In the midst of pursuing a slower season of work and life, I’ve refocused my energy on the little things I can do throughout the day to cultivate a sense of self-care and rest while still boosting my creativity. For me, that’s looked like spending more time reading and less time in front of screens, be they in the form of computers, TVs or phones! And since it’s been almost a shameful amount of time since I last shared my current reading list with you, sweet friends, I wanted to pop in to share some excellent books I’ve been pouring over lately. Whether it’s a few pages over my morning coffee or a chapter before bed, I’ve been devouring all the quality nonfiction (and even a little fiction!) that I can get my hands on.

Essentialism, Greg McKeown

If the concept of focusing your energy, efforts and talents in one streamlined direction as opposed to spinning your wheels every which way sounds appealing, this book is for you! At the heart of Essentialism is the mindset that if we can hone in on the right opportunities that are the best use of our time, talents and energy, then we can find more happiness, fulfillment and positive challenge in our work and lives. Although off the cuff, it sounds like a book about minimalism, it’s realistically a book that outlines how you can tune out the noise in your career, life and relationships in the honest pursuit of what is ultimately deserving of your time and mental space. Instead of taking on every project in front of you, it encourages you to focus on how to say no graciously and strategically chase after what’s best for you. I’m actually in the process of discussing this book in my mastermind group, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who is seeking more intentionality and discernment in their life and business!

The Nest, Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney

Maybe you’re like me and you saw this copper-foiled dust cover in many a beautiful Instagram photo, sitting poolside next to your favorite fashion blogger. Lured in by not only the gorgeous cover art (I’m not ashamed to say!), the many positive reviews on Amazon sold me on this being a worthwhile end-of-summer fiction read. That said, I found it to be a fun escape from my day-to-day in the sense that the dysfunction of the protagonists kept me distracted from the dishes in my kitchen sink or the stress that I’d been internally stockpiling throughout the workday. Although well written, I wouldn’t say it was my favorite novel ever, and at times the drama of the Plumb family had me wishing for something a little lighter in nature. But please take that with a grain of salt, as you are reading this unofficial review from the gal who follows as many animals as people on Instagram.

Up Next: The Fringe Hours, Jessica N. Turner

My darling friend Kat referenced this book during her session at the Illume Retreat this past April, and ever since it’s been on my list of practical and uplifting books to read. Turner outlines how to build more time for self-care, wellness and overall you time during the “fringe hours” that already exist in your day. Instead of trying to cram more into your already overflowing schedule, Turner outlines actionable ways to work smarter and make better use of the time we already have in order to fill it with what we’re craving most. I’m so looking forward to diving into this book, and hope to report back soon with all sorts of great takeaways!

What’s been on your reading list this season, friend? Fiction or not, I’d love to hear all about it in the comments below.