BEST Self-Help Books that will change your life

It’s that time of year when people start doing their “new year, new you” things, set goals and, evaluate how they can become better in the new year. I personally am not a huge fan of the new year new beginnings idea and strongly believe that you can start fresh anytime. You don’t need a brand new year to feel brand new or start exciting projects. However, I thought this would be a great time to share my favorite reads from last year that made a tremendous positive shift in my life both personally and professionally. Whether you are a recent graduate or, an experienced professional – this list has something for everyone! I have included the amazon links so you can look up the reviews. Personally, I enjoy getting my everyday reading doze through Audible app on my phone - makes it easier to listen to audio books when I am getting a workout in, doing chores around the house or, driving. But, you do you - physical copy or audio book. Don't let another year just go by!

1) Spark Joy by Marie Kondo – “I'd love to work on my hobbies” “I'd love to start a business” “I'd love to start a blog” etc. etc. or, the best one “I don’t have the time” Been there? Well, I certainly have. I am busy working mom and, I have a LOT of interests and hobbies outside of work that I wanted to pursue...I think that’s a good problem to have..right! Yes! “It’s a good problem to have” I preached to myself. Because, I don’t want to lose my creativity. So, how do I find the time to do it all by not feeling so overwhelmed. In that moment I had an epiphany..If I am better organized..maybe I CAN do it all. That’s it! Organization it is – The goal of organization is to make your life easier so you have more time to do things that you truly love to do. That’s when I came across Marie’s book – Spark Joy. The book is based on the Konmari method, the Japanese art of decluttering and organizing. It will truly inspire you to let go of things that no longer spark joy and make time and space for things that you truly love to do.

2) The Power of Vulnerability by Brene Brown – I heard so much about this book over the last few years. I finally understand what the hype is all about. The book is based on Brene’s more than a decade groundbreaking research study on courage, vulnerability, shame, and empathy. I know, I know! These are serious topics and nobody really wants to talk about it however, Vulnerability is not a weakness. We all have seen those “adulting is hard” memes floating around on the internet in some way, shape or form . That’s because we make it hard. As we grow older, we think being Vulnerable is a weakness and lose our authentic self along the way trying to fit in. I LOVE how Brene doesn't leave her quirky sense of humor at the door while talking about these topics. She is an excellent storyteller and, the most humorous and relate able researcher I have ever met..virtually! Her audio book is more of an interactive session/talk in front of a crowd and not actually a book. The Power of Vulnerability - is one of the top five most viewed TED talks in the world with over 35 million views. She is also the first researcher to have a filmed talk on Netflix. And, no this is not your typical “How To” book. My biggest ah-ha moment in the book was when Brene explains “Vulnerability is the birthplace of creativity – you have to open up to the idea of failure by letting go of perfectionism. It’s our ultimate fear that the world is going to see who we really are and they're going to get judgmental. So we don’t want to be vulnerable.” Life changing book and a must read for everyone!

3) Girl Stop Apologizing by Rachel Hollis – "There is never a reason to apologize for who you are, and wanting to chase your dreams." We all want to do great things and achieve a higher version of ourselves. The problem is not having access to tools or techniques – the real problem is most of us can’t seem to get past..ourselves! And, that’s what Rachel emphasizes in her book that “your only problem is you” The minute you decide to take action on your dreams – the universe responds accordingly. It’s a great inspiring book by Rachel Hollis. I recently came across her on Instagram and, I am so glad I did! She is so empowering, authentic and thought provoking. Rachel is actually a living example of “The Power of Vulnerability.” I love the stories behind her stories! She is so real and authentic. And, she encourages and inspires you to take action. If you feel that you are to be doing bigger and better things with your life but can’t get past yourself – get your hands on this book!

4) Everything Is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo – “Everything is figureoutable” Wow! What a fun and powerful phrase. Right!? Knowing what makes up the figureoutable makes it more powerful. I first came across Marie on YouTube. Her videos came recommended to my feed. Game Changing.. the kind of Data Science and Machine Learning I love. :) You don’t have to know everything to get started. And, that’s what this book is all about. Inspiring you to believe that everything is figureoutable and she says it throughout the book. My personal favorite is when she says “Nearly two decades later, I can say that the only thing that allowed me to take that leap was because a deeper, wiser part of me believed that somehow I’d be able to figure it out.” And, "You're always being led to your highest good, as long as you have the courage to listen." 

If you have any self-help book recommendations, please share with everyone reading via comments below. You never know how your recommendation can change a life! Make it an incredible year. Thanks for reading!