goal of the book, which is to think and grow rich. The word rich might imply that this book is all about material gain, and while it certainly covers that area, it is about much more than that. Perhaps the first explicit mention of positive thinking, on how to care not just about the cash in your pocket, but also the thoughts in your head, this book has been able to withstand the destruction of time. It covers all the basics from planning, decision making and persistence, to the more advanced techniques as auto-suggestion, transmutation and what we can learn from fear. This is not a grow rich book, but a timeless guide to find out what actually matters. As it says clearly in the beginning ‘Riches can’t always be measured in money!’

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The Attention Revolution: Unlocking the Power of the Focused Mind

by Alan Wallace In a world that is dominated by ever stronger technologies designed to grab hold of your attention, a way to empower yourself is to bring that attention back to where you want it to shine. This book offers just that; in The Attention Revolution, Wallace describes the path to attaining Shamatha, a buddhist meditation state of mind that is free from any flickering of distraction. It is a hard and long path, probably not possible for us to reach in this lifetime. However, even getting to stage two or three will make everything in life easier. A wonderful introduction to meditation, The Attention Revolution will inspire you to take on the challenge and see what training your mind can actually achieve. Once you have achieved such a level of focus you can put it to use to open your heart with the practice of The Four Immeasurables or deepen the practice with this wonderful commentary by Dudjom Lingpa, both by Alan B. Wallace.

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The Paleo Manifesto: Ancient Wisdom for Lifelong Health

by John Durant In the last 10,000 years or so it seems we have been propelled into an ever faster paced world forged by our own hands and minds. Only recently have we been able to reconstruct our journey and reflect back upon our humble origins. This amazing book is such a reflection. It goes back to the paleolithic searching for answers to health and longevity. Between science and his personal experiments, Durant weaves a mind blowing story that will convey the importance of an evolutionary perspective on how to live well. It covers everything from nutrition to exercise, from sleep to fasting, from ancient practices to modern biohacking and even has an outline for a vision of the future where depression and obesity have become obsolete. If you only have room for a couple of books on this list, make sure this one is included.

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Mindsight: The New Science of Personal Transformation

by Daniel J. Siegel As my Burmese meditation teacher often proclaimed, ‘Mindfulness alone is not enough!’ Siegel seems to have taken this to heart and made an unique synthesis between meditation, psychoanalysis and neuroscience which he calls ‘Mindsight‘, as he says himself, a potent combination between emotional and social intelligence. All of us deal with some disorder or another, something that seems to disturb the very core of our being at ease, and while it might not always be the best strategy to want to get rid of it, it certainly helps to understand and have compassion for that little aspect that upsets that perfect image of ourselves. Brimming with techniques, insights and epiphanies, this book contains everything you need to know to reprogram your brain and to optimally use its capacity of neuroplasticity. A great book for spiritual seekers and scientists alike.

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How to Win Friends & Influence People

by Dale Carnegie This is the first self-improvement book I have ever read and it is also probably one of the oldest in this category. Written in 1937, mainly for the door to door salesman of that era, this book by Carnegie can truly be called a classic. It shows what we all intuitively know: it doesn’t matter what your line of work is or what you want to achieve- if you are doing business of any kind, you need to make it about the other person. Being nice helps, a lot. And while I might not fully defend the premise of this book, because it doesn’t distinguish between genuine interest and faking it to get what you want, it still contains a treasure chest full of timeless wisdom. Everybody wants to feel appreciated, and rightfully so. Learning to take a small effort to make someone’s day will make the world run smoother, no matter what your goal is. I still spontaneously remember some of his guidance, and perhaps this quality is the reason why this book still draws millions of readers to this day.

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Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy

by David D. Burns Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the most effective therapy used by psychologists today; it consists of identifying thought patterns that have a detrimental effect on your self-image and mood, and deconstructing these in order to break out of these destructive cycles. If you want to know how this works, which moods are central in your life, what thought patterns are causing your depression, how to overcome self-judgment and guilt, how to defeat approval and love addiction and how your self-perfectionism is hindering you, then don’t look further; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has helped millions of people and it can help you, and this is the best book for the job. Packed with scientific research, exercises and examples, this is the best improvement your self is going to get.

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Psycho-Cybernetics, A New Way to Get More Living Out of Life

by Maxwell Maltz What can a plastic surgeon tell us about happiness? By dealing with his patients, Dr. Maxwell Maltz experienced firsthand that having your expectations come true doesn’t automatically result into a more positive life experience. Their outward appearances did indeed change but their inner insecurity remained. This caused him to find other means to help his patients, resulting in visualization techniques. He found a person’s outer success can never rise above the one visualized internally. This book carries a very honest and humbling story, loaded with fundamental truths about our psychology and how our own philosophy affects us, all told by a very compassionate writer. Of some books it can be said that it will be valuable for years to come, and I am absolutely positive that this is one of them.

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Thinking, Fast and Slow

by Daniel Kahneman This brilliant book by Nobel prize winner Daniel Kahneman is a lucid account of all the amazing research he has done over the years. He is the founder of behavioral economics – the way our psychology affects our decisions – and explains in simple prose how our thinking is divided in two systems: one fast and one slow. The fast one is almost instant; it consists of the hardwired instincts that govern emotions, a remnant of an evolutionary past, an unconscious irrational machine. The slow one is deliberate, self-reflexive and logical, but can easily be distracted and takes a lot of effort. Both play a large role in our lives and Kahneman explores when the fast system fails and why the slow system is often not utilized. Packed with mind blowing examples and sharp analyses, this book teaches you how to learn to make sound judgments, and use the best of both systems.

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An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth: What Going to Space Taught Me About Ingenuity, Determination, and Being Prepared for Anything

by Chris Hadfield A few extraordinary people journey to the edge of our world and come back with a unique story to tell. Colonel Hadfield is such a person, and his story is perhaps the most important one in this list. While the other books in this list teach you to be independent, visualize your future and dream big, this astronaut’s guide turns these all upside down. A truly remarkable book, overflowing with mind-blowing stories that illustrate the life lessons he learned as one of the most accomplished astronauts that ever lived.Full of compassion, warmth and genuine self-reflexive humor, he conveys to us to be prepared for the worst and never let yourself be swayed from enjoying every moment. Part action story, part no-nonsense hard truth and part timeless spiritual wisdom, this book makes you feel like you stepped onto a rocket ship and experienced what he did while learning these most valuable lessons on the way.

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Perfect Health Diet: Regain Health and Lose Weight by Eating the Way You Were Meant to Eat

by Paul Jaminet & Shou-Ching Jaminet No self-improvement list is complete without a nutrition book and the Perfect Health Diet is arguably the best diet book on the market now. If you are overweight or not, feel sick, or just looking for an extra boost in health (and keep it this way), then look no further. From reading decades of studies the authors construct the optimal way to eat, destroying popular food fads in the process. They explain in sufficient detail the optimal macro-ratios, which starches are safe, which vitamins and supplements to take and what foods, or what they call toxins, to avoid. This book is a great supplement to the Paleo Manifesto as it shares its basic evolutionary perspective; we were evolved to eat non-toxic, high fat, moderate protein and carbohydrates. And, sometimes, going around with no food at all, can be a very healthy thing. If your body is not in optimal health, then it is almost no use to read the other books. Make this your priority number one.

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Failing Forward: Turning Mistakes into Stepping Stones for Success

by John C. Maxwell At one time or another, we will all fail. What matters most is how you deal with it once you do. Will you give up? Or will you use it as a stepping stone for success? I recently read an article about new start-ups in silicon valley. Its hypothesis was the more you had failed in the past, the more likely you were going to get funding. Why? Because failing teaches you invaluable lessons, and if you decide to continue after you hit the pavement, the more you have it in you to deliver. Now, this is not in anyway our instinctual reaction to failing. Most of us dread it, avoid it or refuse to fail at all costs. All three are by far sub-optimal. It is far better to accept failure where it arises, to accept responsibility and use it as a way to learn about yourself and your weaknesses. Only when you are absolute honest with yourself with respect to failure can you hope to grow. This wonderful book will teach you how to do exactly this. A honest book for everyone searching for a clean mirror.

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The Power of Now

by Eckhart Tolle The Power of Now hardly needs any introduction. It is perhaps the book that has had the most impact on our collective consciousness in recent years. It inspired millions of people all over the world to live a more fulfilling and compassionate life, all through the practice of mindfulness. Mindfulness consists of moment to moment non-judgmental awareness. It is a technique that alleviates depression, increases emotional intelligence and develops compassion- and only recently has come to the west, which remained weary and skeptical until science had validated a wide array of its claims. The brain can be trained. The Power of Now teaches you how to release your attachment to certain thoughts and states of mind, thereby clearing the mind to fully embrace the present moment. If you already have read this book and are looking for deeper understanding, readWherever You Go, There You Are.

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The Last Lecture

by Randy Pausch At some point or another, almost all of us has come across The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch. (If you haven’t, watch this powerful message here.) What would you say when you only have a few months left to live? This was probably Pausch’s question he posed to himself when he had to deliver his lecture a week later. But being confined to an academic setting and short time frame he felt he had more to share, thus marking the birth of this book. Filled with stories about his childhood, it is a very down to earth exploration of what it means to chase your dreams, to be a good person and live a life that gives value to others. A beautiful mixture of humor and optimism, his tender voice will be a source of inspiration for everyone who will take the time to listen, something he tried to impart on his readers. A very lovely read. And don’t forget, ‘It’s not about the cards you’re dealt, but how you play the hand.’ Print | eBook | Audiobook

Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead

by Brené Brown

I love Brené Brown’s books. She writes about an insight that I have found to be scary but true at the same time.Vulnerability, unlike we have been taught, is not a weakness, but a power to be tapped. Growing up with the idea that we have to hide certain parts of ourselves, to look strong and persevere at all costs always seemed a facade to me. And now she has the research to back that up. From that place of vulnerability comes a sense of worthiness, which for most of us, needs to be cultivated every day. Only if we get in touch with that tender spot of our hearts can we connect with others and develop genuine compassion, which are prerequisites, Brown tells us, for living a ‘wholehearted life.’ The reality, however, is that we often close down, feel neglected and misunderstood, and rather want the vulnerability and perhaps even ourselves to disappear. This book is an amazing antidote for that common instinct. Want to be truly convinced? Check out her amazing ted talk here. ~~~introduction of the book~~~

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The Demon-Haunted World: Science as a Candle in the Dark

by Carl Sagan We all find UFO’s fascinating. We all really want to believe in magic or visiting aliens (surely the crop circles are conclusive proof!) and some of us believe the government is poisoning us with chemtrails. At the same time we are fascinated by the progress made by science, by all the new technology and medicines and the fascinating discoveries being

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Philosophy for Life

by Jules Evans As philosopher Sloterdijk puts it; ‘philosophy is a beautiful child of an ugly mother.’ Philosophy first arose when the old Greek polis states were at the brink of destruction. Philosophy, according to Sloterdijk, was not just a way to make sense of the world, to come to knowledge or truth, but to serve as a psychological immune system. This book is an amazing expression of this perspective. From the stoics to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Jules Evans writes about some of the amazing philosophical techniques we can use to train and improve our cognitive immune systems. He weaves ancient stories with modern applications, from heroism to cosmic contemplation, Philosophy for Life a beautifully written book that makes it easy to understand the practical nature of philosophy. Perhaps the book would have been better if he would have gone deeper into the subject matter, but nonetheless he captures the essence of what philosophy can mean for the modern person. A must read.

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Man’s Search For Meaning

by Victor. E. Frankl If I had to pick one book from this list for mandatory reading I would choose this one. For three years Viktor Frankl labored in four different Nazi concentration camps, including Auschwitz. He tells us about his experience and that of his fellow prisoners. Both chilling and uplifting, confronted with the idea that they would be trapped there for the rest of their lives, he gives us an account of those who found meaning and those who succumbed to nihilism. A blend between a memoir, a psychological investigation and a self-help book, Frankl delivers a powerful message: finding meaning lies at the core of being human. From his own experience as a psychiatrist combined with anecdotes from his time in the concentration camps, he tells us how important it is to find meaning in our own lives and what we can become if we don’t. Suffering, he conveys to us, is inevitable. But as to how we cope with it is dependent on ourselves. If we can find meaning, even in the worst acts our species has ever inflicted upon his fellow man, we will be able to move forward with renewed purpose.

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Simplify

by Joshua Becker This is a fun little book written by Joshua Becker, a big proponent of minimalist living. We all know that quote from Fightclub: “Advertising has us chasing cars and clothes, working jobs we hate so we can buy shit we don’t need.” Well, this is ending. Slowly we are outgrowing an era where the unquestioned mantra ‘more is always better’ dictates our behavior. Rather, we now find ourselves, our lives and our homes cluttered with too much information, too much stuff and just too much shit we don���t need. This simple book helps you become aware of the freedom gained from living with less. It is a small book, easily read under an hour, but it carries a persuasive punch to start living live in a very different way.

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Love Yourself Like Your Life Depends On It

by Kamal Ravikant The fundamental ground upon which all true self improvement is build is called self-love. Because in the end, no matter which way you turn, if you don’t love yourself, you will sabotage yourself at one point. You will think that, for some reason or another, you are not worthy. And if you think that, why would you truly want to achieve anything? And this is not just about achievement. This is about how you approach yourself every day; this is what you see when you look in the mirror. We make so many snap-judgments about ourselves- often without being conscious of them- that are filled with negativity, haltering us before we can even begin to heal. This powerful book shows you the antidote. Self love. Not to be confused with creating some narcissistic image of ourselves that some previous books in this list implicitly endorse, but self love, that inner gratefulness that no external condition can take away. Self love, that infinite source you can share with others.

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The post The 25 Best Self Improvement Books To Read Before You Turn 25 appeared first on Lifehack.

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'Game of Thrones' Prequels: Are We Really Getting All Four of Them?

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'Game of Thrones' Prequels: Are We Really Getting All Four of Them?

While the end of the road for Game of Thrones is in sight, HBO is by no means walking away from its storied franchise.

When the fantasy drama based on George R.R. Martin’s best-sellers returns July 16 for season seven, it will have 13 episodes remaining, with seven this year and the remaining six either in 2018 or 2019. Then it’s up to HBO’s development pipeline to see if one of the four (possibly five) prequel series comes in strong enough to move forward after the rightful heir to the Iron Throne is finally revealed.

In an unprecedented move, HBO announced May 4 that it is teaming with Max Borenstein (Kong: Skull Island), Jane Goldman (Kick-Ass), Brian Helgeland (Legend) and Carly Wray (The Leftovers) to develop what Martin calls four separate (potential) “successor shows.” Martin is involved in all four, co-writing at least two of them. Thrones showrunners David Benioff and Dan Weiss, meanwhile, opted to remain on the sidelines and will forgo executive producer credit on a potential prequel in favor of focusing on the final two seasons and, after a decade-plus, stepping away from the world of Westeros.

“I truly think it will go down as one of the best shows in the history of television,” HBO president of programming Casey Bloys tells The Hollywood Reporter. “It will be insane for a network not to at least entertain the idea of a successor show.”

Should a spin-off from the two-time Emmy-winning drama move forward, it would be the first time that HBO has revisited one of its iconic series. And Game of Thrones makes the most sense: It’s HBO’s most-watched show in history with an average gross audience of 25.7 million viewers. “It’s easily a multibillion-dollar brand,” says Henry Schafer, exec vp at branding specialist Q Scores. “Given all the TV fragmentation, it’s a great brand to help hold on to their subscribers. Game of Thrones is the No. 1 audience-engaging show on cable television right now.”

All four prequel ideas are in their infancy; Bloys hasn’t so much as seen an outline yet, let alone a script. Few details are known about the various projects, but Bloys did confirm that all of them are prequels that will be populated with entirely new characters. The executive has no plans to dilute the franchise or piggyback off the final season and rush the next potential chapter. Also off the table is a popular theory that the cabler might air the final season — which could consist of all theatrical-length episodes — anywhere other than on HBO. “This is for subscribers,” Bloys stresses.

Still, HBO remains optimistic that one of the four will come close to the quality of the flagship and help extend the franchise’s life, though Bloys wouldn’t rule out going back to the table again should none of them work out. And if all of them are strong? “That’s a high-class problem that I’ll solve when it comes to that,” he says with a laugh. “It would be nice if we got one of these off the ground and it ran for multiple seasons. The nice thing about George’s universe is it’s so vast. So could you do another one after that? Sure.”

In the meantime, HBO has been busy ramping up an impressive drama slate that includes Westworld (its highest-rated freshman series, returning in 2018); David Simon’s James Franco porn drama The Deuce (Sept. 10); J.J. Abrams and Misha Green’s Lovecraft Country; Alan Ball’s untitled family drama starring Tim Robbins and Holly Hunter; and Damon Lindelof’s buzzy Watchmen take, among others.

“It would be nice to have a Game of Thrones property, but the fate of the network does not hang in the balance,” Bloys says. And as for just when the final season will air? Bloys defers to Benioff and Weiss, who are busy writing and prepping the production schedule for the globe-trotting series.

Below, Bloys opens up about all things Thrones.

You’ve only got 13 more episodes at this point. Does Thrones tell a complete story? Do you already know how it ends?

Well let’s put it this way, the guys know very well the story that they want to tell. They have had a good idea of how they want to end their story for a very long time, so we’re just excited to have them do that.

The original idea was 15 more episodes, and now you’re getting two fewer. What happened?

There was never ever really a set plan. I think, honestly, some things kind of leaked in the press or may have been said here or there. They had an idea of where they wanted the arc to go, but in terms of the number of episodes, the number or the length of episodes, that has never been a hard number. I imagine the story is dictating for them how many episodes is right for them.

You’ve announced six more episodes for the final season, and there’s no airdate time frame. Given what you know about the pace of production and working with Benioff and Weiss, is it likely 2018 or 2019?

I can’t really speculate on that. All I will tell you is it is obviously a very ambitious season. This is the culmination of eight seasons of fantastic storytelling. They are writing, and they need to look at the production schedule, and we will take their lead in terms of the airdate that works best for them. They don’t even know; they are still putting the season together. And as you can imagine, it’s a very complicated show to produce, so it’s not like putting together a production schedule for a sitcom that shoots on the stage. It shoots all over the world and takes a long time to figure out where, when and how to shoot. So they’re in the process of doing that, and they’ll let us know.

Have you kicked the tires about how the final six episodes could air? Could they be weekly? Could you space them out and split them like Mad Men’s final season?

We haven’t gotten into to the airing plans. I don’t anticipate anything totally unusual, but again, until we figure out the production schedule, everything is going to come from that.

Would you rule out airing in theaters? Or having some kind of theatrical release, maybe Imax?

I would. This is for subscribers.

This is the first time HBO is revisiting one of its originals. How did the idea for these successor shows come about? Was this an organic decision or did pitches start coming in out of the woodwork?

I consider us incredibly fortunate to have a show that this many people have such interest in and that is such a good show. Truly I think it will go down as one of the best shows in the history of television. It would be insane for a network not to at least entertain the idea of a successor shows — I was going to say “prequel” but they’re not spin-offs because there are no existing characters going off the flagship. It’s not Laverne & Shirley from Happy Days; they are prequels. But it would be insane — with a universe like George has created that is so vast and has so many characters and so many timelines — to not, at least, entertain the idea, which is what we’re doing.

George has said there’s a fifth one in the works. Who is the writer?

I have a deal for four spinoffs right now with four writers.

You’re taking a highly unusual development path with these; it’s rare to develop four properties at the same time. Why go this route?

This franchise is really rich and very exciting. It is going to be really, really hard for anybody to match the level that this show has set in terms of quality and filmmaking. So the idea was, if we’re going to try it, let’s take a couple of shots and see. My hope is at least one lives up to the level of quality Benioff and Weiss have set. But again, it’s also very early in the process. I haven’t even seen an outline for them. The priority here is obviously season seven and then season eight. You’re not going to see a situation where we’re launching a prequel on the back of the final season. The final season is going to be its own event. It’s going to be a big deal for us and the fans. I’m not interested in using it to launch any other show. We mentioned the spin-offs because obviously there’s a lot of interest in them, but it’s a very embryonic process, and you know how development goes — it can be a long process. We confirmed their existence because there was a lot of interest, but it’s not something that we are fast-tracking to get done to air immediately after the final season. I’m guessing fans will need some time to decompress from how amazing the final season is.

If these outlines and these scripts come in, can you see one of these prequels airing before the final season?

No, absolutely not. No way. There’s not going to be anything — the only thing that will be Game of Thrones related on the air will be season seven and season eight, and then it will be a good long while if and before anything [new] gets on the air. Again, I say that only because I think when we confirmed the [prequels’] existence — that we were exploring this — that read to the general public that, “Wow, these are far along.” We were just confirming it so people didn’t speculate.

You’ve said before HBO is not going to have a version of Game of Thrones on in every quarter — which is a strategy AMC is doing with The Walking Dead and Fear the Walking Dead. But in success, what happens if three of the four come in great?

You know the odds in development. I think that is probably unlikely. I was at Touchstone during Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. They had a hit show and they aired four in a week. This show is very special. I’m not looking to have as many as possible. My sense right now is we would be very lucky if one of the four rises to the level that we have set. Now, theoretically, what if they’re all great? That’s a high-class problem that I’ll solve when it comes to that. But knowing what we know about the development process, that’s why we wanted to increase our odds. But I do not see a scenario where we have more than one. But again, high-class problem.

This is such a sprawling world in terms of timelines, mythology and characters. How much trepidation do you feel starting over from scratch? These are all prequels and as you’ve said, completely separate from the successful world you’ve already built.

Doing any show, any pilot, any potential series is very difficult — it’s lightning in a bottle. There’s a little bit of magic, a little bit of luck. Even with the best of scripts, it has to be cast just so, it has to be directed just so, written just so. In the best case scenario, it’s difficult to get the show right. What you’ve got in this situation is probably one of the best shows in television history as a benchmark. That makes it that much harder. We have world-class writers taking shots at this. I’m hopeful, but the fans have come to expect a really high level of writing, acting and storytelling, so it’s a high bar, no question.

Considering all of the projects are prequels, will these be more along the lines of Fear the Walking Dead — which exists in the same universe but does not have any direct connection to the flagship — or Better Call Saul, which will eventually take viewers to the beginning of Breaking Bad? Could these eventually connect to a flagship or will they be in an island of one?

The whole world is connected to some extent family tree-wise, and the timelines are so vast that unless you jumped ahead tens or hundreds of years, I don’t see [the prequels connecting] happening. The other point I want to make about clamping down spin-off fever is if none of them work, remember, we are building up our drama slate: We have Westworld, which is our highest-rated freshman drama in history; Watchmen, which we’re very hopeful that Damon Lindelof is excited about working on that; we’ve got Lovecraft Country; Alan Ball’s show; we’ve got David Simon’s new show. So it would be nice to have a Game of Thrones property, but the fate of the network does not hang in the balance.

If you were to look, say, 10 years into the future, what’s the state of Game of Thrones on HBO?

Going back to that Who Wants to Be a Millionaire comparison, I think overdoing it — like having multiple shows — there’s a risk of diluting the quality and driving it into the ground. I have no interest in doing that. But it would be nice if we got one of these off the ground and it ran for multiple seasons. The nice thing about George’s universe is it’s so vast. Could you do another one after that? Sure. By the way, in 10 years, I’m guessing that will be someone else’s problem! (Laughs.)

How involved is George in all of these?

He’s co-writing two of them. A lot of it will depend on how much George is engaged and how he clicks with writers and how much the writers want to bring him into the process. That will vary project by project. But he’s a fantastic resource. Nobody knows the universe better than the one who created it.

Will Weiss and Benioff be credited as exec producers even though they want to walk away from the franchise after the flagship ends?

In theory, they are entitled to passive participation as a sign of respect for what they’ve done with the franchise. By the time the eighth season airs, they will have been with this show for 13 years. And I think it’s important to point out this is the only thing they’ve worked on. They haven’t gone out and pitched other TV shows or movies. This is an all-consuming job, and they want to see it through. When they’re done, they don’t want to feel any sense of responsibility or obligation, and they said to me they hope to watch whatever spin-off they have purely as a fan, sitting at home, not overseas working on a production. So I understand that they need a clean break. They’ve done something historic and huge and they don’t want to feel obligated to participate or offer any guidance to a show.

Will they have any say in terms of what moves forward, if anything?

They don’t want any. They want to focus on, at this point, season eight. I don’t think they want to be distracted by somebody else’s writing that they’re not responsible for. They have said that 13 years is enough.

On the flipside, what happens if you’re not impressed with any of the four prequels? Would you try again?

Maybe. I don’t know, it’s hard to say. We’ve got some really amazing writers so I’m hopeful. It would be nice to find something else there. HBO will survive with or without a prequel. But that said, the world is so rich, it’d be great if we could crack one.

Considering the scope of this world and the volume of characters, have you considered doing something like a prequel anthology where it’s either a different character every season or every episode, a la Black Mirror?

No. I want to be mindful of overdoing it. I look at this universe as very precious resource. I do not want to overexploit it.

Game of Thrones returns Sunday at 9 p.m. on HBO. Bookmark THR.com/GameOfThrones for theories, news, interviews and more.

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The 25 Best Self Improvement Books To Read Before You Turn 25

I remember the first time I got my hands on a self-improvement book. I was baffled. At that moment I realized my fate was not set in stone. I could become my own drill master and coach. The books I read would set out the training course for me to overcome. All I had to do was listen to that voice that aspired to climb higher and higher. Every time I committed to a new challenge I knew it was going to be outside my comfort zone, but after enough iterations, I also knew it will not just be part of my repertoire, it will be part of me.  By the time I was 25 I’d read over a hundred self improvement books.

Not all self-improvement books are made equal.  Some help start you out on your journey, others give you a boost when you’ve achieved experience in certain areas.  Here are the best ones that I recommend to read before you’re 25.

Whatcha Gonna Do with That Duck?: And Other Provocations

by Seth Godin This book is a masterpiece, and unlike most self-improvement books, this one targets an infinite array of areas in which you can, and ultimately must, improve. With its ruthless honesty and genuine inspiration, Godin makes you ponder the difficult questions you wouldn’t ever dare to ask yourself. The result is a completely new perspective of the world- a fresher, more vibrant perspective, packed with new and bold possibilities. If you need a friend that understands, a boss that forces you to venture deep in your non-comfort zone, a wise guru that tells you what needs to be left behind and a sage that proclaims the coming of a new age, then look no further; you will find these shrewd voices all tied together in this magnificent book. Make sure to get this one.

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Fooled by Randomness: The Hidden Role of Chance in Life and in the Markets

by Nassim Nicholas Taleb Perhaps it is the fact that randomness played such a significant role in my years as a poker player that I find this book utterly important. We often attribute skill where there is only luck; we confuse correlation with causation and we underestimate the incredible effect small changes can have. This book and my time at the tables gave me a perspective I unfortunately rarely encounter in others: you can do everything right and still lose, or do everything wrong and still win. It is thus not about the outcome; it is about your actions that have lead you there. This important message is central to many of my decisions I make in my life and this book by Taleb helps you develop such a perspective so you will be able to live in a world one cannot fully understand, where the results are not always clear markers of performance and where chance seems to play games with our fates. Stop being fooled by randomness!

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The 48 Laws of Power

by Robert Greene I read this book in a time where I thought power was something I should attain. Power for power’s sake. And while I disagree with my former self on this point, the fact remains that power is very real, it forms the invisible scepter of all hierarchical relations around us. I still recommend this book; I believe it is important to know how people use power for their own benefit and what to do to protect yourself from certain abuses of power. Besides the fact that all stories in this book gravitate around power, it contains many life lessons, amazing historical anecdotes and, if read in a certain light, the ability to use power for good. From Caesar to Goethe, Sun-Tzu to Machiavelli, this eye opening book spans a wide range of human development. If you, like me, would rather be interested in something less egotistical, perhaps Greene’s latest book Mastery will suffice (I haven’t read that one myself). Another great book in the same style, but this time around, covering a wider scope, and, perhaps, something that will make the world make a better place.

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The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change

by Stephen. R. Covey The title of this book doesn’t capture it all. Covey shares with us seven habits one should adapt to become truly effective in whatever you would like to achieve. Of course, it is not as easy as it sounds. He stresses the fact that we need to go through a paradigm shift – a fundamental change in how we perceive the world and ourselves. This book can be read as a guide, with practices and everything, to go through the stages in order to make such a shift happen. Part shock-therapy, part ageless spiritual wisdom,Covey’s book is packed with wisdom that actually makes a difference. And, as I mentioned, don’t let the title of the book fool you; it is about much more than just becoming more effective. It is about becoming a whole integer person who not only seeks the best in oneself, but also in the people around her. A must read for anyone who feels there is always something left to learn.

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The Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide: Safe, Therapeutic, and Sacred Journeys

by James Fadiman While finding a book on psychedelics in a list of books on self-improvement might come as a surprise, I believe any metaphysical distinction between tools such as books, meditation or molecules hold no ground and they should all be solely judged on their merits. And the merits of certain chemical keys, used in a constructive way, are perhaps bigger than any book in this list. The Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide will teach you how to prepare yourself and your surroundings, what and how much to take, and what do do when something goes wrong, so you can safely enhance your thinking, creativity, introspection and emotional balance. This book contains everything you need to know about using psychedelics as a tool for self-improvement while drawing on extensive scientific literature and personal wisdom. A must have for the beginning and experienced psychonaut alike.

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Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time

by Brian Tracy We all know how that destructive downward spiral feels. We have to do some big task, of which the thought alone triggers resistance, not sure how and where to begin and feeling overwhelmed before we start; we get easily distracted to get rid of that feeling, only to suddenly realize that hours went by- precious hours- and then find ourselves in the same position as before, still not knowing where and how to begin, but now, feeling guilty on top of it which expresses itself in more craving for distraction. Ad infinitum. To break this spell of procrastination before it paralyzes us, Tracy advises us to Eat That Frog, to set our priorities straight, deconstruct larger tasks into smaller ones, learn when to tackle the big frog first or to start out with something else. Tracy is truly a motivational writer, and while I wished he had gone a bit deeper into the psychological reasons why people procrastinate, it is still a must have for anyone who wants to break the spell and get shit done.

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Think and Grow Rich: The Original 1937 Unedited Edition

by Napoleon Hill A from 1937, this book by Hill is a masterpiece. Don’t bother with the edited versions since they all omit important and controversial information: some historical, and some pertaining to the goal of the book, which is to think and grow rich. The word rich might imply that this book is all about material gain, and while it certainly covers that area, it is about much more than that. Perhaps the first explicit mention of positive thinking, on how to care not just about the cash in your pocket, but also the thoughts in your head, this book has been able to withstand the destruction of time. It covers all the basics from planning, decision making and persistence, to the more advanced techniques as auto-suggestion, transmutation and what we can learn from fear. This is not a grow rich book, but a timeless guide to find out what actually matters. As it says clearly in the beginning ‘Riches can’t always be measured in money!’

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The Attention Revolution: Unlocking the Power of the Focused Mind

by Alan Wallace In a world that is dominated by ever stronger technologies designed to grab hold of your attention, a way to empower yourself is to bring that attention back to where you want it to shine. This book offers just that; in The Attention Revolution, Wallace describes the path to attaining Shamatha, a buddhist meditation state of mind that is free from any flickering of distraction. It is a hard and long path, probably not possible for us to reach in this lifetime. However, even getting to stage two or three will make everything in life easier. A wonderful introduction to meditation, The Attention Revolution will inspire you to take on the challenge and see what training your mind can actually achieve. Once you have achieved such a level of focus you can put it to use to open your heart with the practice of The Four Immeasurables or deepen the practice with this wonderful commentary by Dudjom Lingpa, both by Alan B. Wallace.

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The Paleo Manifesto: Ancient Wisdom for Lifelong Health

by John Durant In the last 10,000 years or so it seems we have been propelled into an ever faster paced world forged by our own hands and minds. Only recently have we been able to reconstruct our journey and reflect back upon our humble origins. This amazing book is such a reflection. It goes back to the paleolithic searching for answers to health and longevity. Between science and his personal experiments, Durant weaves a mind blowing story that will convey the importance of an evolutionary perspective on how to live well. It covers everything from nutrition to exercise, from sleep to fasting, from ancient practices to modern biohacking and even has an outline for a vision of the future where depression and obesity have become obsolete. If you only have room for a couple of books on this list, make sure this one is included.

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Mindsight: The New Science of Personal Transformation

by Daniel J. Siegel As my Burmese meditation teacher often proclaimed, ‘Mindfulness alone is not enough!’ Siegel seems to have taken this to heart and made an unique synthesis between meditation, psychoanalysis and neuroscience which he calls ‘Mindsight‘, as he says himself, a potent combination between emotional and social intelligence. All of us deal with some disorder or another, something that seems to disturb the very core of our being at ease, and while it might not always be the best strategy to want to get rid of it, it certainly helps to understand and have compassion for that little aspect that upsets that perfect image of ourselves. Brimming with techniques, insights and epiphanies, this book contains everything you need to know to reprogram your brain and to optimally use its capacity of neuroplasticity. A great book for spiritual seekers and scientists alike.

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How to Win Friends & Influence People

by Dale Carnegie This is the first self-improvement book I have ever read and it is also probably one of the oldest in this category. Written in 1937, mainly for the door to door salesman of that era, this book by Carnegie can truly be called a classic. It shows what we all intuitively know: it doesn’t matter what your line of work is or what you want to achieve- if you are doing business of any kind, you need to make it about the other person. Being nice helps, a lot. And while I might not fully defend the premise of this book, because it doesn’t distinguish between genuine interest and faking it to get what you want, it still contains a treasure chest full of timeless wisdom. Everybody wants to feel appreciated, and rightfully so. Learning to take a small effort to make someone’s day will make the world run smoother, no matter what your goal is. I still spontaneously remember some of his guidance, and perhaps this quality is the reason why this book still draws millions of readers to this day.

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Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy

by David D. Burns Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the most effective therapy used by psychologists today; it consists of identifying thought patterns that have a detrimental effect on your self-image and mood, and deconstructing these in order to break out of these destructive cycles. If you want to know how this works, which moods are central in your life, what thought patterns are causing your depression, how to overcome self-judgment and guilt, how to defeat approval and love addiction and how your self-perfectionism is hindering you, then don’t look further; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has helped millions of people and it can help you, and this is the best book for the job. Packed with scientific research, exercises and examples, this is the best improvement your self is going to get.

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Psycho-Cybernetics, A New Way to Get More Living Out of Life

by Maxwell Maltz What can a plastic surgeon tell us about happiness? By dealing with his patients, Dr. Maxwell Maltz experienced firsthand that having your expectations come true doesn’t automatically result into a more positive life experience. Their outward appearances did indeed change but their inner insecurity remained. This caused him to find other means to help his patients, resulting in visualization techniques. He found a person’s outer success can never rise above the one visualized internally. This book carries a very honest and humbling story, loaded with fundamental truths about our psychology and how our own philosophy affects us, all told by a very compassionate writer. Of some books it can be said that it will be valuable for years to come, and I am absolutely positive that this is one of them.

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Thinking, Fast and Slow

by Daniel Kahneman This brilliant book by Nobel prize winner Daniel Kahneman is a lucid account of all the amazing research he has done over the years. He is the founder of behavioral economics – the way our psychology affects our decisions – and explains in simple prose how our thinking is divided in two systems: one fast and one slow. The fast one is almost instant; it consists of the hardwired instincts that govern emotions, a remnant of an evolutionary past, an unconscious irrational machine. The slow one is deliberate, self-reflexive and logical, but can easily be distracted and takes a lot of effort. Both play a large role in our lives and Kahneman explores when the fast system fails and why the slow system is often not utilized. Packed with mind blowing examples and sharp analyses, this book teaches you how to learn to make sound judgments, and use the best of both systems.

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An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth: What Going to Space Taught Me About Ingenuity, Determination, and Being Prepared for Anything

by Chris Hadfield A few extraordinary people journey to the edge of our world and come back with a unique story to tell. Colonel Hadfield is such a person, and his story is perhaps the most important one in this list. While the other books in this list teach you to be independent, visualize your future and dream big, this astronaut’s guide turns these all upside down. A truly remarkable book, overflowing with mind-blowing stories that illustrate the life lessons he learned as one of the most accomplished astronauts that ever lived.Full of compassion, warmth and genuine self-reflexive humor, he conveys to us to be prepared for the worst and never let yourself be swayed from enjoying every moment. Part action story, part no-nonsense hard truth and part timeless spiritual wisdom, this book makes you feel like you stepped onto a rocket ship and experienced what he did while learning these most valuable lessons on the way.

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Perfect Health Diet: Regain Health and Lose Weight by Eating the Way You Were Meant to Eat

by Paul Jaminet & Shou-Ching Jaminet No self-improvement list is complete without a nutrition book and the Perfect Health Diet is arguably the best diet book on the market now. If you are overweight or not, feel sick, or just looking for an extra boost in health (and keep it this way), then look no further. From reading decades of studies the authors construct the optimal way to eat, destroying popular food fads in the process. They explain in sufficient detail the optimal macro-ratios, which starches are safe, which vitamins and supplements to take and what foods, or what they call toxins, to avoid. This book is a great supplement to the Paleo Manifesto as it shares its basic evolutionary perspective; we were evolved to eat non-toxic, high fat, moderate protein and carbohydrates. And, sometimes, going around with no food at all, can be a very healthy thing. If your body is not in optimal health, then it is almost no use to read the other books. Make this your priority number one.

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Failing Forward: Turning Mistakes into Stepping Stones for Success

by John C. Maxwell At one time or another, we will all fail. What matters most is how you deal with it once you do. Will you give up? Or will you use it as a stepping stone for success? I recently read an article about new start-ups in silicon valley. Its hypothesis was the more you had failed in the past, the more likely you were going to get funding. Why? Because failing teaches you invaluable lessons, and if you decide to continue after you hit the pavement, the more you have it in you to deliver. Now, this is not in anyway our instinctual reaction to failing. Most of us dread it, avoid it or refuse to fail at all costs. All three are by far sub-optimal. It is far better to accept failure where it arises, to accept responsibility and use it as a way to learn about yourself and your weaknesses. Only when you are absolute honest with yourself with respect to failure can you hope to grow. This wonderful book will teach you how to do exactly this. A honest book for everyone searching for a clean mirror.

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The Power of Now

by Eckhart Tolle The Power of Now hardly needs any introduction. It is perhaps the book that has had the most impact on our collective consciousness in recent years. It inspired millions of people all over the world to live a more fulfilling and compassionate life, all through the practice of mindfulness. Mindfulness consists of moment to moment non-judgmental awareness. It is a technique that alleviates depression, increases emotional intelligence and develops compassion- and only recently has come to the west, which remained weary and skeptical until science had validated a wide array of its claims. The brain can be trained. The Power of Now teaches you how to release your attachment to certain thoughts and states of mind, thereby clearing the mind to fully embrace the present moment. If you already have read this book and are looking for deeper understanding, readWherever You Go, There You Are.

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The Last Lecture

by Randy Pausch At some point or another, almost all of us has come across The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch. (If you haven’t, watch this powerful message here.) What would you say when you only have a few months left to live? This was probably Pausch’s question he posed to himself when he had to deliver his lecture a week later. But being confined to an academic setting and short time frame he felt he had more to share, thus marking the birth of this book. Filled with stories about his childhood, it is a very down to earth exploration of what it means to chase your dreams, to be a good person and live a life that gives value to others. A beautiful mixture of humor and optimism, his tender voice will be a source of inspiration for everyone who will take the time to listen, something he tried to impart on his readers. A very lovely read. And don’t forget, ‘It’s not about the cards you’re dealt, but how you play the hand.’ Print | eBook | Audiobook

Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead

by Brené Brown

I love Brené Brown’s books. She writes about an insight that I have found to be scary but true at the same time.Vulnerability, unlike we have been taught, is not a weakness, but a power to be tapped. Growing up with the idea that we have to hide certain parts of ourselves, to look strong and persevere at all costs always seemed a facade to me. And now she has the research to back that up. From that place of vulnerability comes a sense of worthiness, which for most of us, needs to be cultivated every day. Only if we get in touch with that tender spot of our hearts can we connect with others and develop genuine compassion, which are prerequisites, Brown tells us, for living a ‘wholehearted life.’ The reality, however, is that we often close down, feel neglected and misunderstood, and rather want the vulnerability and perhaps even ourselves to disappear. This book is an amazing antidote for that common instinct. Want to be truly convinced? Check out her amazing ted talk here. ~~~introduction of the book~~~

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The Demon-Haunted World: Science as a Candle in the Dark

by Carl Sagan We all find UFO’s fascinating. We all really want to believe in magic or visiting aliens (surely the crop circles are conclusive proof!) and some of us believe the government is poisoning us with chemtrails. At the same time we are fascinated by the progress made by science, by all the new technology and medicines and the fascinating discoveries being

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Philosophy for Life

by Jules Evans As philosopher Sloterdijk puts it; ‘philosophy is a beautiful child of an ugly mother.’ Philosophy first arose when the old Greek polis states were at the brink of destruction. Philosophy, according to Sloterdijk, was not just a way to make sense of the world, to come to knowledge or truth, but to serve as a psychological immune system. This book is an amazing expression of this perspective. From the stoics to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Jules Evans writes about some of the amazing philosophical techniques we can use to train and improve our cognitive immune systems. He weaves ancient stories with modern applications, from heroism to cosmic contemplation, Philosophy for Life a beautifully written book that makes it easy to understand the practical nature of philosophy. Perhaps the book would have been better if he would have gone deeper into the subject matter, but nonetheless he captures the essence of what philosophy can mean for the modern person. A must read.

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Man’s Search For Meaning

by Victor. E. Frankl If I had to pick one book from this list for mandatory reading I would choose this one. For three years Viktor Frankl labored in four different Nazi concentration camps, including Auschwitz. He tells us about his experience and that of his fellow prisoners. Both chilling and uplifting, confronted with the idea that they would be trapped there for the rest of their lives, he gives us an account of those who found meaning and those who succumbed to nihilism. A blend between a memoir, a psychological investigation and a self-help book, Frankl delivers a powerful message: finding meaning lies at the core of being human. From his own experience as a psychiatrist combined with anecdotes from his time in the concentration camps, he tells us how important it is to find meaning in our own lives and what we can become if we don’t. Suffering, he conveys to us, is inevitable. But as to how we cope with it is dependent on ourselves. If we can find meaning, even in the worst acts our species has ever inflicted upon his fellow man, we will be able to move forward with renewed purpose.

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Simplify

by Joshua Becker This is a fun little book written by Joshua Becker, a big proponent of minimalist living. We all know that quote from Fightclub: “Advertising has us chasing cars and clothes, working jobs we hate so we can buy shit we don’t need.” Well, this is ending. Slowly we are outgrowing an era where the unquestioned mantra ‘more is always better’ dictates our behavior. Rather, we now find ourselves, our lives and our homes cluttered with too much information, too much stuff and just too much shit we don’t need. This simple book helps you become aware of the freedom gained from living with less. It is a small book, easily read under an hour, but it carries a persuasive punch to start living live in a very different way.

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Love Yourself Like Your Life Depends On It

by Kamal Ravikant The fundamental ground upon which all true self improvement is build is called self-love. Because in the end, no matter which way you turn, if you don’t love yourself, you will sabotage yourself at one point. You will think that, for some reason or another, you are not worthy. And if you think that, why would you truly want to achieve anything? And this is not just about achievement. This is about how you approach yourself every day; this is what you see when you look in the mirror. We make so many snap-judgments about ourselves- often without being conscious of them- that are filled with negativity, haltering us before we can even begin to heal. This powerful book shows you the antidote. Self love. Not to be confused with creating some narcissistic image of ourselves that some previous books in this list implicitly endorse, but self love, that inner gratefulness that no external condition can take away. Self love, that infinite source you can share with others.

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