You know that feeling when you flip the page to a new chapter, or the smell of a used book, that can instantly transport you to a different world?

I love that feeling!

That’s why I’m Team Physical Book all the way.

There’s something so satisfying about closing the book at the end of a great reading sesh, especially if you’ve had an ah-ha moment or learned something important.

Whether you’re Team Kindle or you love having a real book in your hand, reading is an incredible way to flex your mental muscle.

I also love sharing what I’ve learned in books with others – for better or worse, you benefit from my Input strength and extreme book collection.

So in the spirit of a new year, I’d love to share the lessons that shaped my life last year from five must-read books.

I’m a voracious reader. One of my Top 5 Strengths is Input – I love collecting information.

And the books I’m drawn to most often are self-help and personal development books. I’ve read countless books on personal finance, spirituality, personal growth, and success. And I’ve realized something.

The personal development field has a lot of people who look the same. When I look at my bookshelves or my Audible library, there are a lot of white, male faces.

And that’s not always the perspective I want to hear.

It’s important to be intentional about who we learn from, whose perspectives we listen to, and whose lessons enrich our lives.

I’ve been reading since I was 3 years old. That’s not an exaggeration.

My mom and dad used to read to me every night. Sometimes my dad would make up something in the story, and I would say, “that’s not how it goes, Daddy!”

Books have always been a huge part of my life.

I have books piled in my nightstand, on bookshelves, on coffee tables. I can never have too many books.

There’s nothing quite like the feel and smell of a new book, bursting with possibility, just waiting to be opened.

I always share what I learn in books with my family and friends, and I love giving books as gifts, especially when I know a book can make a difference in someone’s life.

My life is better because of the wisdom of countless books, and in honor of World Book Day, I want to share some of those books with you.