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5 Self- Help Books That Will Seriously Change Your Perspective on Life

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Notre Dame chapter.
The Power of Now by Ekhart Tolle

Eckhart Tolle is an incredible spiritual leader and author. I have learned so much about being in the present and letting go of stress through his work . If you are struggling with being present and appreciating the now, this book will absolutely help shift your perspective and appreciate life in the present. 

What I Know For Sure by Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey has certainly had a vast array of experiences and has been able to interview some incredible people. From these experiences and conversations, she has picked up many life lessons that she decided to share in this book. Her teachings range from her relationship with food to her conversations with Eckhart Tolle. This book is filled with so many valuable life lessons that will definitely have you thinking about how to live your best, most joyful life. 

How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

This book was published in 1936, but continues to be at the top of best-selling lists. It outlines ways to get people to like you and how to gain more respect as a leader. If you are looking to gain more confidence in your work space, or are struggling to make new friends, this book has amazing advice to, as the title says, win friends and influence people. 

Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

In this book, Elizabeth Gilbert reflects on her life and all of the magic she now notices. It outlines her creative process as a writer, including little moments that led to her passion becoming her career and successfully following her dreams to become a top-selling author. This book will influence you to unlock your passion and fearlessly chase your dreams. 

The Alchemist by Paulo Coehlo

Although this is a fiction book, I still consider it a self-help book. The book follows the story of a young shepherd boy who has a recurring, prophetic dream about finding a hidden treasure. His adventures while looking for this treasure lead him to meet various people who give him clues and insights about his dream. Though it is a coded message, this book will leave you pondering over your own dreams and inspire you to individually pursue them, just like the young boy. I was definitely thinking about the morals of this story for several days after reading it, and its message continues to stick with me today.

Cristina Ribera

Notre Dame '21

My name is Cristina Ribera and I am a rising junior at Notre Dame. I am originally from San Francisco, but on campus I live in Welsh Family Hall. I am majoring in American Studies and double minoring in Data Science and Innovation & Entrepreneurship. Writing is a passion of mine, so I am very excited to be writing for Her Campus. I have a blog in which I write about mental health, particularly in college, and I have written for Scholastic Magazine about mental health on campus, among other topics. I can’t wait to delve into more exciting topics and share them with such an incredible community!