Over the period between Christmas and New Year, I usually spend it thinking and reflecting. Healthy Options is now in its fourth decade and I believe it wouldn’t be where it is today if I didn’t love reading and collecting books.
Books have been my therapist when I needed to make sense of the world, my guidance counsellor when I wasn’t sure which path to take, and my business consultant when I wanted to dream bigger and work smarter.
When I read, it’s like I’m sitting with a mentor who shares lessons without judgment, or a priest who reminds me of meaning and hope when life feels confusing. Books don’t judge and don’t interrupt. They offering insight and comfort whenever you’re ready to listen. That’s the magic of books—they don’t just inform and teach us, they remind us who we can become.
So whenever you feel lost, reach for a book. Somewhere in those pages, someone has already walked your path—and left behind the “cats eyes” to guide you forward. I also love sharing and giving books to my team at Healthy Options (but getting them to read is a challenge sometimes).
Here’s one I am highly recommending, From Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks. I learned about the author when I saw him on Bloomberg television talking about life’s happiness in Act 2. So, I got his book and found it to be a very timely read—what does one do after a highly successful career and facing retirement?
He talks about the changes we need to make in middle age to grow and continue to have an impact in our work and personal lives. Act 1 of our lives is about building, learning, working, family, stability and success while Act 2 is about becoming and rediscovering purpose and giving back to society.
If you are over 35 and concerned about your worth as you get older in the job market, get this book. The author offers great perspective on career path and purpose as we get older. He tells us not to fear the next chapter in our lives and how to pivot and adapt. I bought several copies and gave them to my friends and family.
Best of health,
Romy Sia romy@healthyoptions.com.ph
