24 Books in 2024: A Year of Literary Adventures

 

As the year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on one of my most enriching experiences of 2024—completing a 24-book reading challenge (24in2024) by reading 34 books! It was a journey through diverse genres, captivating stories, and profound insights. Here’s a glimpse into my literary adventure:

January to March: Setting the Tone

The year began with a diverse and inspiring lineup of books that set a strong foundation for the challenge.

1. We Are All the Same in the Dark by Julia Heaberlin: This gripping thriller delved into the mysteries and hidden secrets of a small Texas town.
2. The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma: A transformative read that introduced the concept of rising early to maximize productivity and well-being.
3. Good Vibes, Good Life by Vex King: A motivational guide to self-love and positive thinking that left a lasting impact.
4. The Communication Book by Mikael Krogerus and Roman Tschäppeler: This book provided 44 tools to enhance communication skills, making it a practical and enlightening read.
5. Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven: Simple, yet profound lessons on life and leadership from a Navy SEAL.
6. The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy: A transformative read about how small, consistent actions can lead to significant results.
7. Surrounded by Idiots by Thomas Erikson: An insightful book on different personality types and how to communicate effectively with each.
8. Talk Like TED by Carmine Gallo: An inspiring guide on how to deliver powerful and impactful presentations.
9. Book Lovers by Emily Henry: A delightful contemporary romance that explores the intricacies of love and friendship.

These books not only entertained but also offered valuable lessons and insights, setting a positive tone for the months to come.

April to June: Deep Dives and Discoveries

Spring brought a thirst for knowledge and self-improvement, with a focus on psychology, personal development, and practical wisdom.

1. The Art of Thinking Clearly by Rolf Dobelli: This book offered insightful lessons on cognitive biases and how to avoid them for better decision-making.
2. The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Joseph Murphy: A transformative read about harnessing the potential of the subconscious mind to achieve personal and professional goals.
3. The Courage to Be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga: An enlightening dialogue on self-acceptance and the philosophy of Alfred Adler.
4. The Almanack of Naval Ravikant by Eric Jorgenson: A comprehensive compilation of Naval Ravikant's wisdom on wealth, happiness, and life.
5. How to Finish Everything You Start by Jan Yager: A practical guide to overcoming procrastination and developing the discipline to complete projects.
6. The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel: A compelling exploration of how our thoughts and emotions influence financial decisions.
7. Atomic Habits by James Clear: An empowering guide on the power of small, consistent changes to transform habits and achieve success.
8. Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace: A complex and expansive novel that challenges and rewards readers in equal measure.

July to September: Summers of Suspense and Growth

The heat of summer brought an eclectic mix of reads, from thrillers and romance to personal development and humor.

1. The Things We Leave Unfinished by Rebecca Yarros: A moving story of love and loss, interwoven with the complexities of unfinished business.
2. The Mystery Guest by Nita Prose: A delightful and intriguing mystery that kept me guessing until the end.
3. People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry: A heartwarming and witty romance that explored the joys and challenges of lifelong friendships.
4. Funny Story by Emily Henry: A laugh-out-loud novel that combined humor with heartfelt moments.
5. The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier: A practical guide on how to coach effectively by asking the right questions.
6. The Art of Laziness by Alex Fumero: A lighthearted yet insightful look at how embracing laziness can lead to more productive and fulfilling living.
7. Win Your Inner Battles by Darius Foroux: A motivational read about overcoming personal struggles and achieving goals.
8. Happy Place by Emily Henry: A delightful contemporary romance that explores the intricacies of love and friendship.

October to December: Reflective Reads

As the year wound down, I turned to a mix of enchanting and thought-provoking books that left a lasting impression or were part of the N&S&M Bookclub:

1. The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab: An evocative tale of a woman who makes a Faustian bargain to live forever, but is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets.
2. Waypoints by Sam Heughan: An inspiring memoir that chronicles the journey of the actor known for his role in Outlander, blending personal reflections and captivating storytelling.
3. Mine for a Moment by Catharina Maura: A touching story exploring relationships and the complexities of human connections.
4. The Mystery Guest by Grégoire Bouillier: A unique and introspective narrative that delves into the unexpected surprises life can offer.
5. Two Twisted Crowns by Rachel Gillig: A gripping fantasy novel that takes readers on a dark and thrilling adventure.
6. One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig: Another mesmerizing fantasy from Gillig, packed with mystery and magic.
7. The Last Letter by Rebecca Yarros: An emotional and heartfelt novel that delves into themes of love, loss, and healing.
8. The Mistletoe Mystery by Nina Prose: A delightful holiday-themed mystery that brings the festive spirit alive.
9. How My Neighbor Stole Christmas by Megan Quinn: A charming holiday romance filled with festive cheer and heartwarming moments.

Highlights and Reflections

Completing this challenge was more than just about the numbers. It was about the stories that stayed with me, the characters who felt like friends, and the lessons that resonated long after I turned the last page.

Each book was a stepping stone in a journey of self-discovery, knowledge, and joy. From the thrill of adventure to the depths of human experience, these 24 books in 2024 have left an indelible mark on my life.

Here’s to many more literary adventures in the years to come! 📚

Ranking (best to worse)

1. Book Lovers by Emily Henry
2. Funny Story by Emily Henry
3. Happy Place by Emily Henry
4. People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
5. The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab
6. Two Twisted Crowns by Rachel Gillig
7. One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig
8. The Mystery Guest by Nina Prose
9. The Things We Leave Unfinished by Rebecca Yarros
10. The Last Letter by Rebecca Yarros
11. The Mistletoe Mystery by Nina Prose
12. Waypoints by Sam Heughan
13. We Are All the Same in the Dark by Julia Heaberlin
14. The Mystery Guest by Grégoire Bouillier
15. The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma
16. Good Vibes, Good Life by Vex King
17. The Communication Book by Mikael Krogerus and Roman Tschäppeler
18. Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven
19. The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy
20. Surrounded by Idiots by Thomas Erikson
21. Talk Like TED by Carmine Gallo
22. The Art of Thinking Clearly by Rolf Dobelli
23. The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Joseph Murphy
24. The Courage to Be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga
25. The Almanack of Naval Ravikant by Eric Jorgenson
26. How to Finish Everything You Start by Jan Yager
27. The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel
28. Atomic Habits by James Clear
29. Win Your Inner Battles by Darius Foroux
30. The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier
31. Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace
32. The Art of Laziness by Alex Fumero
33. How My Neighbor Stole Christmas by Megan Quinn
34. Mine for a Moment by Catharina Maura

 

 

What My Puppy, Little Ann, Taught Me About Corporate America

It turns out that having a puppy can feel a lot like navigating Corporate America—especially when that puppy is Little Ann. Named after the spirited companion in Wilson Rawls' Where the Red Fern Grows, my Little Ann shares that same unstoppable energy, fierce loyalty, and boundless curiosity that made her literary namesake so memorable. Since joining my life, she’s been an unintentional but incredibly effective mentor, offering some humorous (if exasperating) parallels to lessons I’ve encountered in the professional world.

Little Ann with her ball

Little Ann's destruction

So far, she’s chewed through two tax checks, the handle of my Brahmin laptop bag, three lottery tickets (who knows if I was a winner), a portable space heater, and developed a unique morning ritual: launching herself onto my head at 4:15 a.m. for a “wake-up” face bath. Amid all the chaos, here’s what Little Ann has taught me about life in Corporate America—along with a few insights inspired by her namesake.

1.   Adaptability is Key
Each day, Little Ann tests my patience in a new way. Just when I think I’ve finally puppy-proofed the house, she finds a fresh challenge. This constant unpredictability mirrors life in Corporate America, where projects shift, priorities change, and unexpected obstacles appear. Much like her namesake in Where the Red Fern Grows, Little Ann reminds me that adaptability isn’t optional; it’s essential. Whether it’s puppy-proofing the house or planning for last-minute business changes, I’ve learned to keep a Plan B (and sometimes a C) handy.

2.   Loyalty and Dedication Go a Long Way
In Where the Red Fern Grows, Little Ann is known for her loyalty and her ability to stay by her companion’s side through thick and thin. My own Little Ann shows that same unwavering dedication, though it sometimes looks like following me around the house relentlessly or making sure I’m awake (very awake) at 4:15 a.m. Loyalty and dedication are just as valuable in the workplace. Colleagues who demonstrate these qualities are often the bedrock of successful teams. When things get tough, it’s those who, like Little Ann, stay the course and remain dedicated to the company and each other who make the biggest difference.

3.   Resourcefulness Overcomes Setbacks
I never realized how fragile lottery tickets could be until Little Ann shredded three of them in record time. I also didn't realize my reaction and attempt to tape them back together.  LOL.  In the workplace, this is like when a polished report or presentation is derailed by unexpected issues. Her antics taught me that setbacks are inevitable, and sometimes the only option is to regroup and get creative with what’s left. While I’ll never know if those tickets were winners, I’m reminded that there’s always something within our control to move forward.

4.   Boundaries and Discipline Are Non-Negotiable
Puppies, like work projects, need boundaries. Little Ann is learning what’s off-limits, and I’ve learned that in corporate life, clear boundaries and consistent discipline are crucial. Without them, teams can lose focus, and even well-meaning efforts can go astray. Watching Little Ann test her limits has shown me that setting clear expectations—and enforcing them—is key to keeping any team (or puppy) on the right track.

5.   Growth Happens Through Consistency and Positive Reinforcement
Training Little Ann is a gradual process—growth takes time, patience, and plenty of positive reinforcement. This lesson is just as true in Corporate America, where progress is built on consistent effort and encouragement. Whether leading a team or implementing a new strategy, the small steps count. Like her fictional counterpart, Little Ann reminds me that even the best ideas need nurturing to thrive.

6.   Persistence Pays Off
If Little Ann wants something, she’ll stop at nothing to get it. There’s an undeniable value in her persistence - quality that’s equally necessary for success in Corporate America. Little Ann is tenacious with a capital T.   Big goals like landing a promotion or leading a major project demand resilience. When I watch Little Ann tackle a challenge with boundless enthusiasm, I’m reminded that sometimes, the only way forward is through sheer determination. Just like in Where the Red Fern Grows, persistence and grit can make even the toughest goals attainable.

7.   Laugh Through the Chaos
Living with a puppy is unpredictable, and learning to laugh through the chaos has been essential. In Corporate America, unexpected shifts and last-minute changes are the norm, and finding humor in the little setbacks can be the best way to stay grounded. Little Ann’s misadventures have reminded me that laughter, even amid the mess, helps me keep perspective and focus on what truly matters.

8.   The Importance of a Morning Routine
Now, thanks to Little Ann’s "alarm clock," my day starts at exactly 4:15 a.m. with a boisterous face bath. As she just hit six months, we are no longer in "puppy breath" phase.  No amount of training has altered this, and I’ve come to accept her unique version of morning motivation. In Corporate America, starting each day with energy—whether self-initiated or “assisted”—is essential. Whether it’s a workout, a quiet coffee, or a puppy plopping on my head, a morning routine that energizes you can set the tone for a successful day.

Owning Little Ann has been an adventure, a series of patience-testing, laughter-inducing lessons that parallel the skills I use every day in Corporate America. Through chewed-up tax checks, shredded tickets, and destroyed space heaters, she’s taught me resilience, humor, and a new perspective on work, life, and everything in between. Like the loyal and determined Little Ann of Where the Red Fern Grows, my own Little Ann has shown me that with enough grit and a sense of humor, we can face anything—even the corporate jungle.

Happy Thursday all,

-srt

Rawls, Wilson. Where the Red Fern Grows. Doubleday, 1961.

Always Be Yourself… Unless You Can Be a Unicorn

You know those gifts that make you laugh out loud but also stop and think for a second? Well, I recently got one of those—a sign that reads, “Always be yourself, unless you can be a unicorn. Then, always be a unicorn.”

At first, it just made me giggle. It's one of those playful, quirky sayings you might find on a mug or a t-shirt. But then I really started thinking about it, and honestly, it felt like the universe gave me a little nudge. It reminded me of something important about being true to yourself, embracing your quirks, and, well, allowing yourself to be a little magical once in a while.

The Power of Being Yourself

We’ve all heard the advice, “Just be yourself.” It’s one of those phrases we nod at but don’t always stop to unpack. In a world that constantly encourages us to conform or keep up with others, being yourself can feel a little rebellious, right? But it’s actually one of the best things we can do.

Embracing who we really are—our weirdness, our passions, our flaws—can make us feel more confident and fulfilled. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being authentic. Once you let go of trying to live up to someone else’s expectations, you create space to show up as your truest self. And let me tell you, the world needs more of that.

And Then There’s the Unicorn...

Now, let’s talk about the unicorn part of the equation. Unicorns are magical, right? They stand out, they’re rare, and they have that enchanting, mysterious vibe. So, when the quote says, “Unless you can be a unicorn,” it’s not suggesting that you should be something you’re not. Instead, it’s a playful reminder to tap into that magical side of yourself. It's like telling you to embrace the part of you that’s bold, creative, and completely unique.

Why be ordinary when you can be extraordinary? The world is full of “horses,” but unicorns are special. It’s an invitation to dream big, color outside the lines, and embrace what makes you, well, YOU. Sometimes, we all need to hear that it’s okay to step up and shine a little brighter.

Embrace Your Inner Unicorn

Being a unicorn isn’t about being perfect or pretending to be someone else. It’s about embracing what’s special about you and letting it shine. Whether you’re rocking a creative project, pursuing a career goal, or just living your life, there’s something magical about bringing your whole self into it. The world needs more of that—more people who are unapologetically themselves and who bring their own spark to everything they do.

So, here’s the thing: it’s not just about being “yourself”—it’s about being the best version of yourself, the one that stands out, the one who dares to be different. It’s about letting your unique qualities shine and giving yourself permission to be a little magical sometimes.

A Reminder to Let Your Magic Shine

Every time I look at that sign, I can’t help but smile. It’s a reminder that while being authentic is key, we shouldn’t forget that we each have something special to offer. And sometimes, that means letting our inner unicorn out to play.

Next time you feel like blending in or hiding your unique spark, just remember: you’re not meant to be ordinary. The world needs your magic. So, always be yourself... unless you can be a unicorn. And then, for the love of glitter and rainbows, always, ALWAYS be a unicorn. 

Happy Thursday Magically People,

-srt ✨🦄

Put Your Worries in a Bubble and Let Them Go: A Lesson from My Sister

One of the things my sister, nicknamed Wheezer, used to say that always stuck with me was, “Put your worries in a bubble and let them go.” It was one of those simple phrases that seemed almost too easy, yet its wisdom has lingered with me long after she passed in 2022.

At first, the idea of “putting your worries in a bubble” felt almost childlike—how could something so simple have any real power over life's complex challenges? But over time, I began to understand just how profound that small act of visualization could be, and how much peace it could bring when we let go of the weight of worry.

The Power of Letting Go

In life, we often carry the burden of worries on our shoulders—about work, relationships, health, the future, and countless other things. It’s easy to become consumed by these thoughts, allowing them to take over our mental space and emotional energy.

My sister’s advice, though simple, serves as a reminder to let go of what we can’t control. The act of putting our worries in a bubble is not about ignoring the problems or pretending they don’t exist. It’s about acknowledging them, giving them a place to rest temporarily, and then allowing ourselves the space to breathe. The bubble becomes a visual representation of releasing the anxiety, watching it float away, and trusting that, for the moment, it’s not something we need to carry with us.

Why Bubbles?

Why a bubble? The beauty of a bubble is in its lightness and impermanence. A bubble is delicate, and it’s fleeting. It doesn’t last forever, but in its brief life, it serves its purpose. Similarly, our worries are often momentary and transient, even if they feel overwhelming at the time. The visual of putting them in a bubble allows us to realize that our worries are not permanent fixtures of our lives; they can float away, just like the bubble, leaving us lighter and more at peace.

This simple image helps shift our mindset. Instead of obsessing over a problem or ruminating on “what ifs,” we can take a step back and give ourselves permission to release the hold our worries have on us. It's about choosing to pause and be present in the moment, knowing that whatever we’re stressing about doesn't have to consume us.

A Lesson in Mindfulness

My sister's advice also has a lot to do with mindfulness—the practice of being fully present in the moment and not allowing our thoughts to spiral. Worries often come from living in the future, imagining scenarios that haven’t happened yet. But by “putting them in a bubble and letting them go,” we shift our focus back to the now. The bubble reminds us that the present moment is all we really have.

Letting go doesn’t mean we’re giving up. It doesn’t mean that we’re being irresponsible or failing to plan for the future. Instead, it’s an act of self-care, giving ourselves the emotional space to let go of what’s not serving us in the moment.

How to Put Your Worries in a Bubble

Here’s how I’ve started to use my sister’s advice in my own life:

1. Acknowledge the Worry: Instead of pushing your worry away or pretending it’s not there, acknowledge it. Sit with it for a moment.  Feel it.  Recognize it for what it is: a thought, an emotion, a concern.
2. Visualize the Bubble: Close your eyes and imagine a bubble in front of you. Place the worry inside the bubble. See the bubble float gently in the air, knowing it will go where it needs to, even if it's just for the moment.
3. Let It Go: Watch the bubble drift away. Remind yourself that you don’t have to hold onto this worry forever. You’ve given it space, and now, you’re choosing to let go of the weight.
4. Focus on the Present: Bring your attention back to the here and now. What can you do right in this moment? What can you control, and what can you release?
5. Repeat: This practice isn’t a one-time fix. Worries will come back, but each time you put them in a bubble and let them go, it gets easier. You start to realize that many of the things you worry about are out of your control, and that’s okay.

A Legacy of Peace

Since my sister passed, I’ve found myself reflecting often on the lessons she taught me, whether through words or her actions. “Put your worries in a bubble and let them go” is more than just a phrase—it’s a gift of peace she left behind. It’s a reminder to not let anxiety and fear take over our lives, to trust in the process, and to make space for calm in the chaos.

So, the next time you find yourself overwhelmed by worry, I encourage you to try this simple yet powerful practice. Put your worries in a bubble and let them go. You might be surprised at how much lighter you feel and how much more you can focus on what really matters in the moment.

Thank you, Wheezer, for the wisdom. I carry it with me every day.

Happy Thursday all,

-srt

 

Embrace the Mess: A Holiday Message for the “Superwoman” in each of us

 

Happy Thursday all,

The holidays are here—a time filled with joy, connection, and, let's be honest, a bit of chaos. Between the whirlwind of decorating, cooking, gift-giving, and gathering, the season can feel like an endless to-do list. But what if this year, we chose to embrace the mess instead of striving for perfection?

As professional women, the pressure to create picture-perfect holidays can weigh heavily. Social media feeds us curated moments of sparkling trees and tablescapes, often leaving us feeling like we need to measure up. Yet, the truth is, the magic of the holidays doesn’t lie in perfection. It’s found in the messy, unpredictable, and wonderfully human moments.

Why Mess is Beautiful

1. It Shows You Care
The stack of unwrapped presents and flour-dusted countertops tell a story: you’ve been working hard to make someone smile. Every bit of "mess" is a sign of love, dedication, and effort. Let it remind you of your heart's beautiful intention rather than your perceived imperfection.

2. Connection Over Presentation
People won’t remember if your cookies were slightly burnt or your tree wasn’t symmetrical. What they’ll cherish is how you made them feel. Focus on laughter, hugs, and conversations, not the stress of a spotless home.

3. Growth Comes from Mess
When things don’t go as planned—like when the turkey overcooks or someone forgets the eggnog—it becomes a story to laugh about next year. Life’s greatest lessons and memories often emerge from its most imperfect moments.

Tips for Embracing the Mess

1. Redefine Success
Success during the holidays isn’t about achieving perfection; it’s about cultivating joy. Shift your focus to what matters most—relationships, traditions, and self-care.

2. Ask for Help
Superwoman doesn’t have to do it all. Whether it’s setting the table or wrapping presents, lean on family and friends. Delegating not only eases your load but also involves others in the joy of the season.

3. Be Present, Not Perfect
Pause to savor the moments—a child’s laughter, the warmth of a shared meal, or the beauty of holiday lights. The little things often matter most.

A Holiday Affirmation (Repeat after Me)

This holiday season, remind yourself:

1. I am enough, just as I am.

2. The beauty of the season isn’t in what I achieve but in how I connect.  

3. Every imperfect moment adds depth and richness to my story.

To All Women Dreaming Big This Season

Whether you’re hosting your first holiday dinner, juggling family obligations, or simply trying to keep up with it all, remember this: you don’t have to do it perfectly to make it meaningful. Your messy, beautiful holiday will inspire others to embrace theirs.

So light the candles, let the glitter spill, and laugh when the dog runs off with the wrapping paper. This is your season—mess and all.

Enjoy the season! 

-srt