There’s never a bad time to read, but the end of the year may be one of the very best times to crack open a book. You’re likely through the rush of Christmas, with the paced slowed a bit. You may have some time off before the New Year. And, in many parts of the world, the weather outside might limit some of your other activities a bit.
The end of a calendar year often means a reflective state of mind, so it’s not only a time when you might have more opportunity to read, but if you pick the right types of materials, your mind might be most receptive to what you are reading.
This short list is by no means exhaustive, but all are materials that I – and many others – have found valuable. Plus, most are books I have read more than once (some many times). The theme you will find among them is that none are new; they are all classics.
They are books that will lift your spirit and give you many things to think about – which is why I’ve put them on this year-end list!
Here they are in no particular order:
The Greatest Miracle in the World, by Og Mandino
Perhaps my favorite short story, the God Memorandum at the conclusion is amazing writing. Any of Og Mandino’s books could have made the list, this is just my personal favorite.
Think and Grow Rich, by Napoleon Hill
A book I try to read once a year. Each time I read it, I learn new things I can apply to my work and life. If you’ve not read it or are put off by the title, realize it is about much more than monetary wealth.
See You at the Top By Zig Ziglar
A classic on positive thinking, personal development and achievement. If you have ever heard Zig speak, you will hear his voice speak every word to you as you read.
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
The current wave of relationship books all owe much to this book. There is nothing here you don’t know – but much you may not practice regularly enough.
As a big fan of reading and learning, my “simple” hope is that you read (whether you pick something from my list or not).
If you do pick something from my suggestions above, you’ll be glad you did; it’s all great material that will benefit anyone open to reading and learning. It’s material that can make a difference in your life when you reflect on and take action on it. And, it’s material that can help you unleash your remarkable potential.
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Those are definitely classics and ones that I read over and over too – especially See you at the Top, How To Win Friends & the Greatest Miracle in the World, which were the first three books my Dad gave me as a teenager that started this crazy life-long obsession.
Thanks for sharing such a nostalgic post!