Spring Reading List: My Top 10 Favorite Happiness Books

I’ve received a lot of questions about what I do to stay in my happy place so I wanted to share my number one method with you.

Reading.

Something so simple, but it makes a huge impact.

People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing – that’s why we recommend it daily. – Zig Ziglar

Every day, I carve out at least 15-30 minutes {many days a little more} to do some reading. With this practice, I’ve been able to finish an average of one book a week. And it’s been the single biggest factor for helping me keep my mindset in the zone. The zone of happy.

I’m not much of a fiction gal, so the books you’ll find on my list all belong to the advice/how-to/self-help/memoir categories.

Since I have so many favorites – covering a wide spectrum of personal development areas – I thought it would be fun to do a Spring Reading List with my top 10 picks.

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And with that, let’s get to it…

Make It Happen by Lara Casey

What I love the most about Lara’s debut novel is the combination of inspirational stories and practical step-by-step advice. I read this book at the beginning of the year and it was the perfect start to my own journey of making it happen. A great reminder that we all face similar challenges, but can use our struggles to propel forward.

Better Than Before, by Gretchen Rubin

This gem was just released about a month ago and is already one of my go-to books for reminders, inspiration, and motivation on habit mastery. It’s more like a handbook or reference guide that you use every day, than a book that you read once or twice and put aside.

Undone: A Story of Making Peace With an Unexpected Life, by Michelle Cushat

I became aware of Cushat and her work through one of my most favorite leaders in the personal development space, Michael Hyatt. When her book was released last month it was on my must-read list and I’m so thankful for this. Anyone who has ever lived a day where things weren’t turning out quite how you expected will be able to relate to this book. It’s comforting, entertaining, and completely raw.

The Happiness Project, by Gretchen Rubin

This jewel has spent its fair share of time on the bestsellers list – since its 2011 release – and when I read it I understood why. I love Gretchen’s work and this is probably my favorite out of her three that are on this list {although the others are a close second/third}. I love reading about her adventures, her wisdom helps me to learn right along with her, and I adore the way she infuses research & pop culture into her writing.

Daring Greatly, by Brene Brown

Another long-time bestseller, this book literally changed my life. I know that sounds hokey, and like a really bold claim. But it’s proven. Reading this book is like going through a one-way door to your awakening because there’s literally no way you can ever be the same after.

The Power of Now, by Eckhart Tolle

Speaking of awakenings, this is another transformative book that had me looking at my past self and scratching my head. All the things I used to think, all the ways I used to be, came to an end. And it’s the best thing that could’ve ever happened to me.

Own Your Life: Living with Deep Intention, Bold Faith, and Generous Love, by Sally Clarkson

Living deeply, on purpose, and in faith. That’s what I learned from Own Your Life. This book was so refreshing. Not preachy or right vs. wrong. Just honest, loving advice on wholehearted living.

The Art of Work, by Jeff Goins

One of the most vital aspects of my happiness is feeling like I’m fulfilling my purpose. So when Jeff’s new book was released, I couldn’t wait to check it out. I want to do work that I love. And this book has definitely helped me along that path.

Happier at Home: Kiss More, Jump More, Abandon Self-Control, and My Other Experiments in Everyday Life, by Gretchen Rubin

Happier at Home is a new take on The Happiness Project where Gretchen dives deep into what makes us happy. I read this book at least once a year to help keep me focused on how to truly be happy.

The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You’re Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are, by Brene Brown

Another life-changing bestseller by Brene Brown. I love it. And I read it all the time.

BONUS!

The Desire Map: A Guide to Creating Goals with Soul

My goals are so much more fulfilling, and are in complete alignment with how I want to feel, thanks to this life-altering resource. So much goodness in this book/workbook. And there are many more Desire Mapping resources over at daniellelaporte.com.

PIN IT FOR LATER!

Spring Reading List: My Top 10 Favorite Happiness Books via @carinkilbyclark

I want to hear from you!

What books would you add to the list? I’m always on the lookout for some great reads so please leave your picks in the comments below so I can check them out. I can’t wait to see what your favorites are!

Comments 17

  1. i read for pleasure of course but I do like to read things that will improve myself and my life. Thanks for this list. I will take a look into them. 🙂

  2. It’s amazing what reading can do, isn’t it? I haven’t read any of these but they all sound awesome. I would love to try a few of these since these days it’s often hard to find my happy place. Thank you for all of your suggestions!

  3. I haven’t read any of these but I enjoy doing so. I enjoy a positive read as well. I look at it like if I can pick up any positivity from it that is a good thing. Then I can pay it forward.

  4. I love the idea of the Zone of Happy! I really need to start reading more. I like the idea of setting aside 15 to 30 minutes a day to read. I will have to check out these books. Thank you for sharing your favorite happiness books.

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