5 Books That Changed My Life
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I get asked about my favorite books a lot, and I have a handful that I find myself referencing again and again. Here’s my quick roundup of the 5 books that have impacted me the most.
Roadtrip Nation
My dad got me this book before I started college and it inspired me to think outside the box and create my own unconventional career path. The book consists of brief interviews with 140 people who have successfully defined their own paths in life—including a lobsterman from Maine; the director of Saturday Night Live; the conductor of the Boston Philharmonic; the first female Supreme Court Justice of the United States; head stylist for Madonna; and the CEO of National Geographic Ventures. Great for a little boost of creative inspiration anytime you need it.
The Four Agreements
Don Miguel Ruiz reveals the source of self-limiting beliefs that create needless suffering and gives practical guidance for a more joyful and authentic life. This bestselling book is a super quick read (or 2.5 hour audio listen), and I find myself returning to it again and again. The teachings are based on ancient Toltec wisdom, and while the four lessons may seem obvious (don’t take anything personally, be impeccable with your word, don’t make assumptions, and always do your best), they’re incredibly powerful when actually integrated and applied to your life.
The Compound Effect
As they say: It’s the little things. This was the book that taught me It’s small, smart, consistent action that leads to lasting impact and transformation. Darren Hardy shares compelling stories of transformation as well as the core principles and strategies that drive success. He also teaches real, lasting keys to motivation, and how to get yourself to do things you don't feel like doing. It’s an easy, motivational read that packs a major punch.
Essentialism
Author Greg McKeown describes essentialism as “the disciplined pursuit of less,” and I am here for it! The book outlines a process for discerning what is absolutely essential and eliminating everything that is not, so we can allocate our resources toward the things that really matter. Ok, yes! If you’re looking to reclaim your time and cut the clutter - this one’s for you. As McKeown says, “It isn’t about getting more done in less time, it’s about getting only the right things done.”
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I picked this one up at my local bookshop because the cover design caught my eye. I’ve since (stalked?) befriended the author, Julio Vincent Gambuto, because I loved it so much and we share so much overlap in our work. This book is sharp, witty, and boldly subversive. It offers readers over 100 practical and tactical strategies for reclaiming time and energy, and saying a defiant NO to all the noise that’s in the way.
I’d love to know: which books have made a huge impact on your life? Please share in the comments below.
Minimalist Moms Podcast - I’m talking with host Diane Boden about common organizing pitfalls, living with kids, sustainable solutions, and more.
Imprint Podcast - Natalie Walton and I discuss everything from business strategy to goal setting to my new book Organized Living.
A Pleasant Solution - Organization as a form of self care and how to banish the shame game with Amelia Pleasant Kennedy.
🎧 Unf*ck Your Brain - Shedding expectations, shame, and clutter. A conversation with master life coach Kara Lowentheil.
New features on some of my favorite Substacks below. Take a read:
Pulling the Thread: The Promise of an Organized Life
Living Small: 7 little lessons for organized living
