Books we’re embarrassed to read

“We’re heading to the shore… we'll be the gays in the short shorts with the gigantic cooler, pretending to read The New Yorker while Us Weekly sits inside it...” – My friend Danny

Do you ever read particular magazines or books in secret? I’m a big fan of a few books that are considered “self-help.” They’re so inspiring! But I was definitely a little too embarrassed to pull out Steering by Starlight: The Science and Magic of Finding Your Destiny on the subway when I was reading it a couple of years ago… Now I’m more secure. Who gives a s#*t what I’m reading?! As a yogi I know better than to identify my self-worth with outside objects and opinions. And I feel perfectly O.K. sharing that I’m always working to improve myself, learn more, and feel happy.

My “embarrassing” book recommendations:

Steering by Starlight: The Science and Magic of Finding Your Destiny by Martha Beck

Beck is wicked smart, super witty, and really knows how to relate to people (she is, after all, a life coach). Steering by Starlight is an enjoyable, helpful read if you’re looking for some direction (in any area of your life). *Of course, ultimately the direction comes from within… You’ll see.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change by Stephen R. Covey

This should be required reading of all American adults. Covey provides tools for improving oneself and for working well with others.

Happiness Is An Inside Job: Practicing for a Joyful Life by Sylvia Boorstein

This book is Buddhist-based but relatable no matter what your religious/philosophical beliefs are. Boorstein is clear, concise and straightforward. She explains how to deal with day-to-day grievances and larger-scale tragedies, all with wisdom and a sense of humor.

Happy reading!

P.S. Remember that episode of SATC when Charlotte peruses the self-help section of the bookstore? She picks up Starting Over, Yet Again, but is too embarrassed to buy it… In public at least. She scurries over to the travel section, and then later purchases Starting Over from amazon.com.