Diving headfirst into the world of self-development has been a game-changer, not just for my  personal life, but for how I approach my research and connect with others. This year, I challenged myself to read 52 books—a daunting task, I admit! But the first ten, including Mindset,  Atomic Habits, and The Four Agreements, have already delivered profound shifts in my perspective.
As someone with undiagnosed ADHD and dyslexia, I’ve often felt I had to work twice as hard to keep up. But these books have shown me that my perceived ‘disadvantages’ can be turned to my advantage. For example, Atomic Habits taught me how to break down complex tasks into tiny, manageable steps, a strategy that’s been invaluable for tackling research proposals and projects. It’s about leveraging my strengths – like my ability to think outside the box – and creating systems that work for my unique brain.
One of the most powerful lessons has been about mindset. Mindset and The Magic of Thinking Big have helped me shift from a fixed mindset, where I saw challenges as roadblocks, to a growth mindset, where I now see them as opportunities to learn and grow. In research, where proposals and projects regularly don’t go as planned, this shift has been transformative. I’ve learned to embrace ‘failures’ as data points, not setbacks.
The Four Agreements and The Fifth Agreement have been particularly impactful in my interactions with others. As someone who loves to build community, these books have reminded me of the importance of clear communication, integrity, and avoiding assumptions. In academia, where collaboration is key, these principles have strengthened my relationships and fostered a more positive environment.
You are a F*cking Success, and The Let Them Theory have resonated 
with my passion for empowering others. They’ve reinforced the importance of taking ownership of my career and advocating for my research. As someone who loves to give value to others, I’ve realised that I also need to value my own contributions and not be afraid to pursue my goals.
with my passion for empowering others. They’ve reinforced the importance of taking ownership of my career and advocating for my research. As someone who loves to give value to others, I’ve realised that I also need to value my own contributions and not be afraid to pursue my goals.
And as someone who’s passionate about healthy living and active ageing, Feel Good Productivity and Attitude is Everything have reminded me that well-being is non-negotiable. Research can be demanding, but prioritising my mental and physical health has actually boosted my creativity and productivity.
These books aren’t just theoretical; they’re practical tools for navigating the complexities of academia and life. Whatever your role in our school, I encourage you to invest in your self-development. It’s a journey that will not only enhance your professional performance but also enrich your personal life. And who knows, you might just find your own advantages along the way!
By Lynda Webb
