Instead, the new year offers us a time to reflect on the time that has passed, and it gives us a chance to look toward the future. Did we have our priorities straight last year? Did we make time for our friends and family—and for ourselves? Or were we too focused on one goal to see the good things around us? No matter your goals for this year, reading inspiring books can help you set the right priorities and intentions. If you’re looking for “new year, new you” books, try reading inspiring memoirs or pop psychology books that blend science and narrative. These books can come in many genres. Find the kind of book you love, or try something new. (It is that time of year!) Regardless of your favorite genre, there are inspiring books out there for you. Even if you’re a fiction-lover, you can find books that will satiate your appetite for story and spark the change you’ve been hoping for. Choose one of these “new year, new you” books, and prepare to start your journey, whatever it is. If you’re looking for a little self-insight and some big laughs, this collection is just the thing. The essays—including “Please Like Me (But Keep Away),” pictured—are available for individual purchase, or you can pick up the full collection. Under the tutelage of extroverted mentors, Pan put herself in a series of situations that filled her introverted soul with dread: performing stand-up comedy, hosting a dinner party, traveling alone, and more. After a year of living life on the edge, Pan discovered more about herself than she ever thought was possible. Within those pages, Forleo will set you up with everything you need to change your way of thinking. She’ll help you go from beating yourself up to lifting yourself up, even when life gets rough. This light, inspiring book will pump you up with optimism, so even if you’re staring down the hardest year of your life, you’ll be able to take everything that comes your way and make something from it. Caroline Millington’s book is here to help. The Friendship Formula will show you how to improve the relationships you already have by setting boundaries. Millington also offers advice for those trying times, like helping a friend through grief when you might not know what to say. For one year, at her sister’s request, she reluctantly agreed to accept all invitations and take on all unexpected projects. The result was transformative. Even if this book doesn’t inspire you to set off on your own “year of yes,” you’ll certainly be tempted to try out some new experiences. Your Illustrated Guide To Becoming One With The Universe is an excellent book to read if you’re feeling stressed or overburdened. Yumi Sakugawa employs beautiful ink drawings and calming text to help you breathe deeper, let go of stress, and just allow yourself to exist as a being in the universe. We could all use this book to stay centered in the new year. H is for Hawk is a poignant and humorous memoir about dealing with grief, hawks, and self-discovery. It’s also the perfect read for anyone who’s looking to give themselves a bold new challenge this January. Adichie reminds us of simple realities, like the fact that everyone matters and no one gender is inherently better at cooking. Most of these 15 suggestions are just as helpful for adults as for babies, for men and for women, for Americans and Nigerians alike. You’ll read this book in about a day, but its lessons will stay with you all year long.
