The Book Club
Invest In Your Knowledge, Gain The interest In Life
The more I read, the more I realise how much I didn’t know – Welcome to The Book Club.
I use to spend money on products that were of no benefit. Streaming platforms, takeaways, clothes I didn’t need – to name a few. I was an undisciplined consumer and a lot of the time, was led by emotion. Learning and acquiring knowledge however, has been a worthwhile investment.
I’m more of a visual learner and knew committing to reading traditional books, would be a challenge. This time though, I was in dire need of guidance from those who have walked this journey and provided advice I could apply to my life. The creation of Audible books has become a game changer.
I read a few hours every week, usually read the same book more than once and always take notes. Repetition helps the information stick so I’m constantly applying what I’m learning.
The below list are some of the great books I’ve read which have guided me on my journey. This list will be updated after each new read so why not add this page to your bookmarks and check in once in a while to see what’s new.
Like you, I’m still on this journey myself. It’s a life long process that requires continuous learning and evolving and this is where books are a great tool.
(NB – Links to products contain affiliate links, if you proceed to purchase I receive a small commission – at no cost to you).
Maximising Your Potential
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This expanded edition of the popular Maximizing Your Potential book is organized to keep you focused on your goals to discover and release your potential, refire your passion for life, and move you forward into your destiny. Potential is like soil–it must be worked and fed to produce fruit.
Annie's Review...
Dr Myles Munroe is my favourite motivational speaker from my childhood to present. You’ll notice I’ve made references to a few of his quotes across my website.
Although he’s no longer with us, he’s a prime example of what he spoke of in his book Maximising Your Potential. His emphasis, is that we must die empty. Meaning, you should not leave the world without having attained all you were capable of, in accordance with your giftings and capabilities.
Despite having tragically passed away some years back, Dr Myles’ content is still being shared around the world to date and is greatly respected by Christian Believers and Non-Believers alike. It makes real, his very advice.
He’s provided knowledge on what it means to really live out the life God intended you to have and shares in-depth wisdom on getting there ensuring you’re making the most of who you are.
The cemetery is the richest place on earth because so many people have come and gone with all their gifts and talents never having been put to use – he shares.
If you’ve read my Blog ‘Self Confidence Vs Body Confidence’ you’ll know the way I use to view myself, halted my online voice at the time. It wasn’t until I overcame these fears, and put faith in what I felt I was called to do that I begun walking in my calling. I’ve never looked back.
It’s nerve wracking but what you could accomplish is so much bigger than any fears you may have. It’s time to release your light and Dr Munroe has provided all the guidance you’ll need to get you there.
The Power of the Subconscious Mind
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As practical as it is inspiring, Dr. Murphy’s work demonstrates with real-life examples the way to unleash extraordinary mental powers to build self-confidence, create harmonious relationships, gain professional success, amass wealth, conquer fears and phobias, banish bad habits, and even to effect physical healing and promote overall wellbeing and happiness.
Annie's Review...
I came across The Power of the Subconscious Mind laying on the sofa in the home of one of my good friends. I picked it up, read the summary and knew I wanted a copy.
The areas it touched on, were things I was implementing without realising. It was relieving to have the confirmation I was in the right direction.
The author comes from a background of Church ministry and shares his knowledge, findings and experience when it comes to our belief system and the power of one’s thoughts.
I’ll be honest, there are elements of this book that will sound like absolute crazy talk. I’d liken it to applying a delusional level of belief to your life. I say delusional because it’s difficult for the conscious, rational mind to make sense of it but the more you do it, the more it makes sense.
I’ve watched many motivational speakers and successful business people over the years. The one resounding message I noted, is the necessity of having belief in your capabilities. Even if you don’t consciously believe it (which is a natural response), when you’re starting out.
What I’ve learnt from this book is the ability to visualise life in the way I want it to be, applying intentional action in accordance with that belief and seeing the change you want to have, knowing it will happen.
It’s difficult to do when your existing circumstances speak to the exact opposite but this is where this book provides a detailed level of guidance.
It helped confirm the things God has taught me through his word. No matter your reason for reading, there will be a takeaway that will benefit your life in some way.
Healing the Child Within
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In 1987, Charlie Whitfield’s breakthrough concept of the child within – that part of us which is truly alive, energetic, creative, and fulfilled – launched the inner child movement. Healing the Child Within describes how the inner child is lost to trauma and loss, and how by recovering it, we can heal the fear, confusion, and unhappiness of adult life.
Annie's Review...
I always thought the hormonal induced mental disorder known as PMDD was due to unfortunate bad luck as detailed in my blog post, Why Does PMDD Happen – One Perspective.
I was never able to make the connection with the condition and my childhood, until I stumbled on an article exploring the prevalence of early life trauma in women with the condition.
This provoked curiosity. I researched to find out more on how childhood trauma may affect a person in their adult life. In doing so, I found Healing the Child Within which gave me a new perspective on the effects of trauma.
Immediately from Chapter one, there was much clarity. Dr Whitfield goes into extensive detail on the impact of child abuse, neglect, growing up in a dysfunctional home and how that can translate into a person’s later life.
If you suffer from any mental health difficulties, addictions, physical disorders or the like, this book provides clarity and explanation for why in our adult life we may behave the way we do.
In one of the earlier chapters, a survey is provided for which you must select one applicable answer from those provided. The survey questions themselves are unveiling of one’s nature and characteristics that may have never given cause for concern but require attention.
This book aided me in the process of redefining my true authentic self. Working towards the breaking away of the Victim mentality and chasing a process of change for personal growth.
Attaining the knowledge is one part, applying it is where the real work takes place.
The Psychology of Money
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In The Psychology of Money, award-winning author Morgan Housel shares 19 short stories exploring the strange ways people think about money and teaches you how to make better sense of one of life’s most important topics.
Annie's Review...
This book was recommended by Steven Bartlett. If you’re a fan of the UK TV Show ‘Dragon’s Den’, then you’ll know who I’m referring to.
If not, you still likely know who Steven is as he’s well known for having one of the largest global podcast platforms in the world – ‘The Diary of a CEO’.
I’ve heard Steven speak in person at a business show I attended in 2023. He has the most inspiring blend of intelligence and charisma and is equally exceptionally knowledgeable in matters of business and self-development.
As an avid listener, when I heard his recommendation of the book The Psychology of Money, I made a purchase from my Audible account and now understand the recommendation.
Morgan Housel looks at money from the perspective of emotion. His main theory is his belief that money has little to do with how smart a person is but rather, it has more to do with how a person behaves when it comes to money.
He provides 20 short stories to explore his thesis and to provide lessons and information on human behaviour towards money. It’s an interesting perspective and for me was slightly odd at the start.
As I proceeded however, I soon found that the stories were like modern day parables. Lessons around money that we take for granted in everyday life but must bear in mind.
It’s a genius, explorative method of teaching by examples, how our view of money can influence wealth, happiness or greed. A well-written book I didn’t know I needed but are glad I bought.
The lessons are demonstrated in the narration of their behaviour towards it.
The 4-hour Work Week
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In this fascinating audiobook, read by Ray Porter, Timothy Ferriss details his road to financial success and the steps he took along the way. His plan is simple to follow, easy to apply and relevant for anyone looking to make a change.
Annie's Review...
As mentioned by the author, 99% of people in the world are convinced they are incapable of achieving great things so they aim only for the mediocre.
I use to be one of such people. I was so set in my ways and hesitant to ‘rock the boat’ of my comfortable lifestyle that I just went along with the conventional way of living for decades.
Things changed. I felt unfulfilled in life and bored of the routine that I had followed for so long. I wanted more, knew a perfect time would never come and just began acting on it.
Timothy Ferris’s book The 4-Hour work week, was turned down by 26 out of 27 publishers. One publisher took him forward and today he’s the proud author of this New York Times best seller.
If you’re keen on escaping the rat race and diving into the entrepreneurial arena to design your own destiny, then this is one read that provides practical steps on getting there.
Tim speaks of the life structure of the ‘New Rich’ versus that of the ‘Deferrers’ pointing out the key differences and how the New Rich are able to attain what most cannot.
I found his teaching a little different by way of presentation in comparison to other books I’ve read. It’s like he’s speaking with a friend. A few expletives, a little comedic at points but the principles are golden.
Tim will give you practical homework which I found extremely useful through the Questions & Actions sections at the end of various chapters. They’ll provoke you to think alternatively about your future.
He gives fresh insight on taking risks, redefining happiness, challenges you to face your fears and explains the importance of setting big goals. If you’re on the journey of making a living for yourself, this is one book you shouldn’t miss.
Rich Dad Poor Dad
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Rich Dad Poor Dad has challenged and changed the way tens of millions of people around the world think about money. With perspectives that often contradict conventional wisdom, Kiyosaki has earned a reputation for irreverence and courage. He is regarded worldwide as a passionate advocate for financial education. His easy-to-understand audiobook empowers you to make changes now – and enjoy the results for years to come.
Annie's Review...
Many people find Robert Kiyosaki’s teachings a little controversial, but this is a book I found deeply eye opening. It will positively challenge the way you view wealth and riches.
My key takeaway from Rich Dad Poor Dad, was changing the lens with which I view wealth. Understanding that it’s not simply a phenomenon set aside for specific individuals. It’s attainable by anyone, once you learn proper financial education, change your mindset and follow the change with actionable steps.
The financial conditioning many of us received, has been as per the guidelines of our society and it’s expectations.
We’ve been taught to focus on finishing school, getting a job, buying a house and living a normal life. All the while, living a consumer lifestyle and enriching the lives of others whilst we barely get by ourselves.
I’ve spoken of my difficulty with debt in the past due to PMDD and how the financial troubles I faced I’m still repairing today. If I knew back then what I know now, I believe things would have looked different.
What matters most though, is obtaining the knowledge and applying it moving forward. This book was a great introductory to financial education. It revealed what I wasn’t taught during my school life but realised should have been essential.
I’m better prepared for what’s ahead and are no longer limiting the financial vision I have for myself based on where I began.
If you’re ready to open your mind to the way the wealthy view money, then this is a read you’ll find beneficial.
The Approval Fix
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In The Approval Fix, number-one New York Times best-selling author Joyce Meyer gives you practical insights that will help you learn how to accept who you are and become the unique individual God created you to be. You’ll experience greater confidence, deeper emotional stability, and healthier relationships – the life you’re really longing for.
Annie's Review...
I was overrun by the approval and opinion of others, to the extent it became addiction-like. Always concerned about what others thought of me, I’d shape-shift my actions accordingly. I was unconsciously destroying my ability to attain true happiness.
Deep diving into my soul archives, I realised the problem was within my minds belief system about myself.
My journey with Christ as a Believer has been a little tumultuous, to put it simply. If you’ve seen my Faith page, I’ve shared a little more on this relationship there. In restoring and developing my faith, I found I just needed to put more faith in what God says about me, rather than seeking validation from others.
The Approval Fix is Joyce Meyer’s guide in doing exactly that. Becoming free from the approval and acceptance of others through what God says about us. She very simply explains (it’s a short book), why it’s important to alter your belief system according to what God says.
She examples various Scriptures and clearly explains how we’re to translate them into daily application. In doing so, we can live the life God destined for us rather than one rooted in fear, which is ultimately where this trait stems from.
God wants us to live a fulfilled life and this is an opportunity to see how he intends us to do that.
Say something positive and you'll see something positive.
The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go.
Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it's time to pause and reflect.