book recommendations: nonfiction and personal development
I'm the type of person that reads multiple books at once. I like to have a fiction book, a personal development book, and a devotional book all in rotation on my nightstand. I often feel like there is too much information in the world, and I want to devour it all at once! I can't choose just one book to read!
I have noticed that my reading has decreased since having my second child. I think the reason is that I have become very protective of my free time, and I don't want to invest myself in a book if it's only going to disappoint me. My favorite way to choose a book is if it's recommended to me by a trusted friend, so I thought I would pay it forward and provide a list of some of my own favorite books. That way, those who want to read more have a place to start when diving into the world of reading.
I'm breaking up my book recommendations by category, so today I'll be sharing my favorite books for nonfiction, personal development, and building a business.
Better Than Before - Gretchen Rubin
I just started reading this one, as it finally became available on the Overdrive app on my Nook. However I listen to Gretchen Rubin's podcast Happier every Wednesday, and many of the concepts in Better than Before are discussed on the podcast, too! I love everything I've read by Gretchen Rubin, so I'm excited to dive into her take on habits, a topic which has always fascinated me.
Fiercely You: God, guts, glitter, and glamour for the female entrepreneur - Gretchen Brocio
This book was sent to me by a dear friend and mentor in my home based business. As a Christian woman and mother trying to create a business in the online space, it's super easy to second guess yourself and feel doubt about what you're creating. I was inspired by the success stories of the women she interviewed in the book!
How to Blog For Profit Without Selling Your Soul - Ruth Soukup
I asked for this book for Christmas, and was so happy to receive it as a gift for my birthday (which is just a few weeks after Christmas). I've been blogging for years, but just decided to start taking it more seriously. I learn best by reading, so I scoured the internet for books on blogging, and this one received great reviews on Amazon. So far it has been super informative, and I've been working my way sl-ow-ly through it, because I like to apply the advice it gives straight away. It contains so many actionable tips and words of wisdom for those who are looking to turn their blog into a business with integrity. I'm finding the Pinterest advice especially helpful, since every article I read about how to use Pinterest to grow your blog is basically a commercial for Tailwind or Boardbooster. This is not a "how to set up a blog" type of book, but it is geared for someone at the beginning of their journey to monetize their blog.
Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer From the People Who've Lived the Longest - Dan Buettner
This is not a recent read, but a favorite I keep going back to. I bought it on my Nook a few years ago, and became obsessed with it, recommending to all my family and friends. The author researches people who live in Blue Zones - areas around the globe with communities of people who tend to live much longer than the average person - to see which habits and practices contribute to their longevity. It's fascinating to read, because so often we attribute good health to food and exercise, but there is so much more to it! The book also highlights good genes, good habits, community, religion, stress-coping mechanisms, and purpose. It's a good read for anyone overwhelmed by all the health advice out there.
The Go-Giver: A Little Story About a Powerful Business Idea - Bob Burg and John David Mann
I absolutely loved this book from the concept to the execution, and devoured it in one car ride. It advises that the secret to success in business is to focus on giving rather than receiving. It is told in story format, so it's different from the slow, dry, information-packed personal development and business books we're used to! I believe this is a must-read for anyone with a job, but especially entrepreneurs and those in the network marketing industry.
I love adding to my reading list, so share your favorite personal development or nonfiction books below!