One of the best ways to get inspired is to read about someone else's life, about the trials they've faced, and about how they kept going. It can be motivational when you're feeling low to step outside of your own life and get drawn into someone else's for just a little while. It is one of my most used techniques when I'm feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Here are five books that I highly recommend for those times.

1. “No Excuses: The True Story Of A Congenital Amputee Who Became A Champion In Wrestling And In Life.”– Kyle Maynard (2005)

This is an autobiography by Kyle Maynard. Maynard is a wrestling champion, and as the title states, a congenital amputee. The book documents Maynard's life from childhood, describing the many struggles he had to face before getting to where he is now. Maynard is truly inspirational. He has also climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro, and is now a motivational speaker. The book, which is a New York Times bestseller, is a must-read.

2. “The Secret” — Rhonda Byrne (2006)

This book by Rhonda Byrne is based on the documentary of the same name. It can be characterized as a self-help book, discussing the power of your thoughts and ideas. While I enjoy the movie and highly recommend it, sometimes seeing the ideas in print can help us understand it better. It also gives us time to stop and think, which can motivate us to take action in our lives.

3. “A Thousand Splendid Suns” — Khaled Hosseini (2007)

This book is a cross-cultural story, following the lives of two girls, Mariam and Laila as they grow up and live in Afghanistan. It shows the many challenges they face both together and apart, as their friendship grows. It is set in the late 20^th and stretches into the 21^st century. It shows the differences in their lives in the beginning and how they end up in the same place. It also brings up significant aspects of life in Afghanistan at the time, including war and the rise of the Taliban. The effects that these aspects have on the girls' lives is a major point in the book. While it may get emotional at times, it is well worth the read.

4. “The Diary Of A Young Girl” — Anne Frank (1947, 1952)

While I know that most people know of this book and Anne Frank, I still highly recommend it to those who have not read it. It is one of those books that I've read a million times and could read a million more. It is from the view-point of a 13-year-old Jewish girl in hiding during the holocaust. While it is a sad book, I find it inspiring because of Frank's attitude. The way she tries to make her new life work and constantly tries to see the best in situations and people, despite her situation, is immensely motivational to me.

5. “Jonathan Livingston Seagull” — Richard Bach (1970)

This book is a little different from the others I chose for this list. It is from the viewpoint of a seagull who is tired of his flock and everyday life. He decides he wants to fly despite being constantly told that he can't; and in the end succeeds. I first read this book when I was around 10-years-old, but it is one that I often pick up and re-read as a reminder.

I know not everyone is a reader, but if you do happen to enjoy reading books, I recommend all these. They are all extremely well-written and worth your time. You may find that they provide some much needed inspiration.