5 Books You Need to Read to Challenge the Way you Think
Whether practicing social distancing or in isolation, you might be on the lookout for some newfound wisdom. Each of these books offers a new way of looking at things. They will challenge the way you think, push you to face your fears, do what ignites your soul, and adapt to the ever-so-changing world.
The last few years have bought out the very best in us and the very worst in us. Let’s make the most out of the last half of this year by becoming a better version of yourself, here are 5 Books You Need to Read to Challenge the Way you Think.
1. For when you’re ready to challenge the way you think…
Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell
Describe in one word: Eye-opener Genre: Non-fiction/ Theoretical Published: 2008 Good Reads Rating: 4.2/5 Pages: 307
Let Gladwell be your leader. Outliers present an eye-opening perspective on how you view highly successful people. Gladwell defines an Outlier as an exceptional individual not because of talent or intelligence but because of the circumstances, environmental, and cultural context resulting in their success. Gladwell attempts to break down success into statistics and algorithms through a series of individual stories. He examines timing, upbringing, effort, hard work, and legacy. This book makes you think long and hard about yourself and your surroundings.
Key Takeaway: The current struggles of a parent can directly affect the success of a child.
2. For when you want to feel your best…
Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead by Brené Brown
Describe in one word: Life-Changing Genre: Nonfiction/ Self Help Published: 2012 Good Reads Rating: 4.3/5 Pages: 287
Dr. Brené Brown became a household name when her 2010 TEDx Houston Talk- “The Power of Vulnerability,” went viral and garnered more than 47 million views. A shame researcher, Brown, focuses on the power of courage, vulnerability, empathy, and shame. She believes vulnerability is the willingness to be ‘all in’ even when you know it can mean failing and hurting. Brown walks us through 12 years of research leading us to the principles of wholehearted living. She defines wholehearted living as living your life from a place of worthiness. At the end of the day, you are enough, no matter what you did and did not do.
Key Takeaway: Walk the talk
3. For when you’re curious about the universe…
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert
Describe in one word: Courageous Genre: Nonfiction/ Self-Help Published: 2015 Good Reads Rating: 3.9/5 Pages: 288
Your favorite Eat Pray Love author is back. Only this time, she takes you through the depths of her unique creative process to guide you on how to muster up the courage to live a more creative life. Through engaging storytelling and thought-provoking ideas, Big Magic is the optimistic fortune cookie you need. Gilbert writes with wit and humor giving you a sense of calmness and self-affirmation: “You can measure your worth by your dedication to your path, not by your successes or failures.“; “You are not required to save the world with your creativity.”
Key Takeaway: Do whatever brings you life.
4. For when you’re sipping on a dark and stormy…
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Describe in one word: Simplistic Genre: Fiction Published: 1998 Good Reads Rating: 3.87/5 Pages: 182
The Alchemist tells the story of an Andalusian shepherd who dreams of buried treasure in Egypt and sets out on a challenging and symbolic journey to find it. But for “the boy” to reach his treasure, he must first accept change, value simplicity, and learn to live in the present moment. He must read God’s will and omens, listen to his heart, and understand the world’s universal language. In other words, he must undergo a spiritual transformation.
Key Takeaway: Follow your heart
5. For when a memoir is what the doctor called for…
Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike By Phil Knight
Describe in one word: Inspiring Genre: Nonfiction/ Memoir Published: 2016 Good Reads Rating: 4.5/5 Pages: 400
Shoe Dog is a humble act of entrepreneurial making, neatly packaged into a success story. Co-founder Phil Knight takes readers through the turbulent process of developing a multibillion-dollar company– Nike. It’s a heavy addictive read in the best way as Knight bares his soul in his inspirational journey to triumph.
Key Takeaway: Life is interesting when it’s challenging
