3 books to read to feel fulfilled in life, at work

You may have heard the saying “books are the window to the world” as they open our minds to new environments and realities. But books can also be a window into ourselves, through which we can discover what makes us happier and more productive.

for dr Kortni Alston, workplace wellness coach and happiness researcher, reading has been a fundamental tool to nurture her mental and physical well-being, and it has helped her express her best self in the workplace.

“Books have so many great resources that can really help individuals thrive,” Alston tells CNBC Make It. “They can encourage people to practice optimism and can also help people understand the value and implications of happiness.”

With so many stress-inducing factors going around in the world right now, from inflation to monkeypox to Covid outbreaks, it’s important that people take care of their mental health and well-being.

Consider these three Alston-recommended self-help books to add to your reading list this summer:

“The How of Happiness: A New Approach to Getting the Life You Want”

from dr Sonja Lyubomirsky

If you’ve ever wondered, “What is the true meaning of happiness?” or ‘How can I keep happiness in my life?’ then this book might be something for you.

The How of Happiness is a guide to understanding what happiness is, how to find happiness and stay happy. Lyubomirsky, a professor and social psychologist, along with two colleagues, conducted a “meta-analysis” of 225 studies to find the benefits of happiness. They found that happier people are more productive and creative at work, make more money, have more friends, have stronger immune systems, and are more resilient to stress.

Exploring a scientific approach to happiness, this book explains how genetics, life circumstances, and intentional activities all play a role in personal fulfillment and well-being.

“Fierce Self-Compassion: How Women Can Use Kindness to Speak Up, Claim Power, and Thrive”

from dr Kristin Neff

Practicing self-compassion and kindness is important for taking care of yourself — but it also plays a role in how you demand that others treat you, too.

Societal gender norms pressure women to be quiet and gentle, but in this book, Neff encourages women to be powerful and self-motivated in a variety of situations, from the workplace to personal relationships. With her own lived experience and years of research, Neff aims to help women lead happier and more successful lives.

“Make Your Job a Vocation: How the Psychology of Vocation Can Transform Your Life at Work”

from dr Bryan Dick and Dr. Ryan Duffy

In this current digital age, people are constantly posting the highlights of their lives and jobs on social media for everyone to see. Of course, someone who doesn’t enjoy their work might be even more discouraged when they see someone else feeling so fulfilled at work—but it doesn’t have to be that way.

Dik and Duffy believe that everyone can find happiness and meaning in their work, and in this book they explain what a “calling” means and how you can find out what is yours. With scientific research and specific guidelines, the book is a guide to true happiness at work and in life.

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