As 2017 comes to a close, the team at Planet Expat have taken a look back at our favorite books we’ve read this year. And as they say, the holidays are all about giving. So as a gift to you we’d like to share the books that really got us thinking and impacted us the most:
Mindset: The new psychology of success by Carol Dweck
Summary:
According to Dweck, how we think about our abilities dramatically affects the outcome. She discusses the benefits of having a growth mindset, i.e. believing that skills can be learned and nurtured, over a fixed mindset, whereby our abilities are supposedly pre-determined and rigid. She powerfully states: “Becoming is better than being”. Read the book to discover why…
Why we recommend you to read it:
We always hear about the so-called benefits of hard work, but Dweck successfully proves them in her book. She teaches you how to keep a positive mindset, even if you’re feeling frustrated because you can’t do a task etc. You’ll learn not to give up and keep going because, at the end of the day, you can be successful if you put your mind to it. Overall, it’s a pretty inspirational and morale-boosting read.
Smarter Faster Better: The secrets of being productive in life and business by Charles Duhigg
Summary:
Duhigg reinforces the benefits of setting both short and long-term goals as well as making choices, all of which motivate and drive our productivity. Delve into his book to discover real-life examples of people or organizations that are successfully productive.
Why we recommend you to read it:
This book helps you learn how to efficiently perform tasks, both at work and out of the office. By providing concrete examples, Duhigg makes you realize how easy it actually is to be productive. You’ll start to rethink your work ethic and may well be inspired to follow some of his tips. Because, after all, what’s the point in sitting at your desk all day if you’re not actually getting anything done?
Four people in your professional network you’re probably undervaluing – article by Alexandra Cavoulacos and Kathryn Minshew
Summary:
The authors focus on making the most of your current network and maintaining business rapports. From the stunt-double to the newbie, you’ll discover the people you’ll meet throughout your career that you should keep in regular contact with.
Why we recommend you to read it:
We all know how hard it is to manage relationships, especially in a professional environment where employees come and go. This article helps you identify the different types of people you’ll meet and recognize the benefits of keeping in regular contact, as well as providing you with useful tips on how to go about it effectively. You’ll learn the importance of maintaining a professional network rather than just expanding. All in all, a quick but valuable read, with advice that could well help you throughout your career.
Les Belles Images by Simone de Beauvoir
Summary:
Beauvoir conveys the problems of social pressures through certain characters that feel obliged to adhere to gender stereotypes. Through subtle twists and turns, Beauvoir reinforces her philosophical opinions, focusing on the power of individuality. Start reading to discover more about her fascinating theories…
Why we recommend you to read it:
Beauvoir really makes you question how much you are influenced by society. She addresses real-life issues that we can empathize with, and depicts characters in a certain way to reinforce their immoral behavior. Whether or not you’re convinced by her opinions, they’ll certainly make you view society from a different perspective. A truly progressive and thought-provoking read.
Daring Greatly: How the courage to be vulnerable transforms the way we live, love, parent, and lead by Brené Brown
Summary:
Brown addresses our fear of being in a vulnerable situation, whether it be meeting someone new, facing a challenge or taking a risk. Most people view their vulnerabilities as a weakness, yet for Brown they’re a strength. Read his book to find out why.
Why we recommend you to read it:
Brown helps you realize what you can gain from being courageous and actively embracing your vulnerability, even if you initially feel uncomfortable. Reading his book will certainly make you feel better about taking risks and potentially making mistakes, something which many of us are afraid to do. A unique book which challenges several human tendencies and inspires us to act.
Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari
Summary:
Harari provides a world view from a wider perspective, examining culture on a global scale and the tendencies of human beings as a whole. He discusses the inevitable changes that will happen in the future thanks to the advancement of science and technology. Take a peak to discover more of his ideas – and yes, the future is full of challenges…
Why we recommend you to read it:
This book will really make you think. He puts forward so many unique theories, backed up with research, that you can’t help but consider them… or even start to believe them. A truly mind-blowing book that will help you understand the past, question the present and prepare for the future. Not to mention, it will provide you with a great topic of conversation at networking events!
The holidays are a great time for relaxing with your feet up, a cup of tea, and a good book. So get inspired and get reading. You’ll source plenty of creativity and innovative ideas for 2018. From the team at Planet Expat… Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year!