12 Nonfiction Books to Light a Fire Under Your Ass
If there’s ever been a time for motivational books, it’s 2020.
And no, we’re not talking about the sales-pitch-laden, “BE YOUR OWN BOSS”-yelling, stolen-quotes using books that litter the shelves of the B&N “self-help” section. We’ve collected a list of 12 no-BS nonfiction pieces that go deeper than the norm to help light a fire under your ass and inspire you to make meaningful changes in your life.
“Bossy Pants” by Tina Fey
Take a walk through Tina Fey’s life pre-fame as she delves into the hardships that she has faced to become the successful woman in comedy that she is today. This memoir is inspiring, while still providing the comedic relief that Fey is so well known for.
“I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban” by Christina Lamb and Malala Yousafzai
This list would not be complete without mention of the incredible Malala Yousafazai and her fight for women's right to education at the young age of 11 — after being shot in the head simply for wanting to go to school. This memoir compels you with her bravery, and we guarantee you walk away feeling changed.
“Tiny Beautiful Things” by Cheryl Strayed
Pulling from questions that she received as an advice columnist, Strayed answers all questions surrounding relationships, success and life. Strayed answers questions you didn’t even know you needed answered, all with her signature empathy and understanding.
“The Last Lecture” by Randy Pausch
A professor faced with terminal cancer, Pausch gave his “last lecture”, “Really Achieving your Childhood Dream” on what it really means to live. Read through his final thoughts on the importance of seizing the moment and living your life as if everyday will be your last.
“The Glass Castle” by Jeannette Walls
Walls’s journey of resilience and valor will engross you as she takes you through a heartbreakingly honest look at the life of poverty, hunger and homelessness she and her family faced. Become inspired to create your own path as she and her siblings break the cycle that they were born into despite the odds.
“The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck” by Mark Manson
Manson goes against the grain of the typical overly positive “self help” book as he emphasizes the importance of having struggles in life to give it more meaning, pulling from his own life experiences.
“Everything Is F*cked: A Book About Hope” by Mark Manson
In a phenomenal follow-up, Manson uses psychological research, philosophical teachings and hard science to challenge us to question our ideas of what happiness and success are. Manson puts it all out on the table, and seasons the most uncomfortable truths with enough humor to keep you reading.
“Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail” by Cheryl Strayed
Heal alongside Cheryl Strayed as she takes you through her journey of heartbreak and loss. Learn how she gained back her strength and identity through a self-discovering hike across the Pacific coast. (And for an added bonus, check out the movie adaptation featuring Reese Witherspoon!)
“Year of Yes” by Shonda Rhimes
Walk with Shonda Rhimes through her year of saying “yes” that pushed her out of her comfort zone and led to life changes she didn’t think possible.
“The Power of Habit” by Charles Duhigg
Live a healthier and more successful life through following Duhigg’s scientific approach to understanding unsavory habits and how to improve them. Learn about yourself and how changing your habits can encourage success.
“Rewire” by Richard O’ Connor
Ever wondered why you couldn’t shake a bad habit? Renowned psychologist Richard O’ Connor uses science to share how to shake them and “rewire” your thought process.
The next time you’re in the mood for a bit of meaningful motivation, pick up one of these books and a cup of Pure Grind coffee to take on your day.