Hi beautiful soul,

Summer has always been my season for going deeper.
There’s something about the longer days and slower pace that invites reflection, doesn’t there?

This year, instead of sharing the typical “beach reads” (I have not read this since 2018 😊)

I'd like to share something more personal: the books that have genuinely transformed my life and helped me navigate my journey from burnout, dissatisfaction, and frustration to authenticity, joy, and freedom.

These aren’t just books I enjoyed.

They’re the ones that cracked me open, challenged my beliefs about myself, and helped me increase my self-awareness.

Here are my TOP 5!

The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer

This is the book that kick-started everything back in 2018. When I was experiencing burnout and severe disconnect from myself, Michael’s insights about the voice in our heads and learning to observe our thoughts rather than be controlled by them were invaluable.

Life-changing. (Will never forget the chapter number 3 and becoming aware of the "tenant" that lives in my head) It was my first real introduction to understanding that I am not my thoughts—I am the observer of them.

Perfect if you feel controlled by your inner critic or want to understand the deeper workings of your mind.

The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown

I’ve read 3 of Brené’s books, and honestly, I’d recommend anything from her for this summer. But this one? It found me during the transition from my darkest period and felt like a warm hug from someone who truly understood. Her work on vulnerability and shame completely shifted how I see my imperfections—not as flaws to hide, but as parts of my humanity to embrace.

Perfect if you’re tired of trying to be perfect or constantly seeking others’ approval.

The Courage to Be Disliked by Fumitake Koga and Ichiro Kishimi

My therapist recommended this back in early 2020, and it perfectly solidified the work we were doing together. This book teaches you that you don’t need anyone’s approval to live authentically, that seeking to be liked is actually what keeps us trapped.

It’s based on Adlerian psychology and completely challenges interpersonal relationships, community, and what gives us meaning.

Perfect if you struggle with people-pleasing or find yourself living inauthentically.

Attached by Amir Levine and Rachel S. F. Heller

I struggled to create healthy, lasting emotional relationships for more than 13 years. This book helped me understand my attachment style and why I kept attracting the same patterns. Understanding whether you’re anxious, avoidant, or secure in relationships is transformative.

(And yes, after all that self-development work, I’m happy to say I’m now capable of healthy love and profound, soulful connections! Working on the relationship with yourself does pay off!)

Perfect if you keep finding yourself in the same relationship patterns or want to understand how you connect with others.

The Seat of the Soul by Gary Zukav

This one goes deeper into the spiritual aspects of personal growth. Gary explores how we’re evolving from personalities driven by external power to souls driven by authentic power. It’s profound work on understanding your purpose and living from your soul rather than your ego.

Perfect if you’re ready to explore the spiritual dimensions of your growth journey.

If Reading Isn’t Your Thing This Summer…

I recently stumbled upon an incredible 25-minute TED talk that perfectly sums up my understanding of what it means to be your true SELF.

​​Watch it here​​

Seriously, grab a refreshing summer drink and give yourself this gift.
It might open your perception of your TRUE SELF.

Each of these resources found me exactly when I needed them.
They didn’t just give me knowledge, they gave me a deep understanding of what it is to be human, to grow, and to finally stop hiding from myself.

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Atm, I am dismantling my old self ( very uncomfortable and challenging 😳) with Joe Dipenza's Breaking The Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New One

If even one of these resonates with you, trust that inner knowing.

What are you drawn to explore this summer?
I'd love to hear what speaks to you.

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With love and authenticity,
Kora

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P.S. Remember, transformation doesn't happen through just consuming information; it requires integration and action.
Choose one resource that calls to you and dive deep.
Your future self will thank you.

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