My Library
In my library, you’ll find a selection of books that have inspired me, enriched my perspective, or sparked new ideas.
They reflect topics that matter to me – from personal growth and mindfulness to leadership and creativity.
The list is constantly growing, as I add every new book that truly resonates with me. Perhaps you’ll discover just the spark you need for your own journey.
The buttons under ‘Available at…’ use affiliate links that lead directly to the respective retailer.
THE QUICK AND EASY WAY TO EFFECTIVE SPEAKING
The Quick and Easy Way to Effective Speaking by Dale Carnegie is a motivating and practical book that shows how anyone can improve their speaking skills and appear more confident in front of others. Carnegie explains how to overcome nervousness, structure your thoughts clearly, and truly engage your audience. What I find particularly compelling is his focus on simple, actionable techniques rather than complicated rhetoric theories. The advice is based on real-life experience and can be applied immediately – whether in the workplace, during presentations, or in private conversations.
For me, an absolute classic for communicating messages clearly and effectively!
An audiobook on Audible is currently not available.
HOW TO BE FREE
How to Be Free by Tom Hodgkinson is a charming and provocative book that invites readers to free themselves from social constraints, unnecessary stress, and excessive consumerism. Hodgkinson weaves together philosophical reflections, historical anecdotes, and personal experiences into a guide for a self-determined, free life. I find his humorous and sometimes slightly anarchistic tone particularly refreshing, as it encourages setting your own priorities and shaping daily life by your own rules. The book is a reminder that true freedom often lies in simplicity – and that it’s worth having the courage to embrace calmness.
For me, an inspiring manifesto for living lighter and more consciously!
An audiobook on Audible is currently not available.
HAPPY BRAIN, HAPPY YOU
Happy Brain, Happy You by Dr. Daniel G. Amen is an eye-opening and encouraging book about how much our thinking, feeling, and actions depend on the health of our brain. Through vivid examples and scientific insights, Amen explains how nutrition, exercise, sleep, mental hygiene, and stress management can make our brains more efficient and happier. What impressed me most was how concrete and actionable his recommendations are – from simple dietary changes to mental routines that strengthen emotional balance. The book makes it clear that a happy brain not only boosts our well-being but also forms the foundation for success, creativity, and resilience. However, at times it leans a bit too much toward the dietary supplement angle with his own products, and in some parts I found it a bit too scientific.
For me, still a true eye-opener that makes you want to take better care of your own mind right away!
IT DIDN’T START WITH YOU
It Didn’t Start With You by Mark Wolynn is an insightful book about the impact of transgenerational trauma. It shows that some of our feelings and behavior patterns may not necessarily come from our own experiences but can be passed down through generations.
What I found particularly impressive is the approach of uncovering the so-called core language through conversations with family – parents, grandparents, or even through everyday expressions and recurring thoughts. The book opens our eyes to the fact that sometimes it’s not really “about us,” but that we unconsciously carry emotional burdens from our family history.
A clear recommendation for anyone who doesn’t quite know why they feel or act the way they do – and who wants to free themselves from unconscious patterns.
MINDSET
Mindset by Carol Dweck was a real eye-opener for me. The book showed me that our self-image is not fixed, but that we can grow and change through our mindset.
What was new to me was the distinction between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset – this differentiation opened up completely new perspectives for me.
Towards the end I found it a bit harder to read, as some examples were repeated. Nevertheless, I consider it a very valuable book – especially if you are dealing with the two types of mindsets for the first time. Realizing that with training, effort, and perseverance you can achieve far more than you ever imagined had a big impact on me. You don’t have to be naturally talented to paint or play an instrument – with practice and dedication, you can achieve great things.
A clear must-read for anyone who has never heard of the growth mindset before.
BRUCE LEE - KNOW YOURSELF!
Know Yourself! by Bruce Lee is an inspiring collection of thoughts, teachings, and life principles from the martial arts legend. The book shows that Lee’s success was not only based on physical strength but above all on mental clarity, discipline, and a consistent dedication to self-improvement. I find it particularly impressive how timeless his messages are – from believing in one’s vision and having the courage for self-realization to the art of adapting flexibly to change. Many of his quotes feel like small life lessons that motivate you to think beyond limits and bring out your very best.
Words that inspire reflection and go far beyond martial arts!
THE LITTLE BOOK OF CALM
The Little Book of Calm by Paul Wilson is a soothing companion for anyone seeking more serenity, inner balance, and clarity in life. Wilson conveys in an empathetic way how to create moments of calm in a hectic world – not just through meditation but also through small, consciously chosen daily habits. What I particularly like is how he combines practical techniques with a positive, relaxed attitude, making relaxation feel like an enrichment rather than an obligation. The book inspires readers to view stress differently and meet it with a gentle yet consistent approach.
For me, a valuable reminder that true strength often lies in calmness!
WHAT EVERY BODY IS SAYING
What Every Body Is Saying by Joe Navarro is a fascinating book about the art of understanding and interpreting nonverbal signals. The former FBI agent uses numerous examples to show how body language often reveals more than words – from small gestures and facial expressions to subtle changes in posture. I find it especially interesting how clearly Navarro explains what to look for in order to detect lies, insecurity, or genuine interest. The many practical tips make it easy to apply what you’ve learned right away – whether in business, conversations, or personal life. This book sharpens not only your powers of observation but also your understanding of other people.
For me, an indispensable key to reading between the lines!
LEADING WITH THE BRAIN
"Leading with the Brain" by Sebastian Purps-Pardigol is a fascinating book that combines neuroscientific insights with practical leadership concepts. It shows how leaders can guide their teams more effectively – and more humanely – by understanding how the brain works. I find it particularly interesting how Purps-Pardigol uses real business examples to demonstrate that empathy, appreciation, and meaningful work can greatly boost team motivation and creativity. The strategies are practical, scientifically grounded, and inspire the creation of a workplace culture where people can truly thrive.
For me, a groundbreaking book that proves successful leadership begins in the mind – and in the heart!
An Audible audiobook is currently only available in German.
LEADERSHIP MASTERY
Leadership Mastery by Dale Carnegie is a timeless book about the art of inspiring, motivating, and leading authentically. Carnegie shows that successful leadership is not based solely on expertise but above all on interpersonal skills such as empathy, active listening, and genuine appreciation. I find it especially impressive how practical his advice is: small gestures of recognition, constructive feedback, and genuine interest in others often make the decisive difference. The book makes it clear that leadership above all means recognizing potential and supporting people in their growth.
For me, an indispensable guide to leading with heart and character!
An audiobook on Audible is currently not available.
THE HARD THING ABOUT HARD THINGS
The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz is a brutally honest and inspiring book about the realities of entrepreneurship. Horowitz shares his experiences as a founder and CEO without sugarcoating the tough, often painful decisions that must be made in times of crisis. I find his openness particularly impressive, as he makes it clear that there are no perfect solutions – only courageous, sometimes uncomfortable choices that must be made responsibly. The book offers not only valuable strategies for leadership in extreme situations but also mental tools to think clearly and remain capable of action under pressure.
For me, a valuable insight into the art of facing the toughest challenges in business.
All the titles in this list — whether books, audiobooks, or summaries — are linked through affiliate links.
By ordering through these links, you support me and my work at no extra cost to you.
Some book images are stylized mockups and may differ from the original cover.
