Dru Scott's 'Stress That Motivates!'

I was originally put off by the simplistic presentation (short paragraphs, large spacing and type, and an abundance of bullet points), but, well, if you're picking this book up because you're a little stressed for time (which, chances are, you are!) then this is the perfect book! It can be read in less than an hour (but I would give more time to do the activities in full).

Each chapter is headed by a wonderful quote, for example, Chapter 2 begins: "Many persons have a wrong idea of what constitutes true happiness. It is not attained through self gratification but through fidelity to a worthy purpose" - Helen Keller. It runs through anecdotes of people who were once in a bad place, and decided to change their lives for the better. No matter what stress you are suffering in the first world, this book gives practical solutions in how to view your problem, identify some solutions, and how to implement them, or change your view with positive reinforcement.

It holds simple messages, like not putting things off until tomorrow, taking fifteen minutes a day to work on a task because it will eventually get done, and defining your goals and motivations. It also delves into issues of self-esteem, teaching positive self-talk and a healthy attitude towards your work.

If you're suffering stress, low self-esteem, or mental illness, there are certainly worse books you could read, and I think everyone in these categories would benefit from some of the little lessons taught here. (It's inspired me to start spending fifteen minutes a day contributing something to my blog, which you're reading now - so here is proof that it has worked for me, at least).

Buy it on Amazon or search World Cat for a copy at your local library.