In a world inundated with new ideas and digital trends, there's a special place for books that provided us with wisdom that have continued to stand the test of time.
In this Lifey Pulse Featured Article, we are honing on personal development and business classics that continue to transcend generations, offering timeless principles for personal growth, leadership, and human psychology. From ancient texts to more modern classics, each of the books on this lists have transcended at least two generations, and continue to empower people with timeless principles that is still relevant in our modern lives. Lastly, we are being purposeful in the order in which we are presenting this list, as each book will featured a combined "rating" calculated by adding the 5-star ratings from both Amazon and Goodreads, resulting in a new rating out of 10 for each book. Without further adieu, let's dive into this ascending list to learn how the people have rated these "Old School Books that Still hit Hard!"
Old School Books that Still hit Hard
"The Effective Executive" by Peter F. Drucker (1967)
Rating: 8.6 (Amazon: 4.5, Goodreads: 4.1)
Summary: This book outlines the behaviors and practices that are essential for effective management. Drucker's insights into efficiency, delegation, and decision-making remain valuable for leaders in any organization.
"The Art of War" by Sun Tzu (circa 5th century BC, ≈ 771 - 476 BC)
Rating: 8.7 (Amazon: 4.7, Goodreads: 4.0)
"This is definitely the most savage book on this list." -The Lifey Brand
Summary: "The Art of War" is a timeless text that teaches about strategy, tactics, and foresight, widely applied beyond military contexts to include personal development and business strategies. Its principles continue to influence various fields, emphasizing the importance of strategic thinking and adaptability.
"The Richest Man in Babylon" by George S. Clason (1926)
Rating: 8.8 (Amazon: 4.6, Goodreads: 4.2)
Summary: Through parables set in ancient Babylon, Clason offers financial advice and wisdom on saving, financial planning, and wealth building that remain pertinent today.
"Awaken the Giant Within" by Tony Robbins (1991)
Rating: 8.8 (Amazon: 4.6, Goodreads: 4.2)
Summary: Robbins' book on controlling one's fate through decisions, and how to harness the power of personal decision-making to improve one's life, continues to inspire readers to take action towards their goals.
"The Power of Positive Thinking" by Norman Vincent Peale (1952)
Rating: 8.8 (Amazon: 4.6, Goodreads: 4.2)
Summary: Peale's book focuses on the importance of optimistic thinking in achieving happiness and success. Its emphasis on faith, positive thinking, and visualization has inspired readers for decades.
"How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie (1936)
Rating: 8.8 (Amazon: 4.6, Goodreads: 4.2)
*The Official Selection of March 2024's Featured Lifer, Rich Perry
Summary: Carnegie's book is a staple in understanding human relations. Its fundamental principles on how to interact positively with others continue to be relevant for anyone looking to improve their interpersonal skills and influence.
"As a Man Thinketh" by James Allen (1903)
Rating: 8.9 (Amazon: 4.7, Goodreads: 4.2)
Summary: Allen's short, philosophical work delves into how thoughts shape character, life circumstances, and destiny. Its emphasis on the power of thought and personal responsibility in the shaping of one's life remains profoundly relevant.
"Think and Grow Rich" by Napoleon Hill (1937)
Rating: 9.0 (Amazon: 4.8, Goodreads: 4.2)
Summary: This classic offers timeless wisdom on how personal beliefs and attitudes affect personal success. Its principles on desire, faith, and persistence remain influential in the realms of business and personal development.
"Psycho-Cybernetics" by Maxwell Maltz (1960)
*The Lifey Brand's Recommended Read
Rating: 9.0 (Amazon: 4.8, Goodreads: 4.2)
Summary: Maltz's book, which combines cognitive psychology with cybernetic principles, offers insights into achieving personal goals through changing and improving one's self-image.
"The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen R. Covey (1989)
Rating: 9.0 (Amazon: 4.8, Goodreads: 4.2)
Summary: Though not as old as others on this list, Covey's book has quickly become a timeless guide in the self-help and business genres. It introduces seven habits that aim to align individuals with principles of character and integrity.
"Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor E. Frankl (1946)
Rating: 9.1 (Amazon: 4.7, Goodreads: 4.4)
Summary: Frankl's narrative of his experiences in Nazi concentration camps and his psychotherapeutic method of finding purpose in all forms of existence has been influential in positive psychology.
We hope you have enjoyed The Lifey Pulse's "11 Old School Books that Hit Hard." If you have another old school personal development or business classic you would love to see on this list, comment on our Old School Business book Instagram post or send send us a direct message @thelifeybrand.
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