I'm not an avid fan of 'self-help' books, so many gloss over extremely complex issues and offer overly simplistic solutions, but The Little Book on Meaning by Laura Berman Fortgang is thought-provoking and well worth the read.  In fact, I found myself going back to re-read specific chapters, quotations and passages multiple times.  Far from the conventional self-help formula - follow these steps to be a) happier, b) wealthier, c) thinner - there is much food for thought and food for the soul in  'The Little Book' 

The book's full title, 'The Little Book on Meaning : Why We Crave It; How We Create It' is a blue print of what's inside.  The author takes an honest look at how the norms of living in the modern world have stripped away or skewed our perception of what is valuable and meaningful in life. That Ms Berman Fortgang does this by referencing her own experiences and struggles to claim meaning makes the book's message all the more powerful. More often than not, I found myself having a 'me too' moment in reading her words.

We've become a culture that looks to "stuff" or pharmaceuticals to fill the void inside.  We don't understand why, after obtaining the perfect job, house or car, we still feel empty and alone.  We've learned to equate contentment with what we have, when, in actuality, it comes from valuing and celebrating who we are.   

While not offering quick and easy solutions, "The Little Book" suggests reframing how we view the world, what we value and how we define ourselves.  There are additional 'ah-ha' moments to be had with each reading and much to consider upon finishing the book. 

"Leading life in a meaningful way requires embracing the empty spaces, the blanks and vastness.  Living in the gap, we find ourselves."
- Laura Berman Fortgang

About the Author : Catie Hayes is founder/editor of WomanLinks.com; a community of support, spirituality, growth and empowerment for women. She is a freelance writer, the single homeschooling mom of two, and an avid fan of laughter, spontaneous dancing, cats and chocolate (not necessarily in that order).