Finding time to sit down with a book isn’t always easy, but carving out time for reading has become a priority for me over the years. I’ve always loved that reading can allow us to escape into someone else’s story — to learn about a world that’s different from our own, and to experience something new and exciting.
I have read so many powerful, impactful stories that have shifted my perspective on the world and prompted me to make changes in my own life. They’ve taught me to redefine what success looks like, inspired me to take a leap when I was scared, and reminded me how powerful storytelling can truly be. Below are some of the most memorable books I’ve read in recent years. I hope you’re inspired to pick one up for yourself, and I’d love to hear what books have inspired you in your own reading journey.
Rest Easy: Discover Calm and Abundance through the Radical Power of Rest Hardcover by Ximena Vengoechea
I talk a lot about my own experience with burnout, and this book is a powerful reminder of the importance of rest. Filled with encouraging and easy-to-follow guidance, Rest Easy will help you find joy, balance, and energy through the transformative power of rest.
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
I couldn’t put this book down! This true story is heartbreaking and inspiring at the same time. At the age of 36, on the verge of completing a decade’s worth of training as a neurosurgeon, Paul Kalanithi was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer. Kalanithi’s beautiful retelling of his journey is filled with nuggets of wisdom, hope, and spirituality.
From Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life by Arthur C. Brooks
This book completely shifted my perspective on finding purpose and happiness. It’s all about the small steps we can take today to make our older years a time of joy and true success. It’s a feel-good read and will help you see aging from a completely new lens.
Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us, by Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross
This book introduced me to the science of neuroaesthetics, which is so interesting. The authors delve into the research behind how our brains and bodies transform when we participate in the arts, and how this knowledge can improve our well-being, build stronger communities, and allow us to tap into our most creative ideas. It is a true eye-opener!
The Choice: Embrace the Possible by Dr. Edith Eger
This true story of an innocent 16-year-old girl who was taken to Auschwitz in 1944 will truly change you. Filled with bravery, hope, and wisdom, Dr. Eger’s story reveals how we can take some of the world’s greatest horrors and use our suffering for good. Her resilience continues to inspire me every day.
Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity by Peter Attia and Bill Gifford
If you’re interested in living better and longer, you’ll love this book. A visionary physician offers a new approach to aging, preventing chronic disease, and increasing longevity.
Between Two Kingdoms: A Memoir of a Life Interrupted by Suleika Jaouad
This memoir is a real page-turner! It is about a young woman who gets diagnosed with leukemia a few weeks before her 23rd birthday. She fights for her life and survives, but then is faced with the next question: how to live. She takes you on her 100-day road trip across the country as she explores the world from a completely new angle.
Sit Down to Rise Up: How Radical Self-Care Can Change the World by Shelly Tygielski
So many of us think of self-care as a luxury — but the truth is, we need to make time for self-care if we want to invest in our relationships and help change the world around us. This book will empower you to do just that! It’s the reminder we all need to simply pause, reset, and take some time for ourselves.