Success is a multifaceted journey, where knowledge, habits, and mindset play critical roles. Picking up the right book can help you navigate this journey, offering wisdom, strategies, and inspiration from experts and thought leaders. In this blog post, we’ve curated a list of 18 bestselling books that promise to guide you towards a more successful and fulfilling life. Whether your focus is on building better habits, honing leadership skills, or achieving financial stability, these books cover diverse aspects of personal and professional growth.
18 bestselling books that will help you be more successful in life:
“The High 5 Habit: Take Control of Your Life with One Simple Habit”
Mel Robbins’ “The High 5 Habit” introduces a simple yet profound practice to kickstart your day—high-fiving yourself in the mirror. This habit can boost your confidence and motivation, making you more equipped to tackle life’s challenges. Robbins utilizes personal anecdotes and scientific research to underline the psychological benefits of this simple act. The book dives deep into self-acceptance and self-love, emphasizing the notion that the way you perceive yourself has a monumental impact on your success. By adopting this daily habit, you’ll slowly alter your internal dialogue, paving the way for more resilient mental health and a more positive outlook on life.
“Feeding the Soul (Because It’s My Business): Finding Our Way to Joy, Love, and Freedom”
Tabitha Brown’s “Feeding the Soul” is more than just a book; it’s an invitation to look inward and discover ways to nourish not just your body, but also your mind and spirit. Brown, who is well-known for her vegan culinary skills and uplifting social media presence, provides her unique perspective on achieving wellness and joy. This book is perfect for those who seek a more holistic approach to success—one that encompasses emotional wellbeing and genuine happiness. Brown shares heartfelt stories and practical advice that encourage self-care, compassion, and the embracing of one’s true self.
“Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones”
James Clear’s “Atomic Habits” stresses the power of small changes in redefining habits and achieving significant results. Clear presents a framework that is both practical and scientifically grounded, making it easier to adopt and sustain positive habits while eliminating bad ones. The book divides habits into four laws: make it obvious, make it attractive, make it easy, and make it satisfying. By understanding and applying these laws, readers are empowered to create a system that promotes continuous improvement and long-term success.
“Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts.”
Brené Brown, a research professor and expert on vulnerability, brings her wisdom to the realm of leadership in “Dare to Lead.” Brown argues that true leadership is about courage and vulnerability, not authority and control. Through real-life case studies and personal experiences, she explores how leaders can cultivate a culture of trust and empathy. The book encourages leaders to embrace their fears and imperfections, making them more relatable and effective. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to inspire and guide others with authenticity and compassion.
“Designing Your Life: How to Build a Well-Lived, Joyful Life”
Bill Burnett and Dave Evans merge design thinking with life planning in “Designing Your Life.” Originating from a popular course at Stanford, this book provides actionable strategies for anyone looking to create a meaningful and fulfilling life. The authors debunk the myth of a single life path, encouraging readers to view life as a canvas for continual design and iteration. Equipped with exercises and tools, this book helps you map out your passions, strengths, and potential pathways, fostering a proactive approach to career and personal development.
“Get Good with Money: Ten Simple Steps to Becoming Financially Whole”
Tiffany Aliche’s “Get Good with Money” offers a comprehensive guide to financial wellness. Aliche, also known as “The Budgetnista,” lays out ten simple yet effective steps to achieving financial security. The book covers budgeting, saving, investing, and much more, all in a relatable and engaging manner. Aliche emphasizes practical strategies over complex financial jargon, making it accessible for readers at any stage of their financial journey. Her advice is rooted in real-life experiences, offering tested methods for achieving financial stability and ultimately, peace of mind.
“The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment”
Eckhart Tolle’s “The Power of Now” is a transformative guide to understanding the importance of living in the present moment. Tolle delves into the concept of mindfulness, discussing how it can lead to spiritual enlightenment and sustained happiness. By focusing on the present, you can alleviate stress and anxiety rooted in past regrets or future worries. The principles laid out in the book can help you cultivate a centered life, more attuned to your inner self and disconnected from unnecessary distractions, leading to a more successful and conscious existence.
“Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know”
In “Think Again,” Adam Grant encourages readers to embrace the art of rethinking. As an organizational psychologist, Grant explains how preconceived notions and rigid beliefs can impede progress. He promotes intellectual humility, curiosity, and openness to change as pivotal traits for personal and professional growth. Grant’s insights are underpinned by various studies and real-world examples, challenging readers to question their assumptions and consider new perspectives, making it a foundational read for anyone aiming to cultivate a mindset conducive to innovation and adaptability.
“Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It”
Chris Voss, a former FBI hostage negotiator, brings his high-stakes negotiation techniques to everyday life in “Never Split the Difference.” Voss provides strategies that go beyond conventional negotiating tactics, emphasizing emotional intelligence and active listening. The book is packed with practical advice that can be applied in various scenarios—from business deals to personal relationships. Voss’s methods show that negotiation is not about compromise, but about understanding human nature and leveraging it to achieve optimal outcomes.
“Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking”
Susan Cain’s “Quiet” challenges the extrovert ideal prevalent in today’s society. Cain argues that introverts possess unique strengths that are often overlooked, from deep thinking to creative problem-solving. By highlighting the benefits of introversion, this book provides a balanced view of what it means to be successful. Cain combines scientific research with personal stories to make a compelling case for the introverted personality type. Her insights empower introverts to embrace their traits as assets rather than deficits, making it an empowering read for individuals of all dispositions.
“Thinking, Fast and Slow”
Daniel Kahneman’s “Thinking, Fast and Slow” is a deep dive into the two systems that drive our thinking—System 1, which is fast and intuitive, and System 2, which is slow and deliberate. Kahneman, a Nobel Prize-winning psychologist, explores how these systems shape our judgments and decisions. The book is filled with research-backed insights, challenging readers to understand and improve their decision-making processes. Kahneman’s work is invaluable for anyone looking to make smarter, more mindful choices in both personal and professional spheres.
“Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity”
Kim Scott’s “Radical Candor” focuses on the delicate balance of being a strong leader while maintaining empathy. Scott, who has led teams at Google and Apple, offers practical advice on building respectful yet candid relationships with your team. The book is structured around the concept of “radical candor,” which involves giving direct, honest feedback while showing genuine care for the individual. This approach fosters a transparent, productive work environment, making it an essential read for current and aspiring leaders.
“Lead from the Outside: How to Build Your Future and Make Real Change”
Stacey Abrams, a political leader and entrepreneur, provides an inspiring guide for those who feel marginalized or underestimated in “Lead from the Outside.” Abrams shares personal stories and actionable steps to build influence and achieve extraordinary goals despite societal barriers. Her message is clear: anyone can lead, regardless of their background or circumstances. This book is especially empowering for individuals who aspire to make meaningful change in their communities and careers against the odds.
“Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life…And Maybe the World”
Admiral William H. McRaven’s “Make Your Bed” distills life lessons from his naval career into practical, everyday actions. The book starts with the simple act of making your bed, arguing that small habits can lead to significant improvements in life. Each chapter is based on experiences and stories from McRaven’s time in the Navy, offering timeless wisdom applicable to anyone seeking to enhance their daily routines and overall perspective.
“The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing”
Marie Kondo’s “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up” revolutionized how people approach their living spaces. Kondo’s KonMari Method, which involves keeping items that ‘spark joy,’ has inspired countless individuals to declutter and reorganize their homes, leading to more focused and harmonious living environments. This book is about more than tidying up; it’s about transforming your relationship with your possessions and creating a more intentional life. By decluttering your physical space, you can also clear your mental space, contributing to overall success and wellbeing.
“The 5 AM Club: Own Your Morning. Elevate Your Life.”
Robin Sharma’s “The 5 AM Club” advocates for the transformative power of an early morning routine. Sharma introduces the “20/20/20 Formula,” which splits the first hour of the day into three segments—exercise, reflection, and growth. Endorsed by various successful individuals, this morning routine aims to enhance productivity and mental clarity. Sharma’s narrative style and actionable advice make the book a compelling guide for anyone looking to optimize their daily schedule and achieve peak performance.
“Can’t Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds”
David Goggins’ “Can’t Hurt Me” is an in-your-face memoir of overcoming immense physical and mental challenges. Goggins, a former Navy SEAL, shares his journey from a troubled childhood to completing some of the world’s toughest endurance events. Goggins’ philosophy revolves around harnessing mental toughness to break through self-imposed limitations. The book is filled with practical advice and exercises aimed at pushing boundaries and achieving previously unimaginable goals, making it a powerful read for those looking to defy the odds.
“How to Win Friends & Influence People”
Dale Carnegie’s timeless classic “How to Win Friends & Influence People” remains a must-read for anyone seeking to improve their interpersonal skills. Carnegie offers principles on how to make people like you, win them over to your way of thinking, and change them without arousing resentment. These principles, rooted in psychology and real-world experience, are just as relevant today as they were when the book was first published. Whether you’re in sales, management, or just looking to grow your social network, this book provides invaluable insights into human relations. ### Final Thoughts These 18 books are more than just reading material; they are comprehensive guides to becoming a more successful and fulfilled individual. Each book offers unique insights and practical strategies that can be integrated into daily life, helping you to grow personally and professionally. Below is a summarized table of the discussed books:
| Title | Author | Main Focus |
|---|---|---|
| The High 5 Habit | Mel Robbins | Self-Motivation |
| Feeding the Soul | Tabitha Brown | Holistic Well-being |
| Atomic Habits | James Clear | Habit Formation |
| Dare to Lead | Brené Brown | Leadership |
| Designing Your Life | Bill Burnett & Dave Evans | Life Planning |
| Get Good with Money | Tiffany Aliche | Financial Wellness |
| The Power of Now | Eckhart Tolle | Mindfulness |
| Think Again | Adam Grant | Intellectual Humility |
| Never Split the Difference | Chris Voss | Negotiation |
| Quiet | Susan Cain | Introversion |
| Thinking, Fast and Slow | Daniel Kahneman | Decision-Making |
| Radical Candor | Kim Scott | Leadership |
| Lead from the Outside | Stacey Abrams | Overcoming Barriers |
| Make Your Bed | William H. McRaven | Small Habits |
| The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up | Marie Kondo | Decluttering |
| The 5 AM Club | Robin Sharma | Morning Routine |
| Can’t Hurt Me | David Goggins | Mental Toughness |
| How to Win Friends & Influence People | Dale Carnegie | Interpersonal Skills |
These recommendations each bring something unique to the table. Whether you’re rethinking your habits, planning your life better, or simply looking for motivation to overcome adversity, there’s a book here for you. Happy reading!
