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50 of the Best Self-Help Books to Add to Your Reading List
These are trying times with everything going on, everyone is in a rush, and people are feeling down and anxious. That is why Jill and I put together this list of fifty self-help books.
Some of these non-fiction reads are famous, while others are lesser known, but they all have something to teach us about ourselves and our untapped strengths.
Some are serious, while others are humorous, and some are deeply touching and personal. We hope that our list will give you the choices you want and an attitude you will conquer whatever comes your way!
1. How to Win Friends & Influence People
Written by: Dale Carnegie
Published: November 3rd, 2011
There is no way better than to start this book with one of the most famous and influential self-help books other than this one. Initially printed in 1936, this book has influenced millions of people to look at their lives, figure out what is truly important to them and how to achieve it. This may take hard work and some deep reflections, but it is worth it.
Some of his ideas include how to make people like you more, how to take any situation, including the worst you can imagine, and how to make it work for you, and twelve ways to influence others and have them agree with your opinion.
2. Atomic Habits
Written by: James Clear
Clear defines atomic habits as "small behaviors that can be easily performed and produce immediate effects." The idea of an atomic habit seems so simple, but it has the potential to change your life.
Atomic Habits is an easy and proven way to build good habits and break bad ones. The book provides readers with a framework for building habits that last, based on the latest findings in psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral economics.
It teaches you how to create new positive routines that will give you energy rather than drain it; make your brain work better; make you more productive at work; improve your relationships; be healthier; develop deep creativity...and much more.
3. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*CK: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life
Written by: Mark Mason
We are all familiar with the idea of caring too much. But what about not caring at all? In this hilarious and irreverent book, comedian Mark Manson shows us how to stop running after things that don't matter so we can focus on what does.
This well-known comedian uses The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*CK in a way filled with counterintuitive insights and life-changing advice. They range from dealing with social media and spending more time reading; to understanding why trying harder usually makes things worse and knowing when you should quit your job or break up with your partner.
Unlike most self-help books, this book will change how you think about your (lack of) responsibilities and (not) needed change.
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*CK is both a self-help guide and a philosophical essay on modern society, and all parts hilarious.
4. The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts
Written by: Gary Chapman
Published: January 1st, 2015
Love is a beautiful thing. But what if you and your partner speak different love languages? Is it possible to make this work, or will you always be frustrated with each other?
The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts by Gary Chapman teaches us how to find out what our partners' love language is and then learn our own first. We can then focus on our partner and theirs to communicate better to keep the happiness alive! Some of them include using physical touch, quality time, receiving gifts, and others.
This is a great book to use, whether you are single and trying to learn how to meet someone or in a relationship and help it blossom. It was initially published in January, 1990 and it has been updated.
5. The Power of Now
Written by: Eckhart Tolle
In this book, Eckhart Tolle provides a practical guide to spiritual enlightenment and how it can be achieved through the power of living in the present moment. He believes that most people are distracted from their true purpose by constant thoughts about the past and future, which keeps them stuck in a cycle of anxiety and dissatisfaction with life.
The Power of Now teaches readers how to escape this self-destructive pattern through mindfulness or awareness of one's feelings, surroundings, and state of mind without judging or reacting to them.
As well as providing instruction for achieving inner peace, this book also includes personal anecdotes from Tolle's own experiences as he learned these lessons himself. Even if you are not spiritual or religious, you'll still enjoy this book and Tolle's beautiful ideas and ideals which is why it is one of the best self-help books.
>> More great books to help with and better understand anxiety
6. The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom (A Toltec Wisdom Book)
Written by: Don Miguel Ruiz
The Four Agreements is a book about how to live life in the present moment to enjoy it. It is based on the four agreements from the ancient Toltec belief system. Because of that, it is unlike any other book on this list.
Ruiz says that we realize that the past is gone, and the future hasn't come yet, but right now, there are things that you can do to make yourself happy.
This book offers practical suggestions for living under these four principles: Be Impeccable with Your Words; Don't Take Anything Personally; Don't Make Assumptions; Always Do Your Best. These agreements provide us with guidelines for leading an honest life without regrets by staying true to our word and following our hearts while always trying our best.
As with the above book, although you may not be spiritual or religious, and yet you'll still enjoy this book. It was initially published in 1997, and it has been updated.
7. The Mastery of Love: A Practical Guide to the Art of Relationship (A Toltec Wisdom Book)
Written by: Don Miguel Ruiz and Janet Mills
Published: November 1st, 2002
This book was written by Don Miguel Ruiz, who wrote the book listed above, and Janet Mills. This book consists of four parts, and each part discusses different topics such as love, relationships, children and parents, society, and community.
Using lessons from the Mexican civilization of the Toltecs, the authors discuss how we can be in control of our lives through awareness and understanding that many problems arise because we are not informed or don't understand ourselves.
They give real-life examples from his personal experiences with family members and friends on overcoming their issues through self-knowledge.
They then show time-proven methods to change these behaviors and become closer to the person you love. They have four other books if you want to explore their ideas more.
8. Girl Wash Your Face
Written by: Rachel Hollis
Published: February 6th, 2018
Girl Wash Your Face is a life-changing book written by Rachel Hollis, former CEO and president of The Chic Site's multimillion-dollar company. In this book, she shares her story and how she went from living in her mom's basement to becoming a successful businesswoman while dealing with self-doubt and an eating disorder.
She offers tips on finding your passion in work or love, as well as how to deal with difficult people without letting them ruin your day. This book will have you feeling empowered instead of defeated because you are better than you think at the end of it all. It is written in a downhome and folksy kind of way that is fun.
9. You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life
Written by: Jen Sincero
Published: April 23rd, 2013
FYI: You are a badass, but you haven't realized it yet. You have the power to change your life with just a single thought or decision. Maybe you've been feeling down lately because of all the negativity going on around us. It's easy to get caught up in what everyone else is doing and start doubting yourself - but that's not who you are!
The reality is, we all judge ourselves much more harshly than anyone else does.
If this sounds like you, we are here to tell you: don't worry about it! Being confident in your abilities will help other people feel better too! Broken down into 17 easy-to-read chapters, this book is gonna let you realize how you indeed are a badass!
10. The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich
Written by: Timothy Ferriss
In the book, The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich by Tim Ferriss, he discusses how to change your life by making a lifestyle switch. He decided to make the change years ago, living a life that had no interest for him. After doing it and writing this book, he has inspired millions to leave their hum-drum job and be the person they want to be.
He gives step-by-step instructions on how to make this happen as well as why you should want it. In his book, he talks about what is holding most people back from living a better life and ways to make more money without giving up time with family and friends.
Since Aram and I love to travel, we love the section on how to travel around the world for less than $50 per day so that anyone can do it!
11. The Body Is Not an Apology: The Power of Radical Self-Love
Written by: Sonya Renee Taylor
The Body Is Not an Apology is a powerful collection of essays and poems that explore the many facets of radical self-love. Sonya Renee Taylor's book offers readers a refreshing perspective on what it means to love yourself, your body, and your life.
The book tackles topics such as how to engage in self-care with pleasure, being radically honest with oneself about one's own story and history, and most importantly: how to live without shame or guilt when faced with society's many images of perfection. This book is essential when social media is constantly bombarding our lives with posts about how we should look according to others. This book will inspire you to take care of yourself by loving every inch of you!
12. Greenlights
Written by: Matthew McConaughey
Most people wouldn't think of the famous Hollywood actor Matthew McConaughey as someone who would write a self-help book…and yet we are thrilled he did! Just as he was turning 50, he decided that it was time to write about himself, his family, his failures, and his achievements.
He started by looking at his old diaries, experiences, photos, and anything else from his travels and life. Unlike most other books, he doesn't prescribe how to change your life exactly, but more about how to accept where you are and look back at everything you've learned along the way. It is incredibly thoughtful, open, and beautiful.
13. The Gifts of Imperfection
Written by: Brene Brown
One of the most writers in this genre is the incredible Brene Brown. She was known as a writer but didn't become famous until her excellent TED talk. In it, she discusses her ten steps to becoming happily imperfect and explains that we are not perfect, even if we wish to be. Perfection is impossible to attain for anyone. However, that does not mean that you should settle with mediocrity or let your flaws define you.
It takes courage and strength to face the world every day and embrace your mistakes and shortcomings while still having hope for a better future than what lies before us now. You also learn about her lessons throughout her life and realize you can accomplish much more than you ever imagined.
14. Keep Going: 10 Ways to Stay Creative in Good Times and Bad
Written by: Austin Kleon
Published: April 2nd, 2019
It is easy to lose sight of what matters in today's world of fast-paced news and constant updates. It can be overwhelming to process all the information thrown at us daily. But what do we lose in giving so much focus to everything else? We often forget about our creativity and how important it is for us as humans.
That is why we love Austin Kleon's book Keep Going because he reminds me that our imagination should not be lost just because life gets tough or even when things are good.
He gives excellent advice on ways you can stay creative no matter where you are in life. He is also the author of Steal Like an Artist and Show Your Work! If you like this book, check them out!
15. Start Finishing: How to Go from Idea to Done
Written by: Charlie Gilkey
For most people, finishing things is hard. You may get an idea and get excited about it for a while, but then you never follow through. Finishing things can be difficult because distractions will pull you away from your goal, so to finish what you start, you need to know how to avoid distractions and stay focused on the task at hand until it's done.
In his book Start Finishing: How to Go from Idea to Done, Charlie Gilkey explains why our tendency is not to finish what we start and overcome this obstacle to become more productive. He provides many tips on how anyone can learn the discipline of getting things done by following the nine simple steps he outlines in his book. After you read it, you'll find it so much easier to get started, keep going, and finish on time.
16. Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear
Written by: Elizabeth Gilbert
Published: September 22nd, 2015
One of the most influential books I've read in recent years is Elizabeth Gilbert's Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear. It offers a whole new way to think about creativity and how we can manage fear as artists, writers, and creators.
Gilbert takes readers on a journey from her struggles with jealousy and insecurity to exploring the lives of other creatives such as Jane Goodall and Coco Chanel. They have all experienced similar feelings yet found ways to channel their creative energy into something positive. Gilbert is also the author of the critically acclaimed Eat, Pray, Love, and City of Girls.
If you've read those, you know that Gilbert has a beautiful spiritual side that helps make this book so helpful and encouraging.
17. Mindset: The New Psychology of Success
Written by: Carol S. Dweck
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success is a book about growing your success through the right mindset. Dweck tells her readers that they need to adopt a growth mindset to achieve their goals and dreams. She discusses why some people are more successful than others and explains how everyone has the power within themselves to be successful if they can change their way of thinking.
A Stanford University professor, Dr. Dweck, uses data, studies, and scientific research to show we can make changes every second of our lives. This book is an exciting read for anyone who wants more out of life but doesn't know where or how to start, especially if they are inclined to be more logical. However, it is also perfect for anyone since there is so much more than that.
18. 100 Demon Dialogues
Written by: Lucy Bellwood
Published: March 1st, 2018
In this book, Bellwood has collected over one hundred demons haunting her dreams for years. These are the ones telling her she isn't good enough, isn't intelligent enough, isn't pretty enough, and enough of them enough! She decided that she could talk back to them but realized she could also make cartoons out of them! This would allow her to "see" her demons in a new light and make them silly and laughable.
The wonderful thing about these demons is that they are not scary but rather humorous and playfully creepy in their depictions. This makes them perfect for sharing with your children or anyone else to introduce the fantasy world of comics and illustrations!
19. Growing Influence: A Story of How to Lead with Character, Expertise, and Impact
Written by: Ron Price and Stacy Ennis
This one is fun since it is a book based on both the author's lives. Being a leader is a challenge that requires us to balance our own needs, the needs of others, and the needs of the company we work for. Whether you've been leading teams for years or are just starting as a manager, there are always new lessons to be learned about how to best lead those around you.
This brings us to Emily, who has hit the glass door ceiling where she will be stuck since she is a woman. Luckily, she meets a retired CEO who gives her the information and skills to become a leader and not take no for an answer. She realizes it is okay to fight back and take control of her job and life no matter what anyone else tells her.
It's different from other books on this list as it's a fiction story that shows you how to apply what the character learns in your own life. It's one of our top self-help books as it will really help you look at your life in a new way.
20. Give and Take: Why Helping Others Drives Our Success
Written by: Adam Grant
Published: April 9th, 2013
It's easy to feel like we are all alone in this world, but the truth is that our success depends on the help of others. Author Adam Grant discusses how helping others can lead to tremendous success for ourselves and those around us.
He shows research from his studies and other experts in the field that back up this claim. He also shares stories of people who have used these principles successfully. The book is full of practical advice about taking advantage of opportunities for giving without sacrificing one's happiness or goals.
Whatever stage you are at in life, there are lessons for everyone who wants a better work/life balance or more appreciation from loved ones. Grant has won numerous awards and is a professor at Wharton University; his information is beyond reproach.
21. Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World
Published: February 2nd, 2016
The previous author also wrote this book. It is essential as it has influenced many other famous self-help writers to think even more in-depth about their own lives. Professor Grant shares the research he has done on how non-conformists "move the world." He shares many examples of people who have made a difference in their field and why they did it. The author tells us that these people are not original because they were born with some special gift or invented something new.
They're originals because they dared to do something different from what was expected of them and changed society for the better. Some examples are the famous civil rights hero Rosa Parks, Apple inventor Steven Jobs, and others. Facebook's Sheryl Sandberg writes the forward.
22. Productivity Is for Robots: How To (Re)Connect, Get Creative, And Stay Human in The New World
Written by: Corey McComb
The term "Productivity is for robots" might be the new "work smarter, not harder." It's a mantra gaining traction as we've become more connected and reliant on technology to stay productive. But it seems like these days, our devices and apps are only making us busier, more distracted, and less creative.
So how do you get things done in an era when your mind can wander in between swipes? McComb shows that you need to get rid of the rules we've been taught about fitting in, use your intuition and gut feelings, and then get ready to aim and hit your target.
Examples range from James Cameron to J.K. Rowling to Steve Martin and more. They could have stayed in their "safe" circles, but then they wouldn't have changed the world! Don't just be another robot, but out of that mentality, and live your life to the fullest!
23. The Focus Project
Written by: Erik Qualman
Published: July 23rd, 2020
Do you ever get the feeling that there is not enough time in the day? Do you feel like your to-do list will never end, and it's impossible to keep up with everything on it? You're not alone. In fact, according to a study done by American Express, people spend an average of two hours and ten minutes per day trying "to do more." What if we told you that all of this stress could be eliminated simply by doing less?
By focusing on what's essential rather than prioritizing every task at hand, Erik Qualman shows how any person can take control of their busy schedule. If anyone knows about getting things done efficiently, it's Qualman; he has written four books, so if you enjoy this one, make sure to check out his others. They are all worth reading and worth your time, and they may even help you focus more clearly on your time.
24: Stick Together: A Simple Lesson to Build a Stronger Team
Written by: Jon Gordon and Kate Leavell
Published: March 30th, 2021
Jon Gordon is the bestselling author of The Energy Bus and Growing a Leader. In this book, Stick Together: A Simple Lesson to Build a Stronger Team, he shares stories about a high school basketball team and how their coaches used team-building exercises to overcome challenges.
These include building stronger relationships with your team through simple activities such as sharing meals or going on an adventure. However, this isn't just a fictional tale; it is based on his experiences coaching teams at all levels, from high school basketball to the NFL.
He has been able to help players grow their leadership skills and develop winning attitudes. Jon's books have been translated into more than 20 languages and are used by coaches, teachers, parents, businesses-anyone who wants their team or organization to be happier and more successful!
25. Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change life…and Maybe the World
Written by: Admiral William H. McRaven
When Admiral William H. McRaven gave the commencement speech at the University of Texas in Austin, he didn't sugarcoat the truth. He used to be a Navy Seal and spoke about their ten principles that helped him survive and thrive. He wanted to make sure these graduates knew them and that their life after college was indeed just the beginning of their own story.
In his book, he tells stories from his own experiences in the military and shares actionable advice on how you can be successful in life by simply making your bed every day. It's not some magical cure-all, but it will help start your day off right so that you can succeed at whatever else you want to do with your day.
You'll feel more accomplished throughout the entire process of getting ready when you've already got one thing under control. For that reason alone, it is an excellent read for anyone who wants to better themselves and make the most out of life.
26. The Joy of Being Selfish: Why you need boundaries and how to set them
Written by: Michelle Elman
When you hear the word "selfish," what comes to mind? You might think about someone who is always looking out for themselves, or perhaps even a person who takes more than they give. But despite what you've been told by society, being selfish isn't necessarily a bad thing!
It's indispensable to get things done and take care of yourself. This book will help you learn how to stop saying "Yes" when you mean no, how to stop letting people walk over you, and how to be your best you.
The author breaks down, which is why this is so important in her book. She then gives some great tips on how to do just that. So go ahead - be selfish! You'll be thankful you are, and even if you don't believe it, so will the people around you as they know what they are willing to do to help them, but also help yourself!
27. How to Be an Imperfectionist: The New Way to Self-Acceptance, Fearless Living, and Freedom from Perfectionism
Written by: Stephen Guise
Published: June 4th, 2015
Imperfection is a new way to self-acceptance and fearlessness. Imperfectionists are not afraid of making mistakes; they know that it happens all the time, so why stress out over it? When you make a mistake, acknowledge what happened, learn from it and move on with your life. Making this choice is lovely because you can do whatever you want without feeling like something is holding you back! Especially who is holding you back is usually yourself.
So, the whole point of being an "imperfectionist" is knowing that everyone makes mistakes sometimes and learning how to let go of those past feelings of failure. Guise does a great job of intertwining these lessons with an evidence-based way to modify your behavior quickly and easily, even if you do it in a perfectly "imperfect" way! Guise has written numerous books on self-help, so feel free to check out his others.
28. The Resiliency Effect: How to Own Your Adversity to Act on Your Biggest Dreams
Written by: Cady North
Have you ever felt like life is just too hard, and it's never going to get better? That your problems are never going away, no matter how many times you try to solve them? You're not alone. Most people go through this at some point in their lives. But what happens when we feel stuck and can't seem to move forward with our lives - especially after a challenging event or period? The Resiliency Effect: How to Own Your Adversity is the answer.
This book provides practical advice for handling adversity in an actionable way that will allow you to take back control of your life without feeling overwhelmed or defeated. We truly love that this book focuses on career changes, financial ideas and information, and when to take a break from it all. Most of the stories are based on women.
29. Feeling Great: The Revolutionary New Treatment for Depression and Anxiety
Written by: David Burns
It is utterly impossible to have a list of the best self-help books without including this one. Aram used to be a psychotherapist and used this book extensively with his clients. Explicitly based on studies and evidence-based data, Dr. Burns gives you the ability to truly change your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to make you so much more powerful than you could ever imagine.
We love this book since there is so much information included in it. These include charts, graphs, forms, and more to help you focus on what you want to change and how you want to do it. Feeling Great is a beautiful book because it doesn't judge you or make you feel less than others, and it simply gives you precisely what you need to surpass your expectations of yourself. Dr. Burns has other books, including one on anxiety and one for couples, that you might enjoy also.
>> More books on coping and learning about mental illness
>> Additional books about depression
30. The Gap and The Gain: The High Achievers' Guide to Happiness, Confidence, and Success
Written by: Benjamin Hardy and Dan Sullivan
The GAP and the GAIN is a concept created by Dr. Benjamin Hardy and Dan Sullivan, who has an over 35-year career as coaching professionals. This concept has been applied to business, sports, education, relationships, and more. Their book goes into great depth, describing this powerful idea. In short, the GAP refers to a situation where you are doing less than what you are capable of in your mind.
Meanwhile, there is the GAIN: This is where you look back and see all the improvements that you have made before, and then pat yourself on the back as you get ready to move forward. We love that there is also a third option which they call Staying Even - not improving but also not slipping backward either. Why do we love this? Because sometimes, you need a break, which can help you burn out or overthink issues.
There are charts and forms in this book that will help you focus on ignoring the gap, seeing the gain, and staying even for a bit if you need it to recharge. No matter what, you can always look back and see what you've overcome…that is proof alone that you have jumped the GAIN.
31. This Book Will Make You Dangerous: The Irreverent Guide for Men Who Refuse to Settle
Written by: Tripp Lanier
This book is a guide to the world of entrepreneurship. Author Tripp Lanier provides insight into how anyone can become an entrepreneur and why it's essential for everyone to do so. Lanier breaks down the idea of what it means to be an entrepreneur with clarity using his personal experience and research from other sources.
His writing style is lighthearted and conversational but still manages to cover many topics in-depth that most people would not think about when they hear the word "entrepreneur."
Whether you are just thinking about becoming an entrepreneur or have been one for years, this book has something for everyone interested in business. And even though the title suggests it is only for men, it is pretty humorous about it and what being a man means in our society. Anyone who reads this book will learn from it while also laughing at it.
32. Unbeatable Mind: Forge Resiliency and Mental Toughness to Succeed at an Elite Level
Written by: Mark Divine
Unbeatable Mind is a book that teaches you how to overcome any obstacle in life. When faced with adversity, it can be easy to get down on yourself and give up. But this book shows the reader how they can turn their misfortunes into strengths by using his teachings of mental toughness. He speaks about overcoming fear, pain, fatigue, and other obstacles in life through training the mind through meditation and visualization exercises. The author's purpose for writing this book was to share what he has learned throughout his military career so anyone can succeed in life!
The Unbeatable Mind provides readers with valuable strategies for success by teaching them how to build psychological strength. This book will help you become a master of your craft and a warrior that can take on anyone. This is especially true since Mark Divine was a member of the US SEALS and has helped thousands to realize their full potential either in the SEALFIT academies or just by reading this book and being inspired.
33. Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not!
Written by: Robert T. Kiyosaki
Published: April 7th, 2009 (Originally Published in 1997)
Do you want to be rich? This book will show you how. It's not about having a lot of money but about being wealthy. One kind of wealth is earned income-salary or wages; for example, the other is passive income-interest on investments, rent from real estate holdings.
The author uses his personal story to teach us that there are two kinds of people in this world: those who work hard their whole life and end up poor, and those who work smart and can enjoy financial freedom by investing in themselves first.
We love that you get to choose what matters most to you and that being rich isn't the end all be all to your existence or happiness. It also explains a lot of financial terms that you have heard but not understood before, and this will give you a head start on seeing how to make your economic life much more profitable. Rich Dad Poor Dad teaches readers how they achieve their dreams without sacrificing themselves.
34. Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance
Written by: Angela Duckworth
Published: May 3rd, 2016
Do you know the difference between talent and skill? Some people are talented at doing things and skillful in their ability to do them. However, sometimes they don't try or give up when they fail at first. This book focuses on how one can develop grit or passion and perseverance for long-term goals.
The author shares her insights from being a professor of psychology at the University of Pennsylvania. She also shares stories about people she has met who have developed grit through hard work and determination despite difficult circumstances.
Grit is not limited to an individual's natural abilities; anyone with the right mindset can learn it. It is up to us whether we want our lives to be filled with passion or mediocrity, so read this book if you want to know how!
35. Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time
Written by: Brian Tracy
Okay, we'll be the first to admit the title is a little strange. However, it comes from an old saying that if you eat a frog first thing in the morning, it will be the worst thing that happens the rest of the day. So, what does that have to do with self-help?
This book is designed to help you write a better "to-do list," which makes the worst part the first part. Then everything else looks easy as you move through the rest of your day. It has 21 strategies to help readers focus on their most important tasks, among other things. This book can be beneficial for anyone who is looking to improve their productivity.
The author of the book, Brian Tracy, is an expert on personal growth and success stories. He has written several books about leadership and management skills which are also very helpful when increasing your overall performance at work or school. So, if you're interested in improving your productivity, then this might be the right read for you.
36. Health at Every Size: The Surprising Truth About Your Weight
Written by: Linda Bacon
You might have heard that a healthy weight for your body is a BMI of 18.5-24.9, but did you know that many people who are classified as overweight or obese by their BMI live longer? This means there's more to health than just what the scale shows you.
In her book Health at Every Size: The Surprising Truth About Your Weight, Linda Bacon discusses this phenomenon and explains how commercial interests have distorted our understanding of obesity.
She also makes a case for adopting an approach to eating and exercise that lets you be happy and healthy and focuses on well-being rather than weight loss. I highly recommend reading it if you're interested in learning more about how much we've been misled about dieting. Not only is this book based on emotional responses to this issue, but she also uses evidence-based research to back it up.
37. Come as You Are: The Surprising New Science that Will Transform Your Sex Life
Written by: Emily Nagoski, PhD
Published: March 3rd, 2015
This is an excellent read for anyone who has ever wondered about their sex life. As an educator and sexuality researcher, Nagoski's writing style makes it easy to understand the science behind our sexual experiences. This book is also perfect for those who are not comfortable talking openly about sex and want to learn more in a non-judgmental way that will help them feel more confident when expressing themselves sexually with others or alone. Her insights into how the mind, body, and everything else has to fit for us to feel safe are perfect.
Suppose you have been feeling self-conscious or anxious about your own sexual experience. In that case, this book will give you the tools needed to work through any issues you may be having while learning how to make your subsequent encounter even more fulfilling. It doesn't matter what gender you are since this book applies to anyone who wants to enjoy their and their partner's sex life to the fullest.
38. Can't Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds
Written by: David Goggins
David Goggins is a retired Navy SEAL and former USAF Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) operator known for his athletic achievements, most notably completing over 4,000 pull-ups done in 24 hours. He has completed numerous endurance races, including multiple ultra-marathons on all seven continents, triathlons, mountain climbing feats, and an Ironman Triathlon. During these events, he has had severely broken bones, pneumonia, liver failure, and more. However, he refused to give up and just kept pushing himself harder and harder.
In his book Can't Hurt Me, he describes how he learned to push himself beyond what was thought possible by anyone through mental conditioning using meditation techniques. These tools, among others, allowed him to break down any barriers holding him back from achieving success in any area of life.
39. Year of Yes
written by: Shonda Rhimes
Shonda Rhimes is one of the most successful TV producers and writers. She has created many hit television shows such as Grey's Anatomy and Scandal. However, no matter how successful she was, she still didn't feel like she was entirely in control of her life. Her sister mentioned to her that "You never say yes!" at a dinner one night. So, what did she do? She decided that she'd say yes to everything, no matter how much it scared her, and see how strong she was physically and mentally.
In this book, she talks about how to say yes, which was a challenge for her. This book gives tips on overcoming your fears, embracing new things, and being confident in yourself. She chronicles how she was a shy nerd when she was young and has become the strong African American woman she is now. If you do not like to try new things or step out of your comfort zone, this book will help you do that by advising Shonda herself!
40. 10% Happier Revised Edition: How I Tamed the Voice in My Head, Reduced Stress Without Losing My Edge, and Found Self-Help That Actually Works--A True Story
Written by: Dan Harris
Dan Harris, a news anchor for ABC and author of this book, is not your average spiritual guru. With his short temper and raspy voice, he is the last person you would expect to find meditating in an ashram in India. His book recounts the journey that led him there—and how meditation helped him stay there.
In this memoir-meets-self-help book, Harris writes about his life before and after meditation: from growing up as a troublemaker on Long Island to becoming addicted to drugs to reporting live from Iraq on national television at age 28 to almost dying due to an on-air panic attack. He also explores the science behind mindfulness and its effects on our brains, emotions, and behaviors that have helped him overcome these issues.
Interestingly enough, he wrote a follow-up book, Hoist on My Own Petard, which had had to relearn everything he thought he had mastered when this book made him even more famous.
41. The Art of Happiness: A Handbook for Living
Written by: The Dalai Lama
Published: October 1st, 2009 (Originally Published in 1998 )
This book is filled with Buddhist teachings and insights on how we can find true happiness. This book was written by the Dalai Lama himself, who has spent his life searching for answers to questions about what makes humans truly happy. The Dalai Lama says that he wrote this book to share his wisdom with others so that they too may be able to live happier lives.
He discusses many different things in this book, including how your mind determines whether you are happy, and offers practical tips on achieving happiness in all aspects of your life. One of the reasons we love this book so much is that there isn't any need to be spiritual or religious to enjoy it.
You can slowly work your way through it and see how it applies to your life and how you can change your circumstances. If you've seen the Dalai Lama on tv, you know how happy he is; this book will show you how to move towards that beautiful way of life. It was initially published in 1998, and it has been updated.
42. MONEY Master the Game: 7 Simple Steps to Financial Freedom
Written by: Tony Robbins
It is almost impossible to choose the "right" Tony Robbins book since he has so many, and they are all amazing. So, we decided we'd start with the one that he is most famous for here. And if you don't know who Tony Robbins is, you will want to read this book!
Money is a sensitive subject for most people. We all want more of it but don't know how to get it or what to do with it when we have it. That's why the book MONEY Master the Game is so important. It breaks down money in an easy-to-understand way and advises making money work for you, not against you. The 7 Steps are clear and concise, making them easier to follow than other financial books with complicated formulas that take time to figure out!
This book is perfect for someone who wants more control over their finances or feels like they're drowning in debt because they've spent beyond their means. It is ideal if you think your finances are the best since Robbins always has something special no matter how much you know. You will want to check out his other books once you read this one.
43. Whatcha Gonna Do With That Duck?: And Other Provocations, 2006-2012
Written by: Seth Godin
Published: December 31st, 2012
This book is more than just basic self-help; it is about how to be creative and productive. This book is a bit different from the others since it is taken from his blog. He put together over six years of his favorite quotes and comments and uses them to help us see so much more for us out there.
The author uses his personal stories to show how he got started in the business world and what it was like. This book talks about overcoming obstacles, being different, making mistakes, failing, being criticized, etc. The author also gives examples of many successful creative geniuses who have done amazing things using creativity as an advantage throughout their lifetime.
This book is a lot of fun because he has a sense of humor, is sarcastic, and isn't afraid to make statements that others may not even think about. If you enjoy this one, Godin has almost 15 other books for you to check out!
44. Tiny Beautiful Things: Advice on Love and Life from Dear Sugar
written by: Cheryl Strayed
Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed is a compilation of letters from her column "Dear Sugar," published weekly on The Rumpus, an online magazine. The book details the author's own experiences with love and loss while offering advice to others in similar situations.
Although much of the advice given in this book may be surprising and evocative, her responses are provided in a very loving format, and you can see that Strayed only wants the best for everyone. Reading them, it is easy to understand why her column was so popular and why she ended up writing two other books in this series. One of them, Wild, includes her deciding, without any prior training, to hike the Pacific Crest Trail after her life had fallen apart at age 22.
45. Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less
Written by: Greg McKeown
"I am a recovering perfectionist," says Greg McKeown, and he should know. A former Silicon Valley executive for Apple and Sony, McKeown learned firsthand the negative impact of striving for too much at once. In his book Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less, McKeown guides readers through how to focus on what is essential in their lives while still maintaining balance by saying no to other opportunities that would only distract from their goals.
And this isn't just another one of those "get-things-done" books; it's an insightful read with practical tools and techniques that can be applied immediately. When you learn how to pursue less, you'll get precisely what you want, with less work and more joy because you aren't wasting time, energy, or money on the wrong things.
46. The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing
Written by: Marie Kondo
Simply stated, this is a book that will change your life. Pretty much everyone has heard of Marie Kondo at this point since she has become the face of decluttering your home and life. So, if you are looking for an easy way to declutter, this is the perfect resource for you.
With step-by-step instructions and personal stories to help motivate you, this book provides all the information needed to get started on living in a more organized space. You'll learn how to fold clothes properly, determine what items bring you joy, and much more!
This book has helped millions of people worldwide become rid of the clutter once and for all. Not only is it wonderful to live in a calm and quiet home, but you also can give away much of what you no longer want to shelter or to others in need. It is a beautiful way to help yourself and the world at the same time.
47. Thinking, Fast and Slow
Written by: Daniel Kahneman
Daniel Kahneman's book, Thinking, Fast and Slow, is a fascinating look into the mind of the human psyche. He breaks down how we think about decisions by looking at two systems constantly battling for control: System 1 (quick and intuitive) and System 2 (slow and logical).
System 1 runs on intuition and quick thinking. It's fast, but it tends to make mistakes because information may not be processed correctly or at all. System 2 processes information more deliberately but takes longer than system one; it can't work as quickly, so it needs to be actively engaged to do something.
The battle between these two systems is where our decision-making process comes from. Our gut instinct tells us what feels right, while logic tells us another. This book will help you slow down, measure what is suitable for you in the long run and react correctly to events or issues that come up at that moment.
48. Think Like a Monk: Train Your Mind for Peace and Purpose Every Day
Written by: Jay Shetty
Jay Shetty is more than just your average guru; he is an actual guru! Instead of being a doctor or lawyer, as his parents wanted, he moved to India and started meditating 4 to 8 hours a day as a monk. However, the sect leader told him to go back to the general world to make a difference there. He has now become one of the most powerful social media influencers and has changed the lives of millions upon millions of people.
He goes over how mindfulness can be used to create positive change in all aspects of our lives. He talks about how we get attached to specific ideas and become blindsided by them without even knowing them. This book will teach you how mindfulness can help you let go of these attachments through meditation. It is rather remarkable to follow his story and see how it applies to yours, even though it may seem as if you have nothing in common.
49. Get Your Sh*t Together: The New York Times Bestseller (A No F*cks Given Guide)
Written by: Sarah Knight
Being that Jay Sheety is a guru, Knight has been nick-named the "Anti-guru." The title of this book is exactly what it sounds like. It's about getting your sh*t together and making life work for you, not the other way around.
Sarah Knight has written a few books on productivity and time management, but it is different because it's more personal than professional. Her most recent book gets honest about productively approaching life without taking yourself too seriously or letting others make you feel guilty for wanting to be happy and healthy, both physically and mentally.
She doesn't want anyone else to tell you how much sleep you need or whether or not going out with friends is worth the extra hour of sleep that could have gone into your day today because those people aren't you, and only you know how to get your sh*t together. If you enjoy this book, we'd suggest checking out her TED Talk, as it is utterly hilarious.
50. 365 Questions, One Page Per Day: A One Year Self-Discovery Journal
Written by: 21 Exercises
365 Questions, One Page Per Day: A One Year Self-Discovery Journal is a journal that allows you to answer one question every day for 365 days. The questions range from easy to hard and will give you insight into how your mind works. This book would be great for anyone who wants to learn more about themselves or simply likes writing down their thoughts every day.
By using this journal, you can get in touch with yourself on a deeper level than ever before! You'll have the chance to write down whatever comes into your head each day and see what happens when it's written down - whether good or bad; happy or sad; lighthearted or serious; insightful, inspiring, thought-provoking...you name it! Whatever emotions come each day, just write them down and don't judge yourself.
Additional Self-Help Books to Read
Best Pregnancy Books for Dads
Books about Bipolar Disorder
Books by author John C. Maxwell


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Ford Dumps In-Dash CD
FORD DUMPS SOME CD PLAYERS: Ford is set to ditch its in-dash CD player in future automobiles. "In-car entertainment technology is moving digital more rapidly than almost any other element of the vehicle experience," said Sheryl Connelly, global trends and futuring manager at Ford Motor Company. "The in-car CD player—much like pay telephones—is destined to fade away in the face of exciting new technology." The company's Focus will be the first model to go CD-free, part of a move towards integrated smartphone, USB and MP3-focused support. Ford has been pushing in-dash digital entertainment integrations through its SYNC system for some time, a shift that includes touchscreen support for apps like Pandora. Not every model is going CD-free immediately, though. "Ford will obviously continue to offer CD players while there is demand," said Ford multimedia manager Ralf Brosig. "However, over time we expect customer preferences will lead us quickly into an all-digital approach to in-car audio entertainment." (7/26a)

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Matthew Taylor Mellon passes away while battling addiction at rehab
Matthew Taylor Mellon, the chairman of the New York Republican Party's Finance Committee, passed away at the age of 53 while seeking treatment for his addiction at the rehab centre on April 16, 2018. The representative of the former husband of Jimmy Choo founder Tamara Mellon, confirmed that the billionaire businessman passed away while he was seeking treatment at a centre at Mexico.
The representative stated, "Billionaire Matthew Mellon, 53, died suddenly in Cancun, Mexico, where he was attending a drug rehabilitation facility. Mellon made his fortune in cryptocurrency, turning a $2 million investment into $1 billion. He is survived by his three children, Force, Olympia and Minty. The family asks that their privacy be respected at this very painful time." The news was also confirmed by his cousin Peter Stephaich, while talking to a leading daily but did not divulge more details.
Matthew has come out in open about his addiction to Oxycontin in 2016 in an interview with a leading daily. Mellon had then told the media, "The doctors kept writing prescriptions like they were Smarties. It's very irresponsible". The chairman of the finance committee then added that Oxycontin is like illegal heroin and needs to be addressed. Matthew Taylor Mellon had made a fortune when he inherited $25 million at the age of 21. The inheritance had come as a shock as his mother had always maintained that they were not from a well-to-do family.
In recent times Mellon had made a fortune out of the cryptocurrency Ripple. During the late 90s, Mellon had become a fixture at the London fashion scene and had moved to UK after he fell in love with the British shoe designer Tamara Yeardye. Tamara and Mellon had met during the Narcotics Anonymous. Tamara was the daughter of Tom Yeardye, who was a stuntman who made millions while developing the Vidal Sassoon line of hair products.
Photo Credits: Alchetron
Matthew Taylor Mellon
Matthew Taylor Mellon addiction
Matthew Taylor Mellon death
Matthew Taylor Mellon oxycontin
Matthew Taylor Mellon rehab


Now that the hype cycle has almost reached full circle, we're seeing a trend away from "unregulated" tokens and ICOs.
ASIC has recently stopped a number of retail initial coin offerings and token generation events (ICOs), has taken action in respect of a completed ICO and has even issued a stop order on a PDS for a crypto fund.
So it's wise to get advice at the outset. It's also a good idea to speak to ASIC directly, even if the tokens in which you deal aren't financial products as ASIC is now responsible for all ICOs and businesses dealing in crypto assets.
Exchanges who list the token will need a financial markets licence.


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by General News
Do Estate Agents hold the key to conveyancing reform?
This was one of the many hot topics debated by a group of industry figures at a key event on the professional calendar earlier this week. Despite train issues and a mini heatwave, a group of leading conveyancers met on Monday at the 2nd Today's Conveyancer Round Table; representing firms as big as My Home Move and Beaumont Legal, the 17 individuals in attendance were keen to discuss key issues facing the industry, reflected in the interesting thoughts and conclusions raised.
Chairing the event was our MD Chris Harris, who began by asking what the biggest issues facing the conveyancing market were. Unlike the first roundtable that clearly identified fraud as the key issue, the conveyancing attendees identified other areas which were challenging the profession at present.
Some key themes emerged, with Scott Mulligan of Thorneycroft Solicitors getting the ball rolling, stating that the biggest issues he felt were those relating to improving the customer experience, which could potentially be achieved by conveyancers working better together.
Others like Fiaz Khalid from LPL and Janine Edwards from Watkins & Gunn talked about the quality of conveyancers generally not being good enough.
Charlotte Local of Enact called for property passports to collate data ahead of the transaction to ensure they run smoothly.
The main themes were a shortage of well-trained lawyers, as well as an increase in additional obligations being placed on conveyancers such as enforcing tax, money laundering or fraud prevention.
The Roundtable began by focussing on a topical issue which saturated conveyancing headlines last week. The Court of Appeal handed down their long-awaited judgment on the Dreamvar case, concluding that there was liability on both sides following an incident of fraud.
A key point of contention was what this would mean for conveyancers when it came to checking the identity of the vendor. Tom Bridge of Keoghs Conveyancing emphasised that these cases shouldn't have happened in the first place, with others agreeing, putting it down to a lack of education on the part of the firm and ensuring that it doesn't happen again.
Helen Thorne from Slater & Gordon suggested that a greater onus should be placed on the estate agent who is selling the property on behalf of the fraudulent seller, and that to decide to place liability on whichever party has the best insurance cover is fundamentally wrong.
In relation to identity checks, Richard Mathias of Law Firm Services stated that there tends to be a divide amongst professionals, with one half demanding that the client come to see them in person. As highlighted by Tom, however, this is not to say that the chance of fraud is diminished, particularly in cases where a firm is less up to date. Fiaz agreed, stating that the level of sophistication used among fraudsters means that deciphering when ID is not genuine is becoming an ever more demanding task.
Tom suggested that there was potential for providers of indemnity insurer's to "jump on the bandwagon", predicting that a 'buyer's fraud protection' policy could be introduced. He expressed his concerns that this could simply be wrapped up in a package with searches, which would be seen as a cash cow by insurers, particularly as the risk is so small.
Chris then drew attention to the two emerging schools of thought; whilst one set out to start afresh and come up with a much slicker approach and process, the other remained traditional, with a view that overcoming challenge is what underpins the very nature of the profession.
In relation to Local Searches, Richard highlighted the importance of information rather than insurance, and whilst a number of attendees questioned the necessity of the current extent of searches, Richard made it clear that in cases where a problem emerges later down the line, the buyer would rather have the facts at the outset than have to rely on an insurance policy.
Charlotte agreed, stating that rather than with the information itself, the problems lay with the speed at which it was made accessible. She stated that the key would be to provide a greater amount of information up front, as opposed to playing a waiting game of to-ing and fro-ing with the other side. Whilst the suggestion that something similar to Home Information Packs was not dismissed, Tom stated that this relied on mandate; without this, he stated, people would find ways to work around it.
Taking this further, he went on to say that before a property is able to be placed on the market, a certain amount of relevant information should be made available upfront.
The conversation then turned to the importance of developing and maintaining strong relationships with estate agents, and the impact this can have on the provision of information. Helen Bartlam of Davisons Solicitors highlighted that issues can arise when not dealing with the preferred agent, largely because there may be a lack of awareness around the extent of a conveyancer's role and the respect that may otherwise come with that. She went on to mention the need for education, and the need for this to extend to all parties involved in the process.
Expanding on this point was Rob Gurney of Premier Property Lawyers. Taking the importance of education one step further, he suggested that a similar approach should be taken in terms of communication and that the industry should be working collectively towards eliminating – or drastically reducing – the number of additional enquiries raised by the buyer.
Acting for both sides of the transaction was then mentioned as a possible way to speed up the process, with Rob stating that whilst it can reduce delays, it's important to remember that there is a process to go through, and not to get complacent. Expanding on the for increased education across all parties, Chris then asked what the key issues attendees felt were having the most impact on the industry, citing delays as a point raised previously. Among the causes for this were a lack of conveyancers and a compromise on quality, with each party having their own agenda.
A number of attendees highlighted the growing complexity of transactions being a cause of delay, particularly in terms of gifted deposits and long chains.
Next, HM Land Registry's Eddie Davies discussed the organisation's steps toward innovation and their 5 year transformation strategy, with a focus on digital mortgage deeds and e-signatures.
Having been involved herself, Charlotte was asked about her opinions on the process; whilst she said it had taken over three years, the delays were predominantly down to the initial legislative barriers, with all consumer feedback so far being positive.
Eddie mentioned development had been longer than hoped but that the project had dealt with many tricky subjects such as: legacy integration, building new digital platforms, integrating with shared Government services (Gov.UK Verify) and securing Ministerial approval to cover contingent liability needs.
Chris highlighted that the number of steps involved in the remortgage process is declining, questioning whether in some cases, lenders could move the process in-house.
In response, whilst Charlotte highlighted that the remortgage process can be streamlined in certain instances, there are still absolutely complexities within the process that cannot be ignored and require a conveyancing skillset.
Eddie the touched on the value checks completed by conveyancers in terms of sale and purchase, highlighting the risk-based decisions which technology unrelated to HMLR can make. He drew attention to HMLRs ground-breaking research and development project Digital Street, and the movement towards the digitisation of the Land Register, improving the accessibility of information. In terms of automating the related decision-making, he stated that given the scale of the data and the nature of many of the documents, not to mention the complexity of some of the decisions needed in conveyancing, there is still a long way to go.
Whilst attendees praised the steps being taken by the Land Registry, the general feeling was that the industry is a long way off seeing the real impact of the changes. Whilst the digital process may be appealing to some clients, concerns were raised that some could be fearful of conducting something so important online. Where liability was concerned, Tom suggested that should HMLR accept liability when Verify was used, conveyancers may feel much more inclined to use it. However, given that conveyancers are equipped with personal indemnity insurance, he highlighted that this will instead rest on their shoulders of the industry.
Investigating the source of funds was also mentioned as part of the process which, whilst necessary, could cause delays and confusion among clients. Fiaz suggested that the responsibility for this, particularly when there are red flags, should be left to the banks.
Chris then returned to the issue of representation, questioning whether there was a demand or need for an alternative body, given the scale and fragmentation of the industry.
Tom highlighted that, given that organisations such as the Conveyancing Association and Bold Legal Group have a core focus, they are likely to gain more traction over time than other organisations who have limited resources.
Key players in the estate agent market were also mentioned, with the pressure that they, in turn, place upon the profession. Perhaps most surprising was the feeling that this power that they hold, in terms of the early point at which they speak to the consumer, could be used to improve the conveyancing profession for the better. This related to upfront information in particular; why would an agent not want to positively contribute to something which would speed up the transaction? This is made even more appealing by the precious nature of sales, with attendees agreeing that something which would secure this at an earlier stage is likely to be embraced by agents.
However, the dependency of this working relies on the client wanting to complete that information at an early stage, even before they've had a confirmed offer. The biggest impact, as stressed by Rob, is likely to be made where the property specific aspects are concerned, which will go on to form part of the enquiry process. Returning to his point about communication, he stated that the current belief among many estate agents is that lawyers enjoy the enquiries process; an assumption which he stressed to be far from the truth.
If there were genuinely no enquiries to raise because all the information and documentation needed was already in place, it would make the job of the buyer's lawyer so much easier. For example, if the seller knows that a property has been altered or had checks done, this information should be provided upfront as opposed to having to wait until the process is well underway, avoiding transactions becoming bogged down.
This, he said, is potentially within the gift of the industry to make happen.
If you're interested in attending one of our future Roundtables, please email [email protected]
Mike Bowen
Very funny PPL are the worst at raising standard enquiries that a buyer could ascertain by inspection
Price Transparency's Three Key Touch Points
Improvements Needed To Health And Well-Being In The Legal Sector
Inaugural Roundtable confirms changing market