MUST READ: Books That Changed My Life

My most gifted book list.

I read a lot. Reading is not only a part of my learning process, it’s also a form of meditation for me - a way to calm my mind. For this week’s The Weekly Beat, I wanted to share the books that I most often gift to people. Gifting books is my measure of impact a subject, a topic, an author…a book has on someone.

1

Breathing Under Water by Richard Rohr has been a source of support and a breakthrough in my spiritual journey. It offers an ultimate guide, built on the framework of the Twelve Step Program (which on its own is incredibly fascinating) and how it can be applied to negative, obsessive thinking or any toxic cycle that tends to take over our daily existence.

2

The Comfort Crisis, by Michael Easter, is another gem. I have a copy for both my kids with a note written to them for when they are ready to take it all in. As the title suggests, the book is about how today’s advancements, while incredibly convenient, strip us from uncomfortable / challenging experiences that ultimately lead us to feelings of immense joy, fulfillment and growth.

3

I’ve read The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg and Atomic Habits by James Clear probably about 6x each. While both are great reads and offer great insights into the importance of implementing good habits, the latter - Atomic Habits - is more tactical and provides tools that allows you to be successful.

4

Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert was a revelation not just the first time I read it, but perhaps more so the second time. Her journey to find herself and to find the path to learning how to love is a story that I resonate with 1000%. This is one that continues to be on my list to reread, to gift, to recommend, to live by.

5

Four Thousand Weeks, by Oliver Burkeman, shifted my obsession from ultimate productivity of getting everything done (most of which won’t matter) to focusing actively on eliminating things to do (even though in most cases I want to do). The topic he covers and the tools he provides allows you to instead focus on completing things that bring you the most joy.