All true lovers of literature know that diving into a delicious new book is one of life’s greatest pleasures. In today’s hustle and bustle, however, how do you know which books are worth the time and energy it takes to read them? Should you read for pleasure, or to try to make yourself into a better person? What titles can you turn to for a really good read? Start by reading on here and taking note of our Top Ten books that will absolutely change your outlook on life.
1. Walden – By Henry David Thoreau
Thoreau emphasizes living consciously and purposefully by documenting his own experience living in a cabin in the woods. This book is guaranteed to have you craving a simpler life and a clearer mindset.
2. How to Win Friends and Influence People – By Dale Carnegie
Here is a book that was written by one of America’s most prolific businessmen, but it is definitely not solely geared toward someone in business, let alone someone trying to win friends or influence people! It does have some sales-y vibes to it, but this is essentially Dealing With People 101 and is very valuable reading for any person wanting to improve their communication techniques.
3. The Autobiography of Malcom X, As Told to Alex Haley
If you want to read an amazing true story about overcoming adversity and rising above it to become truly self-made, this book is right up your alley. It is raw and real, and reminds us all about the beauty of inner strength and determination. Beautifully written and masterfully documented, The Autobiography of Malcolm X will stick with you for a long time.
4. Awaken The Giant – By Tony Robbins
It’s easy to write Tony Robbins off because of his media presence and gimmicky personality. However, you’d be wrong to overlook this fascinating book that has numerous tools for you to get control of your emotional self. Robbins teaches that what will follow is the control of your outer situation, and inevitable success will surely follow.
Source: BarnesandNoble.com5. The Alchemist – By Paulo Coelho.
A must-read for anyone with an adventurer’s heart, The Alchemist is a real quest of a book. It follows the footsteps of a young man seeking to live his destiny no matter what. The Alchemist is sure to inspire and uplift anyone who reads it and is a very easy and manageable read. At the end, you’ll be left feeling uplifted and knowing that if you face and try to overcome the obstacles we all have in life, you will be stronger and happier for the experience.
6. Flow – By Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
Getting into a flow state is something we are unconsciously always seeking since it maximizes our productivity and joy. Flow will have you wondering about how well you “work” and ways to improve the whole process.
7. 7 Habits Of Highly Effective People – By Stephen R. Covey
You don’t have to be a business person to appreciate this book and learn from its pages. Seven Habits of Highly Effective People provides practical steps you can use to be the best you can be in any arena. It’s a classic text for achievers and managers while being absolutely useful to anyone who wants to accomplish things.
8. Man’s Search for Meaning – By Viktor Frankl
Man’s Search for Meaning is a book that absolutely touches on the purpose for living. This book will help with prioritizing and reassessing the things that don’t matter and help open up your eyes to what’s really important.
Source: BarnesandNoble.com9. The Power of Now – By Eckhart Tolle
We all have a little voice in our heads that narrates and chatters all day long. This book takes a look how this torments us from dawn until dusk and also how to distance yourself from this narrator and live in the present moment. A brilliant eye opener, The Power of Now will forever change how you think and how your brain awareness can help you in magical ways.
10. Ishmael – By Daniel Quinn
This story is set in an unreal situation where a gorilla is able to speak words and teach lessons. If you can let yourself get past that rather large leap, you will find yourself on a journey that allows you to see the world in a new light. Ishmael shines a light on what our priorities should be on a global level and will have you questioning why we do what we do as a species.
