Three books that made a difference

I’ll complete that title - “Three Books That Made a Difference to Me” but I know a ton of other people have found these books hugely helpful to them too, so thought I would share them here:

Anna Karenina, Leo Tolstoy

There was definitely a before and after in my life when I read this book. Tolstoy is genuinely a genius in describing human nature. He gives such an insight in understanding how we can perceive reality through our subjective understanding and how it actually is. This is evident in the relationship between Kitty and Levin.

Tolstoy really helped me to understand that the imagination is such a powerful force whether for the good or the bad. It can bring you to great heights or if unfettered, it can be very cruel and genuinely ruin your life if you are not careful. This books proves Aristotle’s line:

Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.

If you haven’t read it, I highly recommend it.

Man’s Search for Meaning, Viktor Frankl

Viktor Frankl writes about his experiences as a prisoner in Nazi concentration camps during World War II. What’s fascinating about this book are Frankl’s insights as a Psychiatrist.

One of the most famous quotes from his book is:

Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.

This book really helps to understand the true meaning of freedom and the real beauty of the human person. Fantastic book!

Eat that Frog, Brian tracy

Coming from the previous book to this one is a bit of a leap (excuse the pun!). This book is available free on Tracy’s website. It’s small and concise and can be read in one sitting but I would recommend taking it bit by bit.

Hands-down, I think it’s the best book to help you use your time well. It was recommended to me by this business woman who uses it all the time with her employees and colleagues. I have read my fair share of time management books, but this one keeps it simple and the proof is in the experience when you apply it to your life. Well worth it.