I have been obsessed with books for as long as I can remember. As children, some people love Field Day. Or Spirit Day. For me, Book Fair Day was the best day of the year. I remember bringing home the book fair order form with almost every book circled. Just hoping that one day they would all be mine. Books have always been a part of my DNA. In fact, I’m even known for reading multiple books at a time. Jumping from book to book when I need a change of scenery. For me, books enhance my world. They encourage me to be anyone I want to be. Whether it’s by sending myself to an imaginary world, or learning “self help” skills to be better in this one. Over the years, I have come across some life changing books. Today I am excited to share a few favorites with you.
The two most influential books for my current career have definitely been “Influencer” by Brittany Hennessy, and “The Devil Wears Prada” by Lauren Weisberger. I know, I know. You’re probably wondering how “The Devil Wears Prada” has anything to do with anything, but it has totally kept me grounded during my years in the fashion industry. Since Lauren Weisberger was writing from a place of truth, the fashion world in “The Devil Wears Prada” is quite true to form. The humor and grandiose-ness in the book has always helped keep me in check while running off to fight the next fashion related dragon that pops up. However absurd it may seem. And for the record, the book is WAY better than the movie.
Of course, Brittany Hennessy’s “Influencer” is an absolute must read for any blogger, influencer, social media maven, and even female entrepreneur. From lessons about your Instagram bio, to contract negotiations, Mrs. Hennessy covers absolutely everything. I read this book in less than a weekend and was making blog and Instagram changes within hours of opening the book. I especially love the way she has included “Don’t be that girl” sections. Because no one wants to be “that girl”.
Some of the most enlightening and life changing books I’ve ever read are “The Five People You Meet In Heaven”, “Tuesdays With Morrie” – both by Mitch Albom, and “The Alchemist” by Paul Coelho. I really love any book that can make me think about life, destiny, and religion in different ways and from different angles. Each of these books have touched me on a personal and spiritual level. Although I’ve read “The Devil Wears Prada” over a dozen times, these three books are the kind I can’t re-read too often. They are deep and emotional, touching and thought provoking. And oh so important.
The most important relationship book I have ever read has to be “The Five Love Languages” by Gary Chapman. By figuring out the Love Language of each of your loved ones, you can actually relate to them better and increase your bond. The trick here is that you have to relate to each person in their own love language. Not yours. Although that can be a bit humbling and take a bit of extra work, it is worth it in the end. For example, if your love language is Words of Affirmation, but your loved one’s is Physical Touch, you could tell them you love them and how wonderful they are a thousand times a day, but it wouldn’t mean as much to them as one hug. It’s amazing how fast your relationships can change if you embrace the Love Language concept.
Of course, the last two life changing books represent my past and my future. When I was in elementary school, a few of us were selected to read, edit, and review short stories that would eventually become a book. I remember bringing home stacks of little short stories and evaluating the writing and concepts and giving my opinions. Eventually, the selected short stories became “Girls To The Rescue Book #4”. Those of us who helped on the reading panel were even credited in a Thank You at the beginning of the book. A copy of which I still have on my bookshelf today.
Last but not least, I have my 5 year one line a day journal. (I love this floral version, as well as this minimalist version. There are also journals for moms and couples too!) Not only does this life changing book contain my past, but it contains hundreds of empty pages representing my life, my future, and the story(s) I have yet to tell.
Overall, I believe that there is a book for every mood. A book for every journey and for every lesson. Like so many things in life, I believe certain books appear in your life at just the right moment. That one life changing moment. That “Do I stay or do I go?” “What do I do now/next?” “Who am I?” kind of moment. Whether you want to become someone new, explore a hidden world, or just take a break from every day life, there are life changing books waiting around every corner.
What do you think? Have you ever read a book that changed your life? Share them in the comments below!
XOXO,
Tiffany
