5 Uplifting Books To Read in 2020

This year has definitely presented us with the luxury of far more time than we are used to. We binge watched the new season of Money Heist faster than we’d like to admit, we’ve done every home workout on YouTube and we’ve eaten enough banana bread to last us a lifetime. Every summer we set ourselves up to read the year’s best picks, but without the plane journeys and pools to laze by, flicking through the pages of the year’s most recommended books may have fallen by the wayside. If you’re looking for an uplifting novel, look no further than our list of 5 uplifting books to read in 2020. 

Reading is a time-honoured form of entertainment, and if you’re over every other form of entertainment that’s been available to you over the last few months then stick with us. Our lives have always been (and will be once again) filled with duties, work, hustling, exploring, doing, managing and moving. Take a step back and unplug yourself from the slightly crazy world around you and get lost in one of these uplifting books to help you get out of that lockdown funk.

SHOE DOG – PHIL KNIGHT

Ever wondered how Nike became the giant it is today? Phil Knight co-founded the company and his story is not only gripping, but reading about the pitfalls, trials, tribulations and successes along the way is relatable to all of us. One of the occupational hazards of travelling is that you often see opportunity at every turn. Travel allows you to explore and recognise different cultures, needs and wants, while exploring emerging economies and sharing stories with others. As travellers, we can connect with Phil Knight as he travels the globe to Japan, to pursue an idea he had in college. That idea became the behemoth that is Nike and his story is refreshing, recognisable and humble.

Overall? After reading this, Phil Knight will definitely be someone you’d want to have at your dinner party

ATOMIC HABITS – JAMES CLEAR 

James Clear uses this book to teach us how to create micro or “atomic” habits in your life that will push you forward 1% at a time. When we visualise success, sometimes we focus too much on the end product, not the journey. This book focuses on being just 1% better than you were yesterday. By focusing 1% at a time, your gains will compound over time. 

Overall? After reading this, you’ll find yourself creating positive habits while conserving your energy, without even thinking about it.

EXTREME OWNERSHIP – JOCKO WILLINK & LEIF BABIN

The authors, Willink & Babin, are ex-Navy seals who have seen a lot of conflict in the middle east. These days, they run their own leadership consultancy service where they preach the idea of Extreme Ownership, taking ownership and accountability of nearly everything in your life. Partner nagging at you? You need to change it. Did someone cut you up in traffic? Own it, control your emotions and figure out how to avoid it next time. Not only do you have the ability to control how you interact with others and own your mistakes, but only you get to control how you respond to them. You are not defined by your thoughts and feelings, you have the power to control how they make you act.

Overall? This book will leave you feeling more in control of how you feel and how you act!

LIFE OF PI – YANN MARTEL

This one is just a classic. One that everyone knows, but everyone should read. It can be a little repetitive with Pi spending his days on the raft floating in the middle of the ocean. However, it expertly shows the resolve of human life, how to develop faith in the face of extreme adversity and how you can make the best of a really bad situation. During a time when human resilience is key while facing a scary foe, Life of Pi is a fantastic companion. Pi shows that through grit & the determination to survive, he can tame his aggressor, co-habit and even further understand their intentions, frailties and strengths.

Overall? Life of Pi will fill you with feelings of resilience and determination, definitely what we need in 2020

STILLNESS IS THE KEY – RYAN HOLIDAY

In today’s constantly connected world (and even moreso, while we’re all at home and on our devices more than ever), it is important to find stillness in your everyday life. This can be taking 5 minutes out of your day to sit and reflect or just by recognising activity and appreciating what happened – the mess of a child’s toys on the floor, puddles left on the road after a heavy rain or even the deep breathing your body goes through after intense exercise. Often we get caught up in dwelling on the past or becoming anxious about events that might not occur in the future. Becoming still allows us to focus on the present, acknowledge our gratitude and enjoy the little parts of life even more.

Overall? Next time you’re out with friends, enjoying a meal or even travelling somewhere new, you’ll find yourself learning to breathe in the moment to enjoy it to its fullest.

Let us know if you enjoy any of our top 5 uplifting books to read in 2020, or if there’s any you’d add to the list!

WRITTEN BY: JOE SILK