Welcome to the last of this month’s fun series, Friday’s Top 10. I thought I’d end this series with something a little more personal. If you didn’t already know it, I’m definitely a bookworm, and have read countless books already, and I’m still counting! Today I’m sharing a list of some of the most life-changing, thought provoking, inspirational books I’ve read to date. Let’s see which authors make my list of the top ten books that will change your life. This post contains some affiliate links. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.
Have you ever read a book that left you inspired, motivated or encouraged? I have! Today I’m sharing a list of 10 books I’ve read that have changed my life. It’s my hope they will change your life, too!
#1 The Holy Bible
What can I say? You won’t find a book more life changing than the inspired word of God. I’ve read through the Bible many times, and each time I read it I learn something new. There’s no better instruction book for life to follow than the Bible, which is packed with knowledge, wisdom and divine revelation. Let God speak to you today through his written word.
#2 Tuesdays With Morrie by Mitch Albom
The first time I read this book I was coming to terms with my grandmother’s terminal illness. It was recommended to me by her hospice nurse and I could not put it down. Not only did reading Morrie’s insights about life and death help me through my grieving process, but it inspired me to make some much needed changes in my life so I could live my life more fully and in the moment.
#3 The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch
Since I loved reading Tuesdays With Morrie, when I heard of Randy Pausch’s book I knew it was a must read for me. Randy wrote this book when he was dying of pancreatic cancer at the young age of 46. His book focuses on the importance of working hard to follow your dreams by maintaining a determined, positive outlook despite life’s challenges. Reading this book really made me think about the legacy I want to leave after God calls me home.
#4 Same Kind of Different As Me by Ron Hall and Denver Moore
Speaking of legacies, the story of how Ron’s wife, Deborah, changed the life of a homeless man, and her husband’s, will inspire you. This book inspired me to call every soup kitchen, shelter and volunteer opportunity in my local area seeking to donate more of my life to others.
#5 31 Days of Praise: Enjoying God Anew by Ruth and Warren Myers
I enjoyed this book so much that I now own a hard copy, a copy on my Kindle, and a few spare copies to have on hand to give others. Establishing a daily habit of praise and prayer is powerful, and Ruth outlines how to develop a life of praise with insights and 31 daily prayers of praise. Expressing gratitude and praise daily can change your outlook, your attitude, and ultimately your life.
#6 Living Well, Spending Less: 12 Secrets of the Good Life by Ruth Soukup
In a world focused on materialism, it’s easy to get caught up in the race for acquiring “stuff” and wanting the newest clothes, technology and gadgets. Ruth, gives advice on how to avoid society’s trap and learn to be content with what you have. If you’re trying to save money and like Ruth, struggle with desires like purchasing lattes from Starbucks or making quick trips to Target, you’ll appreciate this book, too.
#7 Whale Done!: The Power of Positive Relationships by Ken Blanchard
Even though I first read this book as a work assignment, the principles learned from this book can be used at home, too. An easy read that’s written in parable form, from this book you will learn the importance of accentuating the positive and how it relates to the relationships in your life.
#8 Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson
Do you like change, or does the thought of change in your life create anxiety? Change is inevitable, but this book will give you insight so you can manage your reaction to it. Another book written in parable form, this quick read will change your attitude about change and provide tips on moving ahead once change occurs in your life.
#9 The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman
Did you know that there are 5 primary love languages? If not, you need to read this book! We all speak different love languages, whether it be words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service, or physical touch. Discover the love language of the people in your life and you’ll find ways to better express your love to them based on their needs. I read the original version, but there are versions catered to singles and parents, too.
#10 The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey
Dave Ramsey will change the way you think about money and lead you to financial peace. We were given this book as a gift, but never really opened it until we took the Financial Peace University course at our church. If you have debt or want to learn how to better plan for the future, then this book is for you. Take control of your finances today with his practical tips and advice.
Can I tell you this was one of the hardest posts to write? It was so hard picking only 10 books to include in this list, because I’ve read so many inspiring and motivational books. Maybe I’ll do a sequel to this in the future…who knows? What book have you read that’s changed your life? Share it with me-I’m always on the lookout for another good book!
I read “Who Moved My Cheese?” – very good. I’ll look into the others. Charlotte
I’m glad you liked that book, too. I hope you like the others!
This is such a fantastic list! Pinning as a reference, thanks for the recommendations!
I’m so glad you like it….and thanks for pinning! 🙂
Hi Christie, this is a terrific list. I’ve heard of practically all of these, but I’ve only read Who Moved My Cheese and The 5 Love Languages. And I must say, if I ever create a top 10 book list, I believe they would be on it. The 5 Love Languages really made me take a step back and think about the way people show their love, and simply because it differs from the way I prefer to communicate my feelings doesn’t mean it’s wrong.
I read it years ago before I was married, and it gave me a whole new appreciation for my former boyfriend (who I THOUGHT was treating me like caca, but realized he just had a different love language;-).
Thanks so much for this list. I am definitely pinning this bad boy.
Thanks so much, Katie. Yes, I love the 5 Love Languages book and it really did open my eyes to why my husband and I did or didn’t do things for each other. I think everyone should read that book. Let me know what you think of the others once you get around to reading them. Have a blessed weekend!
Thanks for the list – I look forward to reading them.
I hope you like them as much as I do!
The noticer by Andy Andrews is awesome too!!!
I will have to check that one out, too! Thanks!
I love the book -Seeing and Savoring Jesus Christ by John Piper. I’ve read it 3 times now.
I will definitely have to check this one out!