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Up until the last few years, books were a habitual part of my daily life. However, the responsibilities of adulthood and the increase in "distraction culture" have made it hard for me to focus on reading more than a chapter at a time. So now, I seek out books that motivate my productivity. These types of books capture my attention and energy because I know their content will translate into my actions. When I don't have time for more leisurely reads, I can prioritize time to learn and grow. The books below all will spur you to do more that matters. I hope this list will entice you to read something new, and that you’ll only want to set these books down so that you can stop and soak their encouragement into your life!
Dangerous Prayers - Craig Groeschel
Our greatest actions start with prayer. In "Dangerous Prayers: Because Following Jesus Was Never Meant to be Safe," Craig Groeschel talks about how to have radical conversations with God. I recently started reading this book, and so far, it is completely relatable. Craig explains how "prayer is inherently dangerous," because to communicate with God genuinely, we have to bare our souls. Understanding true prayer motivates us to engage and move forward, rather than just making it a ritual or a "request line." Craig describes three types of transformative prayers in the steps, "search me, break me, and send me." This book gives profound insight in a very applicable way that will make you excited to pray in a way you never have before!
After Amen: What to Do While You're Waiting on God - Rusty George
It can easily become routine to ask God for direction and then "wait for His will." We love to look for signs, and when we don't see one, we use that as an excuse to stay put. We question if we did something wrong or if God didn't hear us when we don't receive an answer on our time. Rusty George addresses all these issues and more while looking at how we can take action "after Amen." This book provides some vital leadership principles, as it lays out the importance of trust and work in the in-between.
Blink - Malcolm Gladwell
"Blink" offers a lot of intriguing analysis that will make you want to dive deep and will also motivate you to make stronger decisions. With expertise, Malcolm Gladwell dissects how we make "split-second" decisions and how we can train ourselves to think with better instinct and precision. This thorough insight into human psychology will teach you how to think more about the right things and less about the aspects that don't hold real meaning. It's been a while since I read this book, but I remember it shifting my thought process in my daily life. I wouldn't describe this book as one you would want to put down because it is definitely a captivating read, but it just might get you thinking about new ways to interact with the world.
Hello Fears - Michelle Poehler
After I heard Michelle Poehler speak at the Global Leadership Summit, I had to read her book. Michelle's YouTube series, "100 days Without Fear," is an inspiring and interesting concept that led to her success as a public influencer. In "Hello Fears," Michelle talks in a down-to-earth and entertaining style about how we can all embrace our authentic selves and let go of what’s holding us back. And it's not just a motivational story; Michelle provides tangible steps to apply to our everyday lives and our careers.
Chase The Lion - Mark Batterson
"Chase The Lion" faces the question we all avoid: What would we do if we lived out our faith? We might think we trust God, but ultimately, we live according to our "safe" reality. Mark Batterson combines personal reflection, biblical stories, and analysis to make a case for chasing our God-given dreams - even (and especially) if they don't fit into our comfort zones. This book is definitely a must-read if you are ready to make a change and step forward in your faith and your goals.
An avid writer since the age of 5, who loves to explore new ideas and places. Inspired by Jesus, books, and travel.