There’s something to be said for tools and books that help you grow spiritually, intelligently, and personally. One of my New Year’s resolution was to invest more in myself, whether it be taking online courses or learning a new skill. This year, I am making it a priority to read more and listen more. I wanted to share my top 3 podcasts and books on emotional intelligence and self love. Here they are:

TOP BOOKS

MASTERY OF LOVE BY DON MIGUEL RUIZ

This book is life changing! A good friend of mine recommended this book for a women’s empowerment course I took and it’s one I would read over and over again. It touches upon our self sabotaging behaviors and fear-based beliefs that not only affect our relationships but our quality of life. A must read to start healing any emotional wounds you may have and greatly emphasizes the importance of self love as a foundation for healthy and thriving relationships.

“The real mission you have in life is to make yourself happy, and in order to be happy, you have to look at what you believe, the way you judge yourself, the way you victimize yourself”

THE ART OF HAPPINESS BY HIS HOLINESS THE DALAI LAMA

I read this book during one of the lowest points in my life and when I was dealing with depression a few years ago. These words provided a healing comfort and put life into perspective for me. The Dalai Lama is someone I admire and look up too and he shares great wisdom. This book touches upon many different obstacles we encounter and how to best handle them.

“However, if we can transform our attitude towards suffering, adopt an attitude that allows us greater tolerance of it, then this can do much to help counteract feelings of mental unhappiness, dissatisfaction, and discontent.”

THE SUBTLE ART OF NOT GIVING A F*CK

Each day I try to live more like I don’t give a fuck. Why? Because too many of us, myself included, care too much about what others think of us. Will this make me look stupid? Will this make me look cool? This book is like a guide to help us choose what’s important and unimportant in our lives.

“Once we embrace our fears, faults and uncertainties – once we stop running from and avoiding, and start confronting painful truths – we can begin to find the courage and confidence we desperately seek.”

TOP PODCASTS

OPTIMAL LIVING DAILY PODCAST

I listen to this podcast everyday when I’m getting ready and putting my make-up on. It’s the absolute perfect way to start my day off right. They narrate short self-improvement, productivity, and mindfulness articles by well known blogs online. They also have a family of other daily podcasts like “Optimal Relationships Daily” and “Optimal FInance Daily” to help in those niches.

THE SCHOOL OF GREATNESS BY LEWIS HOWES

Lewis Howes, who is a best-selling author, athlete, and lifestyle entrepreneur interviews a variety of accomplished business owners to share their inspirational journey. It is a top ranked business & self-improvement podcast and shares many great tips to find your greatness.

THE MARIA FORLEO PODCAST

This award-winning show and podcast has been recognized by Oprah as thought leading and inspirational. Maria’s podcast strives to help you become the person you want to be. She and her guests share a handful of actionable strategies for business, happiness, health, and success.

Hope you enjoy the recommendations above. What are some of your favorite podcasts and books? Be sure to let me know in the comments below!