Gems of books that bring me joy
Books that inspire growth, leadership and love of life
Books can offer growth and fresh perspectives whilst also bringing hope and joy. Below are a few of the gems I have enjoyed recently and which fed my soul and support who I am when I coach.
I am a Girl from Africa - Elizabeth Nyamayaro
I just love books about courage and perseverance despite adversity. A book that highlights what is possible when girls have equal access to quality education and how far the world still needs to move in order to achieve global gender equality. Elizabeth Nyamayaro epitomises what it is to be resilient and generous. Couldn’t put it down!
Land Healer – How Farming can Save Britain’s Countryside - Jake Fienne
At a time when we can feel overwhelmed by the state of the planet, Jake’s book reveals a practical approach to working the land to produce food whilst restoring balance to the natural world. It is not an ‘either or’. A beautiful read and a reminder that balance in life in all aspects brings the greatest sustainable and most beautiful results. We just have to CHOOSE how we go forward.
The Dalai Lama’s Cat – David Michie
Life with the Dalai Lama and his explanations and embodiment of Buddhist teachings through the eyes of a malnourished slum kitten. It offers multiple points to stop and reflect on timeless wisdom and how we can also benefit from it in our own growth. A truly delightful tale with many lessons if you pause and chose to take them.
The Human Behind the Coach – How great coaches transform themselves first – Claire Pedrick and Lucia Baldelli
A very practical book for those wanting to deepen their connection and conversations. It focuses on humility, vulnerability, courage and insight and much more along with highly practical ideas to support coaches in their own personal growth in service of working at their best with clients. A must for anyone really wanting to focus on developing themselves in order to support transformative conversations. Thanks Claire and Lucia for sharing so much wisdom.
The Ethical Coaches’ Handbook. A guide to developing ethical Maturity in Practice
Edited by Wendy-Ann Smith, Jonathan Passmore, Eve Turner, Yi-Ling Lai and David Clutterbuck
At a time when society is facing so many critical moments a sound underlying awareness of your own ethics and values can feel like a north star guiding you through the labyrinth of uncertainty and ambiguity. This book offers multiple approaches for coaches to really dig into their own values and ethics. Reflection on how we as coaches want to show up in our own practice in service of our clients and their organisations is I feel, an important point to chew on. Excellent range of practical essays from top voices in the field.
