Three Books That Changed My Life for the Better

One Page at a Time

Raahil Modi 🌿
4 min readJun 28, 2024
Photo by Becca Tapert on Unsplash

Books have the power to transform our lives, offering wisdom, inspiration, and practical advice that can steer us towards becoming better versions of ourselves. Among the myriad of books I’ve read, three stand out for their profound impact: Atomic Habits by James Clear, The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel, and The Courage to Be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga. Each of these books brought a unique perspective and set of tools that have significantly improved my life. Let me share how they did so.

Atomic Habits: The Power of Small Changes

Atomic Habits by James Clear (New Edition)

Atomic Habits by James Clear was a revelation. The idea that tiny changes can lead to remarkable results resonated deeply with me. Before reading this book, I often felt overwhelmed by the magnitude of my goals. I wanted to make big changes, but the path seemed daunting and unattainable. Clear’s approach to habits changed all of that.

Clear breaks down the science of habits into a simple yet profound concept: small, consistent actions lead to significant improvements over time. This book taught me to focus on the process rather than the outcome. By establishing tiny, manageable habits and sticking to them, I gradually built a foundation of success that has permeated every aspect of my life. From daily exercise to better time management, the principles in “Atomic Habits” have empowered me to make lasting changes without the burnout that comes from trying to overhaul my life overnight.

You can buy it here on Amazon.

The Psychology of Money: Redefining Wealth

The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel

Money is a topic that affects us all, yet it’s often shrouded in misconceptions and emotional baggage. The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel offered a fresh perspective on financial well-being, one that goes beyond numbers and spreadsheets. Housel delves into the behavioral aspects of money, emphasizing that our financial success is more about how we think and behave than how much we know.

This book helped me understand the importance of financial independence and the role of behavior in achieving it. It’s not just about earning more or spending less, but about understanding our relationship with money and making decisions that align with our values and long-term goals. Housel's insights into risk, greed, and happiness have reshaped my approach to money, allowing me to make more thoughtful and deliberate financial choices. This shift has brought me greater peace of mind and a clearer vision for my future.

You can buy it here on Amazon

The Courage to Be Disliked: Embracing True Freedom

The Courage To Be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga

The Courage to Be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga is a philosophical journey that challenges conventional wisdom about happiness and self-worth. The book, structured as a dialogue between a philosopher and a young man, explores the principles of Adlerian psychology and how they can be applied to live a more fulfilling life.

One of the most profound lessons I took from this book is the idea that we are not victims of our past. Instead, we have the power to choose our paths and create our destinies. This concept was incredibly liberating. It encouraged me to take responsibility for my life and to stop seeking approval from others. By understanding that my worth is not determined by external validation, I found the courage to pursue my true passions and interests.

The notion of living in the present moment and focusing on what I can control has brought a new level of clarity and purpose to my life. It’s not about being indifferent to others, but about understanding that true freedom comes from within.

You can buy it here on Amazon

Conclusion

These three books—”Atomic Habits,” “The Psychology of Money,” and “The Courage to Be Disliked”—have each played a pivotal role in my personal growth and development. They have provided me with practical tools, profound insights, and the motivation to create a life that is aligned with my values and aspirations. If you’re looking to make positive changes in your life, I highly recommend diving into these transformative reads. They might just change your life for the better, as they did for me.

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