Entertainment
There are so many things to manage by the time you hit adulthood that you almost can’t help worrying about measuring up to the endless tasks that are required of you. When you’re balancing finances, raising children, and trying to maintain some semblance of a social life all at once, it's enough to leave you pretty defeated from time to time. Thankfully, there are plenty of books to boost your confidence and make you realize how amazing you are. Yes, you can read your way to a better mindset.
Regaining your confidence through books can take several routes, and your own preferences can guide you to the right read. For starters, you can take a direct approach with self-help books designed to boost your self-esteem. Or you can learn about confidence through inspiring memoirs or strong fictional characters. (I always feel 10-feet tall after spending time with a particularly spirited heroine.)
The following reads can kick-start your path to confidence and greater self-esteem. Whether you’re going through a particularly rough patch or just want to feel a bit bolder in everyday life, a few choice words can help get you to a better place. In no time you’ll be back on top of the world — or at least prepared to face the day with a better frame of mind.
1
'The Confidence Code' Katty Kay and Claire Shipman
The Confidence Code by Katty Kay and Clarie Shipman combines scientific research and insightful interviews to help readers gain more confidence. You can learn to stop apologizing and start feeling more self-assured.
2
'Indemnity Only' by Sara Paretsky
Sara Paretsky's Indemnity Only is the fist in her V.I. Warshawski novels series. V.I., an investigator who uses her smarts to solve mysteries, is a classic strong female character. Her general toughness and suffer-no-fools attitude may inspire you to feel a bit stronger in your own life.
3
'You Are A Badass' by Jen Sincero
The title says it all. Jen Sincero's You Are a Badass offers entertaining advice, stories, and exercises to help you channel the bad*ss within. Humorous and easy to read, this book can help you out of a slump.
4
'Flight Of The Sparrow' by Amy Belding Brown
Amy Belding Brown's Flight of the Sparrow is a historical novel that follows Mary Rowlandson's capture by Indians in 1676. While dealing with the violence of her capture, Mary has to rely on her wits work with her captors. Along the way, she learns more about the Indians' way of life and begins to question her native Puritan beliefs. Overall, Mary's strength of spirit is inspiring.
5
'I Am Malala' by Malala Yousafzai
For a model of strength and courage, you don't have to look any further than Malala. Although she was brutally shot at point-blank range for speaking out in favor of education, she has still not fallen silent. I Am Malala chronicles her brave stance for education.
6
'No Matter The Wreckage' by Sarah Kay
Sarah Kay is a powerful poet who muses on everything from family to bicycle tires in No Matter the Wreckage. The quiet strength of her words may help you find the power in your own voice.
7
'Carry On, Warrior' by Glennon Doyle Melton
Glennon Doyle Melton's Carry On, Warrior asks everyone (particularly moms) to embrace life with bravery and let go of perfectionism. Equal parts biography and self-help, this hilarious book will help give you some perspective.
8
'Women Who Win' by Lisa Taggart
Lisa Taggart's Women Who Win profiles awesome surfers, marathoners, and soccer stars who have the motivation to pursue their dreams. Reading about these athletes and their courage to (sometimes literally) climb mountains, you're likely to feel more empowered about your own abilities.
9
'Why Not Me?' by Mindy Kaling
Mindy Kaling's Why Not Me? is an insightful and funny look at the T.V. star's life. These anecdotes are honest and relate-able, and Kaling's take-charge attitude rings through.
Images: carbollo/Fotolia
