Readers Gotta Read

According to Pew Research, 3 out of 10 American say they make at least one New Year resolution. Across all age groups, the most common resolutions focus on health and finances. With that in mind, I wanted to share some of the best books to jump start the new year and set yourself up for success in 2026.

Whether your goals are centered around habits, relationships, health, faith or money, these books offer practical guidance and long-lasting encouragement.

Best Books to Jump Start the New Year

Atomic Habits by James Clear

Atomic Habits is one the best books for New Year’s goals – and for good reason. James Clear emphasizes that meaningful change doesn’t have to be big and drastic. In fact, small, consistent habits are far more sustainable over time.

This book offers practical strategies for building better systems, forming new habits and breaking old ones – one small step at a time Once the right framework is in place, achieving your goals becomes more manageable

Boundaries by Henry Cloud and John Townsend

Many of us struggle with establishing healthy boundaries, especially with the people we love most. Boundaries provide clear, compassionate guidance on how to take responsibility for your own life while still treating others with respect.

Healthy boundaries lead to stronger relationships, better balance and greater emotional well-being – making this an excellent personal growth book to start the year.

How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

Originally published during the Great Depression, this classic continues to resonate with readers today. At the heart of this book, Carnegie emphasizes showing authentic interest in other people, being a good listener, avoiding criticism, and expressing appreciation to those around us.

It’s a timeless book on communication and relationships that remains just as relevant today as when it was first released.

The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren

This book tackles life’s biggest questions about meaning, significance and purpose. It encourages readers to slow down, reflect deeply and examine what truly matters.

Be ready to go deep – this is a book that challenges you to think intentionally about your life and reminds you that God created you with purpose and intention

My Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey

Dave Ramsey has helped people get out of debt and build wealth for over 35 years. This book outlines the Seven Baby Steps (see this video), a straightforward plan designed to lead you out of debt and into financial peace.

This book is grounded in solid financial principles and includes sample budgets so you can start improving your finances right away – making it one of the best money books to read at the beginning of the year.

How to Set Goals that Actually Stick (Using the SMART Method)

Many people avoid setting goals or resolutions because they’re afraid of failing. Often, goals go unmet simply because they’re too vague. One way to set yourself up for success is by making sure your goals are S.M.A.R.T.

Here’s an example using a health-related goal:

• Specific: Be more active and eat more fruit and veggies
• Measurable: Exercise 3-4 times a week for 30 minutes; eat at least two servings of fruit and two servings of vegetables a day
• Attainable: I have time in my schedule for exercise and room in my budget for more produce.
• Relevant: My health matters to me and my family, and I want to live a longer, healthier life
• Time-bound: I will commit to this goal for the next month.

Final Thoughts

My hope in sharing these books is to share resources from experts in their fields that will encourage and support you as you work toward your goals and resolutions this year. If you’re looking for books to inspire change and growth, these are excellent reads to start the new year strong.

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