5 Books I'm Resolving to Read in 2012

By Lela Davidson on January 2, 2012

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I’m not big on making New Year’s resolutions, per se. However, I love the whole out-with-the-old-and-in-with-the-new attitude. Of course there is the requisite dieting, but only because I don’t fit into a single pair of jeans. Instead of boring you with my oatmeal and egg white regimen, I thought I’d channel my self-improvement enthusiasm into a reading list.

Here are five books I’ll read in 2012:

40 Days to Personal Revolution by Baron Baptiste 

I read this one last January and tried to follow the 40-day “transformation” program that included daily yoga and meditation. Daily - that was the kicker. I’d like to try this again in 2012, but I’m no fool. January is not the time for transformation. The first month of this year is dedicated to liver rejuvenation. Tentatively planning this for February. Then again, I might just read about transformation. That seemed to work well in 2011.

The Writer’s Workout by Christina Katz

I’ve been waiting for this one for a long time. The book finally came out in December and is full of guidance - personal trainer style - for motivated writers like me, who sometimes need direction and encouragement. Just as I would be nervous meeting with a physical trainer, I’m almost afraid to turn the pages of this book. Each one is full of great advice that is also hard work. At least Katz doesn’t require squats.

ChiRunning by Danny and Katherine Dreyer

The nice ladies at The Balancing Act sent me this book. Based on the cover image, I almost tossed it into the donation pile, but I’m glad I didn’t. I’ve never considered myself a “real” runner, so I’ve never bothered learning correct form. Wow, the difference a few tricks make. I’m like ONE with my running. Kinda. This book promises to show me how to run injury free, and maybe even more - if my inner grasshopper is willing.

Six-Figure Freelancing by Kelly James-Enger

I picked up this book at a conference after meeting the author last spring. I’ve only flipped through the book, but from what I’ve seen there are great tips in there to make the work I already do more profitable. I’m not sure 2012 is the year I flip from five to six figures in my writing career, but I know James-Enger can help me buy some new shoes - running shoes, maybe.

The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman

Oh, how it pains me to type that. But I keep hearing about this book, and despite my heartfelt belief that sarcasm is THE ultimate language of love, I am open to new ways of communication. If this book can help me make other people feel loved and appreciated, well, then, I might not have to vomit all over it.

These five books are my self-improvement plan for 2012. (Along with the many painfully enlightening titles my book club will choose.) What are yours?

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