Reading has always been one of my favorite hobbies. It’s my way to unwind, relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Since becoming a mom, this is one area that has unfortunately taken a backseat, but I still manage to read at least two books a month.
Last year was one of the best in terms of the books I read. When I closed out the year and looked back at my Goodreads account, I noticed that ninety percent of my 2020 books fell into the fiction genre. That came as no surprise because I love getting lost in a good novel.
As much as I love a good romance or mystery, I realized I needed to broaden my horizons when it comes to what I am reading. I don’t really like the term “self-help” because it makes me feel like there is something wrong with me that needs fixing. However, in reality, I think we all should be striving to grow and evolve. I know that I personally don’t want to look back at the end of this year to find that I haven’t bettered myself in some way. That is why I have decided to set a goal for myself to read one non-fiction/ personal growth book each month this year.
I have a running list of books that I want to read throughout the year that fall into this category. I am also looking for more, so if you have any suggestions please leave them in the comments. Here are five of the personal growth books I want to read in 2021.
Atomic Habits by James Clear
The book I have chosen to read in February is Atomic Habits. I am only a few pages in so I’m still not able to give a review, but I have high hopes for this one. I have heard nothing but great things about it. The idea behind the book is to develop good habits that will last a lifetime. The small daily habits that may seem insignificant on a day-to-day basis are what ultimately lead you to live to your fullest potential, which is something I strive to do on a daily basis.
A Simplified Life by Emily Ley
I haven’t read any of Emily Ley’s books, but when I ask for suggestions, she is always mentioned. As a mom, I feel like this book is calling my name. She teaches you how to simplify your life in the areas of home, finances, meal planning, faith, and more. I feel like this is a constant struggle as a busy working mom, so I love getting all the tips I can.
Get Out of Your Head by Jennie Allen
Something I think many women struggle with is toxic thinking. These days with social media it is so easy to constantly compare yourself to others and feel as though you aren’t good enough. Based on the Christian faith, this book helps you turn your negative thoughts into positive thinking.
You are a Bada$$ by Jen Sincero
This book is one that I know the least about, but it pops up on every self-improvement list I see. Based on the synopsis, it sounds to be a typical love yourself/treat yourself well book, only with a humorous twist. The reviews on Goodreads are mixed, but I still want to give this one a shot!
Good Morning, Good Life by Amy Landino
In full disclosure, I finished this book in January, but it was on my 2021 reading list so I decided to include it. Another goal of mine in 2021 is to create a better morning routine. Actually, I just want to wake up early enough to HAVE a morning routine. This book was the perfect read because it wasn’t your typical book that makes you think you must wake up at 5 a.m., workout, meditate, etc. to have a productive day. Instead, Landino gave practical suggestions that could fit into your own lifestyle and schedule to help create a morning routine that works for you.
I’d love to know if you have read any of these books and if so, what you thought. Also, make sure to leave any other suggestions you may have in the comments.
