You've heard the old saying, "you are what you eat". But did you know that your subconscious is made up of the external factors we expose our brains to? Research from MIT states that "thoughts" are directly triggered by external stimuli-a feather brushing your skin, seeing these words on the computer screen, hearing a phone ring. Each of these events triggers a series of signals in the brain" (MIT School of Engineering, 2014). This means that our thoughts are manipulated by the books we read, the films we watch and the TV we binge on!

We want to help you Spring Clean your thoughts. Have a think about your long term goals. What you would like to achieve through study? How would you like to be perceived by others? Then begin to absorb content that represents this ideal.

To get you started we've compiled a list of our top five most inspiring books to add to your reading list:  

How to win friends and influence people

by Dale Carnegie

First published in 1936, this self-help book will teach you one of life's most important lessons – How to deal with people. From the art of delivering criticism without causing the receiver to have a meltdown (yes, it's certainly an art), to getting your point across without offending everyone in the room and the elusive skill of winning people over (without relying purely on your good looks). This book is a must read. You can thank us for the recommendation later.

The Innovator's Dilemma

Clayton Christensen

Steve Jobs had this bestseller on his bookshelf. Author Clayton M. Christiensen explores why most companies miss out on new waves of innovation... (*cough* Blockbuster). He explains that unless business owners evolve they will be pushed aside by new and innovative companies... (*cough* Netflix). This book will help you to think beyond the bounds of the status quo.

The monk and the riddle

Komisar Komisar

If you've ever considered starting your own business then this book is a must read! Komisar has worked with a number of companies including Apple, Lucas Arts Entertainment (the gaming division of George Lucas's empire), and WebTV. He has come to a rather startling conclusion: if you can't see yourself doing this business for the rest of your life, don't start it. So what's the secret to success you may ask? Passion and bucketloads of it!

The magic of thinking big

David J. Shwartz

Find that you're coming up with excuses to put something off a little more often than you'd like? Do you procrastinate despite your best intentions? Do you get stuck on the small details instead of focusing on the big picture? If so, this book will change your life. Some of the many lessons you'll learn from this bestseller are how to think and dream creatively, make your attitudes your allies, get the action habit, and think like a leader. This book is a personal favourite of mine :) I highly recommend it.

The Art of non-conformity

Chris Guillebeau

Based on author Chris Guillebeau's popular blog, this book will leave you wanting to live your life for you and not the expectations of your parents, teachers, friends or society. Guillebeau will give you the tools needed for setting goals, working hard and honouring the authentic you.

Have you read any inspiring books lately? Share your favourites in the comments below.