Want to begin elevating your overall life? After years of reading countless self development books, I chose the top 5 books that will change your life.
1. The Magic by Rhonda Byrne
Book description
The Magic was written by the same author who wrote the international best selling book, The Secret. The Secret introduced the Law of Attraction to the world and has changed millions of peoples lives around the world.
The Magic is actually the third book of The Secret series, and in my opinion, the most life changing because it encourages you to be more hands on since it consists of a 28 day challenge.
Gratitude is centered in the full challenge which touches an array of areas in our lives such as health, money, food, etc. (If you have never read or heard about The Secret, don’t worry. This book will still have a positive impact in your life).
How this book changed my life
I learned about The Magic from Francesca Amber’s podcast, Law of Attraction Changed My Life. After hearing her rave about this book, I decided to order a copy not just for myself but I sent one to my sister and two cousins. I asked them to join me in the 28 day challenge and to my surprise, they were in.
We held each other accountable on our group chat by sending a picture after completing the day’s challenge. Most of the challenges are very simple things that won’t take too much time out of your day but still bring a sense of awareness and uplift you in a positive way.
The biggest takeaway for me was becoming grateful for things that didn’t cross my mind before. One that comes to mind is feeling gratitude for my food or water before I consume it.
I got the idea to sprinkle “gratitude dust” over my food or hug my bottle of water with my hands while mentally sending gratitude and love before consuming it.
After experiencing a shift in my sense of gratitude, I had to choose this book as the first on my list of books that will change your life.
2. Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S Dweck
Book description from Goodreads
“After decades of research, world-renowned Stanford University psychologist Carol S. Dweck, Ph.D., discovered a simple but groundbreaking idea: the power of mindset. In this brilliant book, she shows how success in school, work, sports, the arts, and almost every area of human endeavor can be dramatically influenced by how we think about our talents and abilities.
People with a fixed mindset — those who believe that abilities are fixed — are less likely to flourish than those with a growth mindset — those who believe that abilities can be developed. Mindset reveals how great parents, teachers, managers, and athletes can put this idea to use to foster outstanding accomplishment.“
How this book changed my life
After reading this book I remember feeling my mind expand as I was introduced to the concepts of “fixed mindset” and “growth mindset.” I’m pretty sure it was my first time hearing those terms. To be honest, this book brought me a lot of relief.
We all grow up hearing and learning stuff from our parents and people in our environment. One thing that stands out to me was thinking if we are “bad” something we will be “bad” at it, forever. Prior to reading this book, I thought we were unable to learn things that don’t come naturally to us.
Reading this book has brought a sense of relief to me. It has changed my way of thinking because it has given me permission to try things I would normally not think to try. (i.e: learning a new skill, practicing yoga, etc).
The biggest takeaway for me is deciding to try new things that I would never have thought to try. I did not grow up as a “music person” so I thought it would just be a dream to play an instrument.
After reading this book I decided to learn how to play the drums! I purchased an electronic drum set, took lessons at my local music store and I am currently in the process of learning how to play some songs.
3. The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz
Book description from Goodreads
“In The Four Agreements, don Miguel Ruiz reveals the source of self-limiting beliefs that rob us of joy and create needless suffering. Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, the Four Agreements offer a powerful code of conduct that can rapidly transform our lives to a new experience of freedom, true happiness, and love.
The Four Agreements are: Be Impeccable With Your Word, Don’t Take Anything Personally, Don’t Make Assumptions, Always Do Your Best.”
How this book changed my life
I have to begin by saying this book is an easy read. I found that it was better to read it slowly, preferably one chapter a day. That way I was able to digest and process the simple yet profound wisdom in the pages.
All of the agreements are important and life changing. The one that stands out the most to me is, “Don’t Take Anything Personally.” I could argue that if we all mastered this concept alone, our world would look very different. I have implemented this agreement in my life and it has given me peace in return.
The biggest takeaway for me is consciously bringing awareness anytime I interact with others. Particularly anytime people project negative feelings towards me.
For example, when I am driving and the car tailgating me changes lanes and rudely gets in front of me, I choose not to take it personally. I recognize that they might simply have other things going on in their world.
4. The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts by Gary Chapman
Book description
The 5 Love Languages is one of the most popular relationship books with millions of copies sold. This book describes 5 concepts on how to communicate love.
The 5 love languages are:
- Acts of Service
- Quality Time
- Receiving Gifts
- Words of Affirmation
- Physical Touch
Dr. Gary Chapman describes each love language and he even provides a quiz that helps you uncover what your love language is.
How this book changed my life
I read this book almost 10 years ago. Immediately after reading it, I remember posting a picture of the book on my social media with the caption, “I truly believe this book has the potential to change lives.” That thought still holds true a decade later.
I have used this book in my relationships to determine how our love languages compare. It has brought awareness around the way we feel loved. Without the information in this book, I would assume my partner doesn’t love me because he doesn’t want to spend quality time with me.
The biggest takeaway for me is learning that there are different ways to show and receive love. I don’t think I had thought about it until reading this book. I also try to use the concepts in this book with my friends and family because I want to show them love as well.
5. Rich as F*ck: More Money Than You Know What to Do With by Amanda Frances
Book Description from Amazon
“For too long, the subject of money has been shrouded in fear, secrecy, and anxiety. It’s time to look behind the curtain at money, while stepping into the empowered financial reality that is available to you.
Reading Rich As F*ck is sure to ignite an avalanche of change in the most important areas of your life. Once you finally see money for what it is and realize your power over your finances, life will never be the same. It’s time you know the truth about money. It’s time for you to have more money than you know what to do with. This is your blueprint.”
How this book changed my life
I’ve read many money books as I can get my hands on and this one is pretty life changing. I have to admit I like that it was written by a woman, a younger one at that. When I started this book, I decided to “go all in” and complete all of the “homework” given at the end of each chapter.
Each “homework” assignment consists of journal prompts. I immediately discovered parts of myself I had never taken the time to observe. There is a sense of completion achieved regarding the first and last journal prompt which brought a sense of empowerment ready to take on the world in a new light.
The biggest takeaway for me is that money is an energy exchange. Amanda lives a very unapologetic life. It can be triggering but at the end of the day, she teaches you to be confident and do everything from a place of love.
I’ve always heard the term, “do what you love and the money will follow.” Well this book reflects that in the best way possible.
Final Thoughts
I have chosen 5 books pertaining to different categories such as mindset, relationships and money. I truly believe these are books that will change your life in a positive way. Get your hands on any or all of these books and experience the power of the beginning of your evolving journey!
Let’s work together!
- If you’re really ready to create the life you want
- If you want to increase your happiness and feel more confident in who you are
- If you want to trust yourself more and live on purpose
I can help you! Schedule your clarity call to work with me HERE.
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