On New Years Eve my husband and I have two traditions. We start by opening up our memory jar, full of the funny, heartwarming, and surprising moments we’ve scribbled down throughout the year. Once we have read them all, we pour ourselves a drink, take out a notebook, and write out some specific goals for the new year.
One of my goals every year is to read at least 20 books.
I rate all of my books on a scale from 1 – 5, based on how much I got out of the book and how likely I am to recommend it to somebody else.
These books have shifted my perspective and influenced my mindset, habits, and aspirations. My top 6 books are my favorites from the year. Some our business, some are personal, and some have impacted both! In 2024 I was much lighter on business books than I have been in the past. I felt an urge to read a lot of non fiction stories this year!
For a complete list of all of the books I read in 2024, scroll all the way down. (and for 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020)
May the pages of your next book be filled with inspiration and growth. Happy reading!
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1. “The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry” by John Mark Comer
[Personal] 5/5
This book was a game-changer for me this year. John Mark Comer explores the profound toll that constant busyness takes on our souls and offers a compelling invitation to slow down, simplify, and embrace rest.
Through practical advice rooted in ancient wisdom, Comer challenges us to eliminate the hurry that so often clutters our lives and keeps us from living meaningfully. This book helped me rethink my priorities and create space for what truly matters.
2. “Buy Back Your Time” by Dan Martell
[Business] 5/5
Dan Martell’s Buy Back Your Time is a must-read for entrepreneurs and anyone looking to optimize how they spend their most precious resource: time.
Martell shares actionable strategies for outsourcing, delegating, and focusing on your zone of genius, all while avoiding burnout. It’s a practical and empowering guide that helped me rethink how I structure my business and gave me permission to let go of tasks that don’t serve my goals.
3. “Unbroken” by Laura Hillenbrand
[Personal] 5/5
Ok, I might be a little late to the party on this one. This gripping true story of resilience, survival, and redemption captivated me from the first page. Unbroken tells the story of the life of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic athlete who became a World War II bombardier, survived a plane crash, endured unimaginable hardships as a prisoner of war, and ultimately found forgiveness.
Hillenbrand’s masterful storytelling brings this inspiring tale to life, reminding readers of the unbreakable strength of the human spirit.
I couldn’t put it down!
4. “Good Energy” by Casey Means
[Personal] 5/5
Good Energy by Dr. Casey Means is an insightful guide to optimizing your health and vitality by understanding how lifestyle factors influence your body and mind.
Drawing on her expertise in medicine, Means explains how nutrition, movement, stress management, and sleep play a pivotal role in energy levels and long-term well-being. Packed with actionable advice and backed by science, this book empowered me to make small, meaningful changes.
It’s an inspiring resource for anyone looking to live with more vibrancy and balance.
5. “Practicing the Way” by John Mark Comer
[Personal, Spiritual] 5/5
Yes, John Mark Comer made my list twice this year—and for good reason. Practicing the Way is a guide to building habits that align with your values and faith.
Comer dives into how intentional spiritual practices can transform your daily life and deepen your connection with God. This book was both convicting and encouraging, reminding me that small, consistent steps can lead to profound change.
6. “Endurance” by Alfred Lansing
[Personal] 5/5
Another book I couldn’t put down. Endurance tells the incredible true story of Ernest Shackleton’s Antarctic expedition and the astonishing perseverance of his crew when their ship became trapped in ice.
Lansing’s account of courage, leadership, and teamwork under unimaginable conditions is as riveting as it is inspiring. It’s a testament to the power of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As I reflect on this year’s reading journey, I’m so grateful for the ways these books have influenced me, whether by shifting my mindset, sparking new ideas, or simply offering moments of peace and inspiration.
Here’s to another year of transformative reading in 2025. What’s on your list? Let me know your recommendations!
Happy reading!
All 20 Books I read this year:
Ruthless Elimination of Hurry 5/5
Esperanza Rising 3/5
Undistracted 3/5
Effortless 3/5
Who Not How 2/5
Safely Home 4/5
Superfans 4/5
Clockwork 3/5
Glass Castle 5/5
Buy Back Your Time 5/5
Radical 5/5
Follow Me 5/5
Unbroken 5/5
10 and Divorced 4/5
Left to Tell 5/5
Endurance 5/5
Good Energy 5/5
Brain Energy 4/5
The More of Less 4/5
Practicing the Way 5/5
