Best Self-help books of all time – 50 Motivational books you must read – a list

As someone invested in reading a variety of books, I admit that reading self-help books is certainly little above reading books that entertain you for a while and then elope with time into the abyss of forgetfulness. However, whatever you gather by reading a motivational, self-help or inspirational book (call it by any name, nothing changes), there are many things that stick with you for a long time. Self-help books, as the genre’s name suggests, are the books that enable readers to do things on their own – think better, work better, understand better, write better, manage their life better, and many things can be elevated from good to better. However, it does not happen automatically. Though self-help books are helpful in showing you the way, you may need to work on the piece of advice authors provide in their books. And yet, don’t follow anything blindly. Read, understand, compare, run a few pilot tests and then implement the best suggestions from the self-help books in your life. Now, after this introduction, let’s move into the second paragraph where I discuss what are some immediate and long-term benefits of reading such titles.

I firmly advocate for the merits of reading self-help books, as they offer an array of immediate advantages and transformative potential for individuals seeking personal growth and fulfilment. Spending time with these books not only broadens one’s understanding of the intricate workings of the human psyche but also fosters introspection and self-awareness, inspiring individuals towards a more enlightened state of being. By delving into the suggestions and experiences of renowned self-help writers, readers gain access to a rich collection of psychological insights and philosophical wisdom, equipping them with a cognitive toolkit to navigate the complexities of existence. The immediate benefits lie in acquiring practical strategies, enabling individuals to overcome obstacles, manage stress, and enhance their emotional well-being. Moreover, self-help books facilitate the cultivation of adaptive coping mechanisms, empowering individuals to confront adversity with resilience and grit. Through the acquisition of self-knowledge and the nurturing of a growth mindset, readers embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, forging a path towards self-actualization and leading a more purposeful and meaningful life.

Self-help books come with many different narratives. Some discuss life, some deliberate on health, others focus on monetary growth, a few enlighten us about philosophical aspects of our existence, and a few might zoom in on psychological aspects of life. Different times, different needs, and different aspects are touched upon by authors in their books. Below is a list of 50 wonderful self-help books published. I cannot say that these are the best self-help books published of all time. However, I can assure you that reading any or many or all of these books will certainly help you in different dimensions of life. So, let’s begin with the list!

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Here’s a list of the 50 best self-help books with brief introductions:

1. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
This book presents a holistic approach to personal and professional effectiveness, focusing on habits that can transform your life. The author has presented a few insightful cases of personal experiences that inspire the readers to implement the same in their lives. An amazing work and an all-time classic in the motivational genre!

2. How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
One of Carnegie’s classics, this title offers practical advice on building relationships, enhancing communication skills, and becoming more persuasive. Who does not need to win some friends in real-life and gather some good people around them? This book bolsters the chances of achieving this result. A must-read!

3. Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
Frankl, a Holocaust survivor, explores the search for meaning and purpose in life, and how finding it can lead to resilience and fulfillment. This 1946 classic presents the experiences of the author in a very compelling manner, and it must keep readers engaged in the immersive narrative that the book offers.

4. Atomic Habits by James Clear
Clear, the famous author, reveals strategies for making small changes that compound into powerful habits, helping you achieve personal and professional goals. Though the book may be a little old for this new generation born after 2000, it is still an effective work of self-help literature that can better the lives of many through its persuasive style of arguments. Do try it! If you are interested in knowing more about the book, you can read a review here – Atomic Habits review

5. The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
Tolle explores the concept of living in the present moment and how it can lead to spiritual awakening and inner peace. There are many helpful suggestions and practical life lessons in the book that will help readers keep stress away by focusing on what’s present instead of being worried about what has already gone and what’s about to come. Many readers have found the book helpful.

6. Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
This book delves into the two systems of thinking that drive our decisions, biases, and cognitive processes, offering insights for better decision-making. This book by Kahneman may be an ideal read for business leaders, wannabe leaders and team leaders in any small and large organisational set-up. Nevertheless, anyone who wishes to perfect the process of decision-making in life can read and take advantage of this wonderful book.

7. The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
Ruiz presents four principles—be impeccable with your word, don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions, and always do your best—that can transform your relationships and inner peace. These four principles are explained in the book along with many other things. I enjoyed reading this one, especially among many others because it was the first time I read Ruiz and also that the style impressed me a lot.

8. Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda
Just look at the reviews on platforms like Goodreads and Amazon. You will get a glimpse of the impact this successful, amazing, and bestselling book has made on readers from various countries. I do not assume this is a book only for those who seek answers to their spiritual quest. This a book that brings positivity and motivation to lead life in its natural course and let things come to you… just that you need to be welcoming and prepared to witness the miracles. Do enjoy reading this… who knows your life may change for good as well!

9. Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck
Carol S. Dweck explores the power of mindset. The author has focused on two major types — fixed vs. growth — and how cultivating a growth mindset can lead to achievement and personal development. This book may shock you with the conclusions that Dwek has drawn. Powerful and effectively persuasive writing style are the trademarks of this amazing title. You must like it once you begin.

10. The Art of Happiness by Dalai Lama and Howard C. Cutler
Dalai Lama! Ah! What else do you need to know? The person who has impacted the lives of many… with positivity and hope! This book combines Eastern philosophy and Western psychology, providing practical advice and perspectives on finding happiness and inner peace.

11. Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown
McKeown emphasizes the importance of focusing on what truly matters, eliminating non-essential tasks, and making deliberate choices to lead a more fulfilling life. It is like a simplistic and filtered version of the famous Hindu philosophy, found in the Gita and many other texts, never go for more than what you need! “Atih Sarwatra Varjyate”

12. Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
In this famous 2012 title, Brown explores the power of vulnerability and courage, encouraging readers to embrace their imperfections and cultivate wholehearted living. She has utilised her experiences and observations wonderfully in bringing this must-read title to life. You will appreciate her lucid writing style as well.

13. The Magic of Thinking Big by David J. Schwartz
Many believe that this one sits right at the top of many reading lists curated by those who are fans of self-help titles published in different decades. In this persuasive and effective title, Schwartz shares strategies for overcoming self-doubt, setting bigger goals and developing a mindset that fosters success and achievement.

14. Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain
Introverts are not the people you should make fun of! They are powerful and very creative, at times. In this book, the author brings out the same… and gives something to cherish to the introverts out there, at the same time. Cain celebrates introversion, explores its strengths, and offers insights into how introverts can thrive in an extroverted world.

15. Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert B. Cialdini
Cialdini examines the principles of persuasion and how they are used to influence human behaviour, providing valuable insights for self-improvement. This 1984 classic by the respected psychologist, an American, is still one of the top-selling books in the psychological self-help genre. If you want to understand the psychology of influence, you may well be reading it soon!

16. The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman
So, this goes to all the readers who want to read books that help them improve their relationships and lead better life with their partners. Chapman reveals five ways people express and experience love, helping readers enhance their relationships by understanding their loved ones’ love languages.

17. Meditations by Marcus Aurelius
Another one is for those who want to read philosophical discussions on life and its merits and dimensions. Meditations is the right fit for such readers. This classic collection of philosophical reflections by the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius offers insights into stoic principles and self-reflection.

18. Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman
Having been there for many years now, this is a title that explores aspects of emotional intelligence and offers readers an insight into its impact on personal and professional success, providing strategies for developing emotional awareness and resilience. I enjoyed reading it many times. Every time you read such a book, you come up with new dimensions to ponder and explore.

19. The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale
Who doesn’t know being positive pays off? However, when an author writes about the power of a positive attitude in self-help books that sell many thousand copies, people pay more attention. Peale presents techniques for cultivating a positive mindset, overcoming obstacles, and harnessing the power of faith and optimism.

20. Awaken the Giant Within by Tony Robbins
In this classical motivational book, the author Tony Robbins offers strategies for personal and professional development, empowering readers to take control of their lives and achieve their goals. Many things in the book are still very much applicable to our lives and possible results. You can read a detailed review of the book here – Awaken the Giant Within by Tony Robbins

21. The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown
Some authors tend to play with human weaknesses and turn them into powers that can win us wars and help combat challenges we usually face in our lives. The same takes place in this bestselling book by Brene Brown. Brown explores the importance of embracing imperfections, cultivating self-compassion, and letting go of the need for approval.

22. The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck
In this 1978 classic motivational book, Peck discusses the importance of discipline, love, and spiritual growth on the journey to personal fulfilment and self-realisation. There are many takeaways from the book still valid for our modern needs. Enjoy reading this motivational bestseller and you may find something new to implement in your life to shoo away the problems.

23. Start with Why by Simon Sinek
I totally love self-help books that have some interesting and enticing titles. Simon Sinek has done a good job in picking up such an arousing title that might turn the heads of book lovers instantly – Start with Why! In this famous title, Sinek emphasises the significance of discovering your “why” and aligning it with your actions to create a meaningful impact in life and work.

24. Getting Things Done by David Allen
Another practically applicable motivational book that has many inspirational instances to inspire a reader into action. Allen presents a productivity system that helps readers manage tasks, declutter their minds, and achieve a sense of control and focus. Overall, this will be a good addition to your bookshelf!

25. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
Modern problems do need something modern to be able to solve those issues. In this book, the author presents the same to a contemporary audience. We have advanced and our problems have moved on from those classic poses as well. Manson challenges conventional wisdom and offers a counterintuitive approach to finding happiness and living a meaningful life. You will not only enjoy reading this book but also learn many new things that you may have ignored until now. All the best!

26. The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod
The importance of discipline and a routine that we follow is very important for a successful life. In this book, the same is emphasised. Author Hal Elrod introduces a morning routine that incorporates meditation, affirmations, visualization, exercise, reading, and journaling to boost productivity and personal growth. It might seem very simple from the outside, but you do need to check the importance of routine and powerful ways to follow the same. Do read this conventional and very helpful title by Harold.

27. The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
Robert Greene is known for the many books he has written over time. I have picked this one because it is a little different from his usual ones. Greene examines historical examples and offers principles for gaining and maintaining power in various spheres of life. Though the premise might sound the same, I liked it better than his successful The 33 Strategies of War.

28. The Lean Startup by Eric Ries
Who does not like to imagine himself founding a start-up that starts well and continues flawlessly? However, it is not an easy job to do! However sweet it sounds, maintaining startups is a difficult task. In this book, Eric Ries presents many things that startup enthusiasts would love to learn. The author presents a methodology for building successful startups based on continuous innovation, rapid prototyping, and customer feedback. So, are you ready with your innovative idea?

29. Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell
Once again, it is the title of the book that attracted me. However, reading it was more interesting than just the attraction. In this very interesting, amazingly powerful and truly helpful self-help book, Gladwell explores the power of intuitive thinking, rapid cognition, and decision-making, offering insights into the unconscious mind. I suggest young people read this in particular. You will learn many things, my friends.

30. Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell
Malcolm Gladwell is a successful person himself. In this highly influential and successful book, Gladwell investigates the factors that contribute to exceptional success and explores the role of opportunity, culture, and hard work in achieving it.

31. The Now Habit by Neil Fiore
Work-life balance is something that millions struggle to strike in this busy life. That is why I decided to put Neil’s book on this list of amazing and bestselling motivational titles. In this must-read book, Neil Fiore addresses procrastination and presents strategies for overcoming it, encouraging readers to focus on starting tasks and cultivating a healthy work-life balance.

32. The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
Why not put something interesting for the artists out there who might be struggling with creative block? And I decided to put this very helpful title by Steven Pressfield – The War of Art. Pressfield explores the concept of resistance and offers advice on overcoming creative blocks and pursuing artistic endeavours. If you are an artist struggling for motivation or just cannot complete something you begin, you need to read this book… who knows what awaits next in life! All the best!

33. The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin
More like a story where a king wanders in the woods to find the true source of happiness… this non-fiction, bestselling, self-help, philosophically motivational title will keep you on edge. Rubin embarks on a year-long journey to discover what truly brings happiness, sharing insights and practical tips for cultivating joy and fulfilment.

34. The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell
Another Gladwell title! I happen to like this author by now! Many of you who still don’t know Malcolm Gladwell, do read something about him on the internet. In this book, the author explores the phenomenon of how ideas and trends spread, providing insights into social dynamics and how small changes can have a big impact. It might sound formulaic, but the title has its originality and you will like what you read.

35. The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy
Just like your portfolio might rise from low to high with your decisions over time, this book tells you to invest in your habits and actions from time to time and you might get more than what you desire with your life. Hardy reveals the power of small actions and habits over time, showing how consistent effort can lead to significant personal and professional transformation. A bestselling self-help book that is more than just helpful.

36. You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero
Teenagers need something more than what we elders need now. And this amazing inspirational title by Jen Sincero provides just that to them! Sincero offers a witty and empowering guide to self-discovery, helping readers overcome self-doubt, create a life they love, and embrace their inner badass. If teenagers can find their true potential and goal at an early age, they can certainly become something special by the time they have the responsibility to change the world… Go on and read this book, my young friends!

37. The Success Principles by Jack Canfield
Jack Canfield’s book was an accidental discovery while I was doing my research for this long article with a list of many successful self-help books of all time. In this interesting book, Canfield presents a comprehensive guide to achieving success, offering principles, strategies, and exercises for personal and professional growth. The way Jack has been able to manage a balance between readers’ aspirations and authors’ duties is amazing. I enjoyed reading this one and learnt many things from it.

38. The Four-Hour Workweek by Timothy Ferriss
Who does not like a life with fewer hours of work and more hours of life? This is what the author advocates in this book. Ferriss challenges traditional notions of work and offers strategies for escaping the 9-to-5 grind, achieving lifestyle design, and maximising productivity. This is interesting to note that the author has many innovative ways to suggest and they might seem very helpful from the outside of the ring. However, can you apply those methods and save yourself from the usual 9-to-5 grind? Check for yourself!

39. Eat That Frog! by Brian Tracy
We are all busy in this world. Some are busy and some are just too busy to do anything at all! For those who are struggling with the problems of laziness, procrastination and making this priority list, this book will be very helpful. As you read, you may find that Tracy provides techniques for overcoming procrastination and prioritizing tasks, helping readers increase productivity and accomplish more in less time.

40. Quiet Power: The Secret Strengths of Introverted Kids by Susan Cain
This one is a must-read self-help book for parents! Parents who might struggle with their introverted children will find many helpful suggestions in this book to help their children achieve desired success and bring themselves full exposure to life without any fear and hesitation. Building upon her previous work, Cain offers insights and strategies for parents and educators to nurture introverted children and help them thrive.

41. Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth
In this 2016 bestseller, Duckworth explores the role of grit — perseverance and passion — in achieving long-term success, providing valuable insights for personal growth and achievement.

42. The Art of War by Sun Tzu
An eternal classic in the genre of self-help books, many consider Sun Tzu’s The Art of War as one of the best motivational books of all time. Read the book to understand many things as Sun Tzu’s ancient Chinese military treatise offers principles for strategic thinking, leadership, and achieving success in various endeavours.

43. The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo
Kondo presents the KonMari method, a transformative approach to decluttering and organizing your home, leading to a more peaceful and joyful life. While the content is very interesting, the effects of applying this method are up to your levels of dedication in sticking to a plan and executing it the right way. The book is very innovative, one has to admit!

44. The 10X Rule by Grant Cardone
Exceptional results demand extraordinary actions. And this book is right there with you. The author advocates many practical steps that might change the way you think, act, and deliver. Cardone advocates for setting big goals, taking massive action, and embracing a mindset of an extraordinary effort to achieve exceptional results.

45. Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
Can it happen? Can one dilute oneself completely in action and achieve the full potential? Can complete dedication to a cause bring desired success? Or, is success at all desirable when you begin enjoying the flow of the process? Sounds interesting? You will love reading this book as Csikszentmihalyi explores the concept of flow, the state of complete immersion and enjoyment in activities, and how it leads to happiness and fulfilment.

46. The Power of Vulnerability by Brené Brown
Mainly a recording available in CDs and digital files, in this audio program, Brown explores the importance of vulnerability, shame resilience, and embracing imperfections for cultivating meaningful connections. She narrates her opinions amazingly and calls herself a research storyteller… Many have appreciated the style and content of this researcher. Suit yourself and find it out.

47. The Charisma Myth by Olivia Fox Cabane
Being charismatic so that others notice and admire you is not you for our kind! Human beings, for ages, have developed a love for being the centre of attention. For all such people who want to achieve a charismatic personality in life, this book brings hope and shows a few ways to achieve that state of being. Cabane offers practical techniques and exercises for developing charisma, influencing others, and improving social interactions. Are you ready?

48. Radical Acceptance by Tara Brach
For the fans of Eastern philosophy and the Buddhist way of life – in this book, the author, Tara Brach blends Buddhist philosophy and mindfulness practices to guide readers in accepting themselves and finding inner peace amidst life’s challenges. Though there are many occasions of a reluctant compromise you may encounter in the book, it is overall a satisfying read, at least.

49. The One Thing by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan
This book caught my attention instantly after I came to know such a title exists! If you can see and observe closely, this is a wonderful tactic used by authors for ages. Impress your readers right at the beginning – pick some title in such a way that it communicates way before one opens the book to read – That One Thing! In the book, authors Keller and Papasan emphasise the power of focusing on one thing at a time and prioritizing tasks to achieve extraordinary results in work and life. It was an overall good read. I certainly recommend this one.

50. Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert
Well, it might not seem that easy from the title itself. However, this book advocates that one should embrace creativity in life without any fear. The author argues her case very effectively. Gilbert encourages readers to embrace their creativity, overcome fear, and live a vibrant and fulfilling creative life. Do you think you may be impressed and begin expressing yourself creatively after reading this bestselling title? Check it out yourself!

I have tried to cover books from different times and various walks of life. Some are for general motivation in life, some advocate the philosophical side of life and some might dive deep into the psychological and abstract ideas that impact life in many ways. Suggestions on topics, including personal development, productivity, relationships, happiness, and fulfilment might be found while reading these books. And it might provide valuable insights and practical strategies for self-improvement and growth in personal, professional, intimate and parental roles. Enjoy! Learn! Share!

By Ashish for TheBestBooks