There has only been one item from Amazon that has truly changed my life: BOOKS!
If you're feeling overwhelmed trying to find the best deal this Black Friday, look no further. Buying a new object will provide a quick dopamine hit but the knowledge, new perspective or encouragement from a book will last you a lifetime.
Read below for 5 non-fiction (& 2 bonus fiction) books that have truly changed my life some in the past few weeks some for over a decade!
Zen Mind Beginners Mind: Informal Talks on Zen Meditation and Practice – Shunryu Suzuki
Over a decade ago I went through a Zen Meditation phase and this book (along with Wherever You Go, There You Are) had a lasting impact. Whenever I am feeling the doubt and embarrassment of being a beginner, I think back on this book. The teachings remind me that the beginner, with their fresh perspective, energy and passion, often have more possibilities in front of them than the expert.
Favorite quote: In the beginner’s mind there are many possibilities; in the expert’s mind there are few.
Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things – Adam Grant
This book is the science-based proof of everything I struggled to learn throughout my young adult life. It challenges common perceptions of what it takes to succeed and what that path looks like. As a former teacher I found it particularly interesting to see some of the educational theories I learned in graduate school either questioned or completely debunked. If you're trying to learn anything new this book is an excellent read to prep you for the journey.
Favorite Quote: Imposter syndrome is not a clue that you're unqualified. It's a sign of hidden potential. When you think others are overestimating you, it's more likely that you're underestimating yourself. They have an outside view. They see capacity for growth that's not yet visible to you.
(Adam Grant is a favorite follow on Instagram as well, he is a master at distilling profound sentiments into short shareable quotes.)
I Will Teach You to be Rich – Ramit Sethi
My 2017 New Year's goal was to read 2 personal finance books per month. Of the 24 books I read that year, Ramit's was the most comprehensive and actionable. This book's recommendations, combined with acquiring real estate makes up my entire investment strategy. Be warned, the book takes a tough love approach. I also highly recommend Ramit's completely fascinating podcast, where he counsels real couples on their finances.
Favorite Quote: The single most important factor to getting rich is getting started, not being the smartest person in the room.
The Millionaire Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of America’s Rich – Thomas J. Stanley
If you've ever looked around and wondered just how everyone else is affording trips to the Amalfi Coast and the newest Range Rover this book is for you. The data is outdated but the sentiment remains, the things that make you look rich often make you very poor. Most are in debt to look so wealthy. This book completely changed my perspective on wealth, how to gain it and how to keep it.
Favorite Quote: Wealth is not the same as income. If you make a good income each year and spend it all, you are not getting wealthier. You are just living high. Wealth is what you accumulate, not what you spend.
The Algebra of Happiness: Notes on the Pursuit of Success, Love, and Meaning – Scott Galloway
In a world full of panic-inducing headlines, I find such relief in Scott's pragmatic thoughts on how to build a meaningful life. I read this book in early 2023 after feeling completely crushed by the renovation of my duplex (it's ok I have recovered) his thoughts on entrepreneurship reminded me that starting a business requires a lot of writing checks, late nights, and uncomfortable public risk before you can start cashing checks.
Favorite Quote: I tell my students that nothing wonderful, I'm talking really fantastic, will happen without taking a risk and subjecting yourself to rejection. Serendipity is a function of courage.
And a bonus quote for this one because I love both so much!
Pay special attention to things that bring you joy that don't involve mind-altering substances or a lot of money. Whether it's cooking, capoeira, the guitar, or mountain biking, interests and hobbies add texture to your personality. Being in the zone is happiness. You lose the sense of time, forget yourself, and feel part of something larger.
While the non-fiction books above are heavily based on personal development/finances I also have 2 fiction books I think of often:
Oona Out Of Order by Margarita Montmore
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Both have a similar storyline of the protagonist being able to test out different scenarios of their life through a magical portal. These books remind me that life is complex and the outcome of your actions will always be unknown. Instead of focusing on what could have been recognize that what you have right now is already the perfect opportunity.
I hope these books offer you a few golden pieces of wisdom like they did for me!
xx,
Claire
