I switch my reading between fiction and non-fiction.  A big chunk of my non-fiction diet are books that inspire me.  Particularly, with the constant diet of negativity from the media, it’s important to read and learn because books inspire me.

To call them self-help books is too limiting.  These books alter the way I look at my life and the world.

The following books inspire me and still stand out that I would recommend.  I hope they will affect you in the same positive way they’ve helped me.  If you have suggestions of your own, please share them with us all—I like that new books inspire me.  In no particular order, here they are:

1.  The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, by Stephen Covey

It’s been out for a while (late 90s) but is still impressive for its simplicity and upside-down insights.  The book could’ve delivered its message in about half the length (you don’t have to finish reading it, of course), but the boiled-down message says that none of us can control our environment.  All we can do is control our reaction to the changes in our environment.  Accept change, have a positive attitude, and take advantage of everything that happens to you.

2.  The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck

Dr. Peck’s books inspire me even after several readings.  It’s the grand-daddy of this group.  Written by a smart psychiatrist, it’s not a beach book, but is worth the time to work through it.  Peck incorporates a lot of Buddhist philosophy (you should still read it) but tells us the definition of life itself is: change.  So, quit fighting against it, don’t worry, and make the necessary adjustments in your life to be successful.  It’s really a life-long process that gets easier the more you practice it.

3.  A Short Guide to a Happy Life by Anna Quindlen

A short book with great black and white photos that compliment the words.  Experiencing her mother’s death when Quinlan was only a freshman in college, she learned to take life seriously—knowing that we’re all going to die.  Of course we will, but once you incorporate that truth in your daily life, it frees you to seriously enjoy every present moment that you’ve been given and to enjoy it with gratitude.

4.  My Life in France by Julia Child

Here’s the fun read.  The famous TV chef recounts her early years in France learning to cook.  What shines through all her ups and downs and caused me to include this in books that inspire me is Child’s joy and excitement with all of life.  Of course, she was in Paris, but her enthusiasm for life could be copied even in Minot, North Dakota, for instance.