If you are reader, chances are there have been a few books that you didn’t want to put down. Books, you didn’t want to end. And perhaps even, books that changed your life.
As we’ve been talking about change this month on the blog, I couldn’t help but think of all the many things in life that change us. Relationships, jobs, trauma and surprisingly good opportunities—all have the power to alter not only our life’s path, but also who we are in our very being. The interesting thing though, is so can art.
A good song can reframe an experience we’ve had in the past. A movie or play can inspire us to be braver, work harder, or even, forgive. And a good book, opened and read at just the right time in our lives, can shape both who we are and how we see the world.
A good book, opened and read at just the right time in our lives, can shape both who we are and how we see the world.
Recently, I heard someone talk about people who have fixed mindsets versus those who have growth mindsets. The difference between the two, is that a person with a fixed mindset believes they can’t ever change. Whereas a person with a growth mindset, knows change is something they can choose.
I believe that when we open a book with a growth mindset, anything is possible. That is why, today I want to share a few books that I believe have actually changed my life. Ones, that have shaped how I see God, the world, and myself. And ones that I hope, have made me a better person. Here are those books, and if you have a moment, in the comments, I’d love for you to share a book that’s changed you.
Interrupted by Jen Hatmaker
Honestly, after working in ministry for a number of years, my relationship with organized church has been a difficult one. But reading Interrupted, reminded me of the life giving beauty and hope that can only be found in the Gospel. And it helped me fall in love with God and my faith all over again. I’m still figuring out what being a part of a church looks like, but this book reminded me of what being the church really means.
Rising Strong by Brene Brown
Honestly, I could almost put any of Brene’s books in this slot. But Rising Strong was a book I needed when I felt like I had failed, and I didn’t know how to pick myself up after. This book is not only inspiring in that it shares stories of people recovering after failure, but it also offers a guide on how to do so.
Girl Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis
Perhaps it’s a symptom of patriarchy or growing up in the church, but I feel like I was taught growing up, it is wrong to want anything for myself or to have big goals. It feels like our parent’s generation may have been taught that too. But Rachel’s book helped shake that loose for me, and it has freed me to think differently about my future.
A Year in Biblical Womanhood by Rachel Held Evans
This book came at a time when I was wrestling with the talents God has given me and the limited roles for women in the church. Rachel struggled with this too, and as a scholar and theologian, sought to point out where the strict interpretation of certain scriptures were in direct contradiction to the overall story of how God is calling women to live in this world. Rachel passed away earlier this year, and her voice will be so missed in this world.
What books have changed your life?
And are you living with a fixed or growth mindset?
Are you experiencing change in your life right now? Does your mind feel cluttered will all that this change could mean? If so, sign up for my email list and get your FREE copy of my Five Steps to Declutter Your Mind, to help you find clarity and peace on this journey.
