5 Life-Changing Books You Can Read In Under 4 Hours
Read more in less time and change the way you think and live.
Remember when reading short novels or novellas during childhood was so satisfying?
After growing up, we lost that habit of reading with more entertainment options available. But readers would agree that a book can completely change your perspective and direction in life.
If you want to include a reading habit in your life but don’t have the time and patience to complete a novel, start with these self-help short novels.
You can finish these quick-read books in about 4 hours or less, even while enjoying your vacation. You will feel satisfied and learn something incredible in the end.
(Note: The links mentioned in this article are affiliate links. If you choose to purchase these books through these links, it will help me earn a small amount of money — at no extra cost to you. Thanks!)
1. The Defining Decade, by Dr. Meg Jay
The Defining Decade is an excellent book by Dr. Meg Jay, especially for those in their 20s, looking for direction and trying to figure things out in life.
This short read of fewer than 300 pages will change your views about the 20s.
Dr. Meg Jay, a psychologist with more than 20 years of work experience, has perfectly summarized her research and observations on people in their 20s.
This is the defining decade of life because of the rapid changes in every aspect of life, such as career, relationships, connections, and personal identity.
Dr. Jay shares some practical advice backed by research to help you make the most of your 20s. I recommend this book as it will be worth your time, and you’ll learn a lot.
Why is it life-changing?
In the present time, when people believe in YOLO (You Only Live Once) culture, this book is enlightening as it addresses certain misconceptions about the defining decade in our lives.
Dr. Jay has shared some compelling stories, case studies, and scientific facts. She extensively discusses careers, relationships and marriage, emotions, family, and other aspects. She also shares the views of psychologists, neurologists, reproductive health specialists, HR executives, and economists about the twentysomething years.
This book will help you understand how your 20s can enormously affect your life.
My favorite quotes from The Defining Decade by Dr. Meg Jay
“Forget about having an identity crisis and get some identity capital. … Do something that adds value to who you are. Do something that’s an investment in who you might want to be next.”
“Twentysomethings who don’t feel anxious and incompetent at work are usually overconfident or underemployed.”
2. The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, by Marie Kondo
You must have heard that how organized your place is can determine your mental state. A disorganized place leads to a confused mindset with the least motivation.
If you have been procrastinating tidying up your room for a long time or struggle with organizing things, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo is a perfect read to learn about the Japanese method of decluttering.
This bestseller will compel you to get out of bed and declutter your surroundings and mind. Marie Kondo, a Japanese cleaning consultant, talks about the psychology behind an organized home leading to an organized mind.
Why is it life-changing?
This short novel, with only 224 pages, can guide you about how to clear your clutter and enjoy a tidy space.
Nobody likes to live where clothes are piled up, things are spread here and there. Kondo talks about different approaches to cleaning, such as the KonMari method and the little-by-little approach.
With the KonMari method, which organizes things by category, you can eliminate the habit of piling up things forever.
This book is worth a read as you can get guidance from a renowned cleaning specialist. Learn about Tokyo’s newest lifestyle phenomenon of decluttering and staying calmer and motivated.
My favorite quotes from The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo
“The question of what you want to own is actually the question of how you want to live your life.”
“The space in which we live should be for the person we are becoming now, not for the person we were in the past.”
3. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
If you are looking for a fascinating tale full of life lessons that will remind you of your childhood, The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho can be the best short read to get lost in your spiritual thoughts.
The book shows how a Young Santiago, a shepherd, dreams of traveling the world and searching for worldly treasures. It is a story of his journey to find wealth, not materialistic, but true life lessons and valuable friendships. The book is magical with the spice of mystery, wisdom, and a path to discover your true self.
This bestseller is a must-read if you are looking for motivation to follow your dreams.
Why is it life-changing?
Paulo Coelho’s masterpiece talks about human desires like greed, happiness, sadness, and the lessons that life throws most humanely.
This young boy’s quest for treasure and travel leads him to a place he never imagined. Santiago’s story teaches us about following our dreams, listening to our conscience, recognizing opportunities at the right time, learning to read omens, and finding our personal legend.
You won’t regret reading this mystical tale with the wisdom of life, The Alchemist.
My favorite quotes from The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
“And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”
“There is only one thing that makes a dream impossible to achieve: the fear of failure.”
4. One Small Step Can Change Your Life: The Kaizen Way, by Robert Maurer
Taking the first small step can lead to great results in life, but it isn’t easy to apply.
The Kaizen Way by psychologist Dr. Robert Maurer is an inspirational guide to applying these thousands of years old wisdom in your life.
The book teaches about a Chinese saying, Tao Te Ching, which means “The journey of miles begins with a single step.”
If you want a long-lasting change in any area of your life, you must consistently understand the importance of a tiny step. You can read it in one go and leave with wisdom that can transform your life.
Why is it life-changing?
The Kaizen Way is applied to almost every great thing in the world. The Kaizen Way is losing weight gradually by reducing one bite each day, taking step-by-step action to build a great company, or paying attention to little things to make a great discovery.
Dr. Maurer discusses the seven small steps like how to think small, solve small problems, and many more. There are numerous examples of the Kaizen way that can inspire you to take small steps and start now.
Give it a read to boost your motivation.
My favorite quotes from One Small Step Can Change Your Life: The Kaizen Way by Robert Maurer
“Small things with great love. . . . It is not how much we do, but how much love we put into the doing. And it is not how much we give, but how much love we put into the giving. To God, there is nothing small.”
“One of the most powerful ways to “program” your brain is the kaizen technique of asking small questions.”
5. Zen In The Art Of Writing, by Ray Bradbury
Journaling or writing down your thoughts can help you grow in life. Writing is an art of expression, and the book Zen In The Art Of Writing by Ray Bradbury will teach you that art.
Ray Bradbury, a prolific writer, shares his wisdom to master the craft of writing. This book is much more than just a guide and inspires a writer in you. Give this short book a read to learn about writing.
Why is it life-changing?
Bradbury imparts his knowledge about how writing can transform your inner self and inspires you to follow your instincts. He shows that a successful writer masters the most important subject, which is his own life.
My favorite quotes from Zen In The Art Of Writing by Ray Bradbury:
“You must stay drunk on writing so reality cannot destroy you.”
“That’s the great secret of creativity. You treat ideas like cats: you make them follow you.”
“What are the best things and the worst things in your life, and when are you going to get around to whispering or shouting them?”
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