Maybe you’re in between jobs and feeling a little stuck. Maybe you’ve lost your sense of purpose and drive. Either way, you’re in need of some inspiration. Now’s the perfect time, then, to dive into one of the best motivational books, from decades-old bestsellers beloved by some seriously successful people to crucial reminders that it’s OK to take a breath and reset from time to time.
Drop the Ball: Achieving More by Doing Less by Tiffany Dufu
Do you ever feel so overwhelmed with day-to-day tasks that you’re tempted to just say “screw it” and take a sick day? Tiffany Dufu has been there—and she maintains women truly can have it all (a loving family, a high-power job, a gorgeous wardrobe and relaxing downtime included) by “dropping the ball” on things they don’t find enjoyable or don’t contribute to their larger purpose. So go ahead, let that laundry pile up on the bedroom floor. You have some very important yoga to do.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
In this 1989 international bestseller, Covey presents an approach to being effective in reaching your goals by aligning yourself to what he calls “true north” principles, which are based on a character ethic that he presents as universal and timeless. Since its initial publication it’s sold more than 25 million copies worldwide, so there’s gotta be something you’ll take away from it.
The Challenge of Choice by Richard Fast
Why do we frequently make crucial decisions based on false confidence and wishful thinking? … because the human brain makes many time–saving assumptions to navigate our modern world, resulting in faulty insights and delusional beliefs without the slightest awareness from our conscious self. Surprisingly (or not), everyone is susceptible to making bad decisions, regardless of our intelligence, I.Q., or level of education, because we all mistake “feeling right” with “being right” resulting in decisions that are irrationally void of logic and reason. This book will challenge the way you think about making critical decisions by taking you on a fascinating journey into the inner workings of the human mind.
The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz
Based on ancient Toltec wisdom (a pre-Colombian Mesoamerican culture), The Four Agreements purports to offer a powerful code of conduct that can rapidly transform our lives to a new experience of freedom, happiness and love. According to Ruiz, everything we do is based on agreements we have made with ourselves, with others, with God and with life itself. In these agreements, Ruiz argues, people tell themselves who they are, how to behave, what is possible and what is impossible.
Untamed by Glennon Doyle
The latest book from bestselling author, mom and speaker Doyle is equal parts intimate memoir and wake-up call. It’s the story of how one woman learned that a responsible mother is not one who slowly dies for her children, but one who shows them how to fully live. Doyle writes about navigating divorce, forming a new blended family, and learning to trust ourselves enough to set boundaries and unleash our truest, wildest selves.
The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale
With more than five million copies in print, The Power of Positive Thinking has, since 1952, sought to help readers achieve fulfillment in their lives. The book outlines practical techniques designed to energize your life and give yourself the initiative needed to carry out your ambitions and hopes. Lessons include how to believe in yourself and in everything you do, how to improve your personal and professional relationships and how to break the worry habit and achieve a relaxed life.
