I’m looking for recommended reading on generosity. When I did my budget review last year, my second highest category was gift giving. I need to set limits both psychologically but also as a financial default. Especially with the holidays around the corner.

Question

I’m looking for recommended reading on generosity. When I did my budget review last year, my second highest category was gift giving. I need to set limits both psychologically but also as a financial default. Especially with the holidays around  the corner.

Jess · Answer

Everyday Holiness (Alan Morinis): This is a truly remarkable book that will help you figure out how to live your values in a way that honors your human limitations as well as your capacity for growth.

The first section of the book situates it in the Jewish tradition of mussar, but the book is by no means only for Jews; he draws insights and examples from many different cultures. The second section explores a series of individual virtues, like generosity, patience, and enthusiasm. The third section is what's really killer, though - he outlines concrete ways that you can practice and grow.

Note that the "official" way to use the book is to work through multiple virtues at a time, but that's not what's been most effective for me. Instead I pick one virtue from this book to focus on every year. The year I worked on humility was revolutionary for me as an academic, and helped me with unexpected things like being jealous of my peers. This year it's trust, which is already helping me be more vulnerable and courageous with the people I love!

Amanda · Answer

The Wisdom of the Enneagram: Enneagram 2s have a tendency to over-give. The Enneagram and the OG book dives into the psychological roots of that behavior, or anyone’s behavior. If this framework resonates with you, there is an abundance of free videos and podcasts to peruse.