A List of Six Must Reads

In my early 20s I had zero direction. I had to become my own role model while trying to find my place in the world. I’ll admit, I went through bad post-graduate depression. I experienced lay-offs, a break up, being fired, and perpetual unemployment. I felt like shit. I had no money, no man, I needed new friends, I felt alone and unworthy. I did everything, I became a pot-head, I went to therapy, I cried, I drank and I read periodically to get my mind out of my own misery.

The Subtle Art of Not Giving A F*ck describes stories of people who were complete disasters, alcoholics, losers, still succeeding by just being themselves. They decided to not give a f*ck about outside opinion and their reality; they just did what they wanted. Sometimes, we try to do things because we think that’s what we’re supposed to do as opposed to doing the things we are called to do. So f*ck it. Do what’s in your heart. 

As a lover of God. Anything to get closer to His guidance is my best recommendation. Instinct: The Power to Unleash Your Inborn Drive by TD Jakes was what I would read to work. Working in fashion is not for the weak, especially for Black women. I had to start my mornings with a formidable mind  to take on racism, microaggression, work load, and the incessant sense of urgency working from unqualified leadership. I read this during that season of depression and it helped me fight to the next round. I got fired from that raggedy ass job, thank God, and was able to heal with the cushion of unemployment. A win is a win, I was getting ready to give up, BUT GOD.

I also read, You’re A Badass. Very similar to The Subtle Art of Not Giving A F*ck, it makes you take a hard look at why you are the way you are and accept the ugly parts of yourself you can’t change. It encourages you to be comfortable with who you are right now and move in the direction you want to go in spite of that. I read them both at the same time. 

In my mid 20s, I wish I discovered Why Men Love B*itches earlier! When I say, such a good read! Honestly, a lot of the teachings I knew already by dating these [redacted] men. But, it was refreshing to read something that did not center male validation and honored the beauty and value of what women provided to the world. It makes women really understand their worth and how it works in the minds of men. With that understanding, you’ll never feel inclined to short change yourself or settle for less. 

Outliers was such a good book. It applied psychology, history and anecdotal experiences to explain the probability and possibilities people have for success. I read it with the inspiration of being consistent with my goals. I read this while changing my diet and meditating. I definitely  felt lighter after I finished the book. The author is also Jamaican. 

I have been reading Atomic Habits for the past year. It has been the best book I’ve read in a while. It can be read in a week or over the course of a year. It’s very good at giving you an outline to create an optimal life with habits that align with your highest self. Whenever I felt off track, I reached for Atomic Habits to help me transmute any hurt, angry, sad or discouraged energy. 

What’re you reading rn? Thank you Diandra for suggesting I make this list!