Edited by: Sophia Savva
Books are a great way to escape from reality, to forget about your responsibilities and simply immerse yourself in a world of fantasy or science fiction or someone else’s high school dilemma. Books, especially non-fiction, are great sources for advice, for answers to questions or thoughts you’re struggling with, especially if they’re specific to what you’re dealing with such as negativity, self-love, etc.
If you ever feel down, if you lack the motivation to do things or if you want to open your mind to new perspectives and simply become a better version of yourself, here is a list of books to start reading:
I. You are a Badass by Jen Sincero
This book did not just sell over one million copies for no reason. Jen Sincero keeps it real, giving you the wake-up call that you need to get your life moving, encouraging you to take action and to not just be all talk in order to lead you to a more fulfilling, successful, and happier way of being. Her voice is relatable, easy to understand and the message of her words alone is such a perfect combination that leaves the reader feeling more upbeat and confident in going about their day. She’s a success coach, a friend who will tell you the right (and true) things to get you to create a life for yourself that you will make the most out of.
Highly Recommend: When you feel like your life is a mess and you don’t know where you’re heading, this is a big wake-up call to start getting things done.
II. Rookie on Love, Edited by Tavi Gevinson
If you ever feel low about yourself, your appearance, your self-worth, Rookie on Love is a book bursting with you know it— love. It compiles 45 different writers from authors like John Green to musicians, activists, etc. to share their thoughts on relationships with others (whether it be romantic or platonic), love for oneself, love for your pets, even love for your fandom! It’s the ideal book to empower you and give you the boost you need to embrace who you are even more.
Highly Recommend: When you’re feeling insecure, when you want to feel soft and loved, when you want to know more about the meaning of love.
III. Make Your Bed by William H. McRaven
An incredibly transformative action or event is not necessarily the best (or most comfortable) first step to changing your life. William H. McRaven, a retired admiral for the U.S. Navy, reminds us that even the little things we do in our day to day routine can change our lives and perhaps even those around us later on. One can even start by simply making their bed, as the title proposes. He highlights the importance of the little things, something many look past; if one is unable to do minuscule tasks, then it will be difficult for them to do big tasks properly as well.
Highly Recommend: When you need a reminder to take things slow, to appreciate even the smallest of things, when you’re new to the whole self-growth process.
IV. New Day, New You by Joyce Meyer
If you don’t have much time in your day to devote to reading, New Day, New You is perfect. Meyer encapsulates the important lessons and messages in life into 366 Devotions, one for each day of the year (plus one). Each devotion is not very long, perhaps even less than five minutes. It is the ideal guide for those who don’t have much time, who want to be closer to God, and for those who want to find more purpose and enjoyment in their daily life.
Highly Recommend: When you don’t have much time for reading but still want to get more in touch with God spiritually.
Bonus: Oprah’s Supersoul Conversations
Nothing to motivate you more than the all-knowing guru herself, Oprah. Albeit, this isn’t a book but a podcast series (available on Spotify). Oprah talks with influencers of our time, authors, world leaders, and more. Some well-known figures include Jordan Peele, Lin Manuel Miranda, Eckhart Tolle, etc.
In terms of a starting podcast to listen to, I would suggest her talk with Jack Canfield: Fulfilling Your Soul’s Purpose.
Highly Recommend: When you don’t have enough space in your bag for a book but you’re still on the path for self-growth and illumination from Oprah.
Happy Reading!