Hello Lovelies, 

We're mid-way through October and have just over 2 months remaining in this decade! I know, a little dramatic, but that's got me thinking and reflecting on what the heck I've done these past 10 years. Whew, child, that's too much thinking. But I am very excited to start mindfully ruminating on those years and jotting down my vision 2020 and beyond. This truly is the best time to start this process, because Lord knows the holidays ain't it. With that I want to start slow and I think listening to some self-improvement audiobooks is a great start. In this post, I've listed 5 audiobooks I want to listen to in preparation for this planning process. I will also be sharing other aspects of my 2020 planning so check in for those.  




Before I delve into the list I want to suggest checking out your local library for these audiobooks. I get all of mines through the OverDrive/Libby apps. Most libraries have an ebook/audiobook app that you can access these titles. If your library doesn't carry what you're look for I suggest recommending it for purchase; and if you really want the library to purchase it I would even go as far as to call and speak to the purchasing department.  Alright, let's dive in.  



Big Magic 
This is the only audiobook on the list that I've actually listened to already and it's one of the impetus for this list. I've never heard or read anything by Elizabeth Gilbert before this and I'm not sure what prompted me to pick this up, but I'm so thankful I did. In Big Magic Gilbert talks about creativity as a living form. I fully expected this to be one of those blanket self-help with not much practicality books, but what I found was a new perspective on the creative life. Often times, I wait for creativity to come to me. I'll just sit here and eventually something will click. That does happen, but what stood out in this audiobook was Gilbert's urging to respect the creative pursuit and we can do that by putting in the daily effort to be our best creative self. The creative bug won't always be there to inspire us, we should be grateful when it does, but don't waste time waiting for it. This book is also read by Gilbert and she could be a professional audiobook reader, I loved listening to her voice.  


Better than Before 
I started reading Gretchen Rubin's book about 2 years ago. I borrowed it from the library and was not able to finish it, but what I do remember was how I felt during the few chapters I read. This is why I'm adding it to this list as an audiobook. One, so I can finish it and of course glean some knowledge. In Better than Before, Rubin gets into the practical habits that help or hinder us. I love routines and rituals because I've found that I get more done, but I'm also more liberated. My hope for this listen is a spark to see my current habits, most of which I love, in a different perspective. How can  I further improve on what I am doing.  


Mere Christianity 
This one has been on my TBR list FOREVER. So I'm going to take a simpler route and listen to it. This is one of the classic reads about what it means to be a Christian. I certainly believe that we should always check-in with our faith, our practices, and certainly our reality.  


More Than Enough 
Written by journalist and former magazine editor, Elaine Welteroth, this book is about her journey to becoming the youngest and only the second black editor-in-chief at a Conde Nast publication. As a young black women these books always remind me that though I may be the only one that looks like me in the physical rooms I occupy, I am definitely not on the journey alone. More, these stories help me navigate the path I'm on and serve as mentoring sessions for decision making. I'm really looking forward to this one, which is also read by the author.  


The Road to Character 
The author, David Brooks, looks at the life of some of the great leaders of our past and present and what aspects of their character sets them apart. This book stood out to me because of the current state of our society. I firmly stand by the idea that our response to life's ups and downs is a reflection of our character. A true mark of our goodness is seen when our character is tested; not just how we behave, but even the thought process we engage. This book has been highly rated and I the first one I'll be listening/relistening to on this list.  


Honorable Mentions 

Brene Brown – literally any of her books. I've read or listen to all of them.  
SuperSoul Sunday – Oprah's podcast. One of my favorite episodes was with Tina Turner.  
Let Love Have the Last Word – Common wrote a book and it looks good, hopefully it is and I can get around to it in within the year.  

Well, I hope this list has inspired you and that I actually get to listen to this reads. You can follow along with my progress on Instagram, I'll probably share via Stories. And if there's any on your list, I'd love to hear about it.  

See you in the next post, or online.  


Faithfully, 

Marie