Nine books changed my life.
I have personally read every one of these books, and recommend them often to friends and clients at every opportunity. They've each made their own powerful, lasting impact in my life. As always, I lead with honesty, and I want you to know that if you choose to click and buy any of my recommended books, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
On this list, I only recommend titles that have made an impact in my life, not just books I liked. Therefore, this list is short on purpose, and also presented in no particular order. You can click the title, the image, or the link below each to check it out on Amazon.
Enjoy!
The Four Agreements
I loved this book, and it's very simple approach. I first listened to the audio version, which is read by Peter Coyote. I loved it, and it felt like such a beautiful, reassuring love letter that I really came to value. I ended up buying the print version, and loved that too. I lent it out so many times that I've had to buy multiple copies because mysteriously, they never returned home. The Four Agreements is concise, powerful, and enduring. It's a popular book for a reason.
ADD-Friendly Ways
to Organize Your Life
ADD-Friendly WaysThis book changed my adult life. Yes, I have AD(H)D. Yes, it's a struggle. I've opted out of medication and wanted to learn to manage my symptoms myself, and this book saved my life. If you've got ADD like I do, read it. Get the print copy; it's built for the ADD brain. If you're just disorganized or scattered, this will help you too.
The 5 Love Languages:
The Secret to Love that Lasts
This book helped me to be the great wife I always wanted to be. My husband read it too, and we've grown so much closer because we treat each other with the love each of us needs to receive. A "must read" title for anyone in (or dreaming about) a committed relationship. I really liked the print version for easy sharing with your partner.
12 Rules for Life:
An Antidote to Chaos
A very intelligent read, this book offers some interesting perspectives and ideas about how to go about life in a logical, intentional way. I found it very thought-provoking and stimulating, and it left a mark on me in the best possible way. I found rules 5, 9, and 10 the most interesting. I really liked the audio version.
You are a Badass
You are a BadassThis book gave me the serious boot up the butt that I needed right at a critical moment. I remembered to stop feeling sorry for myself and how much of a powerhouse I am. I liked the "take no prisoners" brutal honesty and funny storytelling. Get the audio; it's read by the author and it adds to the book. I enjoyed the salty language, but if you have more gentle preferences, you may not. Don't say I didn't warn you.
What to Say When you Talk to Yourself
This book is a master class on affirmations and functional syntax for maximum impact. If you want to up your affirmations game, you'll love this book. Very effective teaching approach.
Codependent No More
Here's the raw truth: I struggled with hardcore codependency in my first marriage, and in other relationships. This is a truly fantastic book that can help people who love addicts, who always put others' first, and who have controlling tendencies. I was all three at varying points, and this book set me free. I loved it so much, and lent it many times.
Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out,
Stand In the Sun and Be Your Own Person
For years, I forgot what fun was. I worked too hard, and always chased "the dream," never feeling like I was far enough along, or "enough." I liked this book, and it's powerful. I was inspired to say yes permanently to almost everything. Warning: right about the time you're tired of hearing Shonda brag about what a titan she is, she gets super humble and you fall in love with her. Yes, get the audio. Amazing.
Rich Dad Poor Dad
This book is the first book I read on money, and my eyes were opened to how much better life could be with greater resources. I changed my money mindset, and even though I got so excited that I prematurely jumped in to real estate with disastrous results, the core messages endure to this day. I particularly enjoyed his follow up book The Cashflow Quadrant and the Cashflow Board Game that helps you to take safe action to reinforce the messages.
Don't be a dummy like I was and leap before you look. Use this book (and the other book, plus the game) to upgrade your money mindset and start to think like a rich person. Making investments is a serious undertaking, and yes, it can backfire. Truly life-changing book for me and many others, but arm yourself with lots of knowledge before you start taking action on real estate or other investments. Fun fact: I met Robert Kiyosaki at the Real Estate Wealth Expo in NYC and he signed my copy of the book. Cool huh?
What do you think?
Even though this is a great list, it may not fully meet your needs. I've been reading tons of great books for years, and I'm always happy to recommend something powerful (or fun!) just for you and your unique situation or needs. All you have to do is ask. =)
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