Self-help books provide the guidance and even the road map for accomplishing things we may dream of but lack the confidence to achieve. The best self-growth books are accessible, encouraging and feature a compelling story that pulls together the inspiring words. Self-improvement and self-development books remain staples on bestseller lists for good reason. They can help you change your life, but more than that—they help you believe the change can happen, which is often half the battle. This list of top personal development books includes authors of all different backgrounds, advising on a range of topics, from financial well-being to overcoming trauma.
The Greatest Self-Help Books Of All Time
Self-help books assist people with improving their lives. They offer strategies from experts who have often struggled with the problem they’re addressing and found ways to overcome it. The approach often includes raising self-awareness and using techniques for greater productivity and assertiveness.
What is the difference between self-help books, personal growth books and self-development books? Self-help books cover the entire genre of books dedicated to self-improvement, and the other two fall under that umbrella. Personal growth books focus on becoming more self-aware and addressing the attitude and behaviors that underly obstacles to improvement. Self-development, on the other hand, is more about the actions that lead to self-improvement. This list of the 25 best self-help books includes personal growth and self-development books.
25. Permission to Come Home: Reclaiming Mental Health as Asian Americans by Jenny Wang (2022)
Jenny Wang’s Permission to Come Home examines how Asian American and immigrant identities can play into mental health. She uses personal stories of strength and pain to illustrate impressive instances of resilience. The author also pokes holes in narratives that discourage Asian Americans from taking up space.
MORE FROMFORBES ADVISOR
This book is best for those who want to work on their mental health while gazing through a cultural lens. Jenny Wang’s Permission to Come Home is available from publisher Hachette Book Group.
24. Real Self-Care: A Transformative Program for Redefining Wellness (Crystals, Cleanses, and Bubble Baths Not Included) by Pooja Lakshmin (2023)
Actual self-care isn’t about hitting the spa or sweating out the toxins. Pooja Lakshmin both takes down myths perpetuated by the wellness industry and explains how the self-care culture can actually damage women’s psyches by convincing them a pretty day planner will solve all their problems.
This book is best for women who are tired of being told they can fix their problems with a bubble bath. Pooja Lakshmin’s Real Self-Care is available from publisher Penguin Random House.
23. Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity by Peter Attia with Bill Gifford (2023)
In this Bloomberg and Economist Book of the Year, the authors cull the best scientific research to offer cutting-edge advice on nutrition, exercise and sleep designed to optimize life expectancy. They also look at the role mental health plays in longevity.
This book is best for those open to considering ways to combat aging that go beyond mainstream medicine. Peter Attia and Bill Gifford’s Outlive is available from publisher Penguin Random House.
22. For Brown Girls with Sharp Edges and Tender Hearts by Prisca Dorcas Mojica Rodríguez (2021)
Prisca Dorcas Mojica Rodríguez, creator of Latina Rebels, makes a space for women of color to free themselves from the narratives that enforce racism, classism and other dangerous -isms that can lead to damaging thoughts. Instead, she encourages feelings of pride and sisterhood as a means to empowerment.
This book is best for women of color who want to overcome self-doubt and struggle with imposter syndrome. Prisca Dorcas Mojica Rodríguez’s For Brown Girls with Sharp Edges and Tender Hearts is available from publisher Hachette Book Group.
21. You Owe You: Ignite Your Power, Your Purpose, and Your Why by Eric Thomas (2022)
Eric Thomas uses his own story, of going from an unhoused young Black man to becoming a successful businessman and speaker, to inspire others to do the same. He advocates for writing your own narrative and not waiting for inspiration to strike before you make improvements.
This book is best for anyone who feels stuck and uninspired. Eric Thomas’s You Owe You is available from publisher Penguin Random House.
20. Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell (2005)
According to Malcolm Gladwell, the decisions we make in the “blink” of an eye are actually way more complex than we believe. He examines how greatness can stem from quick decision-making and how historical events play into that interpretation.
This book is best for fans of The Tipping Point or anyone who overthinks their decisions. Malcolm Gladwell’s Blink is available from publisher Hachette Book Group.
19. How to Keep House While Drowning: A Gentle Approach to Cleaning and Organizing by KC Davis (2022)
Do you feel guilty about your messy home? When young mother KC Davis struggled with housekeeping, she eventually realized that having a messy home didn’t make her a bad person. She helps others navigating similar situations by teaching self-compassion and affirmation, especially for those struggling with bigger matters.
This book is best for anyone who has ever felt judged by the pile of dishes in the sink. KC Davis’s How to Keep House While Drowning is available from publisher Simon & Schuster.
18. Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It by Chris Voss and Tahl Raz (2016)
Former FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss learned principles that can help you become more persuasive. When you approach every situation as a negotiation, you get more out of life and achieve results you never even dreamed of.
This book is best for those who lack confidence when standing up for themselves. Chris Voss and Tahl Raz’s Never Split the Difference is available from publisher HarperCollins.
17. Living Resistance: An Indigenous Vision for Seeking Wholeness Every Day by Kaitlin B. Curtice (2023)
Resistance is not just a form of protest or act of rebellion. Kaitlin B. Curtice argues resistance should be at the center of everything, and we can pull together by resisting. She also teaches ways to get more in touch with yourself and your ancestors, fostering deeper connections.
This book is best for those who value connections created through nature. Kaitlin B. Curtice’s Living Resistance is available from publisher Baker Publishing.
16. The Perfectionist's Guide to Losing Control: A Path to Peace and Power by Katherine Morgan Schafler (2023)
What if perfectionism wasn’t a flaw but rather a superpower? Katherine Morgan Schafler reclaims the label and argues that women can make their own unique form of perfectionism work for them instead of against them.
This book is best for anyone who’s ever rolled their eyes after being told they should “find balance.” Katherine Morgan Schafler’s The Perfectionist's Guide to Losing Control is available from publisher Penguin Random House.
15. Maybe You Should Talk To Someone: A Therapist, HER Therapist, and Our Lives by Lori Gottlieb (2019)
Named a best book of the year by everyone from O, the Oprah Magazine to People magazine, Maybe You Should Talk to Someone has a unique premise: Therapist Lori Gottleib lands in therapy herself after a trauma. She finds that her patients’ troubles overlap with her own more than expected and outlines paths forward.
This book is best for people who like more of a conventional narrative to their top self-help books. Lori Gottlieb’s Maybe You Should Talk To Someone is available from publisher Penguin Random House.
14. Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself by Nedra Glover Tawwab (2021)
In this New York Times bestseller, Nedra Glover Tawwab teaches readers how to set boundaries, which are necessary for even the healthiest of relationships. Her techniques guide readers through stating their wants and needs without apologizing for them.
This book is best for those who struggle to say no or to advocate for themselves. Nedra Glover Tawwab’s Set Boundaries, Find Peace is available from publisher Penguin Random House.
13. Self-Reliance by Ralph Waldo Emerson (1841)
Granted, this is more of an essay than a full-fledged book, but Ralph Waldo Emerson’s 19th-century entry among the best self-help books still rings true. The author urges readers to home in on their internal voice and believe in themselves, arguing that others’ opinions ultimately don’t matter.
This book is best for people who find traditional self-help books too new agey and want something more straightforward. Ralph Waldo Emerson’s Self-Reliance is available from your local library or for free on many e-book platforms.
12. Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily Nagoski and Amelia Nagoski (2019)
Women experience burnout differently than men, and it’s often caused by unrealistic expectations placed on them by society. The Nagosakis explain the societal attitudes that can cause burnout and lay out new and unexpected ways to navigate it.
This book is best for women who feel burned out or who wonder why burnout happens. Emily Nagoski and Amelia Nagoski’s Burnout is available from publisher Penguin Random House.
11. How We Learn: Why Brains Learn Better Than Any Machine . . . for Now by Stanislas Dehaene (2020)
The human brain is pretty amazing, as this book posits. It argues ways in which we could take better advantage of our brain power, exploring its capabilities from a neurobiology, cognitive psychology and computer science perspective.
This book is best for people who like hard science and want to harness more brain power. Stanislas Dehaene’s How We Learn is available from publisher Penguin Random House.
10. Break the Cycle: A Guide to Healing Intergenerational Trauma by Mariel Buqué (2024)
Part scientific research tome, part stories from the therapy room and part how-to manual, Break the Cycle balances showing and telling readers how they can stop the cycle of trauma and pass on strength instead of pain to the generations below them.
This book is best for those who want to know more about the physical manifestations of trauma. Mariel Buqué’s Break the Cycle is available from publisher Penguin Random House.
9. Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams by Matthew Walker (2017)
Sleep plays a role in everyone’s lives, but neuroscientist Matthew Walker argues that we don’t really understand its importance or know how to harness its healing power. He explores the purpose of sleep and how it boosts our brain to its full capabilities.
This book is best for anyone who doesn’t get enough sleep and wants incentives to make a change. Matthew Walker’s Why We Sleep is available from publisher Simon & Schuster.
8. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change by Stephen R. Covey (2004)
For two decades, this book detailing the most productive, most important skills for success has bounced on and off the bestseller list, and for good reason. Stephen R. Covey lays out simple, straightforward tips for solving problems, such as “be proactive” and “don’t be a victim.”
This book is best for anyone who wants to improve their effectiveness at work or home. Stephen R. Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is available from publisher Simon & Schuster.
7. Lead from the Outside: How to Build Your Future and Make Real Change by Stacey Abrams (2019)
Stacey Abrams is an inspiring leader, but she has always been outside the circles of power as a Black woman and a Democrat in conservative Georgia. She details the lessons she’s learned from examining her own passion and putting it to work for her, no matter how many barriers stand in her way.
This book is best for those who feel marginalized or lack power. Stacey Abrams’s Lead from the Outside is available from publisher Macmillan.
6. Get Good with Money: Ten Simple Steps to Becoming Financially Whole by Tiffany Aliche (2021)
Financial literacy is a lifeskill, and Tiffany Aliche’s no-nonsense approach to finding peace and safety with your money is transformative. The New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling book outlines a 10-step plan to reach financial security.
This book is best for anyone who feels shaky about their money skills or wants to plan better for retirement. Tiffany Aliche’s Get Good with Money is available from publisher Penguin Random House.
5. Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Kristin Neff (2015)
Self-criticism can derail everything from getting ahead at work to going to the gym. Kristin Neff argues that self-compassion, not building self-esteem, will help you through any emotional struggle, whether it’s impacting a weight loss journey, promotion or parenting.
This book is best for those wracked by self-doubt. Kristin Neff’s Self-Compassion is available from publisher HarperCollins.
4. The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down: How to Be Calm in a Busy World by Haemin Sunim (2017)
Does anyone not feel busy? The answer is probably no, but being busy shouldn’t stop you from setting a slow pace sometimes. Haemin Sunim argues that you gain spiritual strength by taking a slower approach to life.
This book is best for those who feel like they’re drowning in to-dos. Haemin Sunim’s The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down is available from publisher Penguin Random House.
3. Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts. by Brené Brown (2018)
One of the true celebrities of the self-help world, Brené Brown has penned a slew of bestselling self-growth books, and this one is arguably her best. It argues that true leadership is recognizing the power and promise of others and helping put it into action. It’s not about having all the answers.
This book is best for anyone who wants to develop greater empathy. Brené Brown’s Dare to Lead is available from publisher Random House.
2. The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron (1992)
It’s rare to see such enduring relevance from a self-help book, since science and therapeutic best practices advance every day. But Julia Cameron’s gentle guidance and advice on how to start your creative journey remains just as compelling today as it was 30+ years ago, offering concrete ways to explore your own art.
This book is best for wannabe artists, writers and other creatives. Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way is available from publisher Penguin Random House.
1. Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear (2018)
Building on habits James Clear established first as a collegiate athlete and then when he went into business for himself, Atomic Habits lays out clear, concise paths of habit change, including breaking damaging patterns and establishing new, nourishing ones.
This book is best for anyone, really, as we can all benefit from changing at least one habit. James Clear’s Atomic Habits is available from publisher Penguin Random House.
Bottom Line
Whether you are seeking a solution to a specific problem, or you just want to improve your life, the best self-growth books give you a place to start and a plan to follow. You can pick any one from this list and explore new paths in life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Top Self-Help Books For Women
The best self-help books for women speak specifically to their experience, often detailing paths to self-forgiveness, tips for becoming part of important conversations, and guidance on parenting or “having it all.” Far from playing to stereotypes, these books address pain points we rarely talk about, highlighting important perspectives on taboo issues.
Self-Care for Latinas: 100+ Ways to Prioritize & Rejuvenate Your Mind, Body, & Spirit by Raquel Reichard (2023)
Putting your own mental and physical health first can be a challenge for women, particularly women of color. The book argues that self-care and self-prioritization are radical acts that lead to greater joy. It includes 100 exercises to help you choose yourself.
This book is best for Latina women frustrated by daily microaggressions. Raquel Reichard’s Self-Care for Latinas is available from publisher Simon & Schuster.
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk (2015)
Overcoming trauma is a large part of the self-help scope, and Bessel van der Kolk’s book argues everyone must cope with it. He shares ways trauma has rewired our brains and explains how techniques such as neurofeedback, play and even yoga can help us recover.
This book is best for women struggling with past or recurring trauma. Bessel van der Kolk’s The Body Keeps the Score is available from publisher Penguin Random House.
Women Who Run with the Wolves: Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype by Clarissa Pinkola Estés (1996)
Another “oldie but goodie,” Women Who Run with the Wolves argues there’s a wild woman within every female, but society tries to silence her. The book explains how to reach a homeostasis where the wild female is acknowledged and encouraged in our modern world.
This book is best for women who feel squeezed by societal expectations. Clarissa Pinkola Estés’s Women Who Run with the Wolves is available from publisher Penguin Random House.
Top Self-Help Books For Men
The best self-help books for men explore mental and physical health as well as financial well-being. Many authors focus on advice versus unpacking what’s behind the problem. Men’s self-help books tend to break stereotypes that men only care about being perceived as strong and capable.
The Way of Men by Jack Donovan (2012)
What is masculinity, and why does it matter? Jack Donovan’s innovative exploration of perceptions of manhood and whether masculinity is in crisis is a compelling page-turner.
This book is best for men who want to explore masculinity’s roots. Jack Donovan’s The Way of Men is available through his website.
Can't Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds by David Goggins (2018)
David Goggins went from overweight teen to the only man to ever complete training for Navy SEAL, Army Ranger and Air Force Tactical Air Controller, so clearly he has a lot to teach. He argues that we only use 40% of our capabilities and shows a way to tap more of our potential.
This book is best for men who want an inspiring, accomplished mentor. David Goggins’s Can't Hurt Me is available from publisher Lioncrest Publishing.
Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life ... And Maybe the World by William H. McRaven (2017)
Navy SEAL Admiral William H. McRaven’s viral commencement address at the University of Texas prompted this book, which details basic lessons that seem simple but can help you overcome the biggest problems in life.
This book is best for men dealing with hardship. William H. McRaven’s Make Your Bed is available from publisher Hachette Publishing Group.
Top Self-Help Books For Non-Binary People
In recent years, a new group of self-growth books have emerged for nonbinary people, those whose gender identity does not align with male or female. It can be reassuring to read other people’s insights and advice about coming out, navigating life as a trans person, and finding joy.
The Book of Non-binary Joy: Embracing the Power of You by Ben Pechey and Sam Prentice (2022)
Written with love and humor, The Book of Non-binary Joy encourages those exploring their gender identity to live as their authentic selves and answers a lot of questions about self-expression and coming to terms with your past self.
This book is best for those who’ve recently come out or are questioning their gender identity. Ben Pechey and Sam Prentice’s The Book of Non-binary Joy is available from publisher Jessica Kingsley Publishing.
Life Isn’t Binary: On Being Both, Beyond, and In-Between by Alex Iantaffi and Meg-John Barker (2020)
The world isn’t black and white, whether that’s in matters of morality, ethics or gender. This smart, insightful book looks at how we view ourselves and why thinking in a non-binary matter, about gender and other topics, can be a beneficial mindset shift.
This book is best for those who want to know more about non-binary identity. Alex Iantaffi and Meg-John Barker’s Life Isn’t Binary is available from publisher Jessica Kingsley Publishing.
Beyond the Gender Binary by Alok Vaid-Menon and illustrated by Ashley Lukashevsky (2020)
Gender nonconforming artist Alok Vaid-Menon lives life in full color, in every respect of that phrase, and they encourage readers to do the same, including reconsidering their own assumptions about gender, no matter how “liberal” they may consider themselves.
This book is best for anyone who loves joyful self-help guides. Alok Vaid-Menon and Ashley Lukashevsky’s Beyond the Gender Binary is available from publisher Penguin Random House.
