5 Books That Changed the Way I See Things

It is such a privilege to be able to continuously learn as we grow older. I believe, as I’m sure most of you as well, that education shouldn’t stop after schooling. And one of my favorite ways to learn is through books.

In particular, I love reading books that give me a new perspective on life and everyday things. I know that sounds a little vague. But let me share with you 5 of my favorite non-fiction titles as I try my best to explain how they have changed the way I see things. Maybe they’ll change the way you see the world as well!

1. When : The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing

I’ve always been a little obsessive when it comes to time; I like making schedules, being efficient and I try my best never to be late (when I am, it’s usually not my fault! ;)) I also like making sure everybody maximizes their time; sometimes, much to the dismay of my boys! They have actually nicknamed me “The Timekeeper.”

So it’s no surprise that this is one of my favorite books of all time.

“When” by Daniel Pink is all about perfect timing. I learned, for example, why breaks are important (and the optimal way to take them) and when the best time is for doing certain things (like sending an email or making important decisions.) It made me realize how crucial timing is in almost everything we do.

The book is very easy to read, full of practical advice and concepts you can easily apply in life. This is one of my top picks simply because I learned so much and I’m so happy I can be even more productive and efficient because of them! 😀

2. The Power of Habit : Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business

Somewhat in relation to my obsession with being efficient, “The Power of Habit” is also one of my favorites because it made me think about certain habits in my life; how I can “trick” myself to change bad habits and how to cultivate good habits in life to make me more productive.

I particularly loved reading about the importance of self-discipline and willpower (will apply this to my kids,) how groups help us move in the right direction (a good reminder for an introvert like me who avoids big groups,) and how important it is to have a good culture, with good habits in place, in the workplace. Lots of things to chew on.

If you like stories, you’ll love this book because there are so many anecdotes. Personally, I feel 50-50 about books with a lot of anecdotes (there’s a reason why I always go for non-fiction books,) but most of the stories are interesting. Also, the learnings I got from this book have been very beneficial to me. Which is why, despite the fact that it’s full of anecdotes, I still highly recommend it even if you’re not so much of a story person.

3. Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything + Superfreakonomics

Freakonomics has already been out for almost a decade so you should have heard about it by now. If you haven’t, or more importantly, if you haven’t read it yet, you’re missing out on a lot!

On its description section, it says: “Freakonomics will make you see the familiar world through a completely original lens.” And true to what it claims, Freakonomics really changed the way I view the world. There’s a lot of data to back up the saying: things are not always what they seem!

For example, I often find myself skeptical when I see statistics linking a particular cause to an effect. Is that really the REAL cause or could it be something else? If you charge parents for picking up their kids late from daycare, will reduce the number of tardy pickups or will the reverse occur? Hmmm…! So many interesting theories and it challenged the way I view many things in life.

Also check out the sequels Superfreakonomics and Think Like a Freak. All are equally interesting. I also recommend listening to their podcast, which I listen over Spotify.

4. All Joy and No Fun: The Paradox of Modern Parenthood

Probably my favorite ‘parenting book’ to date, and it’s not even a parenting book in the traditional sense!

All Joy and No Fun examines how much, and in what ways, children affect their parents’ lives. How does having children reshape a parent’s social life, relationships, career plans, marriage and overall personhood? What’s so unique about modern parenthood and is it better than “the old days?” It’s a meticulously researched book and one backed by a lot of studies and data.

This book confirmed many of my personal theories and my own views about modern parenthood; the unnecessary pressures and everything else it brings. At the same time, it also gave me new perspectives on many different aspects.

After reading, it challenged me to face life as a parent in a different lens; to accept the things I cannot change (and sometimes, to even embrace it) and to understand that I don’t have to join the rat race of modern parenthood to raise happy kids!

It’s very relatable to me and I found myself constantly nodding in agreement, vigorously highlighting on my kindle and sending snapshots of pages to parent friends. I consider this book an absolute must-read for all parents and I wish all my non-parent friends (or slightly older relatives haha) would also read this and take a peek into our world!

5. The Geography of Genius: A Search for the World’s Most Creative Places from Ancient Athens to Silicon Valley

I first encountered the author, Eric Weiner, through his first book Geography of Bliss. Both books are similar in concept but they cover different topics. Geography of Bliss is his more popular title but I personally found Geography of Genius more intriguing, which is why it’s the one that I put on this list.

Geography of Genius explores the idea if (and if so, why,) certain places, countries or cultures are more conducive for geniuses. What’s so special about the Italian Renaissance period, for example? Why did it produce so many masterpieces? Was it the place, the time or the perfect combination of both?

One thing I love about this book is the author’s style of writing. It’s very conversational, light and funny that it makes you feel like you’re reading something a good friend would write to you. Highly entertaining and you get to learn a lot too!

I hope the author continues to write books and turns this into a series!

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I love books and love making book lists. If you have a suggestion for an upcoming book review or book list, please feel free to write them on the comments below!

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