Whether you’re the kind of person that has a long list of goals for the New Year or maybe you’re just setting some gentle intentions, I’m certain there’s a book to help you along the way.
Below are listed some of my favourite books I’ve read over recent years that cover some of the most common new years resolutions. The links below are affiliate links to my Bookshop.org page but all can also be purchased at Pigeon Books.
Personal Development –
Habit Building
Atomic Habits by James Clear. For any kind of habit creation (or removal), Atomic Habits needs to be on your reading list. With easy to follow steps, this simple guide is a really great tool for change.
Power Hour by Adrienne Herbert. If early mornings are something you’re striving for then this is the book for you. I love the concept of a power hour first thing in the morning and it’s something I’m trying to implement myself.
Who Moved My Cheese – Dr Spencer Johnson. The world has gone through a lot of change recently, more than we ever thought. If you’re looking for a different way to look at change, then I’d recommend giving this short book a read.
The Chimp Paradox – Prof Steve Peters. This is the perfect book for understanding your mind more. While it feels lengthy to begin with, the content is made fun and engaging and covers so many topics (understanding emotional reactions, stressful situations, effective communication).
Confidence Boost
What A Time To Be Alone by Chidera Eggerue. I honestly believe that this is a book that everyone needs to read at some point in their lives. While it doesn’t focus on being single, it does focus on loving yourself and believing in you first and foremost. It’s a visual delight too with a stunning page design that matches the cover.
You Are A Badass – Jen Sincero. If you’re looking for self-assurance and for something to align yourself back with the universe then I really enjoyed this relatively short read by Jen Sincero.
Educational –
Dumping Fast Fashion
Consumed by Aja Barber. One of the most eye-opening books I read last year. For anyone skeptical about fast fashion and the ethics behind it, this is one for you. There’s so much history and detail here, presented in a really accessible way.
Indigenous Readings
Braiding Sweetgrass – Robin Wall Kimmerer. Based around her life as a mother, Kimmerer talks through her Indigenous heritage while recounting stories of her own. It’s so poetically written you’ll be transported there.
Understanding Race
Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race – Reni Eddo-Lodge. An extension of her essay, this book is a brilliant place to start for those looking to begin their anti-racism journey. It’s hard-hitting and powerful, and that’s exactly what it needs to be.
What White People Can Do Next – Emma Dabiri. A brilliant mini for those wanting to extend their anti-racism work. Her writing style is really accessible and the size of the book itself will delight you. Who doesn’t love a tiny book?
Expanding into Intersectional Feminism
Hood Feminsim by Mikki Kendall. A brilliantly in depth read about how white women have wrongly centred feminism on themselves. An absolute must read.
Feminism Interupted by Lola Olufemi. Another great look into how feminism should be intersectional by interrupting the traditional white feminist movement.
Wanting to Sleep Better
Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker. Bursting with scientific papers and reviews, this book covers in detail the science behind sleeping. Incredibly interesting but a lot to digest.
An Introduction to Geopolitics
Prisoners of Geography by Tim Marshall. If global politics if something you want to know more about then this is a great place to start. Covering all continents, it also covers history of conflict between countries.
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