In 2023, I rediscovered my love for reading. As a child and teenager, I devoured books, but adulthood’s responsibilities often convinced me I ‘didn’t have time’ for this joy. Who decided that? Not me. It was an unconscious shift, as John Lennon said, ‘Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.’ Suddenly, I was a mother of four, working diligently, and reading less.

Time is less about finding and more about making. Prioritization is key and a constant practice. Some days I do better, and some days I don’t, but I have prioritized reading. It is crucial to model the behavior we want to see for our children. When I read, I focus my mind, transport myself to different places, and practice self-care. I want my children to love reading and self-care too.

Now, halfway through 2024, I’m recommitting to being more of a reader. I aim to read regularly, every day, at least 20 minutes a day. Filling my cup allows me to fill others’. I invite you to join me. Suggest books, read along, and let’s connect. My hope is to foster dialogue with others who share similar interests.

To kick off our renewed commitment to reading, let’s dive into our first virtual book club pick: The Light We Carry by Michelle Obama. While walking the book isles at Costco, I was called to this gem. Its white cover with purple lettering and the joyful picture of former First Lady Obama drew me in. The description “Overcoming in Uncertain Times” resonated. The last four years have certainly been uncertain. Maybe we all need a little direction, a little help navigating.

Think of a lighthouse. Shining brightly to expose dangers near to the shore. Captains of ships appreciate lighthouses but don’t always heed their guidance. Choice is a funny thing. The person at the helm can choose to be aware, alert, and accepting of the lighthouse’s illuminations. Ships can still run ashore, crash into rocks and other obstacles, they can get stuck despite the strongest, smartest, most capable drivers. Sometimes we steer ourselves adrift. Pitfalls are unavoidable and necessary for our growth. It is not a failure if a lesson is learned. We must fail forward, using past lessons to improve our futures.

Michelle Obama always has had a sense of calm as a public figure. Perhaps she will serve as a profound lighthouse for all of us.

Here is a suggested reading schedule (I post this mostly for myself – thank you for holding me accountable):

Week 1: Getting Started

Read: Introduction and Chapters 1-2 (Pages 1-84)

Week 2: Delving Deeper

Read: Chapters 3-4 (Pages 85-168)

Week 3: Exploring More Themes

Read: Chapters 5-6 (Pages 169-252)

Week 4: Wrapping Up

Read: Chapters 7-8 and Conclusion (Pages 253-336)

Hopefully, this schedule will help us stay on track and complete The Light We Carry by Michelle Obama in four weeks. Happy reading!

About the Author:

Megann Wither is a second-generation certified trauma-informed, Hogan assessment executive, and life coach. With an extensive background in psychological resilience and leadership dynamics, she specializes in helping individuals and organizations navigate complex challenges and unlock their full potential. Drawing from a rich heritage of coaching excellence, Megann’s methods are empathetic, strategic, and customized to address each client’s unique needs, promoting sustainable growth` and development.

Megann is deeply passionate about fostering positive change and is committed to empowering her clients to achieve personal and professional goals while maintaining a balanced and mindful approach. In addition to her coaching practice, Megann is an active speaker at industry conferences, a prolific writer on coaching and leadership development topics, and a dedicated blogger. Her blog shares valuable insights and practical advice for those looking to enhance their leadership skills and overall well-being.

When she’s not coaching, Megann enjoys delving into books, reflecting on her own personal growth journey, and contributing to the virtual book club she established to connect with others who share a love for reading and self-improvement.