Give Me a Year - by Shonda Scott (Hardcover)

About the Book

2026 IPPY Awards Silver Medalist in Cover Design - Non-Fiction

In Give Me a Year: 12 New Things to Embrace Change and Live Your Best Life, author, entrepreneur, and adventurer Shonda Scott provides a kinder, gentler way to treat the most important person in your life: you!

Chronicling the evolution of Shonda's 12 New Things(R) Challenge--a resolution to try something new every month for a year--this book illustrates how making time for new experiences (whether big or small) is the key to unlocking a more fulfilled, joyful life. From swimming across the San Francisco Bay to skiing amid the deserts of Dubai, Shonda shares many of her life-changing 12 New Things adventures so you too can begin living a better, healthier, more evolved lifestyle. The lessons from Shonda's personal and professional challenges underscore the power of transformation through trying new things.

With engaging stories, actionable insights, and reflection prompts, this book is an essential guide on how to embrace change, overcome fear, and take bold steps toward personal growth. Whether you are seeking more meaning in your life, are trying to pivot and elevate through change, or just want to find more fun, Give Me a Year will provide you with the key to opening countless doors of opportunity that will lead to a whole new you after the next twelve months.

Book Synopsis

2026 IPPY Awards Silver Medalist in Cover Design - Non-Fiction

In Give Me a Year: 12 New Things to Embrace Change and Live Your Best Life, author, entrepreneur, and adventurer Shonda Scott provides a kinder, gentler way to treat the most important person in your life: you!

Chronicling the evolution of Shonda's 12 New Things(R) Challenge--a resolution to try something new every month for a year--this book illustrates how making time for new experiences (whether big or small) is the key to unlocking a more fulfilled, joyful life. From swimming across the San Francisco Bay to skiing amid the deserts of Dubai, Shonda shares many of her life-changing 12 New Things adventures so you too can begin living a better, healthier, more evolved lifestyle. The lessons from Shonda's personal and professional challenges underscore the power of transformation through trying new things.

With engaging stories, actionable insights, and reflection prompts, this book is an essential guide on how to embrace change, overcome fear, and take bold steps toward personal growth. Whether you are seeking more meaning in your life, are trying to pivot and elevate through change, or just want to find more fun, Give Me a Year will provide you with the key to opening countless doors of opportunity that will lead to a whole new you after the next twelve months.

About the Author

Visionary CEO Author Journalist World Traveler

Shonda Scott is an entrepreneur and visionary committed to change as a catalyst for personal and professional growth. A self-made businesswoman rooted in her strong sense of faith, Shonda has spent over two decades transforming business and community development. As the founder and CEO of 360 Total Concept, a management consulting firm, Shonda has led transformative projects with major organizations, municipalities and key transit agencies. Under her leadership, over $200 million has been reinvested into underserved communities, fueling economic development and empowering small businesses.

Her entrepreneurial success and leadership have earned Shonda national recognition as an influential civic leader, advocate, and strategist. Shonda is also frequently featured as an expert on leadership, personal development, and innovation in media outlets and public forums.

Shonda's influence extends beyond business into politics, where her leadership and faith have earned national recognition. She has been appointed to prestigious national committees by Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden, and in 2023, the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, signed by President Biden and Vice President Harris, honored her for outstanding community service. Shonda was also inducted into Alameda County's Women's Hall of Fame for her contributions to business and community.

As the executive producer and host of the popular talk show Spotlight with Shonda Scott, she continues to amplify the voices of national influencers and unsung heroes. The show is a platform where leaders, creators, and change-makers from various fields share their experiences, challenges, and advice for personal and professional success.

Her most personal initiative, the 12 New Things(R) Challenge, began in 2019 as a self-improvement journey to try something new every month. What started as a personal resolution evolved into a nationwide movement, encouraging others to embrace change and unlock growth through new experiences. The 12 New Things Lifestyle has earned Shonda features in major publications, television segments, and op-eds, recognizing its profound impact on both personal and professional development.

A dedicated traveler, Shonda has visited over forty states and twenty-five countries, broadening her perspective on cultural diversity and community-building. Whether attending a women's conference in Mexico, exploring local Oakland spots, or hosting international retreats, she finds joy in every new experience.

Shonda Scott's story is one of resilience, empowerment, and a commitment to lifting others through her message: Embrace change, challenge yourself, and never stop growing.

To learn more about Shonda Scott's work, speaking engagements, and initiatives, visit shondascott.com. For all things 12 New Things, visit 12newthings.com.