For every place we are in life, there’s a quotable source serving inspiration and motivation. Sage advice from centuries-old elders somehow resonates in our modern times. And we can pluck simple insight from any interview or speech to help us regain focus, composure, and purpose. As the new year becomes a prime time for each of us to look inward, we’re no doubt looking for those daily quotes to help us find our center, justify our thoughts and feelings, and give us that supportive nudge to move forward with our goals or resolutions.

Resolve to read (at least one) new book this new year to take those quotes in the context in which they were delivered, and find some new sources of inspiration to meet whichever goals you have plotted for yourself in the year ahead.

BIG MAGIC by Elizabeth Gilbert

She gave women the freedom to own their feelings and direction in life in Eat, Pray, Love, and now her bestseller is granting permission to own your creativity.

“If you’re alive, you’re a creative person.” -- Elizabeth Gilbert

THE LIFE-CHANGING MAGIC TIDYING UP by Marie Kondo

It’s been at the top of the bestseller list for 52 weeks… so you’ve likely heard of the KonMari method by now; a Japanese-influenced approach to decluttering and unjunking your life to live more simply with the essentials.

“No matter how wonderful things used to be, we cannot live in the past. The joy and excitement we feel here and now are more important.” -- Marie Kondo

YEAR OF YES by Shonda Rhimes

Who knew the most powerful woman in Hollywood was a severe introvert? A challenge from her sister inspired her to spend a year saying yes to everything that scared her. See how that year, and the one that follows, changed her life to be healthier and more empowered.

“Everyone’s got some greatness in them. You do. The girl over there does. That guy on the left has some. But in order to really mine it, you have to own it. You have to grab hold of it. You have to believe it.” -- Shonda Rhimes

BRAVE ENOUGH by Cheryl Strayed

If poignant quotes are a cornerstone to your own self-improvement, then this pint-sized collection of poignant thoughts by the Wild author is the read for you. It’s being called a "mini instruction manual for the soul."

“Don't surrender all your joy for an idea you used to have about yourself that isn't true anymore.” -- Cheryl Strayed

GIFTS OF IMPERFECTION by Brene Brown

It’s not a new title, but it’s holding steady on the bestseller list. Brene’s empowering voice shines in this guidebook for “wholehearted” living, with ten guideposts for moving past perfection and into authenticity to your true self.

“Worthiness doesn't have prerequisites.” -- Brene Brown