🌱 5 Mindset-Shifting Books That Changed My Life—and Can Change Yours Too

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Ciao, bella crew! It’s Gilda Notarbartolo, your Italian Girl Touch guide, straight from the heart of Onda Felice and Smiley Frequency! Picture this: a cozy morning with a steaming cappuccino, a notebook full of dreams, and a spark of inspiration to make today your day. That’s the vibe I’m bringing to this blog, where I’m sharing five game-changing books that flipped my mindset and set my soul on fire. These reads aren’t just pages—they’re your ticket to unlocking more joy, growth, and positive energy. As a journalist and content creator, I’ve poured my heart into curating this list, complete with links to grab your own copies (yep, they’re affiliate links to keep this positivity train rolling!). Ready to dive into a world of transformation with a touch of Italian flair? Let’s ride this wave together!



1. The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod

Why It’s Life-Changing: This book introduced me to the power of a morning routine through Hal Elrod’s Life S.A.V.E.R.S. system—six steps (Silence, Affirmations, Visualization, Exercise, Reading, Scribing) to kickstart your day with intention. It’s like a blueprint for turning groggy mornings into moments of magic.

How It Changed Me: Before reading this, my mornings were chaotic—snooze button battles and social media scrolls. Now, I start my day with meditation and journaling, and it’s like pressing the “reset” button on my energy. This book inspired our Smiley Frequency episode on morning routines, and it’s a must-read for anyone craving a fresh start.

Get Your Copy: Ready to transform your mornings? Grab The Miracle Morning here and start your journey to a more intentional life. 

2. Atomic Habits by James Clear

Why It’s Life-Changing: James Clear breaks down how small habits can lead to massive results. His practical strategies, like the 1% improvement rule, make building life-changing habits feel achievable, not overwhelming.

How It Changed Me: This book taught me to stack tiny habits—like five minutes of exercises or yoga before my breakfast—into my routine. It’s helped me stay consistent with my goals, from podcasting to self-care. If you want to make lasting change without burning out, this is your guide.

Get Your Copy: Start building habits that stick! Get Atomic Habits here and unlock the power of small changes. 

3. The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle

Why It’s Life-Changing: Eckhart Tolle’s masterpiece is all about living in the present moment. It’s a spiritual guide that helps you let go of past regrets and future anxieties, grounding you in the now for true peace and clarity.

How It Changed Me: Reading this felt like a warm hug for my soul. It helped me slow down, breathe, and appreciate the moment—perfect for those hectic days when life feels like a whirlwind. It’s a game-changer for anyone seeking mindfulness.

Get Your Copy: Ready to embrace the present? Pick up The Power of Now here and start living with more peace.

4. Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck

Why It’s Life-Changing: Carol Dweck’s research on fixed vs. growth mindsets is a wake-up call. This book shows how embracing a growth mindset—believing you can grow through effort—can unlock your potential in every area of life.

How It Changed Me: This book shifted how I view challenges. Instead of fearing failure, I now see it as a chance to grow. It’s been a huge boost for my confidence as a content creator and in sharing my Italian Girl Touch journey with you all.

Get Your Copy: Ready to unlock a growth mindset? Get Mindset here and start seeing challenges as opportunities.

5. Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert

Why It’s Life-Changing: Elizabeth Gilbert (yes, the Eat, Pray, Love author!) dives into how to live a creative life without letting fear hold you back. It’s a love letter to anyone who wants to create, dream, and live boldly.

How It Changed Me: This book gave me the courage to launch my podcast and share my voice, even when self-doubt crept in. It’s a reminder that creativity is for everyone, not just “artists.” If you’ve got a dream, this book will light a fire under you.

Get Your Copy: Ready to unleash your creativity? Grab Big Magic here and start living beyond fear. 

Your Turn to Transform



These five books are more than just reads—they’re tools to reshape your mindset, spark growth, and bring more joy into your life. Whether you’re building a morning routine, mastering habits, living in the now, embracing challenges, or unleashing creativity, there’s something here for you. Want to dive deeper? Check out our Smiley Frequency next episode on morning routines for more inspiration, and share your favorite mindset-shifting book with me on socials—I’d love to hear your picks!

Happy reading, and keep riding that wave of positivity!


Gilda Notarbartolo
Italian Girl Touch Blog

(Note: As an affiliate, I may earn a small commission from purchases made through these links, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Italian Girl Touch and my mission to spread happiness!)

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