Read
10% Happier by Dan Harris
I first learned about Dan Harris and his book in The Minimalists’ documentary, Minimalism. In the documentary, Harris talks about how he had a panic attack on-air while working as a news anchor, and how meditation helped him tame the voice in his head. I took a lot from that documentary, but it took me three years to finally pick up Harris’ book. His story really resonated with me. He talks about how “worrying is the price of security” and that his overthinking and laser focus on how to avoid the worst case scenario in every situation is what gave him an edge in his career. But it was also making him very stressed… and led to drug use and panic attacks. So how do you find that balance? How do you succeed in your career without it taking over all your available headspace? And how do you take a step back without becoming complacent?
This balance is something I have struggled with since college. While reading this book I smiled, nodded, and even shouted, “YES! EXACTLY!” at times. It’s like Harris and I share the same brain. So learning about his meditation journey was really interesting, and assuring, to me. Bottom line: is meditation a cure-all? No. But it can help you gain perspective and learn to respond instead of react. It’s also filled with a ton of fascinating science about the benefits of meditation.
Long story short: I re-downloaded my Headspace app and purchased a 1-year subscription. I’m going to give it another go, and I’ll report back.
The Bride Test by Helen Hoang
This was our book club pick this month and it was a fun, easy summer read. I listened to the audiobook on my commute and it was very entertaining and engaging. It reminded me a little bit of Crazy Rich Asians, but an opposite scenario. Also, one of the main characters has autism, so it was really interesting to read a love story through that lens. There’s some spicy bits, so if you go the audiobook route, it’s NSFW… or for driving with the windows down 😂
A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett
I slowly reread this childhood favorite, just 1 chapter a night before bed. It was published over 100 years ago, but it’s still magical. I bought the special edition designed by Rifle Paper Co. (my favorite) and it looks beautiful sitting on my shelf. The story is an important reminder about the power of imagination and positivity. A great read for kids and adults!
Watch
Pen15 on Hulu
My only regret with this show is that I watched it way too fast. It’s about seventh grade in the year 2000 and everything from the wardrobe to the soundtrack and AIM speak is terrifyingly accurate. It had me both cringing and laughing out loud every single episode and thankfully it has already been renewed for season 2.
Listen
Broadside
This month we went to see Emarosa, Broadside and Set it Off. Emarosa was amazing, per usual, but this was my first time seeing Broadside live, and it was a super fun set! My favorite track is “Coffee Talk.”
Caitlin Ryan, APR 