Books I Read During My Career Break 

Taking a career break can be a transformative experience, offering the chance to step back, reflect, and recharge. During my own career break, I found solace and inspiration in reading a diverse array of books. These books not only provided me with new perspectives and valuable insights but also guided me through a period of personal and professional growth. From financial empowerment to unlocking creativity, each book offered something unique that contributed to my journey. In this article, I review the key takeaways from some of the most impactful books I read during this time, sharing how they influenced my path and why they might be valuable for others on a similar journey.

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The Search by Bruce Feiler

I was introduced to Bruce Feiler’s work through a podcast I had listened to early in my career break. So, when I got to “Plan” I knew that this book would be a powerful tool to help me get to what’s next. "The Search: Finding Meaning in Your Life" by Bruce Feiler is a profound exploration of the quest for meaning and purpose. Drawing from extensive research and personal stories, Feiler delves into the universal human search for fulfillment. He offers a roadmap to navigating life's challenges and discovering deeper purpose in everyday experiences.

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Key Takeaways

• Storytelling as a Tool: Feiler emphasizes the power of storytelling in understanding and shaping our lives.
• Life Transitions: The book provides insights into managing major life transitions and turning points.
• Personal Narratives: Feiler shares compelling personal narratives and interviews with diverse individuals to illustrate his points.
• Finding Purpose: Practical advice on how to uncover and pursue what truly matters to you.

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Why You Should Read It

"The Search" is an inspiring and thought-provoking guide to finding meaning in life. Feiler's blend of research and storytelling makes it an engaging read for anyone looking to understand their life's purpose and navigate transitions with grace and intention.

The Mountain is You by Brianna Wiest

I love all things Brianna Wiest. I had her books on “to read” list for years, but never had the time to get to them. During my break, I committed to reaching “The Mountain is You.”  "The Mountain is You: Transforming Self-Sabotage Into Self-Mastery" by Brianna Wiest addresses the inner obstacles that prevent us from achieving our goals. Wiest combines psychological insights with practical advice to help readers overcome self-sabotage and turn challenges into opportunities for growth.

Key Takeaways

• Self-Sabotage: Identifies common forms of self-sabotage and provides strategies to overcome them.
• Emotional Resilience: Emphasizes the importance of emotional resilience in personal growth.
• Self-Awareness: Encourages deep self-awareness and reflection as tools for transformation.
• Practical Exercises: Offers practical exercises to help readers implement changes and build healthier habits.

Why You Should Read It

"The Mountain is You" is a powerful guide for anyone struggling with self-sabotage and looking to transform their life. Wiest’s compassionate and insightful approach provides the tools needed for lasting change and personal mastery.

How to Begin by Michael Bungay Stainer

Michael Bungay Stainer is known for his book “The Coaching Habit” which I read when I was first becoming a manager. When I learned that he had written a book on starting something new - a new project, a new business - I knew I needed to pick it up. 

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"How to Begin: Start Doing Something That Matters" by Michael Bungay Stainer is a motivational guide to help readers take the first step towards meaningful goals. Stainer, a renowned coach, provides a framework for initiating projects that matter to you and making impactful changes.

Key Takeaways

• Clarity and Focus: Helps readers identify what truly matters to them and create a clear plan to achieve it.
• Overcoming Fear: Provides strategies for overcoming fear and resistance to starting new ventures.
• Actionable Steps: Breaks down the process of beginning into manageable, actionable steps.
• Sustaining Momentum: Offers tips on maintaining momentum and staying committed to your goals.

Why You Should Read It

"How to Begin" is an empowering and practical guide for anyone looking to start something significant. Stainer’s approach is both inspiring and actionable, making it a valuable resource for turning ideas into reality.

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

As you can tell from my other selections, I almost exclusively read non-fiction. However, my cousin Mary had recommend this book to me. I had her copy sitting on my bookshelf for close to a year before I set off on my career break. In my month of Pause, I decided to bring it with me. Opening this book was the first time for me to explore my own relationship of life decisions. In two words, “So good.”

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"The Midnight Library" by Matt Haig is a captivating novel that explores themes of regret, possibility, and the choices that shape our lives. Through the story of Nora Seed, who discovers a library between life and death, Haig invites readers to reflect on their own lives and the paths not taken.

Key Takeaways

• Regret and Redemption: Examines the concept of regret and the possibility of redemption and second chances.
• Life Choices: Explores how our choices shape our lives and the importance of making peace with them.
• Mental Health: Touches on mental health issues and the journey to finding hope and purpose.
• Imaginative Narrative: Combines an imaginative narrative with deep philosophical questions.

Why You Should Read It

"The Midnight Library" is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant novel that encourages readers to consider the infinite possibilities of their lives. Haig’s storytelling is both heartwarming and insightful, making it a compelling read for anyone contemplating the impact of their choices.

The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron

I was gifted this Julia Cameron book in 2004. Throughout the past twenty years I had picked it up, started it, but never finished. So, during my career break, I committed to being more intentional. I highly recommend Julia’s work to anyone who will listen. Morning pages and artist’s dates have changed my life. 

"The Artist's Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity" by Julia Cameron is a classic guide to unlocking creativity. Cameron’s 12-week program helps artists and non-artists alike overcome creative blocks and foster a more creative life.

Key Takeaways

• Morning Pages: Introduces the practice of morning pages—daily writing to clear the mind and spark creativity.
• Artist Dates: Encourages regular "artist dates" to nurture your creative self.
• Creative Recovery: Offers tools and exercises for recovering and enhancing creativity.
• Spiritual Growth: Connects creativity with spiritual growth and personal development.

Why You Should Read It

"The Artist's Way" is an essential read for anyone looking to unleash their creative potential. Cameron’s program is practical, inspirational, and transformative, making it a valuable resource for fostering creativity in all aspects of life.

The Desire Map by Danielle LaPorte

During my Pause retreat, someone recommended I check out LaPorte’s book. I immediately went to Amazon and purchased it. When I got home from my retreat, there it was - ready for me to devour. I hope it will help you as much as it impacted me.

"The Desire Map: A Guide to Creating Goals with Soul" by Danielle LaPorte offers a unique approach to goal-setting, focusing on how you want to feel rather than just what you want to achieve. LaPorte guides readers through identifying their core desired feelings and setting goals that align with them.

Key Takeaways

• Feeling-Based Goals: Emphasizes setting goals based on how you want to feel.
• Core Desired Feelings: Helps readers identify their core desired feelings and use them as a compass for decision-making.
• Holistic Approach: Encourages a holistic approach to goal-setting that includes emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being.
• Practical Tools: Provides practical tools and exercises for integrating this approach into your daily life.

Why You Should Read It

"The Desire Map" is a refreshing and insightful guide for anyone looking to set more meaningful and fulfilling goals. LaPorte’s approach is both innovative and practical, making it a valuable tool for personal and professional growth.

How to Change by Katy Milkman

When I set out on creating a new path for myself, I knew that I needed to change. I just didn’t know how. So, Milkman’s book gave me science-based ways to be able create strategies and practices that work for me. 

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"How to Change: The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be" by Katy Milkman explores the science behind making lasting changes. Milkman, a behavioral scientist, combines research-based insights with practical strategies to help readers overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

Key Takeaways

• Behavioral Science: Provides insights from behavioral science on why we struggle to change and how to overcome these barriers.
• Customized Strategies: Offers personalized strategies for making lasting changes based on individual tendencies.
• Common Pitfalls: Identifies common pitfalls in the change process and how to avoid them.
• Actionable Advice: Delivers actionable advice on habit formation, motivation, and self-control.

Why You Should Read It

"How to Change" is a scientifically grounded and highly practical guide to personal transformation. Milkman’s expertise and clear writing make complex concepts accessible, offering valuable strategies for anyone looking to make meaningful changes in their life.

Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily Nagoski and Amelia Nagoski

To be honest, I read Burnout way before I started my career break. In my desperation for recovering from burnout, I had tried to break the stress cycle. There are some really powerful and practical practices.

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"Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle" by Emily Nagoski and Amelia Nagoski addresses the causes and consequences of burnout, particularly among women. The Nagoski sisters provide insights into the stress cycle and practical strategies for managing stress and preventing burnout.

Key Takeaways

• Stress Cycle: Explains the concept of the stress cycle and how to complete it to reduce stress.
• Burnout Prevention: Offers strategies for preventing and recovering from burnout.
• Gender-Specific Insights: Addresses the unique stressors faced by women and how to manage them.
• Practical Exercises: Includes practical exercises for managing stress and improving well-being.

Why You Should Read It

"Burnout" is an essential read for anyone experiencing chronic stress and burnout. The Nagoski sisters’ compassionate and research-based approach provides valuable tools for managing stress and enhancing well-being, particularly for women facing unique challenges.

Burn the Boats by Matt Higgins

I love podcasts, and Matt Higgins found his way onto my listening list during my break. I loved his approach on how to enter into the entrepreneurial world and felt motivated to overcome my fears and commit. 

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"Burn the Boats: Toss Plan B Overboard and Unleash Your Full Potential" by Matt Higgins is a motivational guide that encourages readers to fully commit to their goals by eliminating fallback plans. Higgins, a successful entrepreneur and investor, shares his insights and experiences to inspire readers to take bold actions and achieve their dreams.

Key Takeaways

• Total Commitment: Advocates for committing fully to your goals without fallback plans.
• Overcoming Fear: Provides strategies for overcoming fear and embracing risk.
• Success Stories: Shares success stories and personal anecdotes to illustrate the power of total commitment.
• Practical Advice: Offers practical advice on goal-setting, decision-making, and resilience.

Why You Should Read It

"Burn the Boats" is an inspiring and actionable guide for anyone looking to achieve their highest potential. Higgins’ bold approach and practical advice make it a valuable resource for taking decisive action and realizing your dreams.

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The Wrap-Up

As I reflect on my career break, it's clear that the books I read played a pivotal role in shaping my outlook and guiding my next steps. Each book, with its distinct approach and insights, offered valuable lessons that I could apply both personally and professionally. I hope this review inspires you to explore these books and find your own sources of inspiration and growth during your career journey. Whether you're seeking practical advice, creative encouragement, or a new way to look at life's challenges, there's a book here that can light your path forward.

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