New Year Book List
5 Books to Read Every New Year
The New Year brings a sense of hope, determination, expectation, excitement, and joy. To help kickstart your year on a positive note, I've curated a list of five transformative books that are perfect for setting the tone for the year ahead. These are timeless reads, ones you can revisit every New Year to inspire and guide you.
1. Atomic Habits by James Clear
James Clear has transformed the way I approach habits. His practical and doable methods make creating lasting change feel achievable. The core message of this book? Start small to accomplish big goals. In Atomic Habits, Clear emphasizes that meaningful change doesn't happen overnight-it's the result of small, consistent actions that compound over time. His strategies are rooted in science and psychology, providing tools to build good habits, break bad ones, and design systems that lead to success. We've all struggled with New Year's resolutions and finding balance in our busy lives. Clear's insights offer a roadmap to building habits that actually stick. Whether you're trying to establish a morning routine, exercise regularly, or stay focused on long-term goals, this book is a game-changer.
Find it here: https://bookshop.org/p/books/atomic-habits-an-easy-proven-way-to-build-good-habits-break-bad-ones-james-clear/12117739?ean=9780735211292
2. Essentialism by Greg McKeown
Greg McKeown's Essentialism is a wake-up call for anyone caught up in the busyness of modern life. This book challenges the "do more, be more" mindset ingrained in Western culture. Instead of spreading yourself thin trying to do everything, McKeown teaches you how to focus your time and energy on what truly matters. Through personal stories, practical exercises, and thought-provoking insights, McKeown guides readers to eliminate unnecessary distractions and make deliberate choices about their priorities. He offers a framework for saying "no" without guilt and creating space for the things that align with your values and purpose. With wisdom on setting boundaries and evaluating your life, this book is a guide to living with intention and clarity. It's perfect for anyone who feels overwhelmed and wants to reclaim control of their time and energy.
Find it here: https://bookshop.org/p/books/atomic-habits-an-easy-proven-way-to-build-good-habits-break-bad-ones-james-clear/12117739?ean=9780735211292
3. Effortless by Greg McKeown
Another gem from Greg McKeown, Effortless dives into making life's important tasks easier. While Essentialism focuses on identifying what matters, Effortless is about finding simple, sustainable ways to accomplish those things without unnecessary stress or struggle. McKeown offers practical advice on overcoming mental blocks, simplifying decisions, and finding solutions that feel achievable, even in the face of challenges. He provides tools to address burnout and create systems that allow you to succeed without draining your energy. This book is particularly helpful for those who feel stuck or overwhelmed. If you've ever thought, "Why does everything have to feel so hard?" this book will provide refreshing perspectives and strategies.
Find it here: https://bookshop.org/p/books/effortless-make-it-easier-to-do-what-matters-most-greg-mckeown/15049310?ean=9780593135648
4. Present Over Perfect by Shauna Niequist
Shauna Niequist is one of my favorite non-fiction authors, and Present Over Perfect is a deeply relatable and heartfelt read. In this book, Niequist shares her personal story of reaching a breaking point-a life consumed by busyness, perfectionism, and constant striving-and how she found freedom in embracing a simpler, more present way of living. Her writing is honest, raw, and often humorous, making her journey feel both inspiring and accessible. Through her stories, she encourages readers to let go of unrealistic expectations, focus on what truly matters, and find peace in the here and now. If you've ever felt like you're running on empty or chasing a version of success that leaves you unfulfilled, this book is a powerful reminder to slow down and savor life's moments.
Find it here: https://bookshop.org/p/books/present-over-perfect-leaving-behind-frantic-for-a-simpler-more-soulful-way-of-living_shauna-niequist/11281248
5. The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence
This classic book by Brother Lawrence is one of my all-time favorites. Written from his perspective as a humble cook in a Paris monastery, it's a beautiful account of living in constant communion with God. What makes this book so timeless is its simplicity and depth. Brother Lawrence's writings teach you that God is present in every moment, no matter how mundane or ordinary. He shows how our daily tasks can become acts of worship when we approach them with love and mindfulness. One of my favorite quotes from Brother Lawrence is: "We must know before we can love. In order to know God, we must often think of Him; and when we come to love Him, we shall then also think of Him often, for our heart will be with our treasure." This book is a gentle yet profound reminder to find God in the everyday moments of life. Whether you're new to faith or have walked with God for years, this book will inspire and deepen your spiritual journey.
Find it here: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-practice-of-the-presence-of-god-brother-lawrence/14947538?ean= 9780883681053
I hope this list inspires you to start your New Year with intention, inspiration, and growth.
Happy reading!