Turning Pages and New Beginnings

Life Updates, New Reads, and the Inspiring World of Audiobooks and Personal Growth

Hello everyone! Sofia here. I know I’ve been a bit on and off these past months, but that’s because there have been some big changes happening in my life, as I’ve hinted at in previous letters.

September and October were, well, a bit of a rollercoaster. It felt like I had one foot in my old life while the other was ready to step into something new. The anticipation for what’s next was building, but the weight of the past was still hanging around. But hey, I’m surviving! Now that I’m fully settled in this new chapter, the challenges are different. Just as one storm ends, a new one seems to be on the horizon. But isn’t that what life is all about?

Today, I want to share a passion that’s become especially close to my heart this year. I’ve always loved listening to podcasts and audio content, and that love has only grown. Alongside that, my love for reading has really taken off. Ever since I got a Kobo in 2022, I can’t seem to get enough! It’s funny because, as a kid, reading felt like such an obligation. My mom would insist I read, but I could hardly bring myself to finish a book (sometimes I’d even fake it! Ups haha, sorry Mom!).

Now, though, I’m hooked. My personal growth journey has drawn me to books on self-development, emotional inheritance, spirituality and all these kind of topics. I also enjoy exploring financial and tech trends. And when I need a break? There’s nothing like a good romance, thriller, or something similar. Here’s the twist: audiobooks have truly amazed me with these genres! There’s something magical about hearing the characters’ voices, their emotions brought to life in a way that words on a page just can’t match. This year alone, I’ve listened to:

• The Housemaid series by Freida McFadden,

• Twisted series by Anna Huang, and

• Colleen Hoover’s It Starts With Us and It Ends With Us—all between July and September.

Now I’m listening to Verity by Colleen Hoover. It’s been amazing immersing myself in these worlds!

Discovering audiobooks has been a game-changer for me. It’s like slipping into a whole new world during the little pockets of my day, whether I’m grocery shopping, doing chores, walking Lolita, or just relaxing. Hearing the characters’ voices, each one filled with intention, makes me feel like I’m part of their story. Every book becomes a mini mental getaway, which has been such a refreshing escape amid all the recent life changes. If you haven’t tried audiobooks yet, I definitely recommend giving them a go!

This love for reading has really shifted how I spend my downtime. Where I used to scroll or watch whatever was trending, now I find myself picking up my Kobo or turning on an audiobook. This change has brought so much peace and focus back into my days. It’s funny how our interests evolve over time, and I love how books have become such a big part of my self-care routine. My birthday is coming up so if you don’t know what you can gift me, I suggest gift cards from Audible and Kobo, haha!

Another topic that’s sparked my interest is human behavior and development, especially with the rise of AI. I’m fascinated by how AI brings new perspectives on how we understand ourselves and our behavior, challenging us to rethink how we should act in this rapidly changing world. I’d love to explore and write more about these intersections of human development and AI someday, as they continue to shape our future.

I’ve also been reflecting on how much personal growth can come from simply getting lost in a story or learning something new about the world or ourselves. My reading journey has helped me dive deeper into topics I’m passionate about, from emotional wellness to financial and tech insights, and it’s made me feel more connected to the person I’m becoming. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best journeys are the ones we take in our own minds.

So, what about you? Any favorite books or podcasts that have inspired you lately? I’d love to hear your recommendations, whether it’s something uplifting, a thriller, or just pure escapism!

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Thank you for taking the time to read and, hopefully, to contribute your thoughts. I look forward to reading your comments and suggestions!

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