Whether you are looking to improve yourself, manage the stresses of life better, or reaching personal and corporate success, reading is a great way to learn anything. It is only a matter of finding the right book. There is an endless variety to choose from. Sometimes it can be difficult to make a decision about which would be the best read for you. After reading many lists, reviews, and even personally attending to a few of the books, I have constructed a list of the popularly recommended and recognized reads that can help you narrow down your options.
1. "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People"
The book "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" is a unique read in its vast genre of personal development titles, and is recognized for revitalizing it. Covey does not offer a "quick fix," like so many other books in this particular genre. The seven habits listed in this book may take a lifetime to master, but it is the immense value and bountiful reward that reading the book offers your life as it assists you on the journey to become a more effective person. The habits listed are categorized in three different sections, private victory, renewal, and public victory. These categories are based around taking responsibility, prioritizing, networking, and, ending with, becoming active in mental and physically renewing activities. Convey's book is recommended profusely on different websites and lists for improving over 15 millions lives at home and at work. I personally plan of reading it in the near future.
2. "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance"
Robert M. Pirsig, the author of "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance", reaches out to fans of philosophical novels in order to spread wise advice. He emphasizes the importance of truly caring about what you do. Simultaneously, Pirsig advises to do so by focusing all your attention to it, as opposed to multitasking by listening to music, watching TV, etc.
3. "The War of Art"
A novel highly recommended for artists, musicians, inventors, and all other people who wish to create. I have had the pleasure of reading this book myself when I had writers block a few months ago and I recommend it as well. It is a great and simple read that carries a lesson to learn on each page. It also includes two sections that first help you battle "Resistance" and then become a pro at doing so throughout your life. Though it starts off a little odd in my opinion, if you push through the unique style of writing and get used to it, you are likely to learn far more than one useful lesson upon completion.
4. "Mastery"
Another one of my favorite reads, titled "Mastery" by Robert Greene, is a book that is valuable to all people for all ranges of success. I am currently completing this book and find it very useful. "Mastery" is a book that, through examination of historically successful people, presents a list of forms, practices, and the history of the idea of mastery. The lists are presented in one over-viewing paragraph, which Greene supports with detailed descriptions, examples, and application methods for the reader to practice. Though I have not completed the book, the pages I have already read have introduced me to a new perspective of everything that I encounter in life, which simultaneously helps me succeed in many of my pursuits and overcome future challenges.
