Synopsis

When struggling in your career or life path, how often have others asked: "if you could do the one thing you were passionate about every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?" Though in theory this sounds romantic, the truth is, not everyone wakes up one morning with a clear view of what their passion or purpose is in life. Hell, I love to write, but that question still gives me pause. For some who’ve spent most of their lives fixated on a singular path, there may come a day in which you realize this “passion” isn’t actually serving you. Which is more common then you’d expect. According to a study by Stanford psychologists, mantras like “find your passion” carry hidden implications, and lead people to put all of their eggs in one basket. And given that people evolve, eventually this singular path can get old. So, what if the key to fulfillment wasn’t in choosing just one lane? What if instead, exploring your curiosity was the source of true joy?

Aisha Beau explores the importance of broadening your horizons by challenging self-limiting beliefs and cultivating your curiosity as a way to get unstuck. When we cultivate curiosity it literally opens our minds up to unique possibilities, whether that be within in our careers or day-to-day problem-solving. It keeps our minds active. The benefits of curiosity go beyond solely aiding in how we navigate our professional lives, it enhances our sense of self-awareness by developing our ability to self-reflect and make the appropriate changes necessary to live the lives we want.

“Indulge Your Curiosities” couples Aisha’s personal stories with research-backed information on the benefits of cultivating a life led by curiosity versus passion. It will begin by discussing our society’s obsession with “finding your passion”, and why that line of thinking may not be as effective as it once was. It’ll then do a deep dive into curiosity: what it is, how it affects the mind and why it’s necessary. From there, Aisha will share what it means to lead a life led by indulging in one’s curiosities, and actionable tips on how to do so in your everyday life.

Sales arguments

• Aisha is a known self-care influencer and writer with over 12,000 engaged followers across social media, and a newsletter of over 300 subscribers.
• Aisha has developed a loyal and engaged following as a well-known contributor for Shine, a self-care app with over 3-million subscribers, as well as with her blog AishaBeau.com.
• Aisha’s article “The Worst Advice I Ever Received Was ‘Follow Your Passion’” for Medium (which this book is inspired by) received over 67,000 views. Hundreds of readers commented on how they agreed with how stressful a life of chasing a passion was, and that they gained a lot of insight on the importance of curiosity.
• With nearly 40% of Americans reportedly having side hustles these days, it's apparent many of us are open and yearning for greater fulfillment.
• Aisha's ability to couple her personal journey with self-care topics will make this book relatable to Millennial readers, who are the driving force in the new startup and side hustle revolution.

Similar titles

• Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear, by Elizabeth Gilbert published by Penguin Publishing Group (2015): Similar to Aisha’s book, Elizabeth discusses the benefit of following your curiosities. However, she relates it specifically to creativity, whereas Aisha’s book specifically speaks to why curiosity is greater than the age-old lesson of “follow your passion.”
• The Power of Curiosity: How to Have Real Conversations That Create Collaboration Innovation and Understanding, by Kathy Taberner and Kirstin Siggins, Morgan James Publishing (2015): Although this book also explores the importance of curiosity, it focuses specifically on curiosity and interpersonal relationships and conversations. Whereas Aisha’s book highlights curiosity’s benefit for our careers, self-discovery, reflection, expression, and creativity.
• Cracking the Curiosity Code: The Key to Unlocking Human Potential, by Diane Hamilton, Dr. Diane Hamilton LLC (2019): Diane’s book examines how curiosity is lost over the years for many adults, which will also be mentioned in Aisha’s book. However, Diane’s book specifically targets leaders and corporations. Whereas Aisha explores curiosity for the everyday person with research-backed data in a way that is digestible and easy to follow despite your leadership status, life or career goals.

Audience

Written for men and women between the ages of 25-35 who are feeling stuck, whether that be in their lives or their careers. Aisha also has a strong interest in targeting Millenials in the Black community, which is steadily leaning into the self-care industry.

Advance praise

“Aisha's passion for helping us to take a closer look at our own self-care practices shines through her writing. Her perspective is refreshing and much needed as the conversation of mental health and self-care continues to grow in our society.” - Dr. LaToya Gaines, Psy.D., NYS Licensed Clinical Psychologist