3 Short Reads That Changed My Life

Discover the small but powerful reads that shifted my perspective when I needed it most.

Every single book I’ve read has had an impact on the way I think. Thrillers challenge my thoughts, romance changes how I empathise, adventure inspires me, fantasy takes me to those amazing worlds, and biographies pull me back to earth.

Yet, very few books meet us at the right moment. Today, I’d like to share those small but interesting books that greatly impacted my life. And hopefully, they help you too.

1. As a Man Thinketh, James Allen

As a classic in circulation since 1903, I don’t think many need an introduction to this book. I’ve read this book at the lowest point of my life. At the point where I was filled with distrust and self-doubt. I hated myself for being useless and directed that hate towards others. I didn’t dare to follow through with my dreams. I was a cup too full.

I won’t say that my life took a drastic reversal because of this book. Reality isn’t that simple. But, I still find myself referring to the author’s insights and making better decisions than I would’ve made before.

If you’ve not read this book yet, I urge you to stop reading this article and start reading the book.

“Your thoughts are the food for your actions, and in turn, your actions decide what your destiny will be.” — James Allen.

2. Who Moved My Cheese?, Spencer Johnson

I wanted to move out of my parent’s home. I wanted to control my life. Yet, I was afraid –of how my relationships might change and the uncertainty I should handle. I wanted to change, yet I was afraid of it. I’m not alone; almost everyone is uncomfortable with change. Yet, it is change that pushes us forward.

‘Who Moved My Cheese?’ is a playful, small, interesting read encouraging us to embrace change and adaptability. Through 4 interesting characters –Sniff, Scurry, Hem, and Haw — the author shares how people cope with and adapt to change.

It’s a quick and engaging read you can finish in two hours. Consider giving this a shot if you want to move out of your comfort zone.

3. Selling 101, Zig Ziglar

Now, this is my favourite of these three books. Zig Ziglar wrote this book masterfully. He prompts us to check out his other books and works on one hand while teaching us how to sell on the other. (I might be imagining it, but it makes the book more fun to read.)

I wanted to sell a product (a simple finance log for the salaried) and was confused as no sales were recorded in a week after listing it on Amazon. This book showed me the directions I can use to sell the product. I haven’t digested everything yet, but its impact cannot be unnoticed.

The side-effect of this book is that it has positively changed how I interact with my office colleagues, friends, and family. I’ve noticed minute details that I previously never noticed. Hence, I suggest you try this book, even if you have nothing to sell. (Though that’s rarely the case).

These three books were my lucky encounters, each appearing when I needed them most. I hope they meet you at the right moment too.

If you’ve already read one of these, I’d love to hear how it impacted you! If you haven’t, will you check one of these out? Share your response in the comments!

I hope you found something of value in this article. Thanks for staying till the end. Until next time– Happy reading!

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