John’s Must-Reads: Spring 2024 Edition

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John’s Must-Reads: Spring 2024 Edition

Mar 25, 2024

As we head into spring, I’d like to share a few recent reads that I’ve really enjoyed:

Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself: How To Lose Your Mind and Create a New One by Dr. Joe Dispenza

Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself by Joe Dispenza offers an inspiring look at self-transformation. I am very interested in all things personal transformation and growth, so this book was right up my alley! Combining neuroscience, epigenetics, and quantum physics, Dispenza demonstrates how a person’s thoughts can influence their reality. He disproves the idea that you are doomed by your genes and are hard-wired to be a certain way for the rest of your life. Instead, Dispenza argues that by overcoming certain habits and thought patterns, you can rewire your brain to make significant changes that prioritize your health and well-being.

It’s an empowering read that presents practical tools for those looking to change their mindsets and lead more fulfilling lives. I really enjoyed it and recommend that you check it out!

William James: In the Maelstrom of American Modernism by Robert D. Richardson

William James was a pivotal member of the Metaphysical Club and author of The Varieties of Religious Experience. This biography does an incredible job of exploring what James himself called the “buzzing blooming confusion” of his life – one that had a lasting impact on psychology, philosophy, teaching, religion, and modernism.

Unlike conventional biographies that merely chronicle a person’s life, this biography is unique in that it draws on James’ own unpublished letters, journals, and family records. It dives deep into his intellectual odyssey, showing how his thinking changed and evolved over time. I loved this approach! From my perspective, learning about someone’s intellectual journey is the most interesting part of a biography.

For those interested in psychology and philosophy or those wanting to learn more about the life and thought process of William James, I recommend adding this to your must-reads list.

How Not to Age by Dr. Michael Greger

Building on his best-selling book, How Not To Die (which I previously recommended here), How Not To Age explores the science behind aging and provides insight into how to potentially slow its effects through nutrition and lifestyle choices. It dives into the mechanisms of aging at a molecular level, offering an evidence-based approach to extending one’s health span. I’m a big fan of Dr. Greger and really enjoyed this book. I highly recommend it!