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10 Books And Podcast To Become The Best You in 2021

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Duq U chapter.

2020 was crazy, difficult and just full of hardships, but it taught me to focus on the good, on what really matters, to take care of myself even more, and to feel good in my own mind and body. 

These new priorities I have for myself are why I decided to share my top 10 books and top 10 podcasts to start this new year. Full of amazing advice, life lessons, and tips, these lists are a guide on how to become the best version of yourself on your journey of self-development. 

Whether you find inspiration, motivation or just pleasure in either listening to the podcasts or reading the books, both contain great guides for everyone. From fitness to life advice and self-growth, I got you covered on every topic to be the best you for the new year. I have read and listened to some listed items already, but I’ve also listed a few books and podcasts that I’ve heard amazing things about! I will definitely be adding them to my own list!

So, here are my top 10 books and top 10 podcasts for this new year 2021:

 

TOP 10 BOOKS:

1)    The Power Of Now

I have heard so much good about this book! This book emphasizes how powerful the present moment is because it is the only one you have control over! It really is about appreciating every single moment and 2020 definitely taught us that.

 

2)    The Four Agreements

I finished the year with this one and it is amazing! These agreements offer a powerful code of conduct that can rapidly transform our lives to a new experience of freedom, true happiness, and love. It was an awesome way to end this crazy year and to start off fresh 2021 with the right mindset!

 

3)    The Secret

This self-help book is based on the law of attraction and how you can attract the ability to conquer every goal that you have set for yourself! 

 

4)    You Are A Badass

New York Times best-selling self-help book that inspires you to create a life you totally love! It will give you all the necessary confidence to feel UNSTOPPABLE!

 

5)    Daring Greatly

Written by the great Brené Brown, this book offers a powerful new vision that encourages us to dare greatly, to embrace vulnerability and imperfection, and to live wholeheartedly.

 

6)    Girlboss

My favorite read from last summer. This book is by the founder of NastyGal. Sophia Amoruso shares how she went from dumpster-diving to founding one of the fastest-growing retailers in the world. And it’s motivating AF.

 

7)    Year of Yes

The creator of Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal shares how saying YES changed her life and how it could change yours too.

 

8)    The subtle art of Not Giving A F*ck

A superstar blogger cuts through the crap to show us how to stop being “positive” all the time so that we can truly become better, happier people.

 

9)    The Power of Habit

The key to exercising regularly, being more productive, and achieving success is understanding how habits work. This is so interesting and fascinating to understand the science behind our  habits and daily routines.

 

10)  The Gifts of Imperfection

Also written by Brené Brown, this book is all about finding the courage to overcome paralyzing fear and self-consciousness, strengthening our connection to the world and helping us to believe that YOU ARE WORTHY!

 

TOP 10 PODCASTS

1)    The School Of Greatness by Lewis Howes

It is hosted by New York Times bestselling author, world record holder, lifestyle entrepreneur, and former pro athlete, Lewis Howes. The podcast interviews some of the greatest people on the planet: from game-changing business minds, to world-class athletes, to some of the most influential thought leaders out there. This profound personal growth podcast is sure to keep you dreaming big, and — better yet — achieving those dreams. Perfect for your daily walk or car ride! And my PERSONAL FAVE!

 

2)    FOOD, SEX, MONEY by Kenzie Burke

This one  covers everything from how we’re treating ourselves and our bodies, to finding our own life’s purpose. This insta health influencer I love just is amazing at reminding us to take it slow and always treat your body and mind with kindness.

 

      3) Anything Goes with Emma Chamberlain

One of Emma’s favorite things to do is give advice, so here she answers any questions she has received. From body image, to relationships, to living in this crazy world, it is a real and refreshing podcast. And I mean, who doesn’t want to listen to Emma?

 

      4) Gals On The Go by Danielle Carolan and Brooke Miccio

Love these two youtubers! Both students/ alumni of University of Georgia, they both keep it real about being busy students and girl bosses in 2020/2021. They are uplifting, full of advice and funny too! Love these two gals so much!

 

      5) The Marie Forleo Podcast

Named by Oprah as a thought leader for the next generation, Marie’s goal is to help you become the person you most want to be! She shares strategies with her guests for greater happiness, success, motivation, creativity, productivity, love, health, contribution and fulfillment — often with a lot of laughs.

 

      6) Unlocking Us

This is a podcast that’s real, unpolished, honest, and reflects both the magic and the messiness of what it means to be human. Episodes will include conversations with the people who are teaching me, challenging me, confusing me, or maybe even ticking me off a little. I’ll also have direct conversations with you about what I’m learning from new research

 

       7) The Tony Robbins Podcast

Tony Robbins, the #1 Life and Business Strategist, talks in his podcast about ways to  achieve massive results in your business, relationships, health and finances. Would recommend for any business student out there

 

      8) The Happiness Lab

Based on the psychology course she teaches at Yale–the most popular class in the university’s 300-year history–Laurie will take you through the latest scientific research and share some surprising and inspiring stories that will change the way you think about happiness. And it is eye opening!

 

      9) Optimal Living Daily

Think of Optimal Living Daily as an audioblog or blogcast where the best blogs are narrated for you for free!  It is the best content on personal development, minimalism, productivity, and so much more!

 

     10) Any TED Talk!

We can always learn from a TED talk. Plus, they are so inspiring! I would suggest downloading the mobile app to be able to listen whenever! 

 

Wishing you all the best year yet! May 2021 be YOUR YEAR! 

 

Hey I'm Margot! Originally Frenchie, I decided to come to the US and am now a junior studying International Business and Marketing at Duquesne University. While being a D1 student-athlete, I am also the Co-Director for Duquesne's HerCampus chapter. My favorite shows include Friends and Gilmore Girls. You will likely find me working out, jamming to music, or with good food around me (chocolate is my weakness haha). I aspire to be a #Girlboss with a sense of style, and hopefully travel to as many places as possible!