Books I Read in 2019: Most Impactful, Most Interesting and Most Helpful
I finished up my last book this year, bringing the total to 20 books, which is double what I read in 2018. At the beginning of the year I set a manageable goal of reading one book a month. I wanted to improve what I’d done in 2018, but at the same time be realistic about my time. Through most of 2019 I was juggling homeschooling, running, coaching, retreat hosting, managing a small business and a whole lot more. One book seemed about what I could manage and I did pretty well, reading 12 books by late October.
Then over the last two months of 2019 I read eight more books. What gave? How did I suddenly have time to read so much more. Well, I didn’t magically find more time. I decided to stop being a snob about only reading a book if I was holding it in my hand, and started listening to books on Audible.
I was a very reluctant adopter of audio books because I was afraid that, without the ability to underline or write in the margins or take notes, I wouldn’t be able to retain any of the information. I’m such a visual learner that I just didn’t think it would be valuable. I also really like the idea of a full bookshelf (or more accurately a storage unit filled with books that haven’t been unpacked and moved into our new home).
Turns out, I was wrong about the retention part.. The most interesting and impactful books I encountered this year were both books I listened to. I was able to retain the information, though occasionally I had to pause the book to take a few notes.
Instead of reviewing every single book, I’ll share just a few of the books that impacted me the most…
Biggest Impact
The Alter Ego Effect by Todd Herman
I loved this book. The idea of slipping into a persona that helps you navigate challenging situations resonated so much with me. It’s something I’ve understood as an athlete, but never really applied to entrepreneurship or business and this perspective shifted things for me and gave me, a natural introvert, a way to step into new roles with confidence.
Most Interesting
How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression and Transcendence by Michael Pollan
I’m a fan of Michael Pollan’s writing and this did not disappoint. This book is a fascinating deep dive into the science (and a little bit of the history) behind Psychedelic drugs. I found the research, opinions and characters of this underground world to be fascinating, as well as the discussion of addition (including eating disorders) and the potential therapeutic uses of psychedelics being researched now. I know want to know more about the default mode network, and if you’re a type-A kind of person you might want to as well.
Most Helpful
ROAR by Stacy Sims
Reading Dr. Stacy Sims book was impactful in the most practical kind of way, which is why I think it was so helpful. From her book I extracted a new understanding of my monthly cycle and its relationship with athletic performance. I discovered new ways to fuel and hydrate according to my unique needs. If you haven’t read this book I would highly recommend it.
You can find a complete list of all the books I read in 2019 HERE.
I want to know, what did you read in 2019 that you would recommend?
Sarah
Feed your soul and train your mind through routine
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