While we’ve been happily swamped with virtual conferences, managing speaking opportunities, and all else events-related, we at cred have fortunately still found time to cross a few books off our reading lists. 

We’ve been going for walks, talking with friends, and diving into new hobbies, but there is something about reading that recharges us in a way unlike anything else. The proven benefits of reading, like reducing stress, strengthening your brain, and alleviating anxiety, are all things many of us need right now.

We’d like to share some of our top reads with you! Whether you’re looking to focus on personal development, give your brain a break from the world, or find something interesting to chat about during your next Zoom happy hour, we’ve got you covered.

Personal Development.

The 5 Second Rule
Transform Your Life, Work, and Confidence with Everyday Courage
Author: Mel Robbins 
Inspired by the response to her TEDTalk, Mel Robbins wrote this book to share the power of “The 5 Second Rule,” which leverages the science of habits to trick your brain into acting on a good thought before your mind can squash it. You’ll be impulsively jumping off the couch to go for that walk you’ve been procrastinating in no time. 

The Willpower Instinct
How Self-Control Works, Why It Matters, and What You Can Do to Get More of It
Author: Kelly McGonigal
Based on her Stanford University course, "The Science of Willpower", Kelly McGonigal, Ph.D., shares what willpower is, what is widely misunderstood about it, how it works, and why it matters. Learn about I-Will Power, I-Won't Power, and why too much self-control can actually be bad for your health.

Leisurely-Fiction Reads.

Where the Crawdads Sing
Author: Delia Owens
Set on the North Carolina coast, Delia Owens details the transformational years of Kya, a young girl who is impossible not to fall in love with. You’ll smile, cry, and learn about birds and the microbiology of a marsh. I’ve never gotten lost in a book so effortlessly, it’s easy to understand why it’s sold over 4.5 million copies!

Nothing to See Here
Author: Kevin Wilson 
If your family has any sort of dysfunction (whose doesn't), you’ll love and connect with this read. Follow Lillian’s story as she navigates through disappointment, love, and acceptance to find her life purpose and discover a new way of defining “family.” 

Conversation Starters.

The Called Shot
Babe Ruth, the Chicago Cubs, and the Unforgettable Major League Baseball Season of 1932
Author: Thomas Wolf
No matter how little you know about baseball, you know who Babe Ruth is. But have you ever wondered what was happening in the country during his prime? This non-fiction read details the intersection of history and baseball during a transformative time and paints an undeniable picture of what it was like to be alive during one of America’s most chaotic summers. 

A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy
Author: William B. Irvine 
I vaguely remember learning about famous stoic philosophers in school, but wasn’t able to connect with the teachings until years later. This book can teach you how to cure chronic dissatisfaction, minimize worry, reframe criticism, and how to move through life gracefully and unbothered. Finally, you’ll understand how these teachings have survived so many years.

Educated
Author: Tara Westover
Born to Mormon survivalists in the mountains of Idaho, Tara Westover prepared for the apocalypse by stockpiling food and sleeping with her survival pack. Invisible to society at the hands of her father, Tara overcomes a unique set of challenges to do one thing many take for granted: learn. Through this book, you may find a new appreciation for your education and a new understanding of what self-made truly means.