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The Reading Nook, Abuja (2025)

28/09/2025

Being alone doesn’t have to be a scary thing. In a world that hums with connection and shared moments, being alone might feel like a forgotten art, but it’s here, in the gentle embrace of your own presence, that you can uncover a profound sense of peace and power.

In The Art of Being Alone, Renuka Gavrani leads you into this sacred space with a heart full of warmth and understanding. This is a warm invitation to fall in love with yourself, to find joy in your own rhythm, and to build a life where solitude feels like a cherished friend. Through tender reflections and grounded wisdom, Renuka shines the path to emotional independence, self-love, and the quiet courage it takes to savor stillness in a bustling world. Every page pulses with the promise that you are enough—whole, vibrant, and beautifully complete, just as you are.

Here are 6 deeply insightful lessons from the book:

1. Solitude is a sacred space for self-discovery.
When life is busy, it’s easy to move from one interaction to another without pausing to ask, Who am I when no one is looking? Gavrani reminds us that solitude strips away external influences—no peers to impress, no social media feed to compare yourself against—leaving you alone with your raw, unfiltered self. This space allows you to hear your own inner voice clearly. In those quiet hours, you can notice what energizes you, what drains you, and what truly matters to you—knowledge that is nearly impossible to gain when the world’s noise is louder than your own thoughts.

2. Emotional independence is the foundation of lasting peace.
Many of us unknowingly tie our sense of worth and happiness to the people around us—seeking constant reassurance, validation, or company. Gavrani challenges this habit by showing that the healthiest relationships are those where you can stand firmly in your own joy without leaning too heavily on another’s presence. Emotional independence means you no longer panic at the thought of being alone; instead, you see it as an opportunity to recharge and reconnect with yourself, making your bonds with others healthier and more balanced.

3. Alone time fuels creativity, clarity, and problem-solving.
Our best ideas rarely appear in crowded, chaotic moments. Gavrani draws attention to how solitude creates a mental stillness where creativity can bloom. In silence, the mind is free to wander, to daydream, to connect seemingly unrelated thoughts in new ways. Many breakthroughs—in art, writing, business, or personal growth—are born in these pockets of quiet reflection. This is why learning to carve out time for yourself isn’t a luxury, it’s an essential ingredient for clarity and innovation.

4. Self-love is cultivated through intentional, consistent acts.
We often think of self-love as an abstract feeling, but Gavrani shows it’s built in tangible, everyday moments. It’s cooking yourself a nourishing meal instead of skipping dinner because you’re “too busy.” It’s speaking to yourself with compassion when you make a mistake, instead of replaying the failure on loop. It’s taking the time to check in on your mental and emotional health, just as you would for a dear friend. Over time, these small gestures form an unshakable bond with yourself, making you feel cared for from the inside out.

5. Loneliness and solitude are worlds apart.
Gavrani makes a powerful distinction: loneliness is the ache of disconnection—either from yourself or others—while solitude is a chosen, enriching state of presence with oneself. The shift happens when you stop seeing alone time as an absence of something and start seeing it as a presence of you. This reframing turns what was once dreaded into something deeply restorative, even joyful.

6. Comfort in solitude transforms your relationships.
When you no longer depend on others to fill an internal void, you approach relationships from a place of abundance instead of neediness. Gavrani explains that being comfortable alone means you can allow people to be who they are without demanding they complete you. This shift makes your bonds more authentic and less suffocating—you’re with them because you want to be, not because you’re afraid of being without them.

The Art of Being Alone is a gentle but powerful reminder that the relationship you have with yourself sets the tone for every other connection in your life. Gavrani’s wisdom teaches that solitude, when embraced with the right mindset, becomes a source of strength, creativity, and self-assurance.

BOOK: https://amzn.to/45HLQvv

Enjoy the audiobook with a membership trial using the same link.

27/09/2025

C. S. Lewis’s "A Grief Observed" is a raw and deeply personal exploration of grief, written after the death of his beloved wife, Joy Davidman. Unlike his other works, this book does not offer polished theological answers—rather, it is a candid and unfiltered account of his pain, doubt, and eventual journey toward healing. In this deeply reflective work, Lewis grapples with the nature of love, loss, faith, and the human condition. Below are 10 key lessons and insights from this profound book.

1. Grief Is Unpredictable and Overwhelming
Lewis describes grief as an all-consuming force that comes in waves, often catching him off guard. He compares it to fear, recognizing how it takes over the body and mind, leaving him feeling disoriented and powerless. Grief is not a linear process but a chaotic and deeply personal experience.

2. Grief and Love Are Inextricably Linked
Lewis reflects on how grief is the price we pay for love. The depth of his sorrow mirrors the depth of his love for Joy. This realization leads him to understand that grief is not something to "overcome" but a testament to the bond they shared.

3. Faith Can Be Shaken by Grief
Lewis candidly shares how his faith was deeply challenged after Joy's death. He questions the nature of God, wondering how a loving deity could allow such pain. His raw honesty reveals that doubt is a natural part of grief, even for those with strong spiritual beliefs.

4. God Is Not Always Who We Expect
In his grief, Lewis struggles with his previous understanding of God. He realizes that his image of God was limited and shaped by his own expectations. Through his pain, he begins to encounter a deeper, more complex understanding of the divine, one that transcends his preconceived notions.

5. Grief Changes Over Time
Initially, Lewis’s grief feels like a suffocating wall, but over time, it begins to change. It does not disappear but softens, becoming more bearable. He learns that grieving is a process of adaptation, not erasure.

6. The Importance of Honest Reflection
Lewis’s writing is a form of catharsis, allowing him to process his emotions and confront his pain head-on. He emphasizes the importance of being honest with oneself, rather than suppressing or avoiding difficult feelings.

7. Grief Is a Shared Human Experience
Although grief feels isolating, Lewis reminds readers that it is a universal part of the human condition. By openly discussing his pain, he connects with others who have experienced similar losses, highlighting the shared nature of suffering.

8. Memories Are Both Comforting and Painful
Lewis reflects on how memories of Joy bring both solace and sorrow. While they remind him of the love they shared, they also highlight her absence. Over time, he learns to cherish these memories as a way of keeping her spirit alive.

9. Healing Does Not Mean Forgetting
Lewis realizes that moving forward does not mean forgetting Joy or "getting over" her death. Instead, healing involves learning to carry her memory in a way that allows him to live fully again. Joy’s presence remains a part of his life, even in her absence.

10. Grief Can Lead to Growth and Transformation
Through his journey, Lewis discovers that grief, while painful, can also be transformative. It deepens his understanding of love, faith, and the human experience. The process of grieving reshapes him, teaching him resilience and a greater capacity for compassion.

In "A Grief Observed," C. S. Lewis provides an unflinching account of the pain of losing a loved one. The book is a testament to the complexity of grief, the challenges of faith, and the enduring power of love. Lewis’s vulnerability and honesty remind us that grief is not something to be conquered but something to be lived through and embraced as a facet of our humanity. Ultimately, he shows that while grief may leave us forever changed, it can also deepen our understanding of ourselves, our relationships, and the divine. This timeless work offers comfort and insight to anyone navigating the difficult journey of loss.

Book/Audio...https://amzn.to/3JkYeZJ

27/09/2025

Become a true leader through mindfulness.

If you thought leading a team or organization meant simply creating and implementing a financial plan, delegating responsibility, and watching the bottom line, well, you're only partly right. True leadership comes from within, a place of deep calm and focus, that allows you to respond to any situation as it arises.

In Mindful Leadership, you'll learn how to draw on those inner reserves through mindfulness meditation, a tool you can use to achieve focus and clarity, reduce stress, and develop the presence of mind to meet any number of challenges.

The author opens up a world of meditation exercises that can be done anywhere, anytime (no chanting or patchouli required!) and that are the gateway to improved judgment and decision-making, improved time management, enhanced team effectiveness, greater productivity, and more on-the-job inspiration and innovation. This audiobook:

Details the nine ways in which leaders can incorporate mindfulness into every aspect of their lives
Illustrates how meditation and business actually do mix
Is essential for anyone interested in anticipating and serving client needs

27/09/2025

Have you ever felt like no matter what you do, it’s never enough to gain your mother’s approval? Do you struggle with self-doubt, perfectionism, or feeling unworthy? Will I Ever Be Good Enough? by Karyl McBride explores the lasting impact of being raised by a narcissistic mother. It provides insight into the emotional wounds daughters carry and offers a path toward healing. But how can you break free from these deep-seated patterns and finally find self-acceptance?

10 Lessons from Will I Ever Be Good Enough?

1. Narcissistic Mothers Create Deep Emotional Wounds – A mother with narcissistic tendencies often puts her own needs above her child’s, leaving daughters feeling unseen, unheard, and unworthy.

2. Perfectionism is a Coping Mechanism – Many daughters of narcissistic mothers develop perfectionist tendencies, believing that being flawless will finally earn them love and approval.

3. Self-Doubt Stems from Early Conditioning – Growing up constantly criticized or ignored can lead to a lifelong internal voice that questions self-worth and abilities.

4. Emotional Neglect Can Feel Invisible – Unlike overt abuse, emotional neglect is harder to recognize but just as damaging, as it teaches daughters that their feelings don’t matter.

5. Setting Boundaries is Essential for Healing – Breaking free from toxic patterns requires learning to say no, limiting contact when necessary, and prioritizing emotional well-being.

6. Guilt and Obligation Keep Daughters Stuck – Many women feel trapped by the belief that they must continue seeking their mother’s love, even at the cost of their own happiness.

7. Healing Begins with Self-Awareness – Recognizing the patterns of narcissistic parenting is the first step toward breaking free and reclaiming a sense of self.

8. Reparenting Yourself is Possible – Through self-compassion, therapy, and conscious effort, daughters can learn to nurture themselves in ways their mothers never did.

9. Not All Mothers Can or Will Change – Accepting that a narcissistic mother may never acknowledge the pain she’s caused can be a painful but necessary part of healing.

10. You Are Already Good Enough – The ultimate realization is that worthiness is not something to be earned from others—it is something you already possess within yourself.

Conclusion
If you’ve spent your life trying to win your mother’s love and approval, Will I Ever Be Good Enough? offers a powerful reminder: you don’t have to keep proving your worth. Healing is about letting go of the past, embracing your own value, and building a future where you feel truly seen and accepted—by yourself. Are you ready to step into that freedom?

27/09/2025

This book made me realize why I kept dreaming big but secretly doubting if I deserved any of it. I thought manifestation was just wishful thinking, a kind of magical shortcut to success, but Roxie Nafousi’s Manifest: 7 Steps to Living Your Best Life showed me that it’s far more grounded than that. It’s not about sitting back and hoping the universe delivers, it’s about aligning your beliefs, actions, and energy so you can become the kind of person who naturally attracts what you seek.

Nafousi writes with refreshing honesty, stripping away the fluff and mysticism often tied to manifestation. She shares her own story of struggle and transformation, showing that manifesting isn’t a privilege reserved for the lucky, it’s a practice of self-awareness, consistency, and courage. At its core, her book is a guide to shifting your mindset from lack to abundance, fear to possibility, and doubt to trust, so you can build a life that feels both intentional and fulfilling.

Lessons from Manifest:

1. Clarity is the foundation: Nafousi emphasizes that you can’t manifest what you aren’t clear about. Defining your desires in detail not only sets direction but also helps your subconscious recognize opportunities that align with your goals.

2. Belief shapes outcome: The greatest block to manifestation is self-doubt. Nafousi explains that when you truly believe you are worthy of the life you want, you begin to act in ways that make it possible. Belief fuels persistence.

3. Healing comes first: Manifesting isn’t just about future goals; it requires facing and healing old wounds. Letting go of limiting stories and self-sabotaging behaviors clears space for growth and transformation.

4. Action is everything: Nafousi makes it clear that manifestation isn’t passive. Taking consistent, aligned steps toward your vision is what brings it into reality. You meet the universe halfway by doing your part.

5. Gratitude amplifies abundance: One of the most powerful practices she shares is daily gratitude, not as a cliché but as a rewiring tool. Gratitude shifts focus from what’s missing to what’s present, creating a mindset that attracts more of what you value.

Manifest is both inspiring and practical, a reminder that manifesting isn’t about waiting, it’s about becoming. Nafousi’s words encourage us to claim our worth, align with our vision, and build a life where dreams aren’t distant hopes but lived realities.

27/09/2025

As I navigated the endless corridors of an audiobook platform, looking to awaken my motivation and find some fresh insights, I stumbled upon "The Consistency Formula" by Suzi Sung. The title alone sparked a flicker of intrigue—after all, life often feels like a jigsaw puzzle of moments that challenge our consistency and commitment. Upon pressing play, I was immediately drawn in by Suzi’s warm, engaging voice, which felt less like an author narrating and more like a friend sharing hard-earned wisdom. Her passion was palpable, making me eager to absorb every lesson she offered.

7 powerful takeaways that left a lasting impression and that I believe can resonate with anyone looking to build a more consistent life:

1. Accept Small Steps. Suzi emphasizes the importance of taking small, manageable steps instead of trying to achieve grand goals all at once. She drives this point home by sharing relatable anecdotes of her own journey, demonstrating how patient progress can lead to monumental change. The takeaway? Consistency doesn’t require drastic leaps; it’s all about the steady rhythm of small actions that can compound over time. This perspective helps to alleviate the pressure to perform perfectly and reminds us that every little effort counts.
2. Cultivate a Consistent Mindset. Through Suzi's words, I felt my own thinking shift as she urged listeners to develop a mindset that embraces consistency as a core value. She likens consistency to a muscle that we train over time. By visualizing consistency not as a rigid expectation but as an evolving practice, I realized that I could redefine what success looks like in my daily life. This lesson opens the door for anyone to strengthen their resolve and persist through challenges, nurturing a more resilient approach to their goals.
3. Set Clear Intentions. In the audiobook, Suzi highlights the transformative power of setting clear, intentional goals. She shares how having a defined "why" sets the stage for consistent action. Her captivating examples of individuals ignited by purpose resonated deeply; they served as reminders that clarity can fuel motivation. For whoever takes this lesson to heart, articulating your intentions can be a game changer, guiding every decision you make with purpose and focus.
4. Design Your Environment for Success. Suzi doesn’t shy away from discussing the influential role of our environments in fostering consistency. By recounting her own experiences of reshaping her surroundings—like decluttering her workspace she clearly illustrates how a supportive environment can eliminate distractions and enhance productivity. The takeaway? Tailoring your space to align with your goals can provide constant nudges toward your objectives. This concept is empowering, demonstrating that we can take charge of our surroundings to create an atmosphere that boosts our commitment.
5. Learn from Setbacks. One of the standout lessons in "The Consistency Formula"comes from how Suzi articulates the inevitability of setbacks. She frames them not as failures, but as critical learning experiences. Her storytelling approach makes it clear that each obstacle presents an opportunity for growth. This insight encourages anyone listening to adopt a more forgiving attitude toward themselves when things don’t go as planned, fostering resilience and an eagerness to learn.
6. Celebrate Milestones. Suzi’s melodic voice fills the air with enthusiasm whenever she discusses the importance of celebrating milestonesnbig or small. I found myself envisioning how the practice of acknowledging achievements can invigorate one’s journey. By celebrating progress, even minor ones, we can cultivate a positive feedback loop that reinforces our commitment. This lesson promotes an appreciation for both the journey and the eventual destination, urging everyone to pause and enjoy their growth along the way.
7. Connect with a Community. Suzi beautifully articulates the power of surrounding oneself with a like-minded community. Her stories about shared experiences frame support networks as vital for maintaining consistency. I was struck by how connection fuels accountability and keeps us motivated. This message serves as a reminder for anyone seeking to elevate their consistency finding and fostering community can amplify our efforts and make the journey far more enjoyable.

27/09/2025

Are You Ready To Be a Thought Leader?

Do you think you have valuable ideas but struggle to make them heard, or are you aspiring to establish yourself as a respected authority in your field? Denise Brosseau's "Ready to Be a Thought Leader" offers a captivating roadmap that should guide you from the early embers of inspiration to the burning torch of influence.

Here is a dive into the key lessons:

1. Fuel Your Journey with Burning Passion:
Find the intersection of your expertise, interests, and an urgent problem needing solutions. Let this "sweet spot" become your driving force, fueling your authenticity and motivating relentless contributions to the field. It's the fire that keeps your thought leadership engine running.

2. Spark a "Silver Tsunami" Conversation:
Start by identifying your core idea, the central kernel of your expertise. Share it with relevant stakeholders, gather feedback, and actively listen to emerging trends within your area of knowledge. Think of it as planting a seed, nurturing conversations, and positioning your message amidst the bigger picture.

3. Cultivate Your Champions: The Power of the "Helens":
Identify influential individuals who resonate with your ideas and have the potential to become fervent advocates. Show them not just the "what" but also the "why" of your message, highlighting the mutual benefits and win-win scenarios collaboration can yield. These champions become your "Helens," amplifying your voice and accelerating your impact.

4. Step Up and Own Your Voice:
Transition from the passive "we" to the authoritative "I." Take ownership of your ideas and vision, establishing a distinct thought leadership persona. This doesn't mean dismissing contributions, but embracing accountability and standing confidently behind the impact your message creates.

5. Prove Your Worth:
Credibility is king. Gather data, case studies, and measurable results to demonstrate the effectiveness of your ideas. Don't shy away from diverse forms of evidence – testimonials, peer endorsements, and tangible outcomes – to solidify your authority and convince others of the value you bring.

6. Amplifying Your Reach:
Visibility is key. Utilize platforms like writing, speaking, and social media to spread your message and engage with your audience. Actively seek strategic partnerships with complementary thought leaders, organizations, and media outlets to expand your reach and amplify your impact. Remember, your message deserves to be heard!

7. Persistence and Continuous Learning:
Thought leadership is a marathon. Stay updated on your field's developments, continuously refine your ideas based on feedback, and be open to adapting your approach. View challenges and setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow, fueling your resilience and keeping you at the forefront.

27/09/2025

The first time I opened Market Wizards: Interviews with Top Traders by Jack D. Schwager, I wasn’t just looking for trading tips—I was searching for insight into how the best in the game think. What I discovered was that trading success isn’t about secret formulas or magical indicators; it’s about mindset, discipline, and learning to master yourself as much as the markets. Reading the stories of legendary traders felt like sitting in a room full of seasoned mentors, each one whispering hard-earned truths that apply not just to markets, but to life.

7 practical lessons that can hit home for You:

1. Discipline beats brilliance.
Many traders weren’t the most “genius” minds, but they were disciplined enough to follow their strategies consistently. It reminded me that sticking to rules often matters more than chasing perfection.

2. Risk management is survival.
Every “wizard” emphasized controlling losses. That shifted my perspective—winning isn’t about making the biggest gains; it’s about ensuring you live to trade another day.

3. Losses are tuition, not tragedies.
Every trader interviewed faced painful losses, but they treated them as lessons, not failures. I learned to see mistakes as part of the price for long-term growth.

4. Adaptability is the ultimate edge.
Markets change, and those who cling rigidly to one system often get crushed. I realized adaptability isn’t a weakness—it’s a sign of strength.

5. Confidence must be earned, not assumed.
The best traders were confident, but their confidence came from testing, preparation, and experience—not from arrogance. That taught me the importance of proving strategies before trusting them.

6. Patience pays more than constant action.
Some of the most successful traders waited weeks or months for the right setup. It hit me personally—sometimes doing nothing is the smartest move.

7. Self-awareness is a trader’s secret weapon.
Knowing your strengths, weaknesses, and emotional triggers can make or break you. I saw how mastering psychology mattered as much as mastering charts.

By the end of Market Wizards, I didn’t walk away with a single “holy grail strategy.” Instead, I walked away with something better: the realization that success in trading comes from mastering discipline, emotions, and adaptability. For me, the book became less about markets and more about how to handle uncertainty in any field. And perhaps that’s the true wizardry—turning the chaos of risk into an opportunity for growth, both financially and personally.

27/09/2025

When I first listened to The Master Key to Riches by Napoleon Hill, I wasn’t just hearing words—I felt like I was being handed a map to inner wealth long before material riches. The book reminded me that success is rarely an accident; it’s a result of mindset, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to growth. What struck me most was how Hill tied prosperity not just to strategy but to character and attitude. It made me realize that true riches begin in the mind, long before they appear in the bank.

7 practical lessons that can deeply resonate with you:

1. Definiteness of purpose creates direction.
Hill insists that vague goals lead to vague results. When I wrote down one clear purpose and aligned my daily choices with it, I noticed my energy and focus became sharper.

2. Self-discipline is the foundation of all success.
Riches don’t come from wishful thinking but from controlling habits, thoughts, and actions. Practicing small disciplines—like finishing tasks I used to procrastinate—felt like strengthening invisible muscles.

3. The power of a positive mental attitude.
I realized that problems don’t shrink when I complain—they shrink when I choose to face them with optimism. This shift in mindset helped me see obstacles as stepping stones.

4. Faith backed by action unlocks potential.
Hill emphasizes that belief alone isn’t enough—you must act on it. Taking bold steps, even when uncertain, taught me that action is what turns dreams into results.

5. Surround yourself with a mastermind alliance.
Greatness isn’t built in isolation. I began seeking out people who inspire, challenge, and support me—and noticed how their energy lifted my own performance.

6. Adversity carries seeds of equal or greater benefit.
Whenever I failed, Hill’s reminder pushed me to look for the lesson or hidden gift. That perspective made setbacks less discouraging and more like disguised teachers.

7. True riches include peace of mind.
Money matters, but Hill highlights health, happiness, and harmony as essential parts of wealth. This reminded me to measure success not just in numbers, but in how fulfilled I feel daily.

By the end of The Master Key to Riches, I understood that wealth is more than accumulation—it’s transformation. Hill’s teachings reminded me that the richest life isn’t just about what you earn, but who you become in the process. And maybe that’s the true master key: realizing that the path to riches begins with unlocking your own potential, one thought and one disciplined action at a time.

27/09/2025

The High 5 Habit: Take Control of Your Life with One Simple Habit by Mel Robbins is one of those books that sneaks up on you with a concept so simple you almost dismiss it at first—until you realize just how deeply it can shift your perspective. Mel takes something as ordinary as a morning high-five in the mirror and transforms it into a powerful act of self-acceptance, encouragement, and daily reset. What makes it unique is how it reframes self-support: instead of waiting for the world to validate us, we’re taught to become our own biggest ally. I came across the book after being drawn to Mel’s straightforward style and the way she makes personal growth feel practical. I didn’t expect a small daily gesture to stir something so profound, but it did. It made me pause and ask how often I actually cheer myself on instead of criticizing every flaw. These are the 7 meaningful lessons I carried from the book:

1. The way you talk to yourself shapes your entire day. Mel emphasizes that our internal dialogue sets the tone for how we move through the world. I realized how often I start mornings with self-criticism, which quietly sabotages my energy. A high-five in the mirror interrupts that cycle with a moment of self-kindness.

2. Confidence isn’t built by perfection but by consistent encouragement. Robbins shows that encouragement is what fuels action, not constant pressure. This reminded me that confidence grows from small acts of support toward myself, repeated daily. The high-five becomes symbolic of choosing belief in my effort, not flawless outcomes.

3. You can’t outsource self-acceptance. One of the most powerful points was recognizing that no amount of external praise can fill the void left by self-rejection. This hit me personally because I’ve looked outward for validation so many times. The habit reminded me that the work begins in my own reflection.

4. Interrupting negative patterns requires simple, tangible acts. Instead of waiting for massive breakthroughs, Mel shows how a tiny physical gesture can reroute mental spirals. It’s not about pretending problems don’t exist, but about breaking the momentum of negativity with something grounding and affirming.

5. Your relationship with yourself defines your relationships with others. The book made me confront how the lack of grace I give myself spills over into my interactions. When I learn to see myself with compassion, it becomes more natural to extend that same compassion outward. The inner work ripples.

6. Celebrating small wins rewires your brain for resilience. Robbins highlights how acknowledgment creates momentum. I realized that waiting for “big wins” often leaves me drained and discouraged, while celebrating daily progress fuels persistence. The high-five is less about the mirror and more about building mental strength.

7. Courage grows when you choose to back yourself. At its heart, the habit is about declaring, “I’m on my own team.” That shift is huge. Instead of letting fear and doubt dictate my actions, I’ve learned that courage doesn’t come from erasing fear but from standing beside myself in it.

By the time I finished, I noticed that the habit wasn’t really about the gesture itself—it was about what it symbolized. It felt like a way of reminding myself each morning that I’m worth rooting for, even when life feels heavy. And strangely enough, that small act has a way of changing everything else.

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