My name is Clara Wilcox and I am addicted to books. There, I said it.
Ever since I can remember I have had a book within arm’s reach; my monthly visits to the library have been a staple weekend activity since childhood. I will pretty much read anything. So far, the only book series that has defeated me is The Lord of the Rings!
Some people want shoes: I want books
I am not exaggerating when I say that some books have changed my life and my outlook on life. From all the books (and research papers) I reviewed as a Psychology student in the late 90’s to my coaching books now!
This won’t be the usual list of life-changing business books or inspiration text you may find; but some books that I have read recently that have given me some real “a-ha” moments (and not “Take on Me” related)
So, here goes. Clara Wilcox’s guide to the best life changing career books*:
Thrive: The Third Metric to redefining success and creating a life of well-being, wisdom and wonder
(Arianna Huffington)
Busy is a symptom of a broken world; people brag about how little sleep they have and get institutionalised about how success only comes from stress. This book made me realise that my aspiration for a simpler life is possible!
Think Like a Freak: The Authors of Freakonomics Offer to Retrain your Brain
(Steven D. Levitt & Stephen J Dubner)
I’ve been told that I have a very practical, but often “Clara-logic” (aka strange logic), thought process. Noticing things that maybe are a tad bizarre. Thinking like a freak is great, trying things in a different way and relishing the learning in failure; “a blueprint for an entirely new way to solve problems”. If you haven’t already, also grab their Freakonomics series.
(Rod Judkins)
If you are like I used to be, and define yourself as a non-creative because you can’t paint, then this is the book for you. Two key elements came out of this that has helped me. One; nothing is original anymore, everything is inspired. Two: creativity is a process and an outcome – not a thing. Combine this book with the “Think Like a Freak” and you will get a skills epiphany!
(Grace Marshall)
You may have seen my blog where I discussed this book. This book was a great handbook to help me transition from corporate life to self-employment; it gave me permission to say no to things, triggered the eternal psychology student to revisit cognitive psychology and gave some great tips and hints to help reduce the guilt of a working mum.
So, within this list is an insight into books that will challenge you, change the way the view the world and hopefully, trigger the inner student to question the assumptions of how people should think and behave in the world of work today!
Let me know if you read any and share your favourite too!
*For those cynics amongst you, I haven’t been sponsored, paid or had any affiliate links to produce this article!
I’m Clara Wilcox, a return to work, career, confidence and balance coach and flexible working consultant. Find out more on www.thebalancecollective.co.uk or find me on Facebook, Twitter or connect with on Linkedin!
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Clara Wilcox is a straight talking, practical and experienced coach helping clients navigate the tricky waters of returning to work, career changes and professional development. The Balance Collective is a social enterprise focused on improving the lives of parents, by working together to build inner confidence and promote a healthy work/life balance.
