5 Transformative Books To Change Your Perspective
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October is National Book Month and to celebrate, I would love to give you a few good book recommendations!
This year has been a brutal one, to say the least. If you feel as if the ground underneath you is about to shatter, you are not alone. Turning to a good book for a mental shift can be a game changer. Whether you like to listen to the audio version as you go for a walk or sit and read on a quiet afternoon, these 5 transformative books will change your perspective and put you in a better headspace.
Each of these books have a unique viewpoint that shifted my perspective. These are all so unique and timely, I am certain at least one (if not more) will appeal to you during these uncertain times.
“Maybe this is why we read, and why in moments of darkness we return to books: to find words for what we already know.”
-Alberto Manguel, A Reading Diary
5 Transformative Books To Change Your Perspective
#1.) “Stay Woke” by Justin Michael Williams
This is NOT your mama’s fluffy, kumbaya mindfulness book! This book woke me up to a whole new perspective on meditation. Williams describes his book as “A meditation guide for the rest of us” and he isn’t kidding.
The biggest take-away for me was the way in which I was meditating. I was under some false notion that in order to be a good yogi meditator, I had to be seated, crossed-legged, back straight, palms open, with my eyes closed. Wow… was I wrong! For a fresh new perspective on your meditation practice, read his book.
#2.) “Digital Minimalism” by Cal Newport
Cal Newport has been referred to as the “Marie Kondo of technology”. He helps us see that less is more when it comes to our digital lives. Newport’s book invites you to choose a focused life in a noisy world. It certainly helped me shift my perspective on how I use technology.
Digital Minimalism is about rebuilding our relationship with technology so that it serves us, not the other way around. If you have ever felt addicted to your phone, I highly recommend reading this book. It isn’t enough to just turn off notifications or take a digital detox once a year… we need a lifestyle change around how we use technology. This book will provide that for you.
I wrote an extensive article on how digital minimalism can boost happiness levels- read it here.
#3.) “Untamed” by Glennon Doyle
If you are a woman and you haven’t read this book, I highly recommend getting it now. Instead of me trying to explain this beauty, I will leave that to the great Elizabeth Gilbert.
“Untamed will liberate women– emotionally, spiritually, and physically. I believe Glennon was born to write this book, just this way, at just this moment in history. It’s phenomenal.”
-Elizabeth Gilbert
If there was ever a time for women to read this book, it’s now. It made me cry, laugh, hoop and holler and realize that I am a fierce woman, who can trust herself and should apologize for nothing.
#4.) “24/6” By Tiffany Shlain
This book absolutely changed my perspective on technology and my screen habits. In her book, Shlain encourages readers to go “24/6” from all tech. This means unplugging from ALL screens (phones, tablets, laptops, TVs) for 24 dedicated hours every week. This allows more time for deep connection with your inner self and the ones around you.
Her book had such a profound impact on me, I decided to take off Saturday night to Sunday night from technology. For an in-depth peak into my journey toward inner happiness after going “24/6”, read this article here.
#5.) “Wabi-Sabi” By Alicia Mori
You probably have not heard of this book, but it shouldn’t go without mention. In short, Wabi-Sabi is a Japanese philosophy that means to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of imperfection. Mori’s book helps us to see that people and things inevitably age and are imperfect, so why not embrace it?
Here is what I learned from this book:
- The three principles of Wabi-Sabi
- How to apply Wabi-Sabi to your home: minimalism, shabby chic, and more
- How to stop obsessing about perfection and lead a relaxed, mindful life
- Learning to gain mental clarity and focus by getting rid of non-essential physical and mental clutter
If you are craving a simpler life- one filled with less stress over being perfect- I recommend reading this book.
Final Words
Each of these books offer a new perspective with a unique yet strong voice. From changing how we approach meditation, to learning how and why we should unplug each week, to embracing imperfection, to inspiring us to live unapologetically- these great reads have something to offer everyone.
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Join the Discussion
Have you read any of these five books? Please share your thoughts!
Author
Sara Halcumb is a registered nurse, health writer, mother and wife. She lives in the beautiful Pacific Northwest with her husband and two kids. She loves nothing more than spending her days exploring the great outdoors with her family.
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