Let’s talk self improvement. This past year has been extremely challenging and we all learned to cope in different ways – some of us take walks, some of us do yoga and others read! Well, I read 4 books this past year that I hold near to my heart because they helped shape me into a better person and closer to the person I aspire to be. These books are must reads if you want to improve your mindset, your environment, your health, and your life!
While I was moving into my new apartment, I came across these books. I thought about their impact in my life, grabbed my computer and started this blog post. Personal development is a lifelong process and it can fall under many categories – self-care, growth, maturity, wisdom, health and so much more. But as far as these books go, they addressed every single category for me.
The Little Book of Self-Care: 200 Ways to Refresh, Restore and Rejuvenate by Adams Media
When was the last time you did something nice for yourself? This little book is a gem. It really does provide 100+ ways to relieve your stress and reconnect with yourself and your surroundings. I bought this book once quarantine started and it helped me to incorporate self-care into my daily at-home routine. It is a reminder to take care of yourself and give your body the attention it needs, even for a minute a day. Best part? It’s an easy read!
Becoming by Michelle Obama
I’m sure you’re already familiar with this book and I’m positive someone has already suggested it to you. Well, this is another sign that you need to read it. No, this is not a book about politics. It’s about a woman’s life. If you read my very first blog post, then you know that this book inspired me to start this blog. In Becoming, Michelle shares her story and, with her kindness and empathy, encourages you to share yours and to embrace it. This book is Becoming Michelle Obama, but your life is Becoming You.
After reading this book, I made the decision to share my story and find my voice… which I now call Lady Engineering. Aren’t you curious to know what this book will inspire you to do?
The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins
Raise your hand if your biggest challenge is getting out of bed in the morning! The book is filled with solid, actionable information that I began putting into my own life with incredible success. This was the very first book I purchased to work on a personal goal. I bought it when I lived in Chicago. I set a goal to start getting out of bed earlier and become a morning person. After doing much research, I came across Mel Robbins and this book.
A successful person is one who manages their time and the secret to it is starting an early day. This book helped me start my days early, stay on track, find my mind when it’s gone and manage my time better. I highly recommend it!
Also, Mel Robbins is a rock star.
The Wellness Remodel by Christina Anstead and Cara Clark
Are you constantly worried about your weight? This is a recent pick up that I am obsessed with! Ever since quarantine, I’ve been completely lost on my fitness journey. Not being able to go to the gym, binge watching Netflix and snacking had gotten the best of me.
I first saw this book at Target, I glanced over it and put it back. I was interested but I’ve bought similar books before that weren’t any good. So, I went home, looked up the reviews and the authors. I was so impressed that I ran to target first thing in the morning and purchased it.
This book is so much more than a simple “diet” or exercise plan. This is a comprehensive guide to becoming the best you. Cara’s nutritional philosophy is so incredibly easy to follow and it works! When you eat to fuel your body instead of living in a restrictive mindset, the changes are amazing – less brain fog, more energy, clearer skin, restful sleep, clothes fit better and you just feel good.
And besides all the insight and health knowledge you get, they include amazing healthy recipes that I’ve already tried and am obsessed with. Why pay someone to tell you what to eat when you can purchase this book and learn to listen to your body?
Enjoy!
XOXO,
Pao
