I have written before about how I love personal development books. You can check out that post here. My recent commitment to 31 Days of Gratitude has reminded me how much of a difference these kinds of books can make in your life. Just a few minutes a day. So I’ve rounded up my 5 favorite personal development books to share with you…

Here are my top 5 favorites! I did not overthink this- because I’ve been reading my personal development 🙂  Just off the top of my head. They are my favorites for readability (I’ve read some great PD books that just weren’t that fun to read) and overall inspiration.

My 5 Favorite Personal Development Books

1. You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero. This book is definitely fun to read. I would like to hang out with Jen Sincero. She talks about spirituality a lot- but in a very cool way. It doesn’t feel too out there or too out of reach. She throws in funny stories from her own life, lots of curses, and gives you some tough love. The “Get over yourself and be open to the goodness in our world” kind of tough love.
2. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert. Did you read Eat, Pray, Love? I did, years ago, and I loved it, especially the “Pray” section. Big Magic is by the same author. Lots about creativity, inspiration, and being open to dreaming.
3. Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis. I haven’t even finished this one yet, but I know it’s in my top five already. It’s funny, easy to read, and motivational. Sometimes I’m happy when my time to read PD is up; with this book, I don’t want to stop and I can’t wait to get back to it!
4. Daring Greatly by Brené Brown. I like Brené Brown a lot, but sometimes she can get a little too social work-y for me. My major in college was Sociology with a concentration in Social Work, so it’s kind of funny that I say that but it’s true. But Daring Greatly is a great book. Vulnerability and shame are big themes here. It can help you show up more in life, and guide you to help your children do the same.
5. The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod. This one makes it because I believe so strongly in a morning routine. Starting your day on a positive note affects the rest of your day. Doing this every day affects your whole life. It’s a quick read, and even if you’re not looking to transform your life, it can give you ideas for living a happier and healthier one.

It was hard to pick just 5. I was torn between The Secret and The Miracle Morning for the #5 spot. The fact that I couldn’t find The Secret was what tipped the scales! But I honestly love both. I feel like The Secret gets a bad rap, but I liked it a lot. It’s inspirational and encourages you to be more positive. Even if you don’t think the Law of Attraction is true you can take something away from this book. So check that one out too.

I love this quote from Zig Ziglar- “People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing. That’s why we recommend it daily.” The motivation that you feel when you start going to the gym or running or eating healthy will fade if you don’t work to keep it up. Reading a little PD every day can help you keep up that motivation. Make it part of your day. The good feelings, the inspiration, the motivation will wear off. It’s up to you to keep it going.

Of course, you can skip a day here and there. But don’t do it too often. Make it a priority. Bring that book with you on vacation. After doing it for a while you’ll notice when you miss a few days! You’ll feel it in your mood. This can really change your life for the better. Even if you’re happy as a clam already. You don’t have to be unhappy to want to make changes. Be grateful where you are while you work to get to where you want to be.

By the way, can we think of a new name for “personal development” and “PD”?? They both sound lame. Help me think of something new to call them!

Have you read any books that would be considered personal development? I’d love to hear your favorites! If not, which one of these will you start with?

 

 

 

 

 

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