I think the story of Lance Armstrong (although later he had doping issues) was once very motivational. He overcame testicular cancer that had spread to his lungs and brain. He then went on to win the Tour de France multiple times, giving hope to cancer patients everywhere that they could return to an active and successful life after battling the disease.
The story of Malala Yousafzai is very inspiring. She stood up for girls' education in Pakistan in the face of the Taliban's threats. She was shot but survived and continued her fight. Her story has inspired girls all over the world to strive for education and equality.
There's also the story of Oprah Winfrey. She grew up in poverty and faced many hardships as a child. But through her own hard work and determination, she became one of the most influential media personalities in the world. She has used her platform to promote positive change, inspire others to rise above their circumstances, and support various causes like education and women's empowerment.
A great one is about Malala Yousafzai. She fought for girls' education in Pakistan even in the face of great danger. The Taliban tried to stop her, but she continued. She was shot but survived and is now a global advocate for education. Her story is truly inspiring.
Reading such stories can also give you a different perspective on life. It helps you understand that others have faced similar situations and found solutions. It can be very reassuring. Also, these stories can often teach you valuable life lessons. For example, stories about perseverance can encourage you to keep going when things get tough. Moreover, they can enhance your empathy as you get to know about the real - life experiences of others.
A sense of purpose is also crucial. Oprah Winfrey, who had a difficult childhood, found her purpose in helping others through her talk show. She used her platform to empower people, talk about important issues, and inspire positive change. These elements combined make the best inspirational life stories so impactful and able to touch the hearts of people all around the world.
Another inspiring book is 'Unbroken' by Laura Hillenbrand. It tells the story of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic athlete who became a prisoner of war. His journey of survival, from the war to dealing with post - war trauma, is truly remarkable and motivational.
For young readers, 'Wonder' is a great pick. It's about a boy with facial differences and how he overcomes bullying and finds friendship. It's very inspiring for kids to be kind. 'The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind' is also good. It tells the true story of a young boy in Malawi who built a windmill to bring electricity to his village, which can inspire young people to use their creativity.
Oprah Winfrey's story is also remarkable. She overcame a difficult childhood of poverty and abuse to become one of the most influential media personalities in the world. She uses her platform to promote positive change, education, and self - improvement.
One of the most impactful is the story of the apostle Paul. He was originally a persecutor of Christians but had a life - changing encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. After that, he became one of the most important figures in spreading Christianity. His missionary journeys and his letters in the New Testament have had a profound impact on Christian theology and the growth of the Church.
There's a story of a war veteran who came back home with severe PTSD. He was lost and broken. But then he started painting as a form of therapy. His paintings were so powerful that they not only helped him heal but also inspired others who were going through tough times. His journey from trauma to inspiration is a very moving one.
Another great true life story is that of Anne Frank. During World War II, she and her family hid in a secret annex to escape the Nazis. Her diary, which was later found, gives an intimate and heart - breaking account of what it was like to live in hiding, and it has become a symbol of the Holocaust and the importance of hope in the face of great adversity.
'Educated' by Tara Westover is another excellent choice. It details her journey from a very restricted and uneducated upbringing in a Mormon survivalist family to getting a PhD from Cambridge University. It shows how determination and the thirst for knowledge can transform a life.