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1 Hour Reads Series
A Morning Reader Book

The 1-Hour Reads Series delivers focused, approachable books designed to fit into your busy life. Each title distills powerful insights on personal growth, leadership, and resilience into a concise format you can finish in under an hour. The mission of the 1-Hour Reads Series is to empower readers with accessible, actionable knowledge that supports ongoing personal and professional development.

Big Ideas. Real Change. One Hour.
The concept behind the series is to present transformative ideas in a streamlined, time-efficient way, making meaningful learning possible even for the busiest individuals.

Current Releases

Book cover for Chasing Perfect by Cody Thomas Rounds, with the subtitle How to Stop the Cycle of Perfectionism and Start Living. The design features bold gray text on a black background and a white sketch-style illustration of a figure running inside a large circular loop, symbolizing the endless pursuit of perfection. At the bottom left it notes this is a 1 Hour Reads book.

Chasing Perfect: How to Stop the Cycle of Perfectionism and Start Living

Do you feel stuck in an endless loop of striving for more, yet nothing ever feels good enough? Perfectionism can push you to achieve, but it can also leave you feeling drained, frustrated, and disconnected from what truly matters. Chasing Perfect unpacks the hidden costs of perfectionism and offers a practical, compassionate guide to breaking free.

This book dives deep into the roots of perfectionism—how it begins, how it’s reinforced by societal and internal pressures, and how it impacts your mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. Through research-backed insights and actionable strategies, you’ll learn to:

  • Identify and challenge perfectionistic thought patterns.

  • Redefine success by focusing on growth, resilience, and authenticity.

  • Develop self-compassion and let go of self-criticism.

  • Embrace imperfection to unlock creativity, joy, and freedom.

Whether you’re a high achiever, a self-critic, or simply someone searching for a more balanced life, this book provides the tools to transform your mindset and rediscover the joy of living. It’s time to stop chasing perfection and start embracing the imperfect, beautiful process of being human.

Hardcover

$16.99

Paperback

$12.99

Kindle

$2.99

Book cover for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome by Cody Thomas Rounds. The subtitle reads Unlocking Self-Belief and Thriving in Your Personal and Professional Life. The left side features a description highlighting confidence, psychology, and practical tools for overcoming self-doubt. On the right, the title is bold and large, with a minimalist black-and-white illustration of a small figure with wide eyes, conveying vulnerability. At the bottom it notes this is a 1 Hour Reads book.

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Embrace Your Strengths and Flourish Personally and Professionally

Have you ever felt like a fraud, even after achieving something significant? Do you fear that, one day, others will "discover" you aren't as capable as they believe? Overcoming Imposter Syndrome guides you through breaking free from these self-doubts, showing you how to embrace your achievements with confidence.

This insightful read combines real-world psychology with practical tools, empowering you to shift your mindset, understand the roots of your self-doubt, and embrace a life driven by self-belief. Written by Cody Thomas Rounds, a clinical psychologist and career advisor, this guide helps you navigate the complex emotions that hold you back.

Inside, you’ll uncover why so many successful individuals grapple with imposter syndrome and discover actionable techniques to build self-worth, improve mental resilience, and step into your true potential.

Hardcover

$16.99

Paperback

$12.99

Kindle

$2.99

Beyond Formal Education: What's Inside Each Volume

  • Focused insights on a single personal growth challenge

  • Practical tools and strategies you can apply right away

  • Accessible writing style that avoids jargon and overcomplication

  • Action steps to help you integrate ideas into real life

A Personal Development Series for Everyone

The 1-Hour Reads Series is ideal for readers of all ages, from childhood through aging adulthood, making it a valuable resource for lifelong learning and personal growth. The series is designed for those with academic backgrounds, as well as individuals currently in school, university, or other educational environments, and is also relevant for educators and learners in various schools. We also collaborate with educational partners and organizations to expand access and impact. New volumes and newsletters are released each week to support consistent engagement and development. Be sure to check out reviews from our diverse audience to see how the series has benefited readers from all walks of life.

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Readers who want a fast, approachable way to build resilience and clarity

Lifelong Learning: Why This Series Exists

Most self-help and personal development books are hundreds of pages long — but the essential ideas could be delivered in a fraction of the time. The 1-Hour Reads Series was created to cut through the fluff and give you what matters most: clear insights, practical tools, and actionable takeaways you can start using immediately. Building a learning habit is not just about speed; it's also about maintaining balance between your personal and professional life, ensuring that growth in one area supports well-being in others. The motivation and confidence you gain from learning can carry over into other areas of your life, fueling further progress and fulfillment.

Every book is designed to help you:

  • Learn fast — big ideas distilled into a compact, readable format

  • Apply immediately — practical strategies you can use the same day

  • Build momentum — small steps that compound into lasting growth, even when you face challenges in keeping up with your learning habit

Masting the Morning Routine: Creating a Learning Habit that Lasts

Building a learning habit is at the heart of lifelong learning and personal development. For lifelong learners, the journey doesn’t end with the formal education years—it’s a continuous process that brings personal fulfillment, professional growth, and a deeper sense of purpose to everyday life. By intentionally weaving learning into your daily or weekly routine, you can unlock new knowledge, sharpen your skills, and maintain a curious, engaged mind at any age.

One of the easiest ways to start is by making learning part of your morning routine. Whether it’s reading a few pages of a great book, listening to a podcast, or exploring a new idea over coffee, dedicating even a small window of time each morning can set a positive tone for the rest of your day. Research highlighted by the New York Times shows that regular mental stimulation—like reading or learning something new—can help delay cognitive decline and support long-term brain health.

Lifelong learners recognize that education isn’t limited to classrooms or universities. While pursuing a degree or enrolling in professional development courses can certainly advance your career, informal learning is just as valuable. Reading widely, engaging in thoughtful discussions, or reflecting on everyday experiences can all contribute to your growth. The key is to focus on topics that genuinely interest you, creating a personalized learning plan that aligns with your goals and passions.

To maintain momentum, it’s important to create a supportive environment. Surround yourself with teachers, mentors, or peers who encourage your progress. Join communities—online or in person—where you can share ideas, ask questions, and celebrate achievements. Today’s technology offers countless tools to support your learning habit: apps for tracking your reading, online courses for skill-building, and forums for connecting with experts and fellow learners.

Tracking your progress and reflecting on what you’ve learned helps you recognize your achievements and identify areas for further growth. This process not only keeps you motivated but also helps you adjust your approach as your interests and needs evolve. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. Every page read, skill practiced, or new perspective gained brings you closer to your best self.

For example, if you’re interested in exploring a new field, you might start by reading articles or books on the subject, then take an online course or attend a workshop to deepen your understanding. Engaging with communities or discussion groups can offer fresh perspectives and keep you inspired. By taking small, consistent steps, you’ll build a habit that supports both your personal and professional development.

Ultimately, creating a learning habit is about making a conscious choice to prioritize growth. It’s a powerful way to lead a more fulfilling life, stay adaptable in a changing world, and serve as a role model in your community. Whether you’re reading for pleasure, pursuing a new degree, or simply curious about the world, every effort you make to learn is an investment in your future success and well-being.

About the Author

 

Cody Thomas Rounds is a licensed clinical psychologist–Master based in Vermont, specializing in psychological assessment, Professional Development, and identity formation. He serves as Vice President of the Vermont Psychological Association (VPA) and is the Federal Advocacy Coordinator for the American Psychological Association (APA).

Cody is Editor-in-Chief of PsychAtWork Magazine, and founder of BTR Psychotherapy, where he supports individuals and professionals seeking depth, direction, alooking to maxamize their human potential. His work integrates psychodynamic insight with evidence-based strategies—helping people not just function, but grow.

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