Summer Springboard is all about personal development. One of the best ways to develop and become a better person is through reading. Not only do you develop a better vocabulary, find new models for your own writing, but books can help you expand your worldview and understanding of others.
This summer when you are lounging around the pool, dive into one of these picks:
- The Alchemist, by Paulo Coehlo
This book is one of the best selling books in history for good reason. It tells a magical story of Santiago’s travels and teaches you the wisdom of listening to your heart and following your dreams.
- The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens, by Sean Covey
Sean Covey wrote this book with his father’s bestselling The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, in mind. It is packed with engaging stories of teens from around the world that teach you how to be positive and effective in all aspects of your life.
- The Short and Tragic Life of Robert Peace, by Jeff Hobbs
Jeff Hobbs writes a compelling novel about a young African American man’s life and his journey from the streets Newark, New Jersey to the halls of Yale University. It is an honest account of relationships, America, race, class, crime, education, and struggle to find your place in the World.
- Team Geek, by Brian Fitzpatrick
A software developer’s guide to working well with others because life isn’t just about knowing how to do the math. When you hit the workplace you will need to be a team player, have social skills, and adapt to other’s working style. This book will give you insight into the patterns of work and working with others.
As you are reading this summer, reflect on what you are learning by journaling and taking notes while you read. Keeping a notebook that highlights, quotes, tools, tricks, and lessons you learn while you read is a great way to remember and utilize all the information that you encounter.. As you spend more and more time reading books in promotion of self development you will notice trends and it will be great to have those learnings notated so you can read back and reflect on them when find you are need of some motivation and coaching.