10 inspiring books for a good mood

“Reading gives us someplace to go
when we have to stay where we are”

With the state of the world right now it can be quite overwhelming to watch the news, go online on social media or even just thinking about all that is going on right now. Anxiety is on the lookout and comes in waves when most unexpected. As our mission is to spread sunshine, and we hope to send some good vibes into your homes we made a list of our 10 favorite books that have been inspiring us over the years and we've picked up again many times to read again. Especially in times like these, they can help pause the mind for a bit and help to shift into a more positive mindset.

Too busy to read (hey moms, haha) or having a hard time focusing on reading pages? Get the audiobook version instead of print (also very good for the environment by the way) and listen to it while taking a walk outside (if that's still allowed in your country..) or when you're cooking dinner or cleaning the house.

TIP: We have always LOVED giving books as a present. Do you have a friend or loved one who could use some love, positivity, inspiration or sunshine right now? Give a book and uplift their mood.

Which books are you reading right now or do you have all-time favorites? Share yours in the comment!

1. Heart Talk, by Cleo Wade
A book that takes us through tough moments life is is Heart Talk by Cleo Wade. It's a compilation of notes this power woman wrote and consists of poems about loving, being and healing that she calls her 'life rafts when I did not know how to swim in the waters of the world.'And indeed, this book IS a lifesaver and you can read it over and over.

2. The Apricot Memoires, by Tess Guinery
If you're like us you probably have Pinterest boards filled with quotes and one of Tess Guinery is probably in there as well! This artist, designer, writer and mother of three is a true inspiration and self-published her book of prose and poetry called The Apricot Memoires. It's absolutely the most pretty book we've ever seen and her words on the apricot-colored pages are shooting right into your heart.

3. Everything is figureoutable, by Marie Forleo
If you need to be inspired to get things done or if you're feeling stuck in areas in your life, 'Everything is figureoutable' is your must-read. Marie Forleo is a New York-based business and life coach and has a fun and direct way of speaking and writing. Especially love her approach on having multiple side hussles or doing more things you're passionate about instead of just choosing one path. Doing what you love will get you to that point of finding that what fulfills you.

4. Spark Joy, by Marie Kondo
Ok, a little different topic than the other books. But one thing that makes us happy is a house free of clutter. We believe that a clean home helps having piece of mind! And maybe when all this COVID19 is over, we'll naturally become minimalists. Family and friends are the sunshine of life and we don't need that much products. Marie Kondo is a legend, Spark Joy is a must read!

5. Own the moment, by Carl Lentz
How do you embrace your flaws in this Instagram era that exalts the appearance of perfection? How do you forget about “living the dream” and learn to embrace the beauty of your reality? We can't think of a book that's so needed in this crazy time in the world! Carl Lentz (pastor of Hillsong NYC) is a true inspiration on how we can move towards a more connected, fulfilled and spiritually-grounded life.

6. Ginny Werkt - Ginny Ramkisoen
In this time of reflection, you might realize you're not happy with your job or maybe you even lost yours due to the crisis. In need for change? This book is a must ready for our Dutch friends: Ginny will help you find or create your dream job.

7. The Universe has your back, by Gabrielle Bernstein
A beautiful book about manifesting 'success' in every area in your life. It goes way beyond only 'positive thinking' and has a step by step walk-through on clearing out those blocks and negative energy to make space for more joy and reaching your life goals.

8. The Wisdom of Sundays
We recently got this book as a present from our best friend Kim (love you!) and it is one that definitely needs to be on this list. The book features insights on finding purpose, love, healing and connection. All taken from conversations between Oprah Winfrey and some of today's most admired thought leaders and writers like Tony Robbins, Shonda Rhimes, Eckhart Tolle, Cheryl Strayed and Elizabeth Gilbert.

9. Zij zacht bijbel
A beautifully designed bible for our fellow Dutchies, which will help you to dive into God’s Word more often. Filled with beautiful illustrations, artworks and photos. Enough space on each page to make notes and written in a way which is very close to the original Bible text yet understandable. A book perfect for your coffee table with it’s pretty pink cover. It’s not only one that stays in your house forever but also one you can grab and read forever.

10. The Welike Bali Guide
You know we couldn't leave this one out of this list! While you're not traveling anywhere right now or even already had to cancel your trips, it does bring joy on the horizon to think about all the beautiful places you want to travel to after all of this. Making future travel plans and dream away on Bali's beaches where you'll be sipping on a coconut and taking a dip in the ocean are a great way to get through this crazy isolation season. Bali awaits, and it will be sweet!

Check out our Welike Bali Island Guide (English version, available as eGuide and Print)

Bestel hier ons Nederlandse boek: We Like Bali - de reisgids voor het ultieme eilandleven.

BONUS BOOK TIP!
This one is for the kiddies! 'Unstoppable Me' is written by world champion Hawaiian surf champion Bethany Hamilton with her husband, Adam Dirks and tells the story of Makana the lion, who loves to surf but loses her nerve when she wipes out. When her friend encourages her to go back out again, Makana summons up the courage and discovers the success that comes from believing in yourself and never giving up. Your little one will be cheering for Makana and inspire them to stay strong and keep trying, no matter what challenges might come their way.

PS. If you haven't watched her documentary on Netflix yet, check it out Bethany Hamilton: Unstoppable.Incredibly inspiring!