The Bookshelf That Built Me: 5 Essential Reads Life Lessons from the Pages
by T.L. Farris
As a reader there are some books that cross your path that leave a mark. Books that become a part of you. This is a list of 5 books that have left a mark, that have become a part of me and how I live my life.
#1 – The Crossroads of Should and Must by. Elle Luna
The stunning design and art-driven pages of The Crossroads of Should and Must keep the content simple but nonetheless impactful. The author Elle Luna has discovered clear language to illuminate the path to your dream life.
“There are two paths in life: Should and Must. We arrive at this crossroads over and over again, and everyday, we get to choose.” – Elle Luna, The Crossroads of Should and Must
Elle explores the idea that there are things in life we should do because of others in our lives, then there are the things we must do because they are who we are, they are “our most authentic self.” I read Elle’s book for the first time a few years ago and have read it every year since. The powerful truth of choosing the actions and decisions that will lead to your dreams even when it is the harder choice is a truth we could all use a reminder of.
2. The Traveler’s Gift by. Andy Andrews
Andy Andrews quickly became my favorite author. I would recommend all of his books but this one, The Traveler’s Gift, is practically perfect. It is the story of David Ponder who has literally hit rock bottom but is suddenly faced with an opportunity to discover the Seven Decisions for Success. Through historical voices and timeless wisdom David Ponder finds hope and answers to some of life’s biggest questions.
“I know now that happiness is not an emotional phantom floating in and out of my life. Happiness is a choice.” – Andy Andrews, The Traveler’s Gift
David Ponder’s story and the Seven Decisions for Success are truly life altering. This is a must read in my opinion.
3. The Miracle Morning by. Hal Elrod
This book convinced me, a natural born night owl, to start waking up before the sun.It made the list not just for the impact it had on my life but because it is so practical and shows immediate results.
“Remember this truth: now matters more than any other time in your life, because it’s what you are doing today that is determining who you’re becoming, and who you’re becoming will always determine the quality and direction of your life.” – Hal Elrod, The Miracle Morning
Since reading this book for the first time I have discovered my love for early mornings and have been regularly implementing the practices laid out by Hal.
4. The Little Things by. Andy Andrews
As I said Andy Andrews has become my favorite author and as such made the list twice. The Little Things is not a story but a work of non-fiction exploring the power of all the little things we often overlook.
“Most people live their entire lives without ever thinking beyond what they have come to believe is true. It is a valuable person indeed who manages to see a new way of thinking as an opportunity.” – Andy Andrews, The Little Things
The common belief to not sweat the little things is proven not only wrong but detrimental, and the opposite view of paying attention to all the tiny moments in life is proven essential.. This book has changed my perspective and what I put my time and focus towards..
5. Manage Your Day to Day by. 99U
“Day by day, we build our lives, and day by day, we can take steps toward making real the magnificent creations of our imaginations.” – 99U, Manage Your Day to Day
This book is a “playbook of best practices for producing great work” and is a series of short article stylesections giving you many perspectives and a plethora of keys. I found the short articles made it an easier read than most other books and makes it perfect for “non-readers.” Giving you quick access to insight and helpful tools.
Last Words
There are so many more books I could add to this list: The Noticer, Rich Dad Poor Dad, I Do Boundaries, Poverty Riches and Wealth… But if I had to give you a starting point, these five books would be it.
Finding books like these that create lasting impact starts with looking beyond your normal book preferences. I picked up The Traveler’s Gift on a whim and 99U I found in a list of recommendations much like this one. So, take this as your sign to start reading outside of your normal choices. If you’re looking for more suggestions check out my article 7 Essential Personal Growth Books.
