We all have a go-to coping strategy when we’re feeling down. Maybe we get some exercise, or chat with a friend, or binge watch our favorite comedy series. (Any Parks and Recreation fans out there?)
But sometimes our usual strategy isn’t enough, and we need something that speaks to our deeper emotional needs. For those tougher moments, we recommend turning to a wise, uplifting book—and the five reads below are an excellent place to start.
Download the Next Big Idea App for “Book Bite” summaries of hundreds of new nonfiction books like these.
In Awe: Rediscover Your Childlike Wonder to Unleash Inspiration, Meaning, and Joy
By John O’Leary
With the daily grind of work responsibilities and obligations, we may find ourselves feeling burned out and jaded more often than we’d like. But equipped with a more joyful mindset, we can live happier and healthier lives than ever. Listen to our Book Bite summary, read by author John O’Leary, in the Next Big Idea App
When You Wonder, You’re Learning: Mister Rogers’ Enduring Lessons for Raising Creative, Curious, Caring Kids
By Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski
When You Wonder, You’re Learning shows parents and educators the many ways they might follow in Mister Rogers’ footsteps, sharing his “tools for learning” with digital-age kids. With insights from thinkers, scientists, and teachers—many of whom worked with Rogers himself—the book is an essential exploration into how kids and their parents can excel at what Rogers taught best: being human. Listen to our Book Bite summary, read by authors Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski, in the Next Big Idea App
Laziness Does Not Exist
By Devon Price
For too many of us, our self-worth has become a function of our productivity. In other words, we only feel good about ourselves by working harder and harder. But in this book, a social psychologist argues that what we call “laziness” isn’t just natural—it’s something we should all strive to embrace. Listen to our Book Bite summary, read by author Devon Price, in the Next Big Idea App
Joyful: The Surprising Power of Ordinary Things to Create Extraordinary Happiness
By Ingrid Fetell Lee
Contrary to popular wisdom, joy is not purely a matter of attitude and perspective. In fact, science shows that our surroundings have a measurable effect on our mood, creativity, and productivity. So in Joyful, designer Ingrid Fetell Lee puts that science in your hands, to help your design the perfect spaces for living and working. View an Excerpt from Our E-Course
Humor, Seriously: Why Humor Is a Secret Weapon in Business and Life
By Jennifer Aaker and Naomi Bagdonas
It turns out that a broken funny bone doesn’t just make you a buzzkill at parties; it can also put a damper on your professional life. Even if you don’t think of yourself as a comedian, this book by two Stanford professors can help you use humor to improve your communication and negotiation skills. Listen to our Book Bite summary, read by authors Jennifer Aaker and Naomi Bagdonas, in the Next Big Idea App
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