A shared list of inspirational books and magazines, by Laika: chapter 3
Commitment: The key to unlocking your inner genius
Happy May! It’s a new month, which means: a new list of shared books! With our last two chapters: respect and curiosity, we explored 10 books and magazines that help us see the world differently.
As we read and trade books among colleagues, we realized: wouldn't it be great if we could share our books, our sources of insights with our blog audience? That’s why we developed a series of themed articles, one for all the spring and summer months to come. And, where better to start than at the core values of Laika? In March, we focused on respect, in April we shed a light on curiosity, and this May, we selected our value “commitment”.
We wanted to make this chapter about every form of commitment. Commitment to a cause that is dear to our hearts, commitment to changing our habits and way of life. But we also wanted to include stories of hard work and dedication that are inspiring and motivating.
Let’s take a look
In his new book, Bill Gates offers to help save our lives by combating climate change. He spent a decade consulting physicists, chemists, biologists, engineers, financiers, and political scientists. And now, he tells a story of a looming disaster.
In this truly eye-opening book, he urges us to get on board with the actions that could save us and our future generations. Why not give it a try on our level?
Feminism, Interrupted: Disrupting Power - Lola Olufemi
When we talk about commitment, it can cover work-related topics, but can also refer to committing yourself to a purpose that is more society-based. Equality, for example. Feminism, Interrupted is a life-changing book, in which Lola Olufemi explores reproductive justice, transmisogyny, gendered Islamophobia, and solidarity with global struggles… A book that intrigues you and inspires you to commit to a social cause.
This book is all about Malala’s experience as a woman, and as an activist. Between jokes and anecdotes, she tells us a heavy truth about politics, women’s position in some societies, and what some of us may take for granted: education, freedom, and our voice. A very moving and eye-opening story.
Dear Ijeawele: A Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
This book is written by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, the best-selling author of Americanah. A woman we truly admire! The idea behind the book is actually a letter, Ngozi Adichie wrote to a friend who wanted to raise her daughter as a feminist. Because of this, the angle of approach of this inspiring book is really refreshing and fun to read! The book is built on fifteen pieces of in-depth, practical advice for everyone, which is both enriching and feels like a warm hug on paper.
Rocket Girl: The Story of Mary Sherman Morgan, America’s First Female Rocket Scientist - George D. Morgan.
This book is a very personal story, yet also brings in enlightening views on the past. It’s written in a beautiful way by the son of Mary Sherman Morgan. A true role model that that sadly did not make it into the mainstream United States history books. This book’s sharpness and sparkling energy make it into a true masterpiece and bring Mary Sherman Morgan rightfully to the forefront. A gem, yours to discover!
Making Your Way: The (wobbly) road to success and happiness in life and work - Marion Debruyne and Kathleen Strobbeleir
“A book about dreaming big, lifelong learning, and daring to jump.” Marion Debruyne and Kathleen De Stobbeleir challenge a number of myths about building your career in this inspiring book. They encourage people to set themselves free from those myths. The optimistic book gives you the confidence to dream and grow. By sharing personal experiences, the book will definitely leave footprints in your thoughts.
Make Time: How to focus on what matters every day - Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky
Time. It’s a strange concept that we all stress about. It is something that we want to fill in wisely and productively. Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky guide us through tips and insights to make better use of our days. A very motivating must-read!
101 essays that will change the way you think - Brianna Wiest
This compilation of essays helps us shift our negative thinking patterns but also embraces negative thinking. This book really gives us a new perspective and can allow us to live this life a little bit better! This impressive piece also tackles topics such as Self-respect, relationships, social intelligence, inner demons, and much more.
The school of life - Alain De Botton
An emotional education, written by Alain De Botton! It’s become a classic, but it's so worth it to read it! It grants you a deeper understanding of feelings and emotions, thoughts and worries. It allows you to reflect on your inner self.
This enriching book talks about: focus. Time management, according to Roos, is about focus. It’s about the decisions you make, both on a personal and a professional level. The book is a fantastic resource for everyone who struggles with being dispersed around too many things.
Next month, we will release our final episode, make sure to check it out! You can also read the previous chapters about the two other core values of Laika here and here. And because reading is an activity that tends to be solitary: feel free to share this list with some friends!