What’s the difference between good books and life-changing books?
Three essential elements:
- Unique ideas and perspectives that challenge the status quo, can alter your worldview, and drive positive change.
- A high rate of revelation. Books that change your life contain many insights that keep you glued to every page.
- In-depth and actionable advice. The best books to read dive deep into the nuances but are simultaneously actionable.
Those elements were the minimum requirements for a book to make it into this list of the 47 most life-changing books you must read at least once.
In addition, these books are timeless, provide tons of value, and have the power to transform your perspective and behavior.
So, let’s dig in!
P.S. If you prefer to listen to audiobooks, check out my Audible review.
Categories of books
- 7 Most life-changing motivational books of all time
- 5 Meaningful books on purpose that will change your life
- 4 Life-changing books to become more productive
- 4 Most life-changing books about money and wealth
- 4 Life-changing books to improve your health and well-being
- 3 Books for more career success
- 3 Books to become more confident in life
- 2 Life-changing books on relationships and communication
- 2 Life-changing books to change your habits
- 2 Best creativity books to unlock life-changing magic
- 2 Life-changing books that will increase your self-discipline
- 2 Books that will change your mindset forever
- 2 Eye-opening books for more self-awareness
- 2 Decision-making books to improve your effectiveness
- 2 Best books on self-management
- 1 Most life-changing book on history
7 Most life-changing motivational books of all time
The first section dives into the best life-changing books of all time for self-empowerment. These non-fiction books are motivational and empower you to unlock your full potential.
#1: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
Book summary: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is a timeless masterpiece uncovering the essential habits that empower you to lead a purposeful and successful life. You’ll gain valuable insights into personal and interpersonal effectiveness, managing time, and building meaningful and lasting relationships.
Why you should read it: This book is a classic for self-empowerment and one of my favorites. I’ve read this book at least 5 times – and will continue to reread it. The ideas are simple yet profound, and living by them can immediately improve your effectiveness.
About the author: Stephen Covey was an author, speaker, and educator known for his influential work on personal development and leadership. This book was originally published in 1989 but has never been more relevant in life. It sold over 40 million copies, making it one of the best-selling non-fiction books.
#2: The Four Agreements
Book summary: The Four Agreements help you break free from self-limiting beliefs and transform your life. Ruiz taps into the wisdom of the ancient Toltecs, an ancient civilization known for their cultural achievements like advanced architecture. Their simple principles will unlock greater freedom and success in life.
Why you should read it: Do you want personal freedom and a more fulfilling life? If so, you can’t miss out on this book. Embracing the four agreements as guiding principles will lead to more authenticity, more love in your relationships, and happier lives.
About the author: Don Miguel Ruiz is a spiritual teacher and shaman who shares insights rooted in his Mexican ancestral heritage. His book sold over 15 million copies, offering a path to spiritual enlightenment.
#3: The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck
Book summary: The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck is a provocative book that challenges conventional wisdom. With a common sense approach, Manson urges you to embrace counterintuitive ideas to find meaning in adversity, let go of unnecessary concerns, prioritize what truly matters, and create a fulfilling life.
Why you should read it: Looking for a down-to-earth, say as it is, kind of book? Don’t let the swear words confuse you; this is your book if you prefer a no-BS approach and an honest view of life. Manson goes against the grain, and his views can change your life in all aspects.
About the author: Mark Manson is a bestselling self-help author and blogger known for his honest, no-BS approach to personal development. He empowers you to confront uncomfortable truths and redefine your perspective on success and happiness.
#4: Awaken the Giant Within
Book summary: Awaken the Giant Within provides an extensive and detailed roadmap for personal transformation in all areas of your life. The book contains many practical and empowering strategies, insights, and techniques to take control of your emotions, unleash your inner power, overcome personal limitations, and create lasting change.
Why you should read it: When I first read this book, I highlighted so many areas that even skimming these later on took me hours. It contains many, many, golden nuggets on how you operate in life. Now I’m a little biased because Awaken the Giant Within changed my life forever. That said, I bet you’ll love this self-help book too.
About the author: Tony Robbins is the world’s most famous life coach as of this writing. As a young man, he was coached by the iconic Jim Rohn. With decades of experience, Robbins empowered millions of individuals through his books and seminars.
#5: Inner Engineering
Book summary: Inner Engineering offers a comprehensive guide to self-realization. This life-changing book explores yogic sciences and ancient practices to align your body, mind, emotions, and energy. You’ll gain many tools to create a more balanced and joyful life rooted in clarity and inner peace.
Why you should read it: You’ll gain new perspectives from the age-old spiritual wisdom of the Eastern world. I always experience calmness when reading books like Inner Engineering. This book provides excellent insights for your journey of self-discovery and well-being.
About the author: Sadhguru is a yogi and mystic known for his global influence as a spiritual leader. His book offers a glimpse into the power of age-old practices that transcends you beyond limitations and unlocks inner freedom and fulfillment.
#6: Grit
Book summary: Grit explores the power of passion and perseverance in achieving personal excellence. You’ll discover how cultivating grit can unlock your dreams. And you’ll learn how to develop passion and perseverance to overcome challenges in life.
Why you should read it: Do you wonder if you should pursue your passion? After all, passion is quite the buzzword these days. However, this book makes a case for why it’s still an essential ingredient for success and how to use it to improve our lives.
About the author: Angela Duckworth is a psychologist and researcher best known for her pioneering work on grit. Her research impacted our understanding of achievement and success.
#7: The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod
Book summary: The Miracle Morning is about an effective morning routine to maximize productivity, success, and overall well-being. You’ll discover the six daily practices to boost your energy and focus, create positive momentum, and elevate your life.
Why you should read it: How you start your day sets the tone for the remainder. There’s no better feeling than accomplishing something great by the time you go to work. You’ll love this book if you want to start every day with purpose and intention.
About the author: Hal Elrod is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and success coach. His life-changing book inspired millions to embrace the power of an empowering morning routine.
#8: Quiet: Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking
Book summary: Quiet explores the power of introversion in a world dominated by loud voices and extroverted traits. You’ll learn everything about the superpowers of introverts, insights into their experiences, and practical advice for navigating an extroverted society. While being an introvert is often misunderstood and even confused for shyness, this book shines a light on its upsides.
Why you should read it: If you’re an introvert, reading this book reveals how this personality trait can become your biggest superpower. And if you’re an extrovert, Quiet offers a fresh perspective to help you better understand the world of introverts.
About the author: Susan Cain is a writer and speaker who sparked a global conversation about introversion and its power. Her book offers strategies for introverts to thrive in an extroverted world.
5 Meaningful books on purpose that will change your life
Dive into the most life-changing books that explore the depths of purpose and meaning. The insights empower you to find meaning in your suffering, unlock personal freedom, and live purpose-driven lives.
#9: Man’s Search for Meaning
Book summary: Man’s Search for Meaning uncovers the author’s experiences in Nazi concentration camps. It explores the importance of finding your own meaning in life. And you’ll learn how Frankl used it to survive the Holocaust – despite extreme suffering.
Why you should read it: This book is highly inspiring – and everyone should read this book at least once to gain an eye-opening perspective on suffering. You’ll learn the value of adversity and how to transcend your pain into something meaningful. For me, Man’s Search for Meaning is the most life-changing book on purpose. And I bet it can change your life too.
About the author: Viktor Frankl was an Austrian psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor. His book sold over 15 million copies, and his story inspired millions more. He also developed logotherapy, a form of therapy that focuses on finding meaning and purpose in life.
#10: Start with Why
Book summary: Start with Why uncovers the power of starting with the question, you guessed it, “Why?”. Sinek explores how great leaders and organizations inspire action through purpose. And you’ll learn how to identify your own “why” to live a more fulfilling life.
Why you should read it: What change do you wish to see in the world? What’s your definition of success? Excellent questions everyone should ask themselves – but only a few do. Read this life-changing book to create change and make an impact.
About the author: Simon Sinek is a leadership expert known for his TED talk on the power of Why. He empowers individuals, leaders, and organizations to lead with purpose and make a positive impact.
#11: The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari
Book summary: The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari is a fable about a successful lawyer who feels burned out and seeks enlightenment. He leaves behind his phosphorus career in pursuit of personal freedom and joy. His journey teaches readers profound lessons about meaning and purpose.
Why you should read it: If you prefer a story-based book over dry non-fiction books, you’ll love this one, especially if you feel stuck in your job. It’s a fun read with practical takeaways on finding balance, living with purpose, well-being, and happiness.
About the author: Robin Sharma is a leadership expert and bestselling author. He shares insights and transformative strategies to lead more effective and extraordinary lives.
#12: The Alchemist
Book summary: The Alchemist is a timeless tale about self-discovery and following your dreams. This book tells the story of a young shepherd on his journey in search of a hidden treasure, representing personal fulfillment. It contains many lessons about passion, purpose, and authenticity.
Why you should read it: This book has many hidden lessons, making it a unique option. If you reread this book later in life, you might discover many new insights. It’s an excellent story-based non-fiction book telling the tale of a young boy pursuing success.
About the author: Paulo Coelho is a Brazilian author known for his spiritual and philosophical works. His writing encourages you to reflect, and this life-changing book sold over a whopping 150 million copies.
4 Life-changing books to become more productive in your own life
There’s a very simple secret to success in life: do what’s most important, and do it well. In the next life-changing books you’ll learn how to prioritize effectively, maximize your time, and achieve more in your personal and professional life.
#13: Deep Work
Book summary: Deep Work explores the value of focused, uninterrupted work in an increasingly distracted world. You’ll learn practical strategies to eliminate distractions, optimize your workflow, concentrate deeply, and produce high-quality work in less time.
Why you should read it: Deep Work is an increasingly valuable skill, whether working for yourself from home or in a more hectic and busy working environment. Unlock your productive potential through the power of deep work, and achieve better results.
About the author: Cal Newport is a computer science professor and productivity expert. And if you like this book, you should also look into his other best-seller: Digital Minimalism.
#14: The One Thing
Book summary: The One Thing is about uncovering the power of focusing on the most important task that drives the best results. You’ll learn how to prioritize well, eliminate distractions, and a powerful framework for maximizing productivity.
Why you should read it: There’s a high chance you feel overwhelmed at work or in general. There’s always so much to do. And this book will help you overcome overwhelm and gain clarity on your priorities to achieve extraordinary outcomes in life.
About the authors: Gary Keller is a successful entrepreneur and co-founder of Keller Williams Realty, one of the largest real estate franchise companies. His book sold over 5 million copies.
#15: Eat That Frog
Book summary: Eat That Frog provides practical strategies for overcoming procrastination and tackling the most challenging tasks first thing in your day. You’ll learn how to tackle complex tasks and prioritize effectively to succeed.
Why you should read it: Struggling with procrastination? If so, this book is a must-read. I’ve used the techniques in this book to create a better morning routine, feel accomplished every day, and start every morning with a victory.
About the author: Brian Tracy is one of the best personal development speakers and a productivity expert. He empowered countless individuals and organizations to reach their full potential in their personal and professional lives.
#16: Essentialism
Book summary: Essentialism is about doing less, not more. The book covers identifying and focusing on what truly matters, eliminating every non-essential distraction, and reclaiming your time and energy. It also offers a roadmap for simplifying your choices and aligning your actions with your highest priorities.
Why you should read it: Doing less in the productivity section? That’s right. Productivity isn’t just about doing more – it’s about doing more of what matters and filtering out the rest. Not just at work but also in your personal life. The book provides a refreshing perspective on prioritization, decision-making, happiness, well-being, and fulfillment.
About the author: Greg McKeown is an author, speaker, and leadership consultant. His writing on essentialism resonated with many individuals seeking a more intentional and meaningful approach to work and life.
4 Life-changing books about money and wealth
Explore the life-changing books that unlock the wisdom for financial freedom. In the following selection, you’ll learn nearly everything you’ll ever need to know about building wealth, managing your finances, and enjoying life without financial headaches.
#17: Think and Grow Rich
Book summary: Think and Grow Rich is an age-old classic that explores the mindset and iron laws of wealth creation. The book dives into the secrets of wealth through the stories of successful individuals and the common principles that led them to financial freedom.
Why you should read it: Our relationship with money holds most of us back from achieving financial success. And this book will change that in different ways than you think. For example, you’ll learn about the power of positive thinking, goal-setting, and persistence.
About the author: Napoleon Hill was an author and personal development expert. He studied successful individuals and distilled their wisdom into actionable advice. This book was published in 1937, sold over 100 million copies, and its principles stood the test of time.
#18: The Millionaire Next Door
Book summary: The Millionaire Next Door explores America’s wealthiest individuals’ surprising habits and characteristics. You’ll gain insights into a straightforward approach that ordinary people can use to accumulate wealth and achieve financial independence.
Why you should read it: There are many misconceptions about getting rich – and this book challenges the common ones. You’ll gain a realistic view into the behavior that leads to financial success, which is refreshing in a category overcrowded by gurus. And that’s why I love this book.
About the authors: Thomas Stanley and William Danko are researchers who studied the wealthy in America extensively. Their findings provide valuable lessons for anyone aspiring to achieve financial independence.
#19: Rich Dad Poor Dad
Book summary: Rich Dad Poor Dad explores the contrasting money mindsets of two fathers that reveal the importance of financial education. You’ll learn how money works, how to think about wealth creation, and how to set yourself up for financial success by working smarter, not just harder.
Why you should read it: Unlocking financial freedom requires you to learn about the rules of money. And this book provides you with the practical know-how to make better financial decisions, generate (passive) income, and set yourself up for a richer life. It’s also the first book that gave me a better understanding of money.
About the author: Robert Kiyosaki is an entrepreneur, investor, and educator. He shares his personal experiences and lessons learned to inspire you to achieve financial independence.
#20: The Richest Man in Babylon
Book summary: The Richest Man in Babylon provides timeless financial principles through entertaining short stories set in ancient Babylon. This life-changing book contains wealth principles, including paying yourself first, multiplying your money, and taking calculated risks.
Why you should read it: If you struggle to get through non-fiction books about money, you’ll enjoy this engaging story-based option. Though the book was published in 1926, it contains timeless principles on saving, investing, and wealth expansion.
About the author: George Clason was a businessman and writer who drew inspiration from ancient Babylonian texts to share financial wisdom. His timeless work continues to resonate with many individuals seeking economic prosperity.
4 Life-changing books to improve your health and well-being
Improve your mood and energy levels with the most life-changing books on health and well-being. This selection of books focuses on both your physical and mental health to help you minimize the time you spend worrying and, instead, live a more energetic and joyful life.
#21: The Art of Happiness
Book summary: The Art of Happiness explores the key lessons Cutler learned from the Dalai Lama on happiness and inner peace. This book provides insights into Eastern philosophy combined with reflections from Western psychology. You’ll gain spiritual insights and ideas to cultivate genuine happiness, fulfillment, and joy.
Why you should read it: Eastern philosophy has been around for ages for a good reason: its wisdom is powerful. This book connects the East and the West to provide the best insights into happiness. I highly recommend you read this book if you want to change your life and be happier – even if spirituality isn’t your cup of tea.
About the authors: The Dalai Lama is a spiritual leader and Nobel laureate. Howard C. Cutler is a psychiatrist from the Western world. In this book, Cutler engages the Dalai Lama in conversations to explore the Eastern philosophies of a happier life.
#22: The Power of Now
Book summary: The Power of Now presents a transformative message about the importance of living in the present moment. You’ll learn how to break free from negative thought patterns, quiet your mind, let go of past regrets and future anxieties, and experience peace and fulfillment.
Why you should read it: The world only gets busier, and our own abilities to connect with the present moment are fading as worries about the future increase. So, the ideas and message to ground yourself in this book are growing in importance as time passes.
About the author: Eckhart Tolle is a spiritual teacher and author who draws on his personal experiences to guide readers toward spiritual awakening and self-realization. His book sold over 2 million copies.
#23: Salt Sugar Fat
Book summary: Salt Sugar Fat delves into the world of the processed food industry and its impact on your eating habits and health. Uncover the strategies big businesses employ to make processed foods more addictive. And learn how you can make healthier choices and unlock greater energy levels.
Why you should read it: The truth about salt, sugar, and fat is shocking. While we all know it’s bad, we struggle to conceptualize just how much. Since I’ve changed my lifestyle to include more unprocessed foods, I’ve experienced a tremendous change in my energy levels and well-being. This book provides a solid foundation if you want to improve your health.
About the author: Michael Moss is an investigative journalist who exposes the food industry’s practices. He highlights the tactics used to create highly palatable and addictive processed foods.
#24: Minimalism
Book summary: Minimalism explores the liberating concept of living with less to optimize well-being and fulfillment. This book challenges the consumerist mindset and encourages you to declutter and simplify your life to unlock greater happiness and personal freedom.
Why you should read it: While everyone focuses on more, the secret to happiness lies in less. That doesn’t mean less ambition – it means eliminating excess and concentrating on what truly matters to you. For example, I learned to detach my happiness from material gain. The ideas in this book unlock a happier life, regardless of your ambition.
About the authors: Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, known as The Minimalists, share their insights from adopting a minimalist lifestyle. They inspire readers to reevaluate their possessions and prioritize what brings true value and joy.
3 Books for more career success
Take your working life to new heights with the most life-changing books on career development. Discover the secrets of high performance, unlock mastery, and achieve more success in your career or business.
#25: Mastery
Book summary: Mastery explores the principles and strategies that lead to excellence in any career and field. You’ll gain insights from legends and historical masters like Leonardo Da Vinci. And the book also offers a roadmap to find your passion, take your skills to a higher level, surpass mediocrity, and craft your own path to success.
Why you should read it: Most people focus on short-term tactics when in reality, those who master skills enjoy the most success. The best part? Everyone can master a few chosen areas – and this insight helped me become a freelancer and get paid more than I could imagine. Focusing on mastery also makes your journey more fun and less frustrating.
About the author: Robert Greene is a well-known author for his books on strategy, power, and human behavior. Drawing from extensive research and historical examples, Greene offers profound insights into the path to mastery.
#26: Linchpin
Book summary: Linchpin challenges the traditional notions of work and encourages you to become indispensable in your field. It provides a fresh perspective on work and how to stand out in a crowded market. You’ll learn how to drive innovation and change.
Why you should read it: Do you want to stand out while most people just get by in their careers? Linchpin is a great starting point to discover how you can lean into your unique gifts to make an impact in your field.
About the author: Seth Godin is an entrepreneur, author, and speaker most known for his unique insights on marketing and leadership. His thought-provoking ideas go against conventional norms and challenge the status quo.
#27: High-Performance Habits
Book summary: High-Performance Habits uncovers the six habits and practices of high achievers that can elevate your performance. It provides actionable strategies to develop a winning mindset, increase productivity, and reach your full potential.
Why you should read it: Look no further if you seek actionable habits that can accelerate your career and business success. This book provides evidence-based tips to maximize your performance.
About the author: Brendon Burchard is a high-performance coach, author, and motivational speaker. With years of experience studying top performers, Burchard distills their strategies into actionable steps that empower you to unlock the next level in your career.
3 Books to become more confident in life
Boost your self-confidence with the most life-changing books to overcome self-doubt, self-pity, and fear. It’s an essential trait with many benefits, ranging from more success to happiness. In addition, view the list of the best books on self-esteem.
#28: Six Pillars of Self-Esteem
Book summary: Six Pillars of Self-Esteem explores the foundations of healthy self-esteem and how to cultivate a positive self-image. You’ll learn practical tips for self-acceptance, personal responsibility, and assertiveness.
Why you should read it: This book will empower you if you struggle with self-worth and feel like a nobody. You’ll learn practical methods to live a more confident and authentic life.
About the author: Nathaniel Branden was a psychologist and self-esteem expert. His groundbreaking work on self-esteem significantly impacted the field of psychology, inspiring millions to develop a higher sense of self-worth.
#29: Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway
Book summary: Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway is an inspiring book to face and overcome your fears. It provides empowering insights to shift your mindset and break through self-imposed limitations.
Why you should read it: Does fear prevent you from achieving your dreams? You’re not alone – fear is the most common killer of dreams. The insights in this book changed my relationship with fear for good.
About the author: Susan Jeffers was a psychologist and self-help author known for her work on fear. Her compassionate approach inspired millions to embrace fear as a catalyst for growth.
#30: The Obstacle Is the Way
Book summary: The Obstacle Is the Way presents the timeless wisdom of Stoicism, a philosophy emphasizing virtues and accepting events outside your control. You’ll learn how to transform adversity into opportunity, increase mental resilience, and overcome obstacles.
Why you should read it: Stoicism is an interesting philosophy emphasizing self-mastery. And if you’ve never heard about Stoicism, this book provides a good starting point. It’s a good mix of inspiring historical stories and practical strategies, making it an entertaining and educative read.
About the author: Ryan Holiday is a bestselling author and media strategist known for his expertise in ancient philosophy and its practical applications in modern life. And if you like this book, also check out The Daily Stoic.
2 Most life-changing books on relationships and communication
Transform your relationships with the best books on communication and interpersonal effectiveness. Learn how to listen and speak effectively, uncover your love language, and build meaningful and ever-lasting connections.
#31: How to Win Friends and Influence People
Book summary: How to Win Friends and Influence People is a classic on mastering communication and building solid relationships. You’ll learn timeless, fundamental techniques to improve social skills, increase influence, and create lasting connections.
Why you should read it: If you’ve never read this book, I highly recommend you do. Although the title might put you off, it’s one of the most impactful books I’ve read many times – and will continue to do so. It’s just that good.
About the author: Dale Carnegie was a writer and lecturer known for his communication and interpersonal skills. His timeless classic, How to Win Friends and Influence People, was published in 1936, sold over 30 million copies, and remains highly relevant today.
#32: The 5 Love Languages
Book summary: The 5 Love Languages explores how people give and receive love. You’ll learn how to identify your love language and that of others. These valuable insights unlock better communication and foster deeper connections.
Why you should read it: Do you struggle to build deeper connections? This book provides unique ways to express and interpret love. Improve your relationships by understanding and speaking the love language of your partner, family members, and friends.
About the author: Gary Chapman is a relationship counselor and author who dedicated his career to helping couples enhance their emotional connections. His book sold more than 20 million copies.
2 Life-changing books to change your habits
Change old behavior and create better patterns with life-changing books on habits. Explore the power of rituals, their impact on your life, and how to build good habits that last.
#33: Atomic Habits
Book summary: Atomic Habits discovers the power of small habits and incremental improvements for long-term success. You’ll gain practical, science-based strategies to break bad habits and build positive routines that will change your life.
Why you should read it: This is the most life-changing book if you want to know everything about habits. It’s comprehensive and provides many nuggets and insights to create a life of continuous improvement.
About the author: James Clear is a writer, speaker, and expert in habit formation and behavior change. His book sold over 15 million copies and helped countless individuals transform their lives.
#34: Tiny Habits
Book summary: Tiny Habits reveals the secrets of creating lasting behavioral change through small, achievable steps. This book offers many breakthrough tactics to build new habits, break old patterns, and make lasting changes.
Why you should read it: This book is especially for you if you struggle to build habits despite trying many times. It contains more actionable ideas than any other book in this category.
About the author: BJ Fogg is a behavior scientist and innovator in habit formation. His research-based approach gained widespread acclaim for its simplicity and effectiveness.
2 Best creativity books to unlock life-changing magic
Unlock magical thinking with the most life-changing books on creativity. Dive into the world of creative living beyond fear, unleash your creative genius, and embrace the power of thinking differently.
#35: The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
Book summary: The War of Art explores every creative’s inner battle and provides strategies to overcome self-doubt, resistance, and creative blocks. You’ll discover how to unlock your creative potential and turn ideas into reality.
Why you should read it: Creativity isn’t just for artists. Instead, everyone benefits from creative thinking. And in the most life-changing book on creativity, you’ll learn how to tap into the creative process and unlock your inner artist.
About the author: Steven Pressfield is a bestselling author and screenwriter known for his works on creativity and overcoming resistance. His insights inspired many readers to conquer fear and unleash their creative potential.
#36: Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear
Book summary: Big Magic is a captivating exploration of the creative process. Gilbert shares insights, anecdotes, and advice to inspire you to embrace your creativity, engage in magical thinking, and overcome the obstacles that hinder creative expression.
Why you should read it: This book provides a refreshing perspective on creativity, inviting you to cultivate a more joyful approach. So if you want to unlock your creative genius, pick up a copy of this book.
About the author: Elizabeth Gilbert is a bestselling author known for her memoir “Eat Pray Love.” With her warm and relatable writing style, Gilbert shares valuable lessons to live a more authentic life.
2 Life-changing books that will increase your self-discipline
Develop iron self-discipline with the most life-changing books on self-control. Learn the art of showing up when you don’t feel like it. And embrace the principles of accountability for personal achievement.
#37: Make Your Bed
Book summary: Make Your Bed discovers the transformative power of achieving small tasks through disciplined routines. You’ll learn how starting each day with a simple act sets the tone for success, discipline, and achievement.
Why you should read it: Do you struggle with self-discipline? Then this is the most life-changing book for you, offering achievable ideas to take consistent action and create a ripple effect of continuous achievements.
About the author: Admiral William McRaven is a retired Navy SEAL and former commander of U.S. Special Operations. He now shares his insights and principles learned from his military training.
#38: Extreme Ownership
Book summary: Extreme Ownership explores the principles of effective leadership and taking ownership of your actions. You’ll learn how to lead with accountability, responsibility, and resilience to build high-performing teams.
Why you should read it: If you want to lead in any way, whether in your career or by starting a family, you’ll need discipline. And this book empowers you to step into your leadership abilities.
About the authors: Jocko Willink and Leif Babin are retired Navy SEAL officers and leadership consultants. Extreme Ownership draws on their combat experiences to illustrate the principles of effective leadership.
2 Books that will change your mindset forever
Cultivate a positive attitude with the most life-changing books that will challenge your mindset. Learn how to harness the power of the mind to shape positive outcomes and change your life.
#39: Mindset
Book summary: Mindset is responsible for popularizing the term “growth mindset.” And in this book, you’ll learn about the difference between a growth and a fixed mindset. You’ll also learn how to improve your mindset to increase resilience, learning, and achievement.
Why you should read it: If you’re unfamiliar with the growth and fixed mindset, then read this book. It offers valuable insights into the psychology of success and the role of your perspective.
About the author: Carol Dweck is a psychologist and researcher known for her work on mindset and motivation. Mindset is a popular non-fiction book exploring the benefits of a growth-oriented attitude.
#40: The 10X Rule
Book summary: The 10X Rule provides a blueprint for achieving extraordinary success through massive action and exceptional effort. It challenges conventional thinking and inspires you to break through limitations, set ambitious goals, and achieve the unimaginable.
Why you should read it: Looking for a motivational book to get your mindset right about success? Look no further. This book provides insights and strategies to multiply your efforts, increase your productivity, and operate at levels beyond your comfort zones.
About the author: Grant Cardone is a successful sales expert, real-estate mogul, and motivational speaker recognized for his energetic and ambitious approach to business and personal success.
2 Eye-opening books for more self-awareness
Gain deeper insights into your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors with the most life-changing books on self-awareness. It’s one of the most essential skills anyone should learn to live a better life.
#41: Emotional Intelligence
Book summary: Emotional Intelligence explores the importance of emotions in personal and professional success. You’ll learn about the critical components of emotional intelligence and how to harness its power to improve your decision-making, relationships, and overall well-being.
Why you should read it: Opposed to I.Q., emotional intelligence is rarely taught in school. Yet, these skills help understand yourself, your challenges, and your social situations. Only after I learned about my emotions did everything change for me. And it might change your life too.
About the author: Daniel Goleman is a psychologist and science journalist known for his research on emotional intelligence, which revolutionized our understanding of this topic.
#42: Insight
Book summary: Insight explores the power of self-awareness in the context of your personal and professional life. It combines scientific research with practical advice to cultivate deeper self-understanding, uncover blind spots, and increase your effectiveness and fulfillment.
Why you should read it: Self-awareness is the foundation for personal freedom – and it changed everything in my life. So, if you’re struggling with yourself, the direction of your life, or looking for more joy and greater happiness, I recommend this book.
About the author: Tasha Eurich is an organizational psychologist and leadership expert. Her book provides practical tools for self-reflection and human knowledge that should be taught in every school.
2 Decision-making books that will change your effectiveness
Making effective decisions is the life-changing magic that shapes your future. Learning to make better decisions also makes life interesting, increases personal effectiveness, and leads to greater success. Let’s uncover a deeper understanding of the choices that shape your life.
#43: Principles
Book summary: Principles shares the fundamental lessons learned by one of the world’s most successful investors and entrepreneurs. You’ll gain a unique perspective and learn actionable principles for effective decision-making and problem-solving.
Why you should read it: Dalio’s down-to-earth and realistic approach differs from most others. Instead of telling you what’s right, he provides timeless principles to empower you to come to your own conclusions – an increasingly more valuable skill in the 21st century.
About the author: Ray Dalio is an investor, philanthropist, and founder of one of the largest hedge funds. In this book, Dalio shares his life lessons for success based on decades of deliberate personal and professional development.
#44: Thinking, Fast and Slow
Book summary: Thinking, Fast and Slow explores the two systems of thinking that drive all our decision-making processes. You’ll learn about the factors influencing your mind and shaping your thinking. In addition, you’ll gain tools to make more rational and informed choices in various situations.
Why you should read it: If you want to dive into the science of decision-making, you’ll love this book. You’ll learn the subconscious factors that play a role in your choices – and how you can navigate to make better decisions.
About the author: Daniel Kahneman is a Nobel laureate and psychologist known for his work on behavioral economics. His book sold more than 2.5 million copies and offers fascinating insights into the quirks of the human mind.
2 Best books on self-management
Managing yourself is an essential skill that enables you to navigate life’s most challenging and difficult situations. That’s why we’ll explore some of the best life-changing books on self-management.
#45: NLP: The Essential Guide
Book summary: NLP: The Essential Guide introduces Neuro-Linguistic Programming. It offers a comprehensive view of the most powerful techniques to enhance your communication, reprogram your mind, and unlock personal and professional excellence.
Why you should read it: NLP is a powerful technique many life coaches use, including Tony Robbins. This complete beginner’s guide is an excellent way to dip your toes into the water of NLP, including many exercises to try.
About the authors: Tom Hoobyar is an experienced NLP coach with a background in psychology. Tom Dotz has expertise in linguistics, cognitive science, and applying NLP techniques. Susan Sanders is a therapist and NLP trainer.
#46: Managing Oneself
Book summary: Managing Oneself is a short book that explores the importance of self-awareness and self-management in today’s rapidly changing world. You’ll learn to identify and leverage your strengths, manage your time, and create a career path that aligns with your values and aspirations.
Why you should read it: Do you like books that cut the fluff and get to the essence? Well, this book is for you. Although short, it’s still one of my favorite books about self-management.
About the author: Peter Drucker, often called the father of modern management, was a highly influential management consultant and author. His decades of experience come together in this small but impactful book.
The most life-changing book on history you must read
There are many history books that can change your life or alter your perspective. But what if you dislike history? Well, everyone should at least read this life-changing book on the topic.
#47: Sapiens
Book summary: Sapiens provides a brief history of the captivating evolution of humankind. It takes you through the development of Homo sapiens, the impact of major historical events, and the forces that shaped our societies, cultures, and beliefs as you know it today.
Why you should read it: This is the only book you’ll need to read to understand where we come from. It offers a thought-provoking exploration of the human race and the factors that shaped our modern world. Even if you dislike history, I bet you’ll love this book. It’s an insightful and entertaining read.
About the author: Yuval Noah Harari is a historian and professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Sapiens garnered international acclaim, showcasing Harari’s deep understanding of human history and his ability to present complex ideas in a compelling and accessible manner.
What’s next?
Every one of these life-changing books has the power to change your perspectives, attitude, and behavior.
And many of these titles are so good that I read them repeatedly. Give me time, and I’ll have read each book in this list at least three times.
They pack tons of value.
And each time you read these books, you’ll learn something new or reinforce your knowledge and wisdom.
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