It’s the first week of a brand new year, and I for one, am EXCITED! January is always a time for new things and new challenges. Opportunity is everywhere, right? And as someone who loves to learn and grow, I find the best way to do that is through reading. I LOVE to read. So, I want to give you a list of 10 inspiring books to devour in 2021.
Why 10 Inspiring Books in 2021?
This is a special list, because it comes from members of my $10K Club, AKA my Queens, and what a list it is!
These smart, savvy ladies shared some great recommendations for books that have had a profound impact on their life, business or mindset, and hopefully will do the same for you.
Ready? Here we go with 10 inspiring books to devour in 2021.
#1. Profit First: Transform Your Business from a Cash-Eating Monster to a Money-Making Machine by Mike Michalowicz
Shawna Cruise’s top of the pops is this gem of a book. Shawna is a financial and profit whizz! You can find out all about her work at www.cruiseyourprofit.com
What inspired Shawna:
A life-changing alternative method of managing business cash flow so that there’s always “enough”. I wish I had this 20 years ago!
Book’s blurb:
Author of cult classics The Pumpkin Plan and The Toilet Paper Entrepreneur offers a simple, counterintuitive cash management solution that will help small businesses break out of the doom spiral and achieve instant profitability.
Conventional accounting uses the logical (albeit, flawed) formula: Sales – Expenses = Profit. The problem is, businesses are run by humans, and humans aren’t always logical. Serial entrepreneur Mike Michalowicz has developed a behavioral approach to accounting to flip the formula: Sales – Profit = Expenses. Michalowicz shows that by taking profit first and apportioning only what remains for expenses, entrepreneurs will transform their businesses from cash-eating monsters to profitable cash cows.
#2. The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment by Eckhart Tolle
Our second read on the list of 10 inspiring books to devour in 2021 is voted for by Siobhain Danaher, the Queen of positive change who is all about Lean in Business and Simplicity in Life – www.siobhaindanaher.com
Siobhain’s review:
This is my favourite book of all time and I listen to it on audible every quarter discovering new learnings and understandings with every listen! It’s a reminder that we all have a higher purpose and we are all here for a very important reason. I also love it because it focuses on the importance of and the power of NOW as that is all we ever really have! A most powerful book!
Book’s blurb:
It’s no wonder that The Power of Now has sold over 2 million copies worldwide and has been translated into over 30 foreign languages. Much more than simple principles and platitudes, the book takes readers on an inspiring spiritual journey to find their true and deepest self and reach the ultimate in personal growth and spirituality: the discovery of truth and light.
Featuring a new preface by the author, this paperback shows that only after regaining awareness of Being, liberated from Mind and intensely in the Now, is there Enlightenment.
#3. Contagious – Why things catch on by Jonah Berger
Successful brand-building and kick-ass content strategist Queen Kathi Kamleitner loves this book choice. Check out her work here: www.tellwildstories.com
Why Kathi was inspired by this book:
Contagious is a book about effective storytelling and communication. It looks at different elements that make stories or marketing campaigns successful, and content viral. I loved it because it provides so many different real examples, as well as stats and psychological studies as evidence. It makes you think about storytelling more strategically (almost giving you a recipe) without losing the element of creativity, innovation, and spontaneity.
Book’s blurb:
In Contagious, Berger reveals the secret science behind word-of-mouth and social transmission. Discover how six basic principles drive all sorts of things to become contagious, from consumer products and policy initiatives to workplace rumours and YouTube videos. Learn how a luxury steakhouse found popularity through the lowly cheesesteak, why anti-drug commercials might have actually increased drug use, and why more than 200 million consumers shared a video about one of the most boring products there is: a blender.
Contagious provides specific, actionable techniques for helping information spread—for designing messages, advertisements, and content that people will share. Whether you’re a manager at a big company, a small business owner trying to boost awareness, a politician running for office, or a health official trying to get the word out, Contagious will show you how to make your product or idea catch on.
#4. Attached: The New Science of Adult Attachment and How It Can Help You Find – and Keep – Love by Amir Levine and Rachel Heller
Eileen Mello is a Jill-of-all-Trades Queen, with specific expertise in astrological consultations, nonprofit fundraising, and writing and editing, and she luuuuurves this book. If you need her services, contact her at www.eileenmello.com
Eileen’s thoughts:
This book is extremely educational and engaging, especially if you had childhood trauma and/or have been in a toxic relationship.
Book’s blurb:
“A groundbreaking book that redefines what it means to be in a relationship.”
–John Gray, PhD., bestselling author of Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus
We already rely on science to tell us what to eat, when to exercise, and how long to sleep. Why not use science to help us improve our relationships? In this revolutionary book, psychiatrist and neuroscientist Dr. Amir Levine and Rachel Heller scientifically explain why why some people seem to navigate relationships effortlessly, while others struggle.
#5. The Power of Intention; Learning to co-create your world your way by Dr Wayne Dyer
Queen Jo Morrison had a ton of A-Ha moments with this choice of 10 inspiring books to devour in 2021. Jo teaches you how to create the professional life you dream of at gogomojo.com.au
Jo’s impressions:
It’s taken me a couple of months to get through this book, not because it is particularly long, but because I had so many moments where I went off into my own thoughts, processing the words and ideas being presented.
Working with manifestation and laws of attraction takes a different kind of work; it’s about learning to ‘think from the end’ and act as if all we want to create is already there, waiting for us to connect with it. I still feel amazed every time I have a success using these techniques, but I do remember to say thank you!
Wayne talks about how to protect our personal energy while still enhancing our lives by connecting with others. He explains these ideas in lists and easy-to-read paragraphs. I’ve looked forward to dipping into this book each night.
Book’s blurb:
Dr. Wayne W. Dyer has researched intention as a force in the universe that allows the act of creation to take place. This book explores intention— as something you do— as an energy you’re a part of. We’re all intended here through the invisible power of intention. This is the first book to look at intention as a field of energy that you can access to begin co-creating your life with the power of intention.
Dr. Dyer identifies the attributes of the all-creating universal mind of intention as creative, kind, loving, beautiful, expanding, endlessly abundant, and receptive, explaining the importance of emulating this source of creativity.
#6. Ego is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday
Queen of interior design and project management, Jen Jones at nineyardsconsulting.co.nz, loved this deep dive into how to identify when your actions are dictated by your ego and not what’s truly important (beneath the ego!).
Why Jen devoured this book:
I am much more aware of ego now and not only am I better at not letting my ego get in the way of things, but I can recognise it in others and other situations too and respond accordingly.
Book’s blurb:
The instant Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and international bestseller
Many of us insist the main impediment to a full, successful life is the outside world. In fact, the most common enemy lies within: our ego. Early in our careers, it impedes learning and the cultivation of talent. With success, it can blind us to our faults and sow future problems. In failure, it magnifies each blow and makes recovery more difficult. At every stage, ego holds us back.
Ego Is the Enemy draws on a vast array of stories and examples, from literature to philosophy to history. We meet fascinating figures such as George Marshall, Jackie Robinson, Katharine Graham, Bill Belichick, and Eleanor Roosevelt, who all reached the highest levels of power and success by conquering their own egos. Their strategies and tactics can be ours as well.
#7. The 5am Club: Own Your Morning. Elevate Your Life, by Robin Sharma
Queen Kate Nankivell is a force of nature who connects people and business through social media (ie a LinkdIn GURU) at www.forceofnature.co.nz
And she loves this read.
Kate’s musings:
I have been inspired by the idea of getting up early and initiating a daily practice to improve the quality of my life for quite some time and have had stabs at living this early start approach.
This book has motivated me to try this again but this time with a clearer process and goal to make it an ongoing part of how I live. I’m excited to see how this plays out over one year’s time. There is nothing quite like the peace and clarity of those precious early hours.
Book’s blurb:
For more than four decades, Robin Sharma has crossed the globe helping people lead lives that inspire the world. Now, in The 5 AM Club, he shares his original insights and the battle-tested tools he has developed by working with the most successful people on the planet. Based on the key insight that winning starts at the beginning of the day, Sharma shows how you can reduce stress, improve focus, unleash uncommon creativity, achieve exponential productivity and restore balance.
Just one hour a day can change your life.
#8. Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn by Katie Anderson
Now, this is why I love my Queens. Because Katie Anderson, leadership coach and all-round badass amazing woman, has nominated her own book on the list of 10 inspiring books to devour in 2021. Can I get a HELL YES to that!
Find out everything about her and her leadership business at kbjanderson.com
Reviews from others:
“If you are seeking the next step on your own journey of leadership transformation, reading this book and living its lessons will help you become the leader you always knew you could be.” — Richard Sheridan, CEO, Menlo Innovations and Author of Joy, Inc. and Chief Joy Officer
“If you’re interested in lean and learning, this is an absolute must-read!” — Michael Ballé, Co-author of The Gold Mine Trilogy and The Lean Strategy
“This captivating read will make you stop and consider your own untapped reservoirs of influence, generosity of spirit, and humble leadership.” — Elisabeth Swan, Chief Learning Experience Officer at GoLeanSixSigma.com and Co-author of The Problem-Solver’s Toolkit
Book’s blurb:
Refreshing, Timeless Lessons for Those Who Care to Lead
Dive into Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn to discover the power of reflection as a source for learning. If you’ve ever been mentored — in business or in life — by someone whose words, experiences, and perspectives changed you for the better, you know that an entire book of honest reflection and deep wisdom can have a profound impact on the world. For today’s business professionals — dedicated to continuous learning and people-centered leadership — this is that book.
Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn is a beautiful, one-of-a-kind tapestry that will inspire both veteran and aspiring leaders to reflect and learn. It’s a book for leaders of all levels, in any industry, anywhere in the world, who strive to create a culture of continuous learning and to lead with intention.
#9. Uncharted – How to navigate the future by Margaret Heffernan
As a recruiter, media personality on the job market and career coach, Queen Caroline Ceniza-Levine has all the inside knowledge to help you get hired. Explore all her offerings at cenizalevine.com
This is her book of choice.
What was inspiring about this book for Caroline:
This book will expand your belief in what is possible and has a practical optimism sorely needed in these difficult times. Heffernan has been the CEO of multiple businesses, has written six books on business and leadership and is currently a Professor of Practice at the University of Bath. In Uncharted, Heffernan summarizes different approaches to navigating uncertain future outcomes, with examples of scenario planning, cathedral projects, automation and algorithmic decision-making, even counter-terrorism strategies. These diverse techniques for making robust decisions with incomplete information and for navigating long-term complex situations can help your own life and career planning, or at least give you some hope for our uncharted future.
Book’s blurb:
* A Financial Times Best Book of the Year *
From former CEO and popular TED speaker Margaret Heffernan comes a timely and enlightening book that equips you with the tools you need to face the future with confidence and courage.
In her bold and invigorating new book, distinguished businesswoman and author Margaret Heffernan explores the people and organizations who aren’t daunted by uncertainty.
Drawing on a wide array of people and places, Uncharted traces long-term projects that shrewdly evolved over generations to meet the unpredictable challenges of every new age. Heffernan also looks at radical exercises and experiments that redefined standard practices by embracing different perspectives and testing fresh approaches. Preparing to confront a variable future provides the antidote to passivity and prediction.
#10. A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle
Mirka Seidel, our Queen of happiness over at mirkaseidel.com, who will coach you to live a self-determined, balanced life, is a massive Tolle fan.
Mirka’s inspired learnings:
This is a life-changing book. Tolle is writing about the shift in consciousness. In 10 chapters he is talking about the current state of humanity, the necessity of the new consciousness that is awareness-based, about the ego, its needs and many faces, about our pain-body and then he continues to offer us the solution, the way to the new consciousness that is so simple and complex at the same time. Discover your inner space, be aware, stay in the present moment, enjoy it. Lose yourself to find yourself.
Book’s blurb:
With his bestselling spiritual guide The Power of Now, Eckhart Tolle inspired millions of readers to discover the freedom and joy of a life lived “in the now.” In A New Earth, Tolle expands on these powerful ideas to show how transcending our ego-based state of consciousness is not only essential to personal happiness, but also the key to ending conflict and suffering throughout the world. Tolle describes how our attachment to the ego creates the dysfunction that leads to anger, jealousy, and unhappiness, and shows readers how to awaken to a new state of consciousness and follow the path to a truly fulfilling existence.
#BONUS. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
Yes! A bonus. It’s my turn to add to the list of 10 inspiring books to devour in 2021! This is from me, Nat, with love to you. I know you and I are going to slay this year together.
My thoughts:
I first picked up this book when I was around 19 and I remember only getting through the first five and thinking I clearly wasn’t highly effective. I do remember, however that it had a profound impact on my life, especially creating your own personal vision for you. I listened to the audio book this year and it was brilliant. It’s 30 years since they put this out and it’s sold tens of millions of copies because it’s just that epic. I realised that I had in fact been living and embedding many of these habits throughout my life, and that they’ve served me so well. This book just helped me recommit to putting all of them info full force again. I particularly love how the habits start with you, then extend to others to ensure that everyone wins and benefits.
Book’s blurb:
*New York Times bestseller—over 40 million copies sold*
*The #1 Most Influential Business Book of the Twentieth Century*
One of the most inspiring and impactful books ever written, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People has captivated readers for nearly three decades. It has transformed the lives of presidents and CEOs, educators and parents—millions of people of all ages and occupations. Now, this 30th anniversary edition of the timeless classic commemorates the wisdom of the 7 Habits with modern additions from Sean Covey.
The 7 Habits have become famous and are integrated into everyday thinking by millions and millions of people. Why? Because they work!
With Sean Covey’s added takeaways on how the habits can be used in our modern age, the wisdom of the 7 Habits will be refreshed for a new generation of leaders.
The list of inspiring books in 2021 needs you…
So, that’s it! Those are the 10 inspiring books to devour in 2021.
And now I have a little challenge for you. What if this is the year you write your own book? I absolutely believe you can do it! And if you need a jump start, download my short freebie guide with 4 steps to writing your book, right now!