If you’re going on vacation: enjoy! Whether it’s an active trip or lounging on a beach bed. If you’re working through this period, it’s nice to do so without traffic jams and with fewer calls and emails. Akira wishes you a wonderful summer!
Ikigai – The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life
Francesc Miralles, Hector Garcia
At Akira, we’re inspired by Japanese insights, so it’s no surprise that “Ikigai – The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life” tops my list. It’s not a new book, but one everyone should read at least once, in my opinion. Factors like having a secondary income source, such as a vegetable garden, maintaining social connections, and staying active all contribute to the longevity of Okinawa’s residents. What makes us happy? What is our ikigai, our reason for being?
Care to Dare – Unleashing Astonishing Potential through Secure Base Leadership
George Kohlrieser, Susan Goldsworthy, Duncan Coombe
Always reason from a positive perspective; that’s what George Kohlrieser learned as a hostage negotiator. How do you connect with others? This book taught me a lot, and I apply its insights when informing professionals that they weren’t chosen for a role. It can be disappointing, but I always try to end on a positive note: what went well and what valuable experience did the process bring?
Dream, Dare, Do – Managing the Most Challenging Person on Earth: Yourself Ben Tiggelaar
When I started as an entrepreneur, I first followed a leadership program that revealed I had a few things to sort out with myself. Only after doing that, I felt I could really take off. Ben Tiggelaar helps dreamers take that final step: action!
The Little Book of Mindfulness – 10 Minutes a Day to Less Stress, More Peace
Dr. Patrizia Collard
A beautiful little book, perfect for gifting, with illustrations, poems, and short practical exercises. It makes it easier to pause daily and avoid constantly rushing. Ideal if you want to make a change and need a bit of encouragement.
A Quick Watch
Why do we find reading important? Ryan Holiday (what’s in a name) outlines it in a video on his Daily Stoic channel: to understand the past, present, and future, and to feel connected with each other.
