The books that changed me

I was asked recently if I had a list of must-read books and, of course, if I sit down I could probably name SO many, because, like anything, I think a good book depends on when, where and why you read it. And of course, what category we’re talking about. You might need a certain message at a certain time, or a lesson might hit you in a particular way, or maybe you just need escapism and a really damn good story.

This year I was on a real fiction kick, I wanted stories, I wanted lives, I wanted adventures; forget facts and self-improvement. But I’m in a moment in my life where I want extra inspiration, self-awareness and to be as ready for growth and change as I possibly can (more on this eventually, but for now, we’ll stick to books).

Today I’ve compiled a non-fiction list for you of books that changed me and hopefully might inspire growth in you too 💜

Better than before by Gretchen Rubin

How to hack your personality so you can make and break habits to sleep more, quit sugar, procrastinate less and generally build a happier life. The idea is that we are all different, and what works for one person may not be the way to get the best out of you. But if you don’t understand how you work, how can you possibly make it happen? Loved this book and kept talking about it to anyone who would listen while I was reading it. An extremely practical guide to reaching your full potential (and knowing when to let a habit go). Available on Amazon.

Atomic Habits by James Clear

Hábitos atómicos. Tiny changes, remarkable results. I’m sure you’ve heard this book recommended a thousand times. I’m not original here, but it’s for a reason. Pair it with Better Than Before and you’re on to an absolute win. This book is worth a read if only for Clear’s incredibly inspiring origin story and how his methodology really is tried and tested. If you want to build a habit, break it down into such minuscule easy-to-implement steps that it’s harder to not do them. They do say take care of the pennies and the pounds will take care of themselves. Another lesson I apply is being “that person” – want to run a marathon? What would a marathon runner choose right now? Want to get a promotion? What would a person who deserves a promotion do in this situation? Life-changing lessons. Available on Amazon.

Think like a Monk by Jay Shetty

Piensa como un monje. I’m in two minds about Jay Shetty, to be honest, I prefer his wife at this point. He’s very LA and marketing-y and his podcast is less and less interesting (Kendall Jenner interview case in point). But, you know what, he is really wise and talented and knows how to speak and share that wisdom (see the next book in the list, because Shetty fits in this category when you know more about his back story). I read this book when I was learning more self-awareness, practicing gratitude, understanding the relationships I have with different people in my life and the space I occupy in this world. Worth a read and a re-read to put things into perspective and help you focus on your purpose. Available on Amazon.

Outliers by Malcom Gladwell

Fueras de serie. Again, Gladwell is extremely famous for a reason. This book I found fascinating and was the first of his I read. You might recognise it by the “10,000 hour” rule: the idea that it takes 10,000 hours of intensive practice to achieve mastery of complex skills, like playing the violin or getting as good as Bill Gates. Gladwell challenges the idea that success is based on talent or merit, and he provides insights into how to create a culture of success. It’s an enjoyable read because he uses real life examples of famous people we know and how they got to where they are, mixed with other historical and cultural examples. Work hard, focus, remove distractions, and you will reap the rewards. Available on Amazon.

The Body: A Guide for Occupants by Bill Bryson

El cuerpo humano. Here’s a fun one and from a British national treasure (even if he is American). If you don’t know Bill Bryson, welcome to English modern literary culture 101. Bryson is better known for his history and travel books particularly about the UK, but that’s what makes this book such a brilliant read. This time, Bryson explores the human body, how it functions and its remarkable ability to heal itself. Full of extraordinary facts and astonishing stories this book is a brilliant, often very funny attempt to understand the miracle of our physical and neurological make up. Available on Amazon.

I’m reading right now… The 5am Club by Robin Sharma

El club de las 5 de la mañana. It’s taken me long enough to get to this one, don’t expect to see me waking up at 5am but I am taking the learnings and aim to apply them to my life. I need extra inspiration, focus and growth right now, and this is the book to get that out of me this year. My main learning so far is how distracted we all are: how it make it impossible for us to reach our full potential. But taking time in the quiet of the morning to focus on what we want to achieve and living deliberately, is a huge opportunity we are all missing by spending our days going through the motions rather than really living it. Available on Amazon.

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If you read this newsletter, tag me and let me know in your stories on IG which book you’d add to this list – I’d love to know your favourites!

Love, Amy x