By Tamara Hartley
Nationwide — What’s on your reading list this summer? I know that summer is a time for relaxation and it’s the time many of us use to catch up on reading the latest juicy novels by some of our favorite authors.
The popular ones always seem to be Kimberla Lawson Roby, Carl Weber, Reshonda Tate-Billingsly, Daaimah S. Poole, and many other talented writers. Their vivid storylines, plots and colorful characters keep us entertained and on the edge of our seats with anticipation. But this summer, I have been on an empowerment kick and choosing material that not only feeds my appetite for great writing, but also feeds my soul.
I highly recommend that every black woman read these three books this summer:
1. Dare to Take Charge: How to Live Your Life on Purpose by Glenda Hatchett
For many years we watched Judge Hatchett dish out justice and instill wisdom and common sense in the “tell it like is” way that she is known for. In this book she uses real-life court situations and snippets from her personal life to inspire readers to turn challenging situations into opportunities for growth and success. Just like in her courtroom, Judge Hatchett doesn’t sugarcoat or make excuses for negative behavior; she encourages us all to be self-reflective and to strive to make positive changes.
2. No Matter What!: 9 Steps to Living the Life You Love by Lisa Nichols
If you have ever seen Lisa Nichols in person, attended one of her events, or saw her on television, you know that she brings high energy and a big personality to everything that she does. Her book is no different! Lisa is very transparent about her journey which includes a lot of mistakes and setbacks. Lisa shares how she developed her “No Matter What” muscle to begin living the life she knew was her true destiny. Her story of transformation is inspiring and shows us all that we can truly accomplish our goals and live our dreams.
3. Successful Women Think Differently: 9 Habits to Make You Happier, Healthier, and More Resilient by Valorie Burton
While I have also read her newest publication (Happy Women Live Better), I pulled this book from the archives because it is still relevant for women looking to make some positive changes in their lives and to develop some better, more affective habits. Valorie is best known for helping women to get unstuck and to be unstoppable in every area of their lives. In this book, she shares the habits of successful women and how they think differently to succeed in their relationships, finances, work, health, and spiritual life. These nine habits help women focus on solutions, not problems and to take consistent action in the direction of their dreams.
As you can see, there is definitely a theme running through my summer reading list. I believe human development is a never-ending process. We all have opportunities for growth and areas in our lives that we can enhance, change or improve. If you are on the same path of enlightenment, empowerment, self-discovery, and self-improvement, you should check out these titles by some of our great African-American authors who are leading in the self-help and self-development genres.
While you are relaxing on the beach this summer, take some time to renew your mind and feed soul.
Tamara Hartley is speaker, author, advice columnist and personal success coach. She uses her personal life experiences and lessons learned to help others make critical decisions in their life, relationships and careers. Read her advice archives at www.YourAdviceGuru.com. Email questions toadvice@YourAdviceGuru.com or on Twitter @DrTamaraHartley using the hashtag #AskTamara. As a personal success coach, Tamara works with individuals to help them find balance, make moves, and live their dreams. Learn more about her coaching programs at www.YourPersonalSuccessCoach.com.