Is there something in your life you’d like to change? One trip to the library can definitely help with that. Don’t just get one book; borrow 10 of them just for the awesome titles and your kitschy weekend entertainment is all covered.

The Procrastination Equation. How to stop putting stuff off and start getting things done.

Piers Steel

2010, HarperCollins Publishers

Self-help, Motivation

A realistic look at procrastination

First of all Steel makes us feel a lot better. You see, we are biologically wired to put stuff off so this is really nobody’s fault. What follows is the wakeup call. Procrastinators are less happy, they have less money, get less done and on top of that they feel guilty. Instead of feeling bad about putting things off, it would be a lot easier to just get them out of the way.

I believe the passionate procrastinators are very well aware of this. If only they could get started…

Why we love it: Admittedly, reading about procrastinating feels a lot like procrastinating but we’re left with the feeling that it’s gonna be alright.

Recommended for: procrastinators, bloggers, students

Shut Up, Stop Whining and Get a Life. A Kick-Butt Approach to a Better Life

Larry Winget

2011, Wiley

Personal Development, Motivation

A-I-am-not-interested-in-your-excuses-so-you-better-grow-a-pair-of-cojones-method

Now that we’ve tackled procrastinating we can move on to hammer over your head approach by Mr. Larry Winget, Sir. In case you’re not familiar with him, the Pitbull of Personal Development does not take an x for a y and he has absolutely no problem telling you that. Your life is your fault. If you’re not keen on wishing to the fairies, this guide is for you.

Why we love it: You don’t like your job? Get a new one. You don’t like your partner? Leave. This is a real common sense approach. No excuses. Rather effective.

Recommended for: people that need a kick in the bum, complainers

A Complaint Free World. How to Stop Complaining and Start Enjoying the Life You Always Wanted

Will Bowen

2007, Random House, New York

Personal Development, Life Skills

No Complaining will not only change you but the entire world

It does sound a bit far-fetched but after we have covered the basics, we can now reach for the stars. Bowen argues that complaining less is good for your health and will improve your relationships. Bad thoughts grow like weeds in your brain and unattended they will grow rampant, which leaves little space for positive thoughts.

The idea is not really new. Positive thinking will lead to a more positive outlook on life. (Or in LinkedIn speech; problem identifier vs. problem solver.) Will Bowen challenges his readers to stop complaining for 21 consecutive days. No complaining includes negative self-talk, sarcasm and gossiping. On the bright side, it only applies to spoken complaints. Be prepared to dedicate about half a year to this challenge.

Why we love it: A Complaint Free World highlights how much we complain and how little we even pay attention to it. It is a nice idea that complaining less would lead to a more peaceful world.

Recommended for: heavy complainers and gossipers, people who believe in Karma or who would like to better the relationships around them