How many times did you hear the phrase “practice makes perfect” growing up? I know I certainly did. Especially anytime I struggled with something; playing an instrument, learning spellings or algebra, speaking a new language. Something about it never sat easily with me though. What if I didn’t know the best way to practise?

We are fortunate to live in a time when many of us are told we can achieve our dreams and  shoot for the stars. Women succeeding on the world stage has been a news staple in the media this past summer; from ‘Swiftie fever’ taking the world by storm, to Simone Biles setting thrilling new world records at this year's Olympics - making a magnificent comeback.

One thing we all love at Hearts+Minds is a good book and so we’re always on the hunt for another read to add to our bookshelf. In this new series on the blog, we’re delighted to share our reading recommendations with you. Whatever your genre of choice, we’ve tried to include something for everyone.

At this time of year, parents across the country are packing up the school bags, prepping lunches, labelling uniforms and sending their little (and big) ones back through the school gates for another academic year.

I was surprised to read a news article a few weeks ago about supermodel Halima Aden quitting the fashion industry. She was acclaimed for challenging the industry’s norms and was British Vogue’s first hijab-wearing cover model. I was an admirer of Aden’s success and her determination to express herself in a way that she felt was truly herself.

What does it take to live a happier life? In today’s episode, Dr. Marta Rocchi suggests the answer to this question addresses the very “why” of human existence.