Even though I studied English Literature at uni, I’ve always struggled to finish a book to the end. I thought it was because of my attention span, but later later realised (when I found these books) that I couldn’t finish them because I just didn’t care what they were about.
Self help books have been a huge help in my life, and some of them have even completely changed my mindset. It feels like a life coach or therapist is talking at you and telling you to better your life. I tend to read them when I’m feeling a little unmotivated as I know they will inspire me to sort my life out.
So, it’s safe to say I’ve read through a lot of self help books in my time, particularly when I lived alone and had some extra time on my hands. Here is a small list of My Top 5 Self Help Books and why.
Sarah Knight – The Life Changing Magic
If you’re like me and you worry about things that haven’t happened yet, care too much about what other people think we won’t say something in front of a group of people because of anxiety, Sarah Knight and her books can change your life.
She specialises in explaining just how pointless worrying is and how to go about loving yourself. I find her books so motivational, I tend to read my favourite chapters when I’m feeling anxious about something and it calms me down like a medication.
Try it out:
The Life Changing Magic Of Not Giving a Fuck
Vex King – Good Vibes
Have you heard of the Law of Attraction? The reason why these words have been all over any positive quote social media recently is because of Vex King. His book Good Vibes, Good Life puts it into perspective and there’s a reason why this book has been a huge hit!
If you find yourself in toxic relationships, in a negative mindset or like your life is not going anywhere, no one can help you out like Vex King. His books are so authentic and real because he too has had a rough ride, and turned his entire life around with this book.
Try it:
Stephen Covey – 7 Habits
Have you ever wanted to change something about yourself? Ever not went to the gym for a month and then complained about it? Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits Of Highly Effective People helps you identify your bad habits and put a stop to them. This kind of self help book focuses on productivity and success, so would be great for students, business owners or anyone who wants to beat bad habits and be as productive as possible.
Try it:
7 Habits Of Highly Effective People
Sarah Knight – Get Your Shit Together (Journal)
I actually received this in the post from my mamma, to which I opened and saw the words get your shit together – seems subtle, doesn’t it?
Yes, it’s Sarah Knight again but this one is slightly different. If you’re not much or a reader and more of a do-er, then you will particularly like this journal based book. I used this when I simply didn’t like my life, and she provided guidelines to set out solid, achievable goals to help you get to a new place. I’m not saying it works miracles but I bought this book in April and after some serious Getting My Shit Together with this book, I’ve swapped my job for a new role I love, gotten a much healthier routine and sorted my finances out from the mess that they were. There’s also a little personality test in there that helps you understand and accept yourself for who you are, which is so important.
Try it:
Get Your Shit Together Journal
Marie Kondo – Tidying Up
If you haven’t heard of Marie Kondo, she is a Japanese organising specialist who took to the screens of Netflix last year. She teaches methods of de-cluttering as a form of self help, for a more organised and structured life. The world is obsessed with cleaning lately, thanks to Mrs Finch, and this is slightly different to attacking your home with bottles of Zoflora and focuses more on the psychological sense of de-cluttering.
In order to make real change in your life, you need a clean slate and an organised life. Her little tips will have your home and mind cleared up in small sections. If you’re not a reader, you can always search her name on Netflix and watch her series (it will have you motivated to clean up your home, trust me).
Try it:
Swap scrolling through boring Instagram feeds on a night for reading a chapter of one of these books. Start picking up books instead of phones, and notice the difference in both your productivity and your mindset.
Be sure to check out my blog on The Best Mental Health Influencers to Follow to change up your scroll for more positive messages!
Nikita Olivia 