Bookshelf Therapy | 24 Books to Lift Your Mood and Inspire Your Soul

There are times in life when we all need a little bit of inspiration or a mood boost. Maybe you’re going through a tough time, feeling stuck or uninspired, or simply in need of a pick-me-up. Whatever the reason, reading can be a great way to boost your mood and find inspiration. With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of some inspirational books to read when you need a mood boost or a dose of inspiration.

1.      The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

This modern classic is a must-read for anyone in need of inspiration. The Alchemist tells the story of Santiago, a shepherd boy who dreams of finding treasure in the Egyptian pyramids. Along the way, he learns valuable lessons about following his heart and taking risks. This book is a beautiful reminder that we all have a purpose in life, and that we should never give up on our dreams.

The Alchemist is one of the best inspirational books of all time that you can order online in any shop you want.

2.      Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert

If you’re feeling stuck or uninspired, Big Magic is the perfect inspirational book for you. Elizabeth Gilbert, the author of Eat, Pray, Love, shares her insights on creativity and how to overcome the fear that can hold us back from pursuing our passions. This mood-boost book is full of practical advice and inspiring stories that will help you tap into your creative potential.

3.      The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle

The Power of Now is a spiritual guidebook that teaches readers how to live in the present moment. By letting go of our attachment to the past and the future, we can find peace and happiness in the here and now. This book is a great reminder that the present moment is all we have, and that we should make the most of it.

4.      The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

The Four Agreements is a practical guide to living a happier and more fulfilling life. Don Miguel Ruiz, a Mexican shaman, shares four simple principles that can help us break free from the limiting beliefs and negative thoughts that can hold us back. By practicing these agreements – be impeccable with your word, don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions, and always do your best – we can transform our lives and relationships.

5.      The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin

If you’re looking for a practical guide to finding happiness, The Happiness Project is the mood boost book for you. Gretchen Rubin spent a year testing out different happiness strategies and documenting her findings. This book is full of practical tips and insights on how to create a happier and more fulfilling life. Whether you’re struggling with work, relationships, or just feeling a bit down, this book will help you find the happiness you deserve.

6.      The Secret by Rhonda Byrne

The Secret is a self-help classic that has helped millions of people around the world. This book teaches readers about the Law of Attraction – the idea that we can manifest our desires by focusing our thoughts and energy on them. While some people may dismiss this book as New Age nonsense, it’s hard to deny the power of positive thinking. This inspirational book is a great reminder that we have the power to create our own reality.

7.      The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff

The Tao of Pooh is a charming and insightful book that uses Winnie the Pooh and his friends to explore the principles of Taoism. Through the stories of Pooh, Piglet, and the rest of the gang, readers can learn valuable lessons about mindfulness, simplicity, and the power of just being. This book is a great reminder that sometimes the simplest things in life can bring us the most joy.

8.      Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

Man’s Search for Meaning is a powerful memoir that tells the story of Viktor Frankl’s time in a concentration camp during World War II. Despite the horrific circumstances, Frankl was able to find meaning and purpose in his life, and this book is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It’s a sobering reminder of the power of the mind and how our thoughts can help us overcome even the most difficult of circumstances.

9.      The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

The Little Prince is a timeless classic that has touched the hearts of readers around the world. This charming book tells the story of a young prince who travels from planet to planet in search of knowledge and wisdom. Along the way, he meets a variety of characters who teach him valuable lessons about life, love, and the importance of following one’s heart. This mood-boost book is a beautiful reminder that the things that truly matter in life are often the things that can’t be seen with the eyes.

10. The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale

The Power of Positive Thinking is a self-help classic that has helped millions of people around the world. Norman Vincent Peale teaches readers how to harness the power of positive thinking to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. By focusing on the positive and refusing to give in to negative thoughts, we can create a more fulfilling and successful life.

11. The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron

The Artist’s Way is a practical guide to unlocking your creative potential. Julia Cameron shares her insights on how to overcome creative blocks and unleash your inner artist. This book is full of practical exercises and tips that will help you tap into your creativity and find inspiration in even the most mundane of activities.

12. You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero

You Are a Badass is a self-help book that’s all about embracing your inner badass. Jen Sincero teaches readers how to overcome self-doubt and tap into their true potential. This book is full of practical tips and insights that will help you take control of your life and become the badass you were meant to be.

13. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is a classic self-help book that has helped millions of people around the world. Stephen Covey shares his insights on how to live a more effective and fulfilling life by focusing on seven key habits. This book is full of practical advice and exercises that will help you develop these habits and transform your life.

14. The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck

The Road Less Traveled is a timeless classic that’s all about personal growth and development. M. Scott Peck teaches readers how to overcome their fears and insecurities and live a more fulfilling life. This book is full of practical advice and insights that will help you develop the skills and mindset needed to thrive in today’s world.

15. The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod

The Miracle Morning is a self-help book that’s all about creating a morning routine that will set you up for success. Hal Elrod shares his insights on how to start your day with purpose and intention, and he provides practical tips and exercises that will help you develop a morning routine that works for you. Whether you’re a morning person or not, this inspirational book is full of great ideas for how to start your day off on the right foot.

16. When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

When Breath Becomes Air is a memoir by a neurosurgeon named Paul Kalanithi, who was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer at the age of 36. In this moving and powerful book, Kalanithi reflects on his life and his experiences as a doctor, and he shares his insights on what it means to live a meaningful and purposeful life in the face of death. This mood-boost book is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of finding meaning in our lives.

17. The Book of Joy by Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu

The Book of Joy is a heartwarming and insightful book that chronicles a week-long conversation between two spiritual leaders, the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. In this book, the two men share their insights on what it means to live a joyful and purposeful life, and they provide practical advice and exercises for cultivating joy and compassion in our daily lives. This inspirational book is a powerful reminder of the importance of finding joy and connection in our lives, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.

18. The Art of Possibility by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander

The Art of Possibility is a self-help book that provides readers with practical tools for transforming their mindset and opening up new possibilities in their lives. Co-authors Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander (who is the conductor of the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra) draw on their combined experience to offer inspiring stories and powerful exercises for cultivating creativity, resilience, and optimism. This book is a great reminder that we have the power to shape our own reality by changing the way we think about ourselves and our circumstances.

19. The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown

The Gifts of Imperfection is a self-help book that encourages readers to embrace their authentic selves and let go of their fear of being imperfect. Author Brené Brown draws on her own research on vulnerability, shame, and courage to offer practical advice and exercises for cultivating self-compassion, authenticity, and wholehearted living. This inspirational book is a great reminder that we are all imperfect, and that our imperfections are actually what make us unique and lovable.

20. The War of Art by Steven Pressfield

The War of Art is a self-help book that explores the concept of resistance and how it can sabotage our creative endeavors and prevent us from living fulfilling lives. Author Steven Pressfield offers practical advice and exercises for overcoming resistance and cultivating discipline, perseverance, and self-mastery. This book is a great reminder that the things that are most worth doing in life often require hard work and sacrifice, but that the rewards of pushing through resistance are ultimately worth it.

21. The One Thing by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan

The One Thing is a self-help book that encourages readers to focus on their most important priorities and eliminate distractions in order to achieve their goals. Co-authors Gary Keller and Jay Papasan offer practical advice and exercises for cultivating clarity, focus, and productivity in our lives. This book is a great reminder of the importance of prioritizing our time and energy, and how doing so can help us achieve greater success and fulfillment.

22. Mindset by Carol Dweck

Mindset is a self-help book that explores the power of mindset in shaping our attitudes, behaviors, and ultimately, our success in life. Author Carol Dweck draws on her own research in psychology and education to offer practical advice and exercises for cultivating a growth mindset, which emphasizes the power of effort and learning over innate ability. This book is a great reminder of the importance of embracing challenges, learning from failure, and cultivating a lifelong love of learning.

23. The Thing You See When You Slow Down by Haemin Sunim

This book is a wonderful book that provides short reflections on life and mindfulness. The author encourages readers to slow down, appreciate the present moment, and cultivate a sense of inner peace and contentment. The book is divided into chapters exploring different themes, and contains charming illustrations. Sunim’s gentle and compassionate writing style is a joy to read, making this book a great reminder of the importance of taking time to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures of life.

24. Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles

This book is a popular book that explores the concept of Ikigai – a reason for being or sense of purpose. The book draws on interviews with residents of the Japanese island of Okinawa, known for their longevity and vitality, and offers practical advice on finding your own Ikigai through self-reflection, mindful living, and pursuing your passions. It’s a great read for anyone seeking more meaning and purpose in life, and interested in Japanese culture and philosophy.

Conclusion

Whether you’re feeling stuck, down, or just in need of a boost, these books are sure to provide you with the inspiration and motivation you need. From timeless classics to modern self-help books, there’s something for everyone on this list. So, grab a book, curl up with a cup of tea, and get ready to be inspired.