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Top 10 Favorite Books for Self Improvement

Writer's picture: Abigail AnnAbigail Ann

All of these have really impacted my thinking and behavior over the last few years. Don't feel like you need to read all 10, just skim through them and see which ones you're really needing right now.


1. Anything You Want by Derek Sivers

First on the list is Anything You Want by Derek Sivers (40 Lessons for a new kind of entrepreneur). If you're looking for a short read that will change the trajectory of your life. This is it! If you've ever heard me say, "If it's not a hell yeah, it's a no" that quote is straight from this book!


2. Love Your Life, Not Theirs by Rachel Cruze

Next on the list is Love Your Life, Not Theirs by Rachel Cruze. Rachel dives into how our society naturally compares themselves to everyone else. Even before social media, people talked about "keeping up with the Jone's". Comparison is the death of joy. Rachel does an amazing job sharing practical tips about being thankful for what you already have and not comparing yourself to someone else's life.


3. The Automatic Millionaire by David Bach

Third on the list is The Automatic Millionaire by David Bach. This book has helped me start investing for retirement. The earlier you can start the better. The other thing I love about this book is he says to throw your budget away! I'm one of those OCD people that likes to get on the Mint budgeting app almost daily, to categorize my spending. This had me thrown for a loop for a second, but once I heard his strategy it made so much financial sense. The biggest take away I got from this book is to make your investments, bills, AND most importantly your savings - make them all automated! *Note: The picture is the workbook... which I haven't actually filled out - I've been listening to the audio book and it's still been really beneficial.


4. The Next Right Thing by Emily Freeman

4th on the list is The Next Right Thing by Emily Freeman. This book came to me as a gift and at just the right time. At the time of reading this book I knew I wasn't happy where I was career wise, but I wasn't sure how to change gears. This book helped remind me to take the next right step towards the life I actually wanted, no matter how small or big the steps were. It simplified things in my mind, and I can now say that I'm so happy where I am. I credit that to this book and my quiet time with the Lord each morning. Such a sweet book for anyone lost in the shuffle and wanting to get out!


5. The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown

Fifth on the list is The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown. I ended up reading this one with a couple friends. We met every other week to discuss each chapter together. This book really helped us unpack different things we were struggling with. It helped us become better people together! Brene breaks down how we can tend to choose perfection over progress. She talks about different types of friends who are draining, and how to navigate that and make sure we're living each day with satisfaction - instead of feeling burned out constantly. A great read for anyone, even those that don't think they struggle with perfectionism. This book definitely helped me become a better person, and better friend!


6. The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason

Sixth on the list is The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason. My Uncle recommended this book when I first started getting serious about my money. It's written as a story which makes it such a pleasure to read. After implementing the strategies in this book I would definitely say I'm much better off financially than I've ever been. A great read for anyone wanting to get serious about managing their money and feel confident in their finances. Click here to order it on Amazon.


7. The Best Yes by Lysa Terkeurst

Seventh on the list is The Best Yes by Lysa Terkeurst. This book helped me understand when I say yes to something, I'm always saying no to something else. It helped me learn how to prioritize my life so that I made time for what I actually wanted to say yes too. There's so much I could say about this one, but this pairs really well with The Next Right Thing.


8. The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson

Eighth on the list is The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson. This book helped me realize how little tweaks can really make a huge improvement over time. Not only did it inspire me, but it actually taught me how to implement those tweaks and habits! Very productive read ;)


9. Business Made Simple by Donald Miller

Ninth on the list is Business Made Simple by Donald Miller. This book is broken down into bite size chunks. It allows you to read a short section each day and then implement the strategies. This has made growing my business seem so much easier and manageable.


10. How to Grow Your Small Business: A 6-Step Plan to Help Your Business Take Off by Donald Miller

Tenth on the list is How to Grow Your Small Business by Donald Miller. Every time I pick up this book I want to order it for everyone I know who owns their own business. It really simplifies what it looks like to actually grow a business. It's broken down into very actionable steps too. I would highly recommend this to anyone who wants to get serious about growing their business. If you know any entrepreneurs or business owners, this one would be the PERFECT gift for them!




Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links.

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