Every year brings with it perspective, growth and change. After all, what’s the point of going from one year to another if we can’t stop and analyse what it is that we are seeking to change about ourselves?
And what better way than a book which not only offers you a fresh insight but also doable actions?
Here are my 5 personal favourites from the year gone by, which I’d recommend without a second thought.
They changed my life – they might, yours too.
1. Getting to Yes With Yourself
What’s it about?
This book talks about how our need to react instinctively to something can actually become a barrier in negotiating and getting what we want. BUT, if these reactions are understood and corrected, we can become better negotiators.
Who wrote it?
William Ury. He is arguably the world’s best-known expert on negotiation. He has worked with organisations, communities and individuals worldwide in order to help them negotiate better.
How will it change you?
The book is about discovery, change and acceptance. It’s a fabulous read for anyone looking for self-growth while at the same time increasing their effectiveness in the workplace.
2. Act Like a Leader, Think Like a Leader
What’s it about?
The book proposes that, instead of insight, it is “outsight” which contributes to our leadership skills. Outsight is gained, it says, through experiences, actions and experimentations – rather than (woah!) brain-storming and ideating. Hence, it encourages the reader to act and experiment in order to evolve as a leader.
Who wrote it?
Herminia Ibarra
How will it change you?
Ibarra offers a refreshingly different opinion on the “being true to one self” adage. Her book is fantastic for anyone in leadership positions – or even for those looking to be future great leaders.
3. Surprise
What’s it about?
It’s the element of surprise which keeps us going from one day to the other. Something fun and exciting will turn up, but we don’t know when, so we keep going in order to get closer to it.
Who wrote it?
Tania Luna and LeAnn Renninger. The duo, in their engaging book, tell the reader that whether we admit it or not, our ongoing struggle is to make things less boring for ourselves. The only way to do that is by adding surprise. When we are bored we are more likely to make unhealthy choices. Surprise takes away the laziness, making us more aware, enthusiastic and attentive.
How will it change you?
The book is peppered by cheat sheets which should help you to add more surprise to your daily lives. Recommended for all those looking for a pick up read. You never know, it may surprise you. (Sorry, couldn’t resist!)
4. Rising Strong
What’s it about?
In Rising Strong, like in her previous books, Brown continues on the journey of wholehearted living. In this book she specifically tackles the question of getting back up after a fall.
Who wrote it?
Brene Brown. Brown’s TED talk was almost like an epiphany for me – and for many others I imagine. Her work on vulnerability, shame and courage has provided us with an alternative way of thinking about and expressing our feelings and experiences.
How will it change you?
Rich with anecdotes from her own life, this book is sure to give you hope. It is ideal for those looking to bring about changes in themselves and their relationship, this new year.
5. The Wisest One in the Room
What’s it about?
We all know this one person who just stands out. They’ll have the best answers, the wittiest comebacks, and the most graceful presence. How do they do it? By honing their understanding of people.
Who wrote it?
Thomas Gilovich and Lee Ross. Gilvoich and Ross reveal to us some of the greatest discoveries in social psychology to help us become more people-smart.
How will it change you?
From becoming better negotiators, to overcoming shyness – this book will have something for almost everyone. It is perfect for understanding human behaviour and learning how to tackle the everyday challenges better.
(Prachi Jain is a psychologist, trainer, optimist, reader and lover of Red Velvets.)
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