Thinking well is probably the most important skill in life that is never taught in school. You are what you think, and by improving how you think, you can change your life. It is that simple.
Below is a list of 6 psychology books that I recommend you to read.
Each is unique in its own way and will give you the tools to "think" better. They will help you improve your relationship with yourself and those around you. They'll also provide insightful strategies to manage your emotions, thoughts, feelings, and anxieties more effectively, while improving your self-esteem.
#1 - A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy
In this book, William Irvine introduces us to stoicism. He presents diverse historical perspectives on stoicism, including those of Aurelius and Epictetus, while also providing his contemporary interpretation of the subject.
Stoicism is a way of thinking to minimize worry, letting go of the past and focusing our thoughts on things we can control.
We often go through our lives in a constant state of dissatisfaction. Stoicism teaches us to be content in every moment, be that grief, old age or disease.
Stoicism is not a religion or belief but rather a way of thinking to maximize our contentment with our current state.
This book will make you a powerful observer of your thoughts and make you better at living in the moment.
#2 - Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion - Robert Caldini
This book is a classic and explains the psychology of why people say yes and how to apply these principles in our life.
The book is written like a story than an instruction manual and Cialdini offers plenty of examples to prove his point.
He teaches us the following principles of influence:
Reciprocation
Commitment and Consistency
Social Proof
Liking
Authority
Scarcity
This book will not only teach you to use these principles effectively but you will also learn how to defend yourself against dishonest influence attempts.
#3 - Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus - John Gray
This book is an essential read for everyone who wants to improve their relationship with the opposite sex.
The reality is that men and women think very differently, and most of the arguments that arise are the result of both sexes trying to understand the opposite sex based on how they think themselves.
John Gray highlights common differences in thinking between men and women. Then provides a practical way to dealing with these differences that can very easily turn into arguments.
By understanding how the opposite sex thinks, John Grays arms you with tools to improve your communication and strengthen your relationship with the opposite sex.
Note that this book is not only for romantic relationships but all relationships between men and women.
#4 - Mastering Your Hidden Self: A Guide to the Huna Way - Serge Kahili King
This book will help you improve your thinking by understanding the way your mind operates.
King teaches us Huna philosophy - becoming a conscious cocreator with the universe.
You will learn Kahuna (Hawaiian) healing methods to help you access the hidden energy of life, develop powers of concentration, and make friends with the deepest aspect of your being.
Hawaiian's used this way of thinking to live longer and happier lives than most other societies out there, and will hopefully help you do the same.
#5 - I am Enough - Marissa Peer
This is one the best books I have ever read. It is one of the most complete books on improving your thinking to lead a better life.
Marisa has been a leading therapist for over 30 years and has developed her own method of therapy called Rapid Transformational Therapy, which helps you get better with one therapy session than taking years of therapy. She argues that if your bone is broken and if you see a doctor, it shouldnt take years to fix. One session should start the healing process.
The book is designed to increase your sense of self-worth so that you like yourself, feel good about yourself and believe in yourself, and get rid of destructive thoughts and behaviors.
If you're feeling stuck or trapped in life right now, this book is a highly recommended read for its insightful guidance to help you find your way out.
#6 - The Untethered Soul - Michael Singer
This is probably one the first books you should read on psychology. It begins by walking you through the relationship between your thoughts, emotions, feelings, and you.
Then it dives what you can do to free yourself from the habitual thoughts, emotions, and energy patterns that limit your consciousness.
Drawing on meditation and mindfulness practices, Singer demonstrates how developing consciousness can enable us to be present, let go of hurtful memories, and attain happiness and self-awareness.
This book will help you understand yourself better and help transform your relationship with yourself and the world around you.
*****
If you have any other recommendations, please feel free to email me on haroonbokhary@gmail.com.
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