Inspirational Books for 2023
Looking for some guidance on setting your intention for the new year? I’ve selected twelve books that have inspired me through stories, poems, journaling prompts, and time management tips. Make room on your shelf for these books to help you conquer your goals in 2023. Read, reflect and recharge!
A Man Called Ove, by Fredrik Backman
A charming, uplifting novel about a curmudgeon name Ove, who will steal your heart. Author Fredrik Backman draws you into Ove’s world immediately with this captivating tale, that will have you laughing and crying at the same time. Have your tissues handy, as you read this thoughtful reflection on loss and love. First adapted for the screen in Sweden, under the same title; now a new version starring Tom Hanks, renamed “A Man Called Otto” is out in theaters.
Beginner’s Pluck, by Liz Bohannon
Hilarious and heartbreaking stories from an entrepreneur who shares her life lessons on building a life of passion and purpose. This book is a game changer for anyone who’s feeling stuck and needs a little push. Plucky and perfect, just like Liz who I was fortunate to meet at a conference she spoke at last summer.
Born to Shine, by Kendra Scott
An authentic memoir from a woman who took a hobby, followed her passion, became a self-made billionaire and philanthropist. What’s not to love about Kendra Scott, from style maker to storyteller. Just like her jewelry, this book will add a little sparkle to your life! I found it on sale at Barnes & Noble.
Devotions, by Mary Oliver
Pulitzer Prize winning poet Mary Oliver’s personal selection of her best work is the perfect book to begin reading her poems. A timeless volume packed with passionate poetry and treasured observations of nature. I keep my copy handy for daily inspiration.
Every Kindness Matters, Illustrated by Vikki Chu
Hand-painted elephants deliver messages of empathy and encouragement in this uplifiting journal focused on kindness. Find a variety of other books by Compendium to help you live an inspired life.
Happier Hour, by Cassie Holmes, PhD
Discover how to beat distraction, expand your time and focus on what matters most. A joyful guide to reframe your priorities for the new year, inspired by Professor Cassie Holmes’ widely popular MBA class at UCLA.
How Are You Really? By Jenna Kutcher
A heartfelt book with tips on how to build the life and career you want on your own terms, from the popular Goal Digger Podcaster turned author. Get the companion journal direct from Kutcher on her website.
Oprah’s The Life You Want Planner
Get organized, clarify your vision and create the life you want with this undated planner and journal. Discover tips for creating a vision board and journaling prompts. Other inspirational journals available include Oprah’s The Life You Want Love and Happiness Journal and Oprah’s Gratitude Journal.
The Daily Stoic, by Ryan Holiday
Meet your challenge to change for the better, by reading any one of Ryan Holiday’s books. Although his newest book is Discipline is Destiny, if you are new to Holiday, The Daily Stoic might be a better place to start. It’s a life changing devotional book of stoic philosophy with daily exercises from timeless teachings of Roman emperors and greats such as Marcus Aurelius. Get the companion journal to dig deeper into the practice.
The Power of Now, by Eckhart Tolle
A guide to spiritual enlightenment with helpful insights to live in the present and find peace. Find tips for self reflection, along with exercises to apply the advice he shares. Discover Eckhart’s latest look at humanity in his newest book, A New Earth, Awakening to your Life’s Purpose.
The Story of More, by Hope Jahren
Award wining scientist and author Hope Jahren does an excellent job of explaining the climate crisis, while inspiring us all to take action. Check out the young adult version by the same title, or her debut memoir, Lab Girl. The Minnesota native now lives in Norway, where she focuses on environmental research at the University of Oslo. Follow her blog or on Instagram to keep up on her latest discoveries.
Tranquility by Tuesday, by Laura Vanderkam
An indispensable manual to help calm the chaos and make time for what matters. Vanderkam explains in 9 steps how to reclaim your time and achieve a more serene life. Discover more time management tips and motivational books by Vanderkam, including the delightful fable, Juliet’s School of Possibilities.
More Inspiring Books
Check out last year’s list of inspiring books to help you live intentionally and prioritize self-care.
Discover a list of books for dreamers of all ages in my Zabelicious Life Gift Guides.
What books have been transformative for you? Share them in the comments below.