In the early days of the year, choosing a suitable book to read is not only for entertainment but also helps shape one's thinking, emotions, and long-term goals. - Photo: Canva/Publisher
As we enter 2026, and personal, academic, and work plans are gradually being laid out, reading becomes a popular choice as a way to "spiritually kick off the new year" during the New Year's holiday.
Reading books is not just for motivation.
In recent years, self-help books have maintained a significant place every New Year. However, instead of books that offer immediate encouragement, readers are increasingly interested in works that help shape long-term thinking and sustainable change.
James Clear's Atomic Habits is considered one of the "foundational" books on habit building. The book focuses on the idea of improving 1% each day, arguing that small, consistent changes will make a big difference over time.
With its clear structure, scientific evidence, and practical examples, choose to read Atomic Habits at the beginning of the year to re-establish your lifestyle, from studying and working to taking care of your health - Photo: Fahasa
With its slow pace and contemplative nature, Ikigai is a reading practice in the early days of the year that encourages self-reflection on the direction and meaning of work and life. - Photo: Fahasa
Following a similar sustainable approach, Héctor García and Francesc Miralles' Ikigai explores the Japanese philosophy of life through the concept of "ikigai," seeking a reason for each person to wake up every morning. The book doesn't offer a specific formula for success but rather suggests an intersection between passion, ability, personal values, and societal needs.
Read to calm your mind, a gentle beginning.
Besides self-help books, many people choose literature as a way to slowly recharge their spirits during the New Year's holiday. Literature, with its characteristic of not imposing goals or direct messages, allows readers to reflect and connect with deeper experiences.
Paulo Coelho's *The Alchemist* is a work frequently mentioned at the beginning of each year. The story revolves around the journey of Santiago, a shepherd boy, in search of "treasure," and also a journey of listening to one's inner calling, motivated by the frequently quoted saying in the book: "When you desire something, the entire universe conspires to help you achieve it."
Despite being familiar to generations of readers, *The Alchemist* remains a popular choice for rereading at the transition between the old and new year, as a reminder to dare to pursue your dreams and believe in the path you choose. - Photo: Fahasa
For readers who appreciate modern literature, Haruki Murakami's works, such as Norwegian Wood or Kafka on the Shore, don't offer a clear message of encouragement or direction, but rather open up a space for reflection on loneliness, memory, and growth. This is a suitable choice for those who want to start the new year with tranquility, rather than setting too many expectations. - Photo: Fahasa
Additionally, there are contemplative classics like * The Old Man and the Sea* . This concise yet symbolic story about humanity's persistent journey through challenges serves as a reminder of willpower, patience, and a never-give-up spirit—fundamental values for any journey in the new year.
For those seeking something gentle and thought-provoking, works like *The Little Prince* are also a good choice.
Beneath the guise of children's stories, the book raises many questions about friendship, love, and how people grow up, encouraging maturity while preserving a childlike spirit, and reminding us of the essential things that can only be seen with the heart. - Photo: Fahasa
Expanding perspectives on life through memoirs and non-fiction.
Besides self-help and literature, memoirs and non-fiction are also popular choices at the beginning of the year, as a way to look at the wider world before returning to personal plans.
Viktor E. Frankl's *Man's Search for Meaning* is a classic work based on the author's experience of surviving in concentration camps during World War II.
This book doesn't aim for quick inspiration but rather raises questions about the meaning of life, personal responsibility, and mental strength in the face of adversity. It's a suitable book to read at the beginning of the year, when people tend to reflect on their life values and how to cope with adversity such as suffering and loss.
In a gentler tone, Dolly Alderton's *Everything I Know About Love* is a memoir revolving around friendship, love, and the coming-of-age journey of a young person. - Photo: Fahasa
Through everyday stories, the book offers insights into reflecting on past relationships, the changing emotions over time, and the journey of self-acceptance—topics often contemplated during the transition from the old year to the new.
Another option is Paul Kalanithi's *When Breath Becomes Air* , a memoir by a neurosurgeon sharing his experiences from the beginning of his medical studies and his interactions with patients to the discovery of his lung cancer and his long treatment.
This book is not only about medicine but also offers profound reflections on life, death, and the meaning of living each moment to the fullest. It's especially suitable for reading at the beginning of the year when people are prone to contemplating time and the value of life: "If a life is not considered worth living, then is a life not lived worth considering?"
Kalanithi loved literature, so his story was recounted in a smooth, simple, and emotional style. - Photo: Fahasa
Choosing to read a book in the early days of the new year isn't about creating immediate change, but rather about establishing a more stable mental state for the journey ahead.
Whether it's self-help books, literature, or memoirs, each book chosen to be read at the beginning of the year reflects the reader's desire to reorient their thinking, listen to their emotions, and enter 2026 with greater initiative and peace of mind.
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MAI NGUYET
Source: https://tuoitre.vn/nam-moi-doc-gi-de-len-day-cot-tinh-than-20260102101927416.htm
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