Books
Life is full of big, terrifying decisions. When you're looking at a choice head-on, sometimes it can feel so overwhelming and impossible. As for me, whenever I'm facing a difficult choice, I turn to books to help guide me through it all.
From financial choices to relationship issues to big life moments, decisions can be a rough ride. It can be difficult to know if you're doing the right thing, and sometimes you don't want to make the decision at all. No matter what kind of decision you're looking at, the good news is: you're not alone. We've all had to make big decisions, and we've all found different ways to cope. Take it from these authors, whose advice will help you tackle even the hardest choices.
These eight books will help guide you as you make your decision. Some provide scientific research about the decision making process, and how you can hack your life to make it a little simpler. Others provide personal anecdotes that can inspire you to keep pushing, to keep trying. Decisions can be scary, but hopefully with these books you'll feel a little more confident about the choices you're facing.
1
'The Art of Choosing' by Sheena Iyengar
Sheena Iyengar studies how and why we make choices, and this book will give you incredible insight into all the different forces that affect your decision making process. Before you pick up the book, check out Iyengar's enlightening TED Talk on the same subject.
2
'The Art of Asking' by Amanda Palmer
Musician and internet superstar Amanda Palmer talks about how she rose to fame – and what she learned along the way — in this memoir and manifesto.
3
'Bird by Bird' by Anne Lamott
I know this book is technically a writing guide, but so much of its advice carries through to life in general. It's titular idea — to take everything one step at a time (or bird by bird) — is something I try to remember in every tough situation.
4
'You Are a Badass' by Jen Sincero
This self-help book is designed to help you enact live out your full potential and make necessary (but tough) changes when need be.
5
'Yes Please' by Amy Poehler
Empowering AF. Poehler is like an older sister who keeps it real about the struggles of finding a path in life.
6
'If This Isn't Nice, What Is?: Advice to the Young—The Graduation Speeches' by Kurt Vonnegut,
I love commencement speeches, and author Kurt Vonnegut's are among the best. This book is filled with advice that people in all walks of life can appreciate.
7
'Year of Yes' by Shonda Rhimes
Shonda Rhimes is a goddess. In this wonderful memoir, she chronicles how she challenged herself to say "yes" to unexpected invitations for a year.
8
'The Decision Book: Fifty Models for Strategic Thinking' by Mikael Krogerus and Roman Tschäppeler
If you're looking for a super practical guide to decision making, this book is filled with models designed to help you make better choices. Take that classic pro-con list the extra mile.
