I always hated the idea of personal development.
I honestly would roll my eyes every single time I heard it. It was all this hippy dippy bologna (thank you, Lego movie) that I absolutely couldn’t stand and avoided it for years.
It wasn’t until I started my make up business a year and a half ago that I finally gave it a chance. And it was quite begrudgingly, mind you. It was only because my team continually told me how important it was. My honest intent was to give it a go and then explain why it’s a crock of crap. But that isn’t how it went at all.
It opened me up to this whole new world of things that spoke directly to me.
It isn’t just a bunch of junk thrown together telling you to love yourself. That’s part of it, but it’s definitely not the whole of it.
I am very picky about my personal development. Maybe that’s why I haven’t come across the super hippy dippy stuff. I know that doesn’t speak to me, so I found things that did. I like authors and speakers that I can relate to. I don’t relate to soft spoken and flowery words (if you do – there’s lots of things for you, too! It just doesn’t speak to me). I relate to things that I can apply the moment I stop reading or listening. I relate to blunt and to the point. I am the type of person that needs the daily dose of tough love to keep me going, but I also need to be guided with understanding.
There are books, podcasts, audiobooks, videos online. Whichever way you learn and absorb information best, there are things available for you.
I also love this because of the variety. I can get my in your face tough love, I can get the guided “you can do its,” I can learn about business, mindset, health. I am watching a video by my favorite bodybuilder as we speak.
I used to hate the idea of it and now I am totally hooked. So I wanted to share my absolute favorites with you.
Books:
The 10x Rule – Grant Cardone
This guy doesn’t play. Grant Cardone is my favorite tough love, no fluff person ever. He gets very real about what got him to where he’s at and where he’s going. Cardone doesn’t apologize for having big dreams and tells you why you shouldn’t, either. If you’re wanting big things for your life and are ready to hustle, pick up this book. You won’t regret it.
Be Obsessed or Be Average – Grant Cardone
Another great book by the awesome Grant Cardone. In this book, Cardone shares why being obsessed isn’t a bad thing and how it can take you to new heights. If you have that one thing on your heart that you can’t let go of, that one thing that everyone says “Oh my gosh settle down – you’re obsessed,” this book was written for you. Be ready for some tough love and no nonsense advice. It will blow your mind, and skyrocket you to amazing heights.
Girl, Wash Your Face – Rachel Hollis
I’m sure you’ve heard of this ridiculously popular self help book by now. It really is as great as everyone says it is. Hollis wrote it with the intention that it’s like sitting across the table from your friend, sharing real stories. And that’s exactly how it is. This book is filled to the brim with motivation and inspiration to get you to finally move towards your goals.
You are a Badass – Jen Sincero
This book will change your life. And I mean it. I’m not one for the “the universe is just waiting for you to manifest your dreams,” stuff, but this book still got to me. If you’re ready to realize your greatness and start moving towards big things, Sincero is the person to bring you there. This book is filled with witty commentary, some colorful language, and so much love you won’t be able to hold yourself back any longer.
You are a Badass at Making Money – Jen Sincero
Just like her original book, this one blew my mind. I didn’t realize how I was holding myself back from success and financial freedom until Sincero got very real with me in this book. It is one of those books that really digs deep down into your soul to pull out your absolute potential. If you’re running in circles wondering why your finances aren’t where you want them, you need this book.
#GirlBoss – Sophia Amoruso
I was first introduced to Amoruso on the Netflix show under the same name. When I found out it was based on a book and a real person, I had to get the book. And I’m so glad I did. It is a straight to the point reality check on what it really takes to be successful. It is a very candid, unique take and while it is fashion based, it has something for everybody. I fully believe every entrepreneur needs to read it.
Vegan Bodybuilding and Fitness – Robert Cheeke
Of course I had to include something on my favorite topic. Cheeke was my first introduction to vegan bodybuilding and will forever be one of my favorites. I grabbed this book after following him for awhile and it is SO chock full of information I reread it every few months. But it is also so inspirational and full of actionable steps that will truly take you to exactly where you want to be.
Podcasts:
The Goal Digger Podcast – Jenna Kutcher
One of my team members from my make up business introduced me to Kutcher and I’m OBSESSED. I listen to her podcasts almost daily. Whether its an episode I haven’t heard yet or relistening, I always get amazing information and inspiration. Kutcher is a wife and mom who gives the vibe that you’re hanging out in yoga pants on her couch while getting so much information you can’t believe it. If you haven’t listened yet, you need to.
Strong and Sculpted – Kim Constable
Constable is my #WomanCrushWednesday. Well, more like my #WomanCrushEVERYDAY. She is a wife, homeschooling mom, million-dollar business owner, and bodybuilder. She has a YouTube channel and Instagram (TheSculptedVegan) that has a lot of amazing info, as well. But I’m a sucker for a good podcast. She shares with you real tips and tricks that you can apply TODAY to change your life and make your body dreams happen. She’s also so inspirational and she genuinely cares about everyone. If you’re interested in bodybuilding, or just want a sneak peak into how someone can manage a busy life and still reach their goals, this is the podcast to listen to.
These are my absolute favorites, although I’m sure I will add more as time goes on. I’m obsessed with information and I want to take in as much as I can. I just positively love to learn and better myself and things like this are a great way to do so.
Have you read or listened to these before? What are your favorites that I didn’t list? Please let me know – I’m always wanting to add to my list.
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