Top 12 Books for Self-Improvement, Creativity, and Productivity in 2013-2014

10 New Books for Self-Improvement in 2013-2014

Self-improvement is an ongoing adventure, a fascinating yet demanding process that takes a lot of effort and time. Reading books on self-development plays a crucial role on this journey. Finding truly helpful books isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve prepared a detailed review of 10 new books for 2013-2014, perfect for anyone committed to personal growth and development.

One standout book draws on Russian practice and focuses on emotional intelligence. Within its pages, you’ll discover valuable insights on how emotions affect your activities and learn strategies to manage them for success. Emotional intelligence is recognized as a key factor for professional and personal achievement, and this book offers practical and accessible advice for its improvement. For example, consider how recognizing and controlling your emotions can help you navigate conflicts at work or in your personal life.

The second book will completely transform your approach to presentations and public speaking. It teaches the art of Storytelling instead of relying on dull slides. Given that participants often get bored during presentations, captivating stories can keep their attention and make your speech unforgettable. Use this technique to enliven your talks and have a greater impact on your audience.

One of the frustrating aspects of creative work is hitting a creative block. The third book on our list tackles this issue head-on and provides methods for overcoming these obstacles. Imagine having a reliable guide to reignite your creativity every time you face a lack of ideas or inspiration.

If you’re aiming for personal growth and seeking inner harmony, “Walking Barefoot on the Clouds” is just the book for you. This masterpiece delves into achieving self-improvement through harmony with oneself, sparking a desire to change for the better while staying true to your core values and inner world.

Ever found yourself speaking in front of an audience without adequate preparation? “Impromptu Speaking” is the book that will teach you the art of improvisation. It offers techniques and strategies to help you think on your feet and handle unpredictable situations. For example, you’ll learn how to quickly organize your thoughts and turn even the most chaotic ideas into meaningful and persuasive statements.

Do you feel like the deadlines for your tasks are constantly slipping out of your control? “The Time Management Miracle” is here to help. This book provides practical advice on managing your time, making your work process as efficient as possible. Use the suggestions in this book to learn how to plan your day effectively and complete all your projects on time.

Another essential read is “Learning to See.” It includes methods for developing the ability to notice important details and foresee their consequences. This skill is especially valuable in today’s fast-paced information age, where it’s crucial to quickly distinguish the important from the trivial.

For fans of Eastern philosophy, “The China Study” is a must-read. This book offers a profound understanding of Chinese philosophy and shows how to apply its wisdom to everyday life. Drawing inspiration from ancient teachings, you’ll gain new perspectives and apply them to achieve harmony and success in your life.

Finally, “The Flexible Mind” is perfect for those looking to develop cognitive flexibility. It outlines methods and exercises that foster problem-solving skills and Creative thinking. By using the techniques provided, you’ll be able to approach problems from various angles and find optimal solutions, even in the most challenging situations.

Emotion Management: Russian Practices in Business

When it comes to personal growth, understanding and managing emotions plays a pivotal role. Our attitude towards life, interactions with others, and perceptions of events are often crucial factors that define our successes and failures. In this context, the book “Emotional Intelligence: Russian Practice” by Sergey Shabanov and Alena Aleshina is not only an engaging read for personal development but also a valuable guide for those aiming to effectively manage their own and others’ emotions in the business realm.

Focused on Russian practices, the book has gained popularity among business trainers at EQuator, who work with major corporations like Severstal, MTS, Yandex.Money, and others. What sets this book apart is that the authors do not limit themselves to theory; they provide numerous examples, case studies, and exercises that help develop emotion management skills in real-world scenarios. For instance, one case discusses how MTS enhanced employee satisfaction through the implementation of emotional intelligence practices. Another example shows how Severstal reduced internal conflicts by introducing specialized training sessions.

The authors delve into how emotional intelligence (EQ) is applied in the Russian business environment, teaching the intricacies of the subject and offering a methodology that can be integrated into various professional fields. They explain that EQ encompasses the ability to recognize one’s own emotions, manage their expressions, and harness them to achieve success in both personal and professional life. For example, a deeper understanding and management of emotions enabled the Leadership at Yandex.Money to foster a more creative and productive workplace atmosphere, which, in turn, contributed to their market achievements.

You can either finish the book in just a few evenings or use it as a practical guide over several weeks. Either way, it helps deepen your understanding of emotions and their impact on our lives, while also developing skills to manage them in various situations. This can undoubtedly contribute to your success in any field, particularly in business, where emotional intelligence can become a substantial competitive edge.

Book “From Slides to Stories”: An Excellent Guide to Crafting Impressive Presentations

Recently, the book “From Slides to Stories” hit the shelves, reminiscent of the popular “Business Model Generation” in both form and content. If you haven’t had the chance to delve into “Business Model Generation,” “From Slides to Stories” serves as the perfect introduction to effective presentation techniques and idea visualization.

The core focus of the book is the visual CAST model, which helps not only in narrating your ideas but in vividly presenting them. Leveraging this model allows for a more thoughtful and profound approach to preparing presentations. In the end, such meticulous preparation crafts a “visual story” that lingers in the minds of your audience. For instance, imagine you’re pitching your dream startup. With the CAST model, you can clearly highlight key points, emphasize crucial details, and forge an emotional connection with investors.

Beyond its evident benefits for creating presentations, “From Slides to Stories” offers readers the chance to develop a range of skills—from public speaking and creative thinking to the art of writing. The book becomes your workshop where you can hone each of these abilities. Suppose you need to prepare for an important conference presentation—this book will help you avoid common pitfalls like overloading slides with text or lacking a clear structure in your talk.

Interestingly, the authors are Microsoft employees with extensive experience in product lifecycle management and compliance oversight. Their projects attest to their expertise and multifaceted vision, making their recommendations especially valuable and timely. They share practical examples from their professional endeavors, illustrating how to create truly effective presentations.

Last but certainly not least, the book’s page can be found on the publisher’s website, where you can explore additional materials and check out other books on personal and professional development. Delving into these resources can help you further develop skills that will open new doors in both your career and personal life.

How to Awaken Creative Inspiration in Daily Routine: Insights from Creatives

Anyone working in a creative field inevitably faces moments when their muse seems to have abandoned them, and the flow of ideas dries up. This phenomenon, known as a creative block, can be quite challenging. But what if there are tried-and-true methods to get back into the groove of creativity? By turning to Alex Cornell’s book, where he interviewed 90 exceptional creative professionals, we can uncover practical tips and techniques to breathe new life into our work.

The survey results were as diverse as the creatives themselves. Some emphasize the importance of completely unplugging and taking a break. For instance, artist Tony recommends heading out into nature, where every smell, sound, and color can inspire new canvases. Others suggest breaking away from routine: try picking up a tool you’ve never used before or engaging in a hobby unrelated to your profession. For example, designer Lukas started attending cooking classes and found numerous intuitive connections between preparing food and the design process.

Some recommendations focus on enriching one’s experience through learning and skill development. Photographer Nadia P. shared that exploring other art forms, whether literature, music, or theater, opened up new horizons for her and introduced concepts that she later incorporated into her photography.

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This book deserves a spot on the shelf of every creative professional. However, its value extends beyond creative professions: it offers a wealth of ideas for overcoming crises and will be a useful tool for anyone looking to develop their thinking and overcome roadblocks in the creative process. In addition to creative thinking workshops, Cornell’s book will serve as your guide to a world of limitless possibilities for inspiration.

“Ups and Downs”: The Aviation Experience of Alexey Kochemasov

Alexey Kochemasov is a man who challenged the skies by choosing the bold and captivating profession of a commercial pilot. He authored the book “Ups and Downs,” which not only shares his unique experiences flying various aircraft but also inspires readers to pursue self-improvement and achieve new heights.

Kochemasov unveils the world of aviation through personal stories, sharing his nervous excitement during early flights, where each takeoff and landing was filled with both anxiety and unbounded exhilaration. The book vividly captures the moment when Alexey first held the controls in his hands, realizing his dreams were coming true.

One of the most gripping sections describes the extreme situations Kochemasov has faced. For instance, he recounts a sudden engine failure at altitude and his ability to maintain composure while making split-second decisions to ensure a safe landing. These often dramatic moments make for riveting reading.

The book also features stunning photographs capturing unseen moments of a pilot’s life. For example, one of the most impressive stories involves fighting forest fires, where Alexey and his team, risking their own lives, dropped water from the skies to save forests and homes. These incredible images allow readers to feel the tension and atmosphere, almost as if they themselves were part of the action.

“Ups and Downs” not only opens the door to the world of aviation but also serves as a powerful source of inspiration for anyone looking to overcome their fears and reach new heights. Suitable for a wide audience, this book promises to leave a lasting impression on every reader, reminding us that bravery and perseverance can lead to great achievements in any field of life.

Book: “Unprepared Speaking”

The book “Unprepared Speaking: What and How to Say When You’re Caught Off Guard”, written by the talented author Andrei Sednev, is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone aiming to master the art of flawless impromptu speaking. This guide gives you the confidence to face unexpected situations where you need to speak in public without any prior preparation.

One of the book’s standout qualities is its convenient format and compact size. You can immerse yourself in this world of tips and tricks for confident speaking in just one evening, making it perfect for busy individuals. Imagine being called upon to speak at a business meeting on short notice or to present your project to colleagues. The secrets revealed in the book will help you rise to the challenge with excellence.

The book is packed with valuable information, particularly on methods that enable rapid preparation for improvisation. Andrei Sednev offers universal topics that can be used for a wide range of presentations and shares practical advice on how to speak confidently and convincingly, even without a prepared text. Picture yourself in a debate or suddenly needing to answer a tough question at a conference—this book equips you to handle any curveballs that come your way.

An additional benefit of the book is its value for those attending public speaking courses. The author, who developed the “Magic of Public Speaking” system, notes that his book can significantly enhance the educational experience in such training sessions. Imagine you’re a novice speaker who has signed up for a course. Sednev provides not just theory, but actionable tools that you can immediately put into practice. This enormously enriches your learning experience and boosts your skills.

In conclusion, the book “Speaking Without Preparation” is more than just a collection of tips—it’s a genuine guide to the world of confidence and eloquence. With its help, you’ll be able to unlock your potential and shine in any situation. Don’t miss the chance to become a master of improvisation and explore new horizons in the art of public speaking!

“Pot, Stop Cooking! How to Reign in an Endless Stream of Emails and Tasks” – A Solution for Digital Overload

In today’s world, we’re bombarded daily by an endless stream of information: emails, tasks, notifications – it all can easily overwhelm and lead to wasted time and reduced productivity. Mastering the art of managing this digital chaos is crucial to staying in control.

The book “Pot, Stop Cooking! How to Reign in an Endless Stream of Emails and Tasks” offers solutions for effective email management and other digital tasks. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, this book will be an invaluable guide.

Authored by Mark Hurst, founder of a consulting company specializing in marketing and personal productivity, the book shares methods to keep your inbox clean, eliminate unnecessary emails, and prevent the accumulation of new tasks. His advice is grounded in years of experience and research in the field of efficiency.

Here are some of the key strategies suggested by Hurst:

• The Two-Minute Rule: Immediately tackle tasks that take less than two minutes, which helps avoid unnecessary task buildup.
• Inbox Zero Technique: Clear your inbox daily, leaving only the most crucial messages.
• Use Filters and Folders: Set up automatic filters to categorize emails, ensuring important messages always stand out.

The book also includes real-life examples showcasing how these methods can transform your work approach. One such example is Maria, a young professional who boosted her productivity and lowered her stress levels by incorporating Hurst’s techniques into her daily routine.

According to Hurst, in our information age, there’s a risk of drowning in a sea of irrelevant data. However, with the book “Pot, Stop Boiling!”, you’ll not only manage this flow effectively but also leverage it to your advantage.

If you’re interested in learning more about the book or purchasing it, visit the publisher’s website for all the necessary information.

Learn to See: Lessons in Creative Flourishes – Metaphorical Stories for Inspiration and Creative Growth

Marina Moskvina is not just a renowned Russian writer and journalist; she is a true guide into the world of creativity and imagination. Her book, ‘Learn to See: Lessons in Creative Flourishes,’ serves as a magical key to understanding and experiencing the art of inspiration, something that needs to be felt firsthand.

This book is far from your standard art manual—it doesn’t confine itself to dry theoretical instructions. Instead, it’s a sophisticated blend of metaphorical stories, immersive dialogues, reflective poems, and captivating photos. Together, these elements create a unique tapestry that allows each reader to embrace the spirit of creative freedom. That’s precisely its magic: the book encourages you to feel, see, get inspired, and take action.

To grasp the essence of this book, imagine standing at the edge of a magnificent forest filled with unknown plants and exotic animals. With each page turn, you venture deeper into its heart, noticing things you previously overlooked. You begin to see the beauty in every twig, every drop of dew, every ray of light dancing on the leaves. This is what Marina Moskvina’s method is all about—learning to see and appreciate the details that make up an entire work of art, be it a painting, a poem, or a story.

The book is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to unlock their creativity—whether you’re an artist, a writer, or simply someone who appreciates aesthetic pleasures. For example, one short story follows a young boy who finds inspiration in everyday things: the rustling of leaves, passersby in the park, or even shadows cast by streetlights. Or take the tale of a girl discovering new dimensions of life after arriving in a foreign city, finding wonder in architectural marvels and local interactions.

Diving into the intricately woven narratives of Marina Moskvina, you will undoubtedly find the strength and desire to open your eyes wider and take a deep breath of creative inspiration.

The book “Learn to See: Lessons in Creative Ascents” is available on the publisher’s website and will become a reliable friend and guide on your journey toward artistic self-expression.

Healthy Eating and Its Impact on Health

In 2004, Colin Campbell and Thomas M. Campbell released the groundbreaking book “The China Study”, which had a profound impact on the world of nutrition science. This book delves into the deep connection between diet and the development of numerous chronic diseases, such as breast, prostate, and colon cancer, diabetes, coronary heart disease, and many others. Their extensive research, conducted as part of a large-scale Chinese-American project, is based on a rich database spanning over two decades of health and nutrition observations involving thousands of individuals.

The central thesis of the book is that diet plays a crucial role in maintaining health and preventing disease. The authors compellingly demonstrate, with abundant scientific evidence, that a vegetarian diet is optimal for providing the body with all necessary nutrients. For instance, they illustrate that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes not only reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases but also promotes overall metabolic health and strengthens the immune system.

Let’s consider a few examples from the book. One study cited in “The China Study” shows that in regions of China where plant-based foods dominate the diet, the levels of chronic diseases are significantly lower compared to areas where animal products are more prevalent. Another example involves animal studies that revealed a diet high in animal protein accelerates the development of cancer cells.

The book “The China Study” has become a true bestseller in America: by 2011, over 500,000 copies had been sold. Its popularity is due not only to its scientific merit but also to its practical recommendations that are easy to implement. This book serves as an excellent guide for anyone striving for a healthy lifestyle and aiming to take good care of their body. It has become a go-to resource for those seeking reliable and proven advice on healthy eating.

Mindset: The Impact of Perspectives on Our Success and Achievements

In her book, Mindset, renowned educator and psychologist Carol Dweck emphasizes the significance of one’s mindset and its profound influence on success and accomplishments. Our mindset and way of thinking play a crucial role in what we achieve in life. Dweck argues that the key difference lies in two types of mindsets: fixed and growth.

Individuals with a fixed mindset believe that their abilities and intelligence are static traits. This perspective leads them to avoid challenges and mistakes, as any failure is seen as a sign of inadequacy. On the other hand, those with a growth mindset are convinced that abilities can be developed through learning and perseverance. They willingly embrace challenges and view mistakes as opportunities for growth. Take, for instance, the famous basketball player Michael Jordan, who was cut from his high school team. Instead of giving up, he used this setback as motivation to work harder and eventually became a sports legend.

The author tackles the topic comprehensively, providing examples from various aspects of life—business, sports, relationships, and parenting. In the business realm, Dweck underscores the importance of a growth mindset for leaders, like Steve Jobs, who faced numerous failures before achieving monumental success with Apple. In sports, she illustrates how coaches who employ a growth mindset approach are more likely to cultivate champions who are committed to continual improvement. In personal relationships and Child-rearing, this methodology fosters strong and healthy connections, characterized by open communication and support. For instance, parents who praise their children’s efforts rather than their innate abilities tend to raise confident and driven individuals.

Carol Dweck, a highly respected professional in her field, is a professor at Stanford University and a renowned expert on motivation. Her book continues to be a bestseller thanks to its engaging writing style and numerous real-life examples. From classrooms to corporate boardrooms, Dweck’s concept of a growth mindset inspires individuals to achieve great things, turning every challenge along the way into a stepping stone to success.

Book “Give and Take” – A Fresh Perspective on Relationship psychology

“Give and Take” by Adam Grant is more than just an engaging and insightful read; it’s a bedside guide on developmental psychology that offers readers deep and captivating insights into human relationships. Through his research, Grant reaches the fascinating conclusion that true success, both personally and professionally, stems not merely from altruism, but from a profound willingness to help others without expecting anything in return, even at a cost to oneself. This revolutionary approach challenges the long-held notion that helping others always requires some kind of compensation.

Adam Grant is undeniably an exceptional professor at the Wharton School of Business. His unique research focuses on the psychology of relationships within various social and corporate structures. Throughout his illustrious academic career, he has received numerous awards and accolades. For example, BusinessWeek recognized him as one of the top 40 professors under 40 years old worldwide. His book has become so popular that it made it to The New York Times bestseller list, capturing readers’ hearts with its profound yet simple and understandable ideas.

Grant illustrates his theories with not only theoretical insights but also vivid real-life examples. He shares stories of generous employees who, by occupying leadership roles, created more productive and happier teams. Additionally, he recounts the tale of a teacher who, by dedicating all his efforts to his students’ development, achieved remarkable results in the field of education. These examples highlight the importance of altruism, not only in personal life but also in the professional arena.

If you’re already interested in this book and want to purchase it, you have a terrific opportunity to do so on the publisher’s website, where you can now place an order. Additionally, we recommend visiting brainapps.io. Check out their “Books” section filled with popular literature, and be sure to read the blog article “The Best Books on Self-Improvement”. These resources will certainly capture your interest and aid you in your personal growth journey.

Reader Reviews and Comments: Valuable Guides for Choosing and Improving Books

Books play a crucial role in self-development and education, serving as sources of new knowledge and inspiration. However, selecting the right one can often be a daunting task: which book from the vast sea is truly worth reading? How can you ensure you pick a work that will be genuinely beneficial? This is where reader reviews and comments come to the rescue, providing invaluable insights from those who have already delved into these pages.

Many online platforms, such as bookstores and literary websites, allow readers to express their opinions in the form of reviews. People share their impressions, discussing both the strengths and weaknesses of a work, which ultimately helps create a more reliable picture of the book. For instance, reviews of literary classics like Fyodor Dostoevsky’s “Crime and Punishment” can convey the profound emotional and philosophical reflections left by the novel.

Reader reviews range from enthusiastic praises to constructive criticism. They can answer key questions: what stood out the most, what makes the author’s style unique, and what emotions the book evoked. In short, reading reviews can help you avoid disappointment and save precious time and money.

Interestingly, book discussions are not limited to specialized websites. On social media platforms such as VK, as well as on thematic forums, lively debates and discussions can be found. For example, in groups dedicated to contemporary literature, users share their thoughts on new releases like Haruki Murakami’s novels or Gillian Flynn’s psychological thrillers. This allows other readers to discover something new and intriguing.

An equally important function of reviews and comments is that they provide essential feedback for authors. Constructive criticism and suggestions empower writers to refine their works, eliminate flaws, and add missing elements to future editions. This way, a seasoned author can make their books even more engaging and valuable. For instance, J.K. Rowling took her readers’ feedback into account while creating the magical world of Harry Potter, which helped her craft an even more intricate and captivating story.

Thus, reader reviews and comments are not just opinions; they are a vibrant form of interaction that enriches everyone involved in the process. They are a powerful tool that helps readers choose truly worthwhile books, share emotions and impressions, and undoubtedly contributes to the development and improvement of literature overall.

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