My daughter said she thinks that New Year's Eve is actually my favorite holiday, and I somewhat agree with her! There is something about the clock striking 12 and a fresh new 365 days lie ahead. It's a new chapter in the book that is our life. I do believe that every day God blesses us with breath in our body is a day to start new, do better, be better, and live better. But I still get super excited about the new year and the possibilities that lie ahead!
I was that kid who would get a flashlight and read under the covers way past my bedtime because I loved to read, and I still do. But, with life being a lot fuller than it was in the 80s, I have to be super intentional about spending time with one of my first loves...reading a good book!
12 Books in 12 Months!
This year, one of my goals for self-care is to read 12 books along with reading through the entire Bible. Every morning, I read five pages to help me stay on track. I do not have my full list planned out yet, but I wanted to share 5 of my favorite books for inspiration, motivation, and practical instruction. Let's get started!
Atomic Habits: This best-seller by James Clear is a must-read that is perfect for the new year. What I love about this book is that the author gives a different perspective on forming habits. He emphasizes identity and not just the goal, which is a momentary change; instead, he dives deeper into how we can form the identity we want through the habits we form. Building habits allows us more freedom to pursue our purpose!
Million Dollar Habits: I am a big Brian Tracy fan! It started when I read Eat That Frog, and since then, I have been diving into his other books, which are fantastic! I just started reading this book and can already tell it's going on my favorite list. If you are starting a business, want to get further in your career, or increase your income, this is the book to read. There are 12 habits that Tracy delves into, including the Habits You Need to Succeed, the Habits that Get You Paid More, the Habits of Personal Effectiveness, and the Habits for Health and Wellbeing. Get motivated with Tracy's practical advice!
Napoleon Hill's Life Lessons: Napoleon Hill was throwing down some wisdom! This is a short book filled with short life lesson chapters. I really like this book because it is easy to read, short, to the point, and has a wealth of information.
The Accidental Homesteader: What I’ve Learned About Chickens, Compost, and Creating Home: Kathi Lipp, the author who I personally know, has written a book that is one that is visually stunning and filled with personal stories of her journey into moving to the Red House, a beautiful house in a remote part of northern California. Kathi shares the lessons she and her husband have learned and gives you inspiration to live your best life at home regardless of where you live.
Clutter Free: Quick and Easy Steps to Simplifying Your Space: Okay, I normally wouldn't put the same author on the list twice, but with a new year often comes the urge to clear out the clutter! Out with the old and in with the new or, at the very least, an uncluttered space. Kathi Lipp is the queen of clutter-free, and this book should be on your list if you are on the clutter-free track for 2024. There is a free FB group that you can join to be encouraged by folks who are also on the clutter-free journey and participate in challenges! Check out the podcast that has new episodes every Tuesday!
Bonus Book: Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest. This is the devotional book. I picked it up on a whim, and it has become part of my morning self-care routine to read daily. It's a short devotional that is filled with spiritual wisdom. It's a perfect read to start your day!
There are so many great books out there, and I am looking forward to expanding my reading list in 2024 and learning something along the way!
What are some of your favorite books?
Share with the community and leave your answer in the comments!