My list of life changing non-fiction books is short and sweet: how to manage life, how to manage stuff, how to NOT be on a diet in a diet culture world, and some therapy.
My favorite books in the non-fiction category have changed my perspective on life, health, and personal growth. Here are some that stood out – they are favorites for good reason. I hope you find something powerful here for you.
Life Changing Non-Fiction Books
These have stuck with me for years. They stand the test of time and are so worth it.
The Lazy Genius Way
Be a genius about the things that matter to YOU and lazy about the things that don’t. My life philosophy. The podcast is great, too.
Decluttering at the Speed of Life
This is the only decluttering/organizing method that’s worth it. It helps you organize without creating a mess in the process.
I wrote a post about how I incorporate the advice from this book into a home organizing system.
Intuitive Eating
I read this while I was in grad school for nutrition, and absorbed it into every fiber of my being. If you have ever dieted and then had a rebound, this is for you. Right now. Don’t wait.
Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?
I wish I had read this as a young adult (or before). It is so enlightening and one that I plan to read again. I consider this to be required reading.
Maybe You Should Talk to Someone
This book made me cry on an airplane. And I still think about it.
Honorable Mentions
There are so many great non-fiction books out there. I’ve given a 5-star rating to a few more that are ever so slightly outside of the life-changing designation. But they might be life changing for you!
Freakonomics
Economics is the convergence of data and how people make decisions, and it is fascinating.
Secrets from the Eating Lab
This one is like the convergence of Intuitive Eating (above) and Freakonomics (above). It’s the data and psychology about self-control and food (and why that’s different from other self-control – hint, you need food to survive).
Big Magic
Elizabeth Gilbert is one of my favorite authors. Her books (both fiction and non-fiction) are fantastic and so unique. Every one of her books sucks me in. Eat, Pray, Love is great, too. It was a sensation for a reason.
Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing
The only way to read a celebrity memoir is to listen to it. The celebrity narrates it, and it’s an amazing experience. Hearing Matthew Perry tell about his struggles with addiction was impactful, to say the least.
Some other celebrities with great memoirs that have stuck with me are: Billy Crystal, Mindy Kaling, and Viola Davis. Remember, audio or bust!
The Libby app will let you check them out from your library and listen for free, but you might be on the waiting list for a while.
Final Thoughts
Non-fiction books have the power to enlighten and inspire. I hope these recommendations resonate with you. What non-fiction books have made a lasting impact on your life?
I have a lists of fiction, knitting, and board books, too!
Grab some knitting and a latte! I hope that at least one of these changes your life, too.
