How to Grow Your Soul (Michael Meade)

'Choosing Wholeness Over Goodness' offers a guide to self-discovery and personal liberation by challenging societal norms of 'goodness. ' Co-authors Elise Loehnen and Courtney Smith provide a framework for understanding how cultural conditioning can lead to self-repression and a disconnect from one's true self. The book introduces a process for recognizing and integrating disowned aspects of the self, drawing on concepts like Carl Jung's idea of wholeness. By embracing imperfection and challenging fear-based behaviors, readers can cultivate greater self-acceptance and authenticity. This book promotes the idea that reclaiming one's full self leads to increased energy, presence, and a more fulfilling life.

In 'The Book of Secrets,' Deepak Chopra explores the hidden dimensions of life and offers insights into unlocking the mysteries of the self. Chopra combines ancient wisdom traditions with contemporary science to guide readers on a journey of self-discovery. The book delves into the nature of reality, consciousness, and the interconnectedness of all things. It presents practical tools and techniques for personal transformation and spiritual growth. Chopra encourages readers to look beyond the surface of everyday life to uncover deeper truths and find meaning and fulfillment.

In 'Cherished Belonging,' Gregory Boyle calls back to Christianity’s origins as a subversive spiritual movement of equality, emancipation, and peace. The book emphasizes two core principles: everyone is unshakably good and we belong to each other. Boyle advocates for a new way of seeing the world through a lens of connection, kindness, and compassion. He argues that by cherishing and nurturing our connections, we can create safe and healing communities, even in the most divided times.

This book is a comprehensive exploration of initiation and the soul's journey, using myths from various cultures to illustrate the recurring patterns in human life. Meade examines the importance of initiatory events, the role of storytelling in healing and personal growth, and the need for cultural and personal renewal. The book addresses issues such as the wounds of modern society, the gap between genders, and the importance of generativity, creativity, and generosity. It is a thoughtful, poetic, and wise guide for understanding the meaning behind traditional stories and navigating life transitions.

Published in 1859, 'Self-Help' by Samuel Smiles is a landmark in the self-help genre. The book advocates for personal responsibility and the virtues of hard work, industry, and character. It uses numerous biographical examples, including those of George Stephenson and Josiah Wedgwood, to illustrate how individuals can achieve success through their own efforts. The book was highly influential in Victorian Britain and beyond, selling over a quarter of a million copies by the time of Smiles' death in 1904. It has been translated into many languages and remains a significant text in the history of self-help literature.

In this book, Jamil Zaki presents an antidote to the cynicism corroding our social health. Through rigorous scientific research and fascinating narratives, Zaki advocates for 'hopeful skepticism'—thinking critically about people and our problems while honoring and encouraging our strengths. The book challenges the belief that humanity is inherently selfish and provides practical tips and moving stories to help build a more trusting and cooperative society, ultimately leading to a more optimistic future.

In a rapidly changing world faced with seemingly impossible problems, 'The Genius Myth' combines dramatic real-life experiences with compelling mythic tales and a profound exploration of the wisdom of genius. It is essential for anyone who seeks to awaken their own genius and learn how to heal nature and renew culture. The book imagines that everyone, by virtue of bearing some genius qualities, is subject to a genuine calling in life, and it offers essential ideas for parents, teachers, counselors, and mentors seeking to encourage and support those they care about.