How Books Transformed My Life in New York City

When I first moved from Japan to New York City, I gradually realized an important truth — talent alone doesn’t guarantee success here. One of the most powerful tools you need to survive (and thrive) in this city is effective communication and leadership.

If you read more, you enrich your life!

Growing up in Japan, I was taught to listen to teachers, follow rules, and respect order — a structure I often found confining. That’s part of why I decided to move to America. However, I was never trained to lead, speak up, or express my ideas confidently. Living in New York City for over twenty years completely changed that perspective. In this city, your communication skills often matter more than natural talent, and learning to connect effectively with others became essential to my personal and professional growth.

So, what makes someone a good communicator? These five books completely reshaped how I behave, think, and connect — both professionally and personally. If you want to grow as a communicator and leader, I highly recommend reading them.

1. How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

I received this book over twenty years ago from my former school founder, who gifted it to every teacher. I’m forever grateful — this book became my bible on how to deal with people and build genuine relationships.

Carnegie’s timeless advice taught me that success comes from understanding others, showing appreciation, and communicating with empathy. Without this book, I might never have learned how to connect authentically with people in New York’s fast-paced world.

👉 Buy How to Win Friends and Influence People on Amazon

2. The Essays and Lessons of Warren Buffett

Many people criticize capitalism, but reading about Warren Buffett gave me a new perspective. Buffett isn’t driven by luxury or greed — he’s passionate about numbers, logic, and doing what he loves.

He donates most of his wealth and lives modestly. Buffett taught me that being independent is far more powerful than being rich. True wealth means mental stability and freedom — not flashy cars or watches.

Reading about Buffett’s philosophy helped me build a calmer, more rational mindset — a foundation for confident, effective communication.

👉 Discover books on Warren Buffett on Amazon

3. The Mastery Series by Thibaut Meurisse

Thibaut Meurisse’s Mastery Series completely changed how I view time, focus, and personal growth. His English is clear and easy to understand — making his books perfect for international readers and non-native English speakers.

The series includes seven books, and all are worth reading. My favorite is Master Your Time, Master Your Life. After reading it, I deleted my Netflix account and began treating my time as the priceless resource it truly is. Meurisse helped me realize that success comes from consistency, discipline, and how you manage your energy.

👉 Explore The Mastery Series by Thibaut Meurisse on Amazon

4. Atomic Habits by James Clear

This book is a true game-changer. Atomic Habits combines psychology and actionable strategies to help you build better habits and break bad ones. It’s similar in spirit to Meurisse’s work but more data-driven and backed by science.

James Clear explains that small habits compound into big results — and his relatable examples make you rethink your daily routines. This book doesn’t just teach productivity; it transforms how you think and communicate with yourself and others.

👉 Buy Atomic Habits on Amazon

5. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey

I read this classic many years ago, yet its lessons still guide me every single day. Covey’s principles — like being proactive, seeking to understand before being understood, and synergizing — have shaped how I live and collaborate with others.

It’s a book that grows with you; every time I revisit it, I find new wisdom that helps me both personally and professionally.

👉 Buy The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People on Amazon

Bonus: “Think Smart, Talk Fast” Podcast

As an omake (bonus), I recommend listening to the Think Smart, Talk Fast podcast. It’s a fantastic resource for improving your communication skills, learning to think clearly under pressure, and speaking with confidence.

Perfect for your commute or a coffee break — short episodes, big takeaways.

👉 Listen to Think Smart, Talk Fast on Podcast!

Conclusion: Books That Helped Me Survive — and Thrive — in NYC

Without these books, I might not have survived in New York City. This city rewards those who communicate, collaborate, and keep growing — not just those who are talented.

Being too passive won’t get you far, and arrogance will isolate you. True success comes from self-improvement, empathy, and lifelong learning.

Start with one of these books today — the sooner you invest in yourself, the stronger and more confident you’ll become.

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