12 Books to Learn Something New

The Brain That Changes Itself by Norman Doidge, M.D.

I read this one in a book club and really enjoyed it. Dr. Doidge, a psychiatrist, teaches about neuroplasticity: the ability of the human brain to change over time. This book features several personal stories about recovering from a stroke, defeating a brain disorder, and improving skills with only mental practice.

Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb

Lori Gottlieb will teach you how to take care of yourself mentally. A therapist herself, Gottlieb combines interesting patients with her personal journey of therapy. It’s all about the process and self-examination.

Food Rules: An Eater’s Manual by Michael Pollan

Plain and simple: Michael Pollan teaches you how to eat. This book is short, has plenty of pictures and sketches, and gives you an easy-to-use list of rules. This will be the shortest read on this list, but I guarantee it’s one of the most important.

The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing by Marie Kondo

You’ve probably heard of Marie Kondo, the famous cleaning consultant who asks clients if their items “spark joy.” She’s a master at organization and wants to teach you her secrets. Elegant and useful.

10% Happier: How I Tamed the Voice in My Head, Reduced Stress Without Losing My Edge, and Found Self-Help That Actually Works- A True Story by Dan Harris

News anchor Dan Harris had a breakdown on national TV. Now, he wants to teach you the benefits of meditation. Learn how to become 10% happier by focusing on the things that really matter.

The Art of Taking it Easy: How to Cope With Bears, Traffic, and the Rest of Life’s Stressors by Dr. Brian King

Dr. Brian King wants to teach you how to calm down. A comic and psychologist, King’s book is full of absolutely hilarious anecdotes that lead to a lesson in coping with anxiety and fear. When is fear useful and when is it overwhelming?

Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know by Adam Grant

Learning new things is great, and that’s why you’ve come to this post. But what about unlearning things in order to rethink what you don’t know? This new release by the likable Adam Grant will really make you wonder what you still have to learn.

Hunt, Gather, Parent: What Ancient Cultures Can Teach Us About the Lost Art of Raising Happy, Helpful Little Humans by Michaeleen Doucleff, PhD

Doucleff’s book Hunt, Gather, Parent will teach you practical ways to improve your parenting skills. There’s a lot to be learned by delving into unfamiliar cultures and not just observing, but participating. Child-rearing is challenging, but Doucleff wants to help.

Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men by Caroline Criado Perez

Invisible Women will change your perception of gender-based bias. Hundreds of combined studies will teach you about the real-world impacts of being born female. Men and women alike can benefit from this one.

Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg

Are you a female who wants to learn how to achieve more in your personal and professional adventures? Or a man who wants to reap the benefits of supporting these women? Sheryl Sandberg will give you easy-to-follow steps to reach your potential by first getting out of your own way.

Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth

Courage, resolve, and strength of character. That’s what grit is. I really like Duckworth’s Grit. She’ll teach you how it’s more important to stick with it when the going gets tough than it is to have raw talent. I recently reread this one because I love it so much.

Dare to Lead: Brave Work, Tough Conversations, Whole Hearts by Brene Brown, PhD, MSW

You’ve got to be brave to lead. The good news is: you can learn how to be brave. One of several great books by Brown, Dare to Lead will give you a guide to cultivating courage and leadership.