Reading is one of my all-time favourite things to do. Whether it’s fiction or non-fiction, I’m always reading two to four books at the same time. Yes, I know, this is not recommended, and in theory, I agree with that. But there are so many amazing books out there and I can’t help but share my top three inspirational books to read this October.
I always share snippets from books I’m reading with Angie so when she asked if I would like to write a post about my top 3 inspirational books, I started writing almost right away. Some things are too good not to share!
And as to why I read two to four books at a time? Firstly, I love reading. I believe that I need to be focused and fresh to absorb all the wisdom I can from inspirational books. I read these when I have time to focus. On the other hand, when I read in bed or at the beach, I prefer to read easy novels. Therefore, I always have two to four books going at a time.
Because Angie and I were talking about motivation and inspirational books, I decided that is what I would share for October. Here it is, my top three inspirational books this month!
1. Everything is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo
The core message of this book is clear and simple: Believe that Everything is Figureoutable and you will be unstoppable. Marie helps you see what your current (limiting) beliefs are and how to tackle or change them. How to define your dream (life) and make it about more than just you, as that will help you to stick with it. Lastly, she discusses how to start before you’re ready and how to focus on progress, not perfection.
The Insight to Action questions at the end of each chapter will challenge your thinking and put into practice what you just read. Don’t be fooled – some of these questions are pretty tough and it’s obviously up to you how deep you want to go on each topic and with that what changes you want to make.
I love Marie’s conversational, enthusiastic, no bullshit, personal writing style. If you’re looking for a hands-on book that gets you thinking and really ‘forces’ you to make changes, then this is your book.
Get this book on Amazon – CLICK BELOW:
2. Girl, Stop Apologizing by Rachel Hollis
This book starts with nine excuses we (women) give ourselves as reasons why we don’t live the life we want. Rachel talks about them in a very honest, down to earth and sometimes embarrassing way, which makes it super relatable and funny. After going through these excuses, she outlines behaviours to adapt and skills to acquire to combat the excuses we create.
I especially love her 10-10-1 strategy roadmap. Dream about your life 10 years from now, create 10 dreams from that life and choose 1 to focus on and make that your goal. Yes, only one! This exercise really helped me to see the big picture of what I’m working towards in the long run, while getting a crystal-clear roadmap on what to focus on right now to reach that one goal.
If you want a book that doesn’t sugarcoat things and acts as a mirror to show you what excuses you’ve accepted as your truth, then this is your book.
Get this book on Amazon – CLICK BELOW:
3. Help Me! By Marianne Power
After reading lots of self-development books over the years without seeing any notable changes, Marianne decides to start an experiment and write about it in real-time: choose one book a month for a year and follow the action steps to the letter. At the end of the year, her life would be perfect and amazing, right?
Her account of going through each book is entertaining and insightful at the same time. To read about how she pushes herself, going through SO many uncomfortable moments, is hilarious!. She tries stand-up comedy (eek!), naked posing for art students (no thank you!), or how about a new years dive in freezing cold water? (might be open to doing that).
While this book definitely inspired me, it was also easy reading because you’re following somebody else’s journey. It’s also a great introduction to different types of self-help books – from spiritual to money-minded, relationship advice to becoming more efficient. My personal favourite: overcoming your fear.
Get this book on Amazon – CLICK BELOW:
What’s Next?
I’m currently reading Money, a Love Story by Kate Northrup and Undo It! by Dean Ornish and Anne Ornish. More about these in the next post.
Back to you now… What is your recommendation? Which book is a must-read and do you recommend it to all your friends? Let me know so I can add it to my To-Read list! Comment below or send us an email to hello@vanillabeige.com
What else would you like to hear about on Vanilla Beige? Check out our Travel adventures or stories For Inspiration.
This review was written by Karin van Vliet, distributor of Arty-Shock in Asia. If you have a sense of humour and love art, you must check out their range of fun, beautiful and affordable art.
This post contains affiliate links which means we earn a commission if you purchase items through them. We were not paid to write these reviews and our views are honest and personal. Karin purchased each of these books independently.