I hope your week is going great, and that despite the endless incoming reports and social media posts regarding Saturday’s assassination attempt, you’ve been walking in the peace and assurance only God above can provide!

I will be honest… I sometimes struggle with getting wrapped up in the news; I find it far more fascinating than any TV show, that’s for sure! But. That’s not a justifiable reason for it to consume so much of my precious time, and I am praying daily for God to guide me toward striking the right balance between staying informed and being addicted to information. Can you relate?

Alrighty, jumping into this week’s  Top 4… Hope you enjoy!

HELP FOR SHAPING YOUR IDENTITY AND GOALS

This interview between neuroscientist Dr. Andrew Huberman and Maya Shankar, Ph.D., is absolutely fascinating, and actionable! They discuss how our identities develop and change, how our beliefs and internal narratives shape our perception of self, and how to use structured introspection about our values to determine our goals. They talk about how to cope and grow through uncertain situations, especially those that force us to reexamine our roles and identity. Dr. Shankar explains numerous science-backed strategies to effectively define goals, structure our goal pursuits and maintain consistent motivation.
Check it out HERE!

“GARBAGE IN, GARBAGE OUT”

I thought this quote appropriate today, given what I shared in the intro about excessive news consumption!:

I think I mentioned in a previous email that I read, and loved, Beneath a Scarlet Sky and The Tattooist of Auschwitz. I recently finished another World War II novel, The Nightingale, which is by far my favorite of the three. I’m so looking forward to reading many more Kristin Hannah novels!

Over the weekend, I finished my book club’s summer pick, The Last Mrs. Parrish. Not my cup of tea, to be honest, as the writing wasn’t nearly as rich and enthralling as that of the previously read books, and the whole thing revolved around malignant narcissism, physical and emotional abuse, adultery, fornication, and vengeance. Not things that especially inspire me! However, I’m looking forward to sharing my thoughts on it at our next book club meeting and contrasting it with the virtue- and valor-packed novels we’ve read in the preceding months.

CONSIDERING HOMESCHOOL?

On this week’s podcast episode, I discuss homeschooling and how it’s a decision that should be brought before God and prayed about with earnestness, humility, and a heartfelt desire for His perfect plan and will for our families and futures.

I also share an incredible resource for parents who are either homeschooling already, or are simply considering switching to it! LISTEN HERE.