There is a saying that the books you read and people you hang around will determine what you’ll be like in the next 5 years. I believe there is a lot of truth in that statement because it addresses two key areas of personal growth: Education and Association.

Over the years, I’ve read some great literature that has had a dynamic impact on my personal growth and development. I’d like to share a few of those books with you so that you may also benefit from them. Here are 5 must-reads that I recommend for your personal library (in no particular order):

1. Who Moved My Cheese By Spencer Johnson, M.D.

This personal favorite of mine gives insight on ways to deal with change in your life regardless of the situation. A positive mental attitude is a huge driving factor in our quality of life across the board. We can not control all situations or circumstances that come our way, but we can control our attitudes.

2. Think and Grow Rich By Napoleon Hill

If you haven’t got your hands on this personal development classic, you are missing out. This book has literally been used by millions of business leaders and entrepreneurs to create action plans for success. Napoleon Hill encourages readers to make use of their most valuable asset: their brain.

3. How To Win Friends and Influence People By Dale Carnegie

This book is another must-read for those on the path to greatness. In this fine piece of literature Dale Carnegie explains:

• Three fundamental techniques in handling people
• Six ways to make people like you
• Twelve ways to win people to your way of thinking
• Nine ways to change people without arousing resentment

If you don’t already have this added to your personal book collection, I suggest doing so ASAP.

4. How I Raised Myself from Failure to Success in Selling By Frank Bettger

This Carnegie endorsed book of business is highly recommended for anyone who has to do any type of selling. Frankly, we are all selling ourselves at some point. That being said, everyone should read it 🙂

Bettger dives into some key areas in this book such as:

• The power of enthusiasm
• How to conquer fear
• The quickest way to win the confidence

5. Rich Dad Poor Dad By Robert T. Kiyosaki

This book is a game-changer in personal finance that rocked my world when I first began my entrepreneurial journey. Drop everything you thought you knew about making money and read this book with an open mind. Kiyosaki debunks the myth that you need to earn a ton of cash to be rich. He explains the difference between working for money and having your money work for you.

You if don’t have it, get it!

Are there any great books that you’ve read and want to share? Feel free to contribute them in the comments section!