One of my goals this time last year was to read 24 books. So I would basically read two books each month. Not only did I reach my goal but I surpassed it. But if I’m being honest, I didn’t read many books that truly inspired me as a mom. So this year, that is my goal; to read more books that are focused on motherhood.
I sat down and chose areas that I wanted to grow in this year: motherhood and self-care. I reached out to my bookish friends and asked them for their favorite inspirational reads to add to my list, and was not disappointed with the results.
If you are looking for some books to add to your shelf and your life, check out the list below. I’ve compiled a list of seven books to get you started on your reading journey for 2024. I hope you’ll find something on this list that will inspire you on your motherhood journey.
1. Memory Making Mom
By Jessica Smartt
Jessica Smartt is the blogger behind the blog Smartter Each Day. In Memory Making Mom, Smartt talks about creating significant traditions for your family and how memory-making can shift the way you approach motherhood.
2. Let Them Be Kids
By Jessica Smartt
In this book, Jessica gives you a practical guide, of sorts, that not only provides ideas and various methods in preparing your children for life, but she also gives her own personal life stories that make for a light-hearted and enjoyable read.
3. Simplicity Parenting
By Kim John Payne
This one has been on my list for a while so I am excited to read it. The premise behind this is that kids are more anxious because of having more stuff, more choices, etc.. It emphasizes using the “power of less” to reduce anxiousness in our children, which makes them calmer and happier.
4. Do Less
By Kate Northrup
This was my first read of the new year and I have already put some of the methods Kate teaches into practice. While I did not absolutely love this book (Kate writes with an air of privilege-which I understand), I did find some of the information helpful. She provides experiments that you can try right away to organize your life and prioritize the things that truly matter so you can be the best version of yourself. This book may resonate with stay-at-home parents but it’s mostly geared towards mothers who work full time outside of the home or are work-at-home moms.
5. The Self-Care Year
By Alison Davies
If you want to be more intentional and incorporate more slow living practices in your day-to-day life, The Self-care Year is a great book to add to your reading list. Complete with crafts, affirmations, and various self-care practices, you are bound to find something that resonates with you in this book.
6. The Highly Sensitive Person
By Elaine N. Aron
With everything we do all day and constantly being bombarded by our surroundings, social media, news, and just life in general, it’s so easy to be overwhelmed and overstimulated. This book helps to identify what areas of your life cause sensitivity and how to deal with it all. I think this book is perfect for moms who find themselves empty more times than not and who are looking for ways to refill themselves.
7. Girl on Fire
By Cara Alwill Leyba
While this book is mostly geared towards female entrepreneurs, I believe there are some very inspiring revelations in the pages that can resonate with any mom who wants to put herself first and go after her goals. It’s all about showing up for yourself and giving yourself permission to stand up and be great.
Reading Tips
When you are a busy mom, it can be hard to get in the time to read. Here are a few tips to help you as you start your reading journey in 2024.
- Have a special place where you read
- Get audiobooks
- Start a reading journal
- Set reading goals
Whatever you read this year, I hope it inspires you and fills you up!
What inspirational books are on your reading list for 2024?
