Why we should skip Netflix for a day (or two)

And again having to dive into the books

Don’t get me wrong, I’m addicted to Netflix and with a new month lurking, there’s a lot of news coming that I’m eagerly waiting for. But a mini-detox was really needed. The O.C. watched (which was amazing of course), but um, yeah, something about too little sleep thanks to the binging.

I used to be quite a loyal reader, I was always happy if you dropped me somewhere in a bookstore. When I lived in Paris, WHSmith on Rue de Rivoli was a regular spot I went to with my mother when we went shopping together, and in Amsterdam that’s Waterstones. But I was asked a while ago when I last really took the time to read something; pfff, god knows. However, I’ve started again and since I still prefer everything in English (and because it can’t hurt anyone to do that too), here’s my summer reading list for you:

This Modern Love – Will Darbyshire

Love in the digital age: it ain’t easy. I know it, you know it, Will Darbyshire knows it and decided to do something with it. Over the course of more than a year, he collected all the messages he received from followers of his YouTube account about love: the good, the bad, and the ugly. ‘This Modern Love’ is a compilation of emotions that are relatable. From the emotions of budding relationships to breakups and everything in between. And all of this online.

Note to Self – Connor Franta

This is the sequel to his bestseller ‘A Work in Progress’, in which YouTuber Connor Franta talked about his journey from a boy in the middle of nowhere in America to a YouTube sensation with over five million subscribers. ‘Note to Self’ is his diary in which he candidly talks about heartbreak and depression, but also about learning to appreciate life in the now. The emotions he describes are characteristic and poignant, and if you’re feeling a bit off in your mood , this book will let you know that you’re not alone.

The Subtle Art of not Giving a F*ck – Mark Manson

Yes, the title is somewhat misleading. This book doesn’t tell you that you should never care about anything again, it actually teaches you to determine which things in life you really shouldn’t give a f*ck about. To use Mark’s own words: ‘For decades, people have thought that positive thinking is the key to a happy life. F*ck positivity. Let’s be honest, shit is f*cked, what we need to do is learn to deal with it.’ Only when you embrace your fears and uncertainties of life do you find courage and perseverance. Believe me: this book, which is written with a lot of humor, will help you become a genuinely happier person.

Born to Run – Bruce Springsteen

Are you secretly also an old soul? Read here then why this should be on your summer reading list.

Creative Confidence – Tom & David Kelley

This is not just for the creatives among us, but also for those who don’t consider themselves creative. Brothers Tom and David want to show that creativity and innovation don’t just belong to the ‘creative types’, but that it’s something we all can do. They teach you the strategies to unlock your creative potential both in your work life and privately. Fun and educational, what more could you want?
Happy reading!