Hey, Reader!

As we close out 2025 and step into a brand-new year, I always take time to reflect on the books that most impacted me. Not just the new ones, but the ones I returned to because they’re that good.

This year I read (and re-read) some absolute game-changers. Here are my top 7, in no particular order, with a quick note on why each one mattered to me right now.

1. Simple Money, Rich Life by Bob and Linda Lotich A refreshing, faith-centered approach to money that’s all about stewardship, generosity, and building true financial freedom so you can live (and give) with eternal impact. If you want practical money steps wrapped in biblical wisdom, this one’s a must.
2. The Notebook: A History of Thinking on Paper by Roland Allen Fascinating deep dive into how humans have used notebooks through the centuries to capture ideas, solve problems, and create. It gave me a whole new appreciation for the simple act of writing things down—something I teach clients every day.
3. The 5AM Club by Robin Sharma This was at least my third (maybe fourth?) time through. Every read hits differently. This book is single-handedly responsible for turning this former night owl into a consistent early riser. The 20/20/20 morning formula still anchors my days.

1. The Bullet Journal Method by Ryder Carroll The system I personally use to journal, plan, and stay sane. Clean, flexible, analog in a digital world. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by apps and planners, BuJo brings clarity without complexity.
2. Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport Second read this year. In a world screaming for our attention, Cal’s philosophy of intentionally choosing technology instead of letting it choose us is more relevant than ever. Helped me tighten boundaries and reclaim deep focus.
3. Choose Your Enemies Wisely by Patrick Bet-David Second reading. A strategic, almost battlefield mindset for business and life: your enemies (competition, obstacles, even critics) can become your greatest fuel if you pick and engage them wisely. Challenging and motivating.
4. Atomic Habits by James Clear Third time through—and I’ll read it again. Tiny changes, remarkable results. Every season of life reveals new layers. If there’s one book I recommend most to coaching clients who want to become the best version of themselves, it’s this one.

One of my favorite authors, Robin Sharma, taught me something that shifted how I approach reading: instead of trying to plow through 52 books a year, why not deeply study a dozen or so great ones? That idea freed me up big time. I no longer set a reading goal—just pick up books that interest me in the season I'm in, and let them do their work.

That’s why re-reading great books is one of the highest-ROI activities you can do. Each time you come back, you’re in a different place—new challenges, new wisdom, new capacity to apply what you missed before. Don’t just chase the next shiny new title. Circle back to the ones that moved the needle.

So tell me—what was the book (or books) that shaped your 2025 the most? Hit reply and share. I read every response.

And if you’re heading into 2026 wanting more clarity and focus, grab my free Productivity Scorecard. Takes three minutes and shows you exactly where your time and energy are leaking.

Let’s make 2026 the year we become the people God created us to be—intentional, focused, and faithful.

Onward!

Mark