Books to Read This Year
With so many of us looking at our phones rather than text in a book, one of my goals for the year is to read more. Reading not only expands our creativity, it invites new ways of thinking and operating in the world. It challenges us to consider alternative perspectives, it integrates humor, and it helps us slow down from this fast-paced life.So today I’m sharing 12 reads that I recommend. I would love for you to share your book ideas in the comments as well!
January: Better Than Before: Mastering the Habits of Our Everyday Lives Author: Gretchen Rubin This is a great read as we start the new year. So many of us set resolutions and whether or not you are setting goals this time of year, understanding how you develop habits is essential. Rubin offers personalized assessments that help you learn how you habit-form.
February: The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work: A Practical Guide from the Country’s Foremost Relationship Expert Author: John M. Gottman, Ph.D.I always think of February as the month of love. Perhaps because of Valentine’s Day and because it’s my birthday month, hearts come to mind. I love offering couples therapy and I recommend this book on a regular basis. Whether you’re a newlywed, you’ve been married for several years, or you’ve never been married, I think the relationship recommendations of Dr. Gottman are on point. Especially when it comes to how couples fight, you’ll learn how to argue more effectively and how to work for your relationship.
March: Authentic Happiness: Using the New Positive Psychology to Realize Your Potential for Lasting Fulfillment Author: Martin Seligman, Ph.D. Since March 20th is National Happiness Day, I’m recommending this read. I’ve read a lot of books on happiness and found this one to be poignant. I love how Seligman includes many self-assessments to apply your learning. The way he differentiates between talents and traits was fascinating. Seligman is the king of Positive Psychology so if you’re into fostering optimism, this is a read for you.
April: Name Your Story: How to Talk Openly about Mental Health While Embracing Wellness Author: Lauren Cook, Psy.D. Of course I’m inviting you to read my latest publication! As I celebrate the three year anniversary of it’s publication, I am really proud of this book. Readers have told me that it’s been a helpful tool as they learn more about their mental health. People have also told me that it’s help them start uncomfortable conversations about mental health, whether they’ve been struggling or they’re concerned about someone else.
May: Personality Types: Using the Enneagram for Self-Discovery Authors: Don Richardson Riso and Russ Hudson I’ve recommended the Enneagram to so many. I’m often skeptical of personality based assessment but I found this tool to be instrumental in my life. Not only did it give a framework to my own way of being in the world, it helped me better understand those around me. What I love best about this book is that it defines when each personality is operating from a healthy or unhealthy place. A must read, in my opinion.
June: Less: A Novel Author: Andrew Sean Greer A Pulitzer Prize winner, so many people recommended this book to me. I can’t say that I actually loved it, but I can see how so many others would. If you love traveling and have a sharp sense of humor, you’ll likely enjoy this read. I think it’s always good to read books that receive acclaim to see what the hype is about. You can read it for yourself and decide what you think!
July: Essential Australia Author: Any travel company! I think everyone should pick up a travel book to a favorite destination at least once a year. Even if you can’t visit, it’s wonderful to learn about the geography and culture of another place. I’ve been wanting to go to Australia for quite awhile so that’s next on my list. Where are you hoping to visit this year?
August: The Happiness Advantage: The Seven Principles of Positive Psychology that Fuel Success and Performance at WorkAuthor: Shawn Achor Hailing from Harvard, Achor’s research on happiness, particularly within the work environment, is fascinating. He noted tools that I have integrated into my daily work (especially the emphasis on gratitude). I’d recommend this read if you’re starting a new job or beginning school. Better yet, if you are struggling in your work or academic environment, read this to improve the situation.
September: 10 Mindful Minutes Authors: Goldie Hawn and Wendy Holden I keep coming back to this book time and time again. It’s such a great introduction to mindfulness and makes the case for how just ten minutes of mindful practice can make a difference. Integrating mindfulness can create such change in our lives—healthier immune systems, slower to anger, and increased optimism. I love Goldie Hawn’s perspective on integrating mindfulness in all areas of life.
October: Beautiful Boy: A Father’s Journey Through His Son’s Addiction Author: David Sheff October is National Substance Abuse Prevention Month. Beautiful Boy is such an outstanding portrayal of how drugs not only impact an individual, but a family unit. This is written from the father’s perspective and it’s a harrowing page turner. His son also wrote a book as well to share his experience as well. Of course, this book was turned into a movie but I think the book is just as interesting.
November: Craig & Fred: A Marine, A Stray Dog, and How They Rescued Each Other Author: Craig Grossi In honor of Veteran’s Day, I can’t recommend this read enough. Telling the harrowing tale of his time in Afghanistan, Craig Grossi shares how a stray dog in the Sangin desert helped cope, both during his deployment and afterward. It’s rare that a book brings me to tears, but this one did. An excellent reminder of how animals can bring us joy, hope, and resilience, Craig and Fred’s bond will inspire you.
December: Winter StreetAuthor: Elin Hilderbrand In December, I love to curl up with an easier read. It’s fun to get lost in a simple story—and better yet, one that is festive! I love the entire Winter Street series as it follows a family in Nantucket during the holiday season. Whether you need a little escape from your own holiday madness or you’re looking for something to enjoy while cozying up by the fire, this is a great read. Looking forward to hearing your reads for the year!Keep shining,
