Discipline is a necessity if you want to realize your potential. And the best books on self-discipline that help you do just that.
You will love these books if you are:
- Struggling to get started.
- Unable to stay consistent or control impulses.
- Procrastinating on challenging and complex tasks.
- Interested in the science and anatomy of self-discipline.
In addition, every book speaks to a slightly different kind of reader, which I specified in every review.
Pick your favorite book and kick-start your self-discipline journey by reading for 15 minutes every day.
Let’s dive in!
P.S. Read my Audible review if you prefer audiobooks.
#1: Make Your Bed
You may have heard the title of this book before. That’s because it’s also the title of McRaven’s famous and inspiring speech.
And if you liked that motivational speech, you will certainly enjoy reading his book on mental discipline.
Admiral William H. McRaven is an ex-navy seal. And many points he makes in his book follow from his experience as a navy seal.
But this is not a military book.
Instead, it’s a book about consistency and compassionate self-discipline. And the advice is helpful for everyone.
What I love most is that McRaven is grounded in reality.
He states that life is tough. And he provides solid concepts to deal with its challenges. For example, practical tips to stay disciplined despite adversity and criticism.
Why should you read this book?
- Compassionate yet no-bullshit advice from an ex-navy seal.
- Concepts grounded in reality, practical, and uplifting.
- Comprehensive book but not repetitive.
Who should read this book? Honestly, this book is a good read for anyone who wants to become more self-disciplined. It’s grounded in the reality of life yet practical and uplifting.
#2: The Science of Self-Discipline
The Science of Self-Discipline could arguably be the best book about discipline. And it’s the densest one on the entire list.
What makes this book great?
For starters, Peter Hollins is a researcher on human psychology and behavior. And he has experience in various walks of life.
The book itself contains everything you need to know about self-discipline. From the science behind it to practical tools to beat procrastination, perfectionism, and a lack of motivation.
In summary:
- A super complete book about self-discipline.
- Dives into the anatomy of self-discipline.
- Understand its relationship with willpower.
- Learn about procrastination, perfectionism, distractions, and a lack of motivation – and how to deal with it.
- And the book contains various strategies and tactics used by the navy seals, like the 40% rule.
Who should read this book? Anyone who wants to learn all the ins and outs of self-discipline. Especially great if you haven’t read many self-improvement books already.
#3: No Excuses: The Power of Self-Discipline
Brian Tracy is a well-known name in the personal development space focused on leadership and sales. And in his book, you learn how self-discipline is essential in each of these areas.
In fact, Mr Tracy outlines the importance of self-discipline in 21 different aspects of life, focussing on 3 main themes:
- Personal success.
- Business, sales, and finances.
- The good life, like happiness and relationships.
The book itself contains concrete and simple ideas. And you will learn how you can use self-discipline to live better in each area.
Who should read this book? Anyone who wants more success and to build a better life. And it’s even better if you enjoy the topics of leadership, business, and sales.
#4: The Now Habit
Do you tend to procrastinate and feel guilty when doing fun things? Then The Now Habit is the best self-discipline book for you.
Neil Fiore is a psychologist and leading peak performance and productivity expert. And in his book, he covers the crucial aspects of procrastination.
In summary:
- Science-based book to beat procrastination.
- It covers essential topics like self-talk, overcoming obstacles, quality work, and having guilt-free fun.
- Many practical tools, including the “unschedule” method.
- Refreshing insights into familiar concepts and ideas.
Who should read this book? If you procrastinate a lot and feel guilty about it, you will love this book. And especially if you live a busy life but have flexibility in your schedule, like entrepreneurs.
#5: Willpower: Rediscovering our Greatest Strength
Do you want to understand how willpower impacts your life? And how you can strengthen it to develop more discipline?
Then this is the best self-discipline book for you.
Roy Baumeister is a social psychologist well-known for his work on impulse and self-control, willpower, and motivation.
In this book, Baumeister explains everything about the science behind willpower. It goes deep into your physiology and explains how glucose ties into discipline.
In summary:
- The best book about willpower on this list.
- Understand the anatomy of willpower and all of the factors influencing it, including the foods you eat.
- Practical advice with various exercises.
Who should read this book? You will love this book if you want to learn more about willpower and how to use it for self-discipline.
#6: The Practicing Mind
Are you ambitious but struggling with self-discipline? And do you judge yourself when you fail to achieve your goals?
If so, this is the best book about self-discipline for you.
Thomas Sterner is a successful entrepreneur. His main aim is to help other entrepreneurs and top performers fall in love with their process.
Why is this book great?
It’s a refreshing perspective that can fundamentally change how you view the world. Moreover, the book contains a strong message, clear ideas, and effective exercises.
In summary:
- It may change your general perspective of life.
- Learn how to let go of self-judgment and criticism.
- A comprehensive book that gets to the point.
- Various theories and exercises to reduce procrastination.
- Including the 4-S model to become more disciplined.
Who should read this book? Anyone who looks for a refreshing perspective on life and discipline. And especially if you’re ambitious but tend to judge yourself often or too harshly.
#7: The Power of Habit
The Power of Habit is slightly different from the other best books about self-discipline on this list for one simple reason:
Habits make self-discipline easier.
You see, habits increase self-control and consistency. It reduces the effort you need to stay disciplined.
Charles Duhigg explains why we do what we do. And how to use that to improve both our personal and professional lives.
In summary:
- Learn about the exact anatomy of a habit.
- Understand how to create essential routines.
- Based on science with many examples.
- Revealing insights and valuable tips.
Who should read this book? Anyone who enjoys science-based books that go into detail. So look no further if you want to learn how habits improve discipline.
#8: The Marshmallow Test: Mastering Self-Control
You might have heard of the Marshmallow Test before.
In the test, a child gets a marshmallow, and the researcher tells them that they will get a second marshmallow if they delay eating the first. The big moment happens when the researcher leaves the room.
Will the child eat the marshmallow without supervision?
In the book, Walter Mischel explains the difference between those who eat the marshmallow and those who delay gratification.
And the results are telling.
In summary:
- Scientific test that shows the importance of self-control.
- Explains the fatal consequences of lacking self-discipline.
- Proves and then explains how you can increase self-control and, in doing so, improve the quality of your life.
Who should read this book? Anyone with a keen interest in learning about the science behind self-control. But especially great for parents and aspiring parents.
#9: The Willpower Instinct
Are you looking for an optimistic book about willpower? Well, look no further because this one is specifically for you.
Kelly McGonigal is a psychologist who focuses on translating scientific insights into practical ways to improve self-discipline.
And that’s what you will learn about in her book.
It covers research to help you understand self-discipline. Followed by useful strategies to improve your health and overall well-being.
In summary:
- A complete and optimistic book about willpower.
- Explains how you can maintain willpower during the day.
- How to train willpower, including tools for awareness, self-control, nutrition, and well-being.
- Also, she’s the only female on this list.
Who should read this book? This book is perfect if you want to enhance your overall well-being. And it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a refreshing female perspective on self-control.
#10: The Science of Self-Control
Do you enjoy sports? And specifically, physique enhancing ones like bodybuilding, powerlifting, climbing, or anything related?
Then this is the best self-discipline book for you.
Menno Henselman is a physique expert. He coached various international prize winners in physique contests, like powerlifting.
And in his book, you will learn about his best tips for self-discipline in general, training, and nutrition.
In summary:
- Builds discipline in reshaping your physique.
- It contains 53 different tips for general discipline, dieting tips, exercising, and motivation.
- Field-tested nuggets of wisdom.
- Practical advice for more self-control.
Who should read this book? This book contains valuable tips to become more disciplined and achieve an incredible physique. If that’s the reason you want discipline, look no further.
#11: Stop Procrastinating
If you’re looking for many practical tools against procrastination, you will love this book on discipline.
Nils Salzgeber is a successful online entrepreneur and transformation specialist. And in his book, he gets to the core problems of procrastination and how to overcome them.
In summary:
- A practical book to get disciplined as a procrastinator.
- Simple yet proven and useful tips.
- Many tools and exercises to try out and make your own.
Who should read this book? This book is perfect if you need want practical exercises to combat procrastination.
#12: 365 Days of Self-Discipline
The problem with most books is that you read them once and forget about them later. 365 Days of Self-Discipline gives you a daily nugget of wisdom to promote self-control and discipline.
One lesson per day.
For an entire year.
What’s a better way to become more disciplined?
The structure of this book makes it a unique choice in this list. And though you may know many of its messages already, we often forget the simple yet fundamental truths.
In summary:
- Short and digestible daily lessons and reminders.
- Inspirational and promotes consistency in your life.
- Designed to read over an entire year (and then start this process again next year).
Who should read this book? Anyone who seeks daily inspiration to increase consistency and discipline. This book works great in collaboration with any other on this list.
#13: Discipline Equals Freedom
Do you prefer a book with many visuals and text that gets to the point?
Then you will love this book.
Jocko Willink is also an ex-navy seal and uses his experience to motivate others. His advice comes in the form of some tough love: honest, simple, and direct.
In summary:
- A visual book that is very easy to read.
- Fundamental ideas in an easily readable format.
- Direct yet straightforward and honest advice.
Who should read this book? You will love this book if you enjoy visuals more than text. And please note that hard copies are the best way to read this book due to the text overlay on the visuals.
Closing thoughts
Achieving mastery in any area of your life requires discipline.
Read any of the 13 best books about discipline, and you will be well on your way to self-mastery. And if you prefer audiobooks, get a 30-day trial with Audible.
Note that most of these books contain lots of practical tips and exercises. And for one simple reason: you must take action.
You only become more self-disciplined through action.
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