This Is When You Use It

In 'Phosphorescence', Julia Baird delves into the concept of finding and nurturing an inner light that sustains us through life's darkest moments. The book is a hybrid of memoir, essays, and personal reflections, drawing from Baird's experiences with cancer, her connections with nature, and her observations of various individuals who embody this 'phosphorescence'. Baird discusses the importance of awe, wonder, silence, and the healing effects of nature, such as ocean swimming and forest bathing. She also emphasizes the value of friendships, social connections, and the acceptance of failure and imperfection. The book is a thought-provoking exploration of how to find meaning and joy in a world filled with challenges.

In 'The Obstacle Is the Way', Ryan Holiday presents a framework for turning obstacles into successes. Drawing from the philosophy of Stoicism and the writings of Marcus Aurelius, Holiday outlines three disciplines: perception, action, and will. He illustrates these principles with historical anecdotes from figures such as John D. Rockefeller, Amelia Earhart, Ulysses S. Grant, and Steve Jobs. The book emphasizes the importance of perception in shaping one's response to obstacles, the need for intentional and creative action, and the cultivation of will to persist through challenges. Holiday argues that by adopting these Stoic principles, individuals can transform their obstacles into opportunities for growth and success.