In a society that glorifies hustle, bestselling author and Monaco-based communication coach Alicia Sedgwick is encouraging readers to hit pause.
“We are not human doings—we are human beings,” says Sedgwick, speaking to Monaco Life Editor-in-Chief Cassandra Tanti in our latest podcast episode. It’s more than a catchphrase; it’s the driving force behind her new book Being, which has already topped charts on Amazon since its May release.
Following her first book, Communicating Through Change, which was widely embraced during the pandemic, Beingoffers something quieter but just as transformative: “It helps everyone get back to calm,” she explains, “and really brings connection back into their lives.”
The idea for the book began with a single question from a friend: “What is your word for the year?” Sedgwick’s answer—being—soon became a mantra and eventually the structure of her second book. “I wrote in the front page of my diary all the ‘beings’ I wanted for the year—being grateful, being restful, being kind to myself and others. And I realised if I’m reminding myself, I can help remind others too.”
With short, accessible chapters focused on themes like being patient, being forgiving, being still, and being playful, the book delivers practical tools in bite-sized form. “People don’t always have time or the capacity to absorb another heavy thing,” Sedgwick notes. “If it’s practical and easy to dip in and out of, it’s more effective.”
The message has hit home especially with young people. Sedgwick, who teaches at both the International School of Monaco and the International University of Monaco, has seen first-hand how overwhelmed students are. “They’re under immense pressure,” she says. “Giving them the tools to switch off, put their phones down, and sit in stillness—even for one minute—is so important.”
One of her favourite techniques? A moment of mindful breathing. “In that one minute, you can come back refreshed. And if you build on that—five minutes a day, then 10—it will really help you move forward.”
The book doesn’t shy away from vulnerability either. Sedgwick shares deeply personal stories, including childhood trauma and professional betrayal, to show the strength that comes from honesty. “I think it’s important to show vulnerability—so others feel okay sharing theirs,” she says.
And yes, Monaco itself played a part in shaping Being. “The view of the sea and mountains has deeply influenced me,” Sedgwick shares. “It allows me to be. It’s been healing.”
For anyone feeling burned out or caught in the loop of doing, Being offers a much-needed breath of fresh air—simple, powerful reminders of what it means to live with intention and grace.
Being is available now on Amazon worldwide. Listen to the full conversation with Alicia Sedgwick on our podcast, and subscribe to our free newsletter for more inspiring stories.
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