The Power of Less by Leo Babauta

subtitled: the fine art of limiting yourself to the essential in business and in life.

I love this little book. It’s simple, much like Leo’s posts at zenhabits.net, but it’s thought provoking. Totally came at the right time for me.

I also like the set up of the book, first the author describes the principles in detail and then the second part provides tips for implementing them in your life.

10-10-10 by Suzy Welch

I first read about this idea in Suzy’s column in O Magazine. This slim volume is engaging and provides more detailed look at her 10-10-10 decision making process  and how it applies to all areas of life, including work, relationships and parenting. Basically you pose a question and look at the outcomes based on 10 minutes, 10 months and 10 years. I like how it applies a rational framework and can work in so many situations.

The Rhythm of Life by Matthew Kelly

subtitled: Living Every Day with Passion and Purpose

Short chapters. Good information. Much of it we know, but forget we know.
The first chapter – Everything is a choice – resonated with me, since I have a whole soapbox I can get on about choices. And how you always have a choice. But when we get caught up in the muck and business we forget things sometimes.

I like the concept of life having a rhythm instead of balance. I liked the short chapters and practical words of wisdom.

Only Nuns Change Their Habits Overnight by Karen Scalf Linamen

Subtitled: 52 Amazing Way to Master the art of personal change.

I really enjoyed this humorous, yet practical look at the change process.
Most of the tips are good – although I think to get 52 the author stretched a little bit. The cover lead me to believe it would be in a different format, but instead the tips are sprinkled throughout the chapters. The author primarily uses humor to get her point across.  I also didn’t realize she’s a Christian humorist – although really the religious stuff wasn’t too heavy handed.
I’d recommend it to anyone who is trying to make a change in their life.

QBQ! The Question Behind the Question by John G. Miller

Subtitled: What to Really Ask Yourself to Eliminate Blame, Complaining, and Procrastination

The cover also says: “practicing personal acountability at work and in life.”

I read this because Dave Ramsey mentioned it on his radio show. It’s a slim volume packed with realistic wisdom on taking responsibility and making things happen.

The QBQ has three parts – your question begins with “What” or “How”, contains “I” and focuses on action. It is the opposite of blaming, shaming and energy sucking “Why” questions.

I really enjoyed it and would recommend it to those looking for a quick thought provoking business read.

The Gift of a Year by Mira Kirshenbaum

Subtitled: How to achieve the most meaningful, satisfying, and pleasureable year of your life.

I read a book by this author awhile ago and liked her style, so I decided to pick up some others by her. This is written in her same practical style, full of specific and doable things to create this “gift of a year.” Which is really just about woman making time for themselves and reconnecting with their sense of self. An intersting premise and I can see how it would be helpful to women who feel they’ve lost a piece of themselves but it didn’t really apply to me.

The Five Languages of Love by Gary Chapman

Subtitle: How to express heartfelt commitment to your mate.

I’ve heard about this book for awhile now, and it was first published in 1992. It’s a quick interesting look at what it means to love and be loved. I did the personal assessment and once I found out what love langage I speak I could totally see why certain things mean so much to me.

At only 191 pages this is an interesting way to look at relating to your signicant other. Also, the author dispels the myths surrounding that in-love feeling. I would recommend it to any couple.

Managing Brand You by Jerry S. Wilson

Subtitled: Seven Steps to creating your most successful self.

I’ll admit I mostly skimmed this. It’s an interesting combination of information on how companies create strong brands (with good case studies on Tide, Coca-Cola, Harley Davidson) and how you can apply the author’s seven step approach to creating a strong brand for yourself. So on one hand it’s a good business book with interesting information on how to brand, and on the other hand it’s got this self-help feel to hit. WIth worksheets and exercises to discovering your brand and creating an action plan. Which I found quite intesting and useful.