“You cannot open a book without learning something.” – Confucius

In high school I rarely read books outside of the classroom. Back then, I felt that everything I needed to know could be found by watching television. Later, I realized in order to accomplish my goals, I needed to work on my personal development.

That was when I began reading books of all kinds. In addition to reading John Grisham novels, I also read books on spirituality, health, and relationships. I’ve learned that no matter what issue I’m facing, someone had already written a book to help me solve that issue

Here are 10 books that have made an immediate impact on my personal development and help show me the way to the extraordinary life.

1: 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
In this book, Covey guides his reader through practicing how to manipulate different social situations thus exposing the best of not only you; but of others as well.

2: The Secret by Rhonda Byron
Byron’s secret revolves around the Law of Attraction. It helps you change your thought processes by reiterating that your life is shaped by what you think.

3: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
As its name suggests, this book helps you control social situations and create meaningful friendships and build networks for your personal and business life.

4: The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
This book helps you change your life through the practice of ‘mindfulness.’ It teaches to fully embrace the present moment rather than dwell on the past.

5: Man’s Search for Meaning by Victor E. Frankl
Frankl shows you that the inevitability of suffering can be counter-punched by the way you deal with it, that is by finding meaning from the experience and then moving ahead with regenerated purpose.

6: Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy by David D. Burns
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a process where you determine your negative thoughts and eliminate them sto utilize the positive thoughts to create positive energies within yourself.

7: Awaken the Giant Within by Tony Robbins
Robbins inspires through motivation. In his book, he helps you through the tough moments in life.

8: The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck
Peck, with the influence of Buddhist teachings, shows life is full of hurdles; but you need to find ways over them to keep moving forward.

9: Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus by John Gray
In this book, Gray helps you embrace your partner for who he or she is through understanding.

10: The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
This book is filled with anecdotes showing you that power corrupts and it teaches how to protect yourself from abuses of power.

About Alex Blackwell
Alex Blackwell is a father, husband and writer. He writes about inspiring things at The BridgeMaker.
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