Read a Classic

When you were in school, you likely had a Literature teacher who told you that you should "read the Classics." Let me assure you, my list won't include Moby Dick, The Scarlet Letter, or anything by Dickens or Shakespeare - not because they aren't classics, but because this isn't a classic literature resource recommendation.

Rather this is a list of four books you have likely heard of, and maybe even read. Whether you've read them or not, now is a perfect time to pick one of these classics up and read (or re-read) it. Keep your journal or a pad nearby along with a highlighter because each of these is filled with lessons and worthy of many notes!

Psycho-Cybernetics by Matthew Maltz

Written in the late 1950s by a leading plastic surgeon, this is seminal work on self image. Weaving in psychology and his own experiences with patients, this is one of most read books in self-help literature.

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

This classic was written in 1937, but don't let that dissuade you. If you want to work on your financial goals in the New Year, this is the best place to start. Even if you aren't focusing on your financial life, this book provides powerful lessons to help you reach goals in any area - as taught from the lives of some incredibly successful people.

How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

Carnegie's best known book, it is the forerunner of many more recent bestsellers including Likeability and Never Eat Alone. This book will inspire and help you create more effective relationships in your life.

The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale

First written in 1952, this classic book on attitude will help you think about your world differently and help you respond to whatever situations you face more positively. And if this topic is interesting to you, Carengie's book How to Stop Worrying and Start Living is a great add to this field of study as well!

Each of these books will teach you powerful lessons and is a perfect way to end one year, and jumpstart your progress into the next. I plan to read each over the next few weeks.