Creativity and healing: New personal development books

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and disconnected from what truly matters. Filled with personal stories and practical advice, the following range of perspectives encourage us to take risks, embrace internal states, and connect with others to live a more fulfilling life.

The beauty of life: Krishnamurti’s journal / Krishnamurti, J.
“This book is a collection of previously unpublished writings by J. Krishnamurti, a renowned spiritual teacher. The short entries reflect on nature and its relationship to human consciousness, encouraging us to approach life with a clear mind free from preconceptions. It’s spontaneous and intimate, drawing readers to contemplate the ideas presented. It’s suitable for those who seek a deeper understanding of spirituality beyond traditional teachings.” (Adapted From Catalogue)

Crossover creativity: Real-life stories about where creativity comes from / Trott, Dave
“Ideas don’t come from nothing. They come from what’s already inside. People don’t have ideas, ideas have people. The more you consume, the more fuel for ideas you have, and the more ideas will happen for you. Dave Trott’s latest collection of stories reveals the origin of great ideas, guiding individuals in advertising, business, and beyond.” (Adapted From Catalogue)

Emotional labor: The invisible work shaping our lives and how to claim our power / Hackman, Rose
“A scathing, deeply-researched foray into the invisible, uncompensated work women perform every day. ‘Emotional Labour’ is essential in our society and economy, but often goes unnoticed. The book explores the history and common manifestations of the phenomenon, empowering readers to combat patriarchy and pave the way for change.” (Adapted From Catalogue)

Finding the words: Working through profound loss with hope and purpose / Campbell, Colin
When Colin Campbell’s two children were killed by a drunk driver, he experienced profound grief. He realized much of the common wisdom around loss was unhelpful. Here he offers an alternate path which truly honours our loved ones. Through community, ritual, and finding expression, readers will learn how to live more fully while still holding their loved ones close.” (Adapted From Catalogue)

The long view: Why we need to transform how the world sees time / Fisher, Richard
“This book explores the importance of long-term thinking and how modern-day tech and capitalism have trapped us in the present, resulting in short-termism. It explores the history, as well as ways to overcome these psychological biases. A thought-provoking perspective on how we can learn to widen our perception of time and honour our obligations to future generations.” (Adapted From Catalogue)

Mirrors in the earth: Reflections on self-healing from the living world / Suler, Asia
“In a time of unprecedented ecological devastation, it’s easy to feel hopeless and disconnected. Or, that our unique and precious gifts, like our inborn empathy, simply aren’t enough. Suler, a herbalist, writer, and Earth intuitive, illuminates the healing power of the living Earth, nurturing self-compassion and empathy as forces for personal and ecological healing.” (Adapted From Back Cover and Catalogue)

Real life: The journey from isolation to openness and freedom / Salzberg, Sharon
“Sharon Salzberg highlights how we can recover from the emotional effects of crisis through mindful awareness. Overcoming fear and disappointment by allowing our difficulties. By taking risks, embracing internal states and fostering meaningful connections, readers can develop a greater sense of purpose to live a more expansive and joyful life.” (Adapted From Catalogue)