Thoughts on 'Chasing the Bright Side" by Jess Ekstrom

     Time got away from me this past month as I know it has for so many of us, but I'm caught up now and ready to tell you all about the newest recommended reading - Chasing the Bright Side by Jessica Ekstrom. Normally, Conk's Community covers one book per month, but this gem will serve for April and May (to play catch up for lost time and because I think we can all use an extra dose of positivity about now).
     Let me start by saying that I had never heard of Headbands of Hope before I read this book, and I'm so glad we'll all learn about it now. Jessica Ekstrom started the company in college and operates on a 1:1 model - for every headband sold, one is donated to a child with cancer. Right now, during the Covid-19 situation, they are donating one mask to a health care professional for every headband purchased (I totally bought two. Stalk my Instagram for pictures when they arrive). 
     So, to really dig into the meat of what this book is about and who it's for, let's take a look at the full title Chasing the Bright Side: Embrace Optimism, Activate Your Purpose, and Write Your Own Story. Ekstrom proposes that success in life relies an awful lot on practicing reckless optimism. Each chapter starts with an inspiring quote and ends with a reflection which could easily be a writing prompt if you are so inclined.
​    Entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and pretty much anyone looking to pursue a passionate and purposeful life can certainly benefit from this book. Ekstrom leads you through the hits and misses of finding her path and building her business. She doesn't shy away from painful set backs or hard lessons learned because optimism isn't about never feeling the sting of failure - it's about growing through what you go through. 
     This book aims to help you dig deep and ask yourself important questions about fulfillment, purpose, and what sets your soul on fire. Ekstrom uses her own story to illustrate with fiery clarity how to say yes, be open, and tackle life with kind of enthusiasm in a rousing movie montage (complete with badass music). 
     In a nutshell, Chasing the Bright Side achieves exactly what it sets out to do - guiding you to embracing optimism, activating your purpose, and writing your own story.
    If you'd like to get in on the book discussion, check out my Facebook group page for ladies 18 and over - Conk's Community: Women Empowering Women. 
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