August Book Club Pick: Open When by Dr Julie Smith

August Book Club Pick: Open When... by Dr. Julie Smith

As the summer winds down and we prepare for a season of fresh starts, what better time to focus on emotional clarity, mental health, and practical self-care? Our August book club selection, Open When... by Dr. Julie Smith, is exactly the kind of compassionate guide we all need in our back pocket—especially when life gets messy.

Why I Chose Open When...

Dr. Julie Smith, a clinical psychologist and online educator, delivers a book that’s as comforting as a warm cup of tea and as empowering as a pep talk from a best friend. Open When... isn’t your typical self-help read. It’s designed like an emotional emergency kit, with each chapter tailored to specific moments of personal struggle.

Whether you’re dealing with heartbreak, workplace stress, anxiety, or feeling a bit lost, this book is there for you—literally. Chapters are titled “Open when…” you’re in a specific headspace, making it easy to flip to the support you need most.

Open When... by Dr. Julie Smith is like having a wise, compassionate friend tucked between the pages—ready to help when life throws curveballs.

What It's About

This book is designed for those moments when you're feeling overwhelmed, lost, or emotionally stuck. Each chapter begins with a heartfelt letter from Dr. Julie, followed by practical, research-backed tools to help you navigate:

  • Stress and burnout

  • Self-doubt and imposter syndrome

  • Relationship challenges

  • Big decisions and uncertainty

  • Anxiety and emotional overload

It’s not meant to be read cover-to-cover in one go. Instead, you “open when…” you’re facing a specific challenge—like flipping to a chapter titled Open when… you’re feeling anxious or Open when… you’re doubting yourself.

Why It Stands Out

  • Accessible advice: Dr. Julie’s writing is clear, empathetic, and grounded in psychology.

  • Real-time tools: You get actionable strategies to reframe your thinking and regain control.

  • Emotional support: It feels like therapy in book form, without the jargon.

Who It's For

Whether you're navigating a breakup, career stress, or just a rough patch, this book offers clarity and comfort. It’s also a thoughtful gift for someone going through a tough time.

Dr. Julie’s blend of psychological expertise and down-to-earth advice makes the content feel both professional and deeply personal. It’s like having a therapist on standby—without the appointment.

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