Everyone seeks a better life in one way or another, and self-development books can play an essential role in a person’s advancement. From personal development to career advancement to financial management, these books offer inspiration and advice to those seeking to improve their lives.
With countless titles filling bookstore shelves, it can take time to find your next read. We’ve listed our recommendations for some of the best self-improvement books in 2023 (and of all time). Let’s check them out!
This Article Covers:
The Best Self-improvement Books – Our Top Picks
- The Six Pillars of Self-Esteem: The Definitive Work on Self-Esteem by the Leading Pioneer in the Field – Best for Working on Self-Esteem
- Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking – Best for Introverts
- The Gifts of Imperfection – Best for Self-Acceptance
- Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World – Best for Improving Focus
- The Last Lecture – For Those Looking to Live Life to the Fullest
- The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business – Best for Understanding Habits
- Finish: Give Yourself the Gift of Done – Best for Procrastinators
- Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World – Best for Late Bloomers
- Girl Code: Unlocking the Secrets to Success, Sanity, and Happiness for the Female Entrepreneur – Best for Female Entrepreneurs (and Empowerment)
- Rich Dad Poor Dad – A Great Read for Personal Financial Education
- Zero Negativity: The Power of Positive Thinking – Best for Positive Thinking Habits
- Forgiving What You Can’t Forget: Discover How to Move On, Make Peace with Painful Memories, and Create a Life That’s Beautiful Again – Best for Dealing with Painful Pasts
- The Little Book of Common Sense Investing – Best for Beginner Investors
- The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich – For Taking Control of Your Own Time
- The Charisma Myth: How Anyone Can Master the Art and Science of Personal Magnetism – Improve Your Personal Presence and Social Skills
The Best Self-Help Books to Read in 2023
1.) The Six Pillars of Self-Esteem: The Definitive Work on Self-Esteem by the Leading Pioneer in the Field – Best for Working on Self-Esteem
Key Information
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Author: Nathaniel Branden
- Publisher: Bantam
- Edition: 1st
- Pages: 368
- Formats: Kindle, Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback, Spiral-Bound, Audio Cassette
As a lecturer and practicing psychotherapist, Nathaniel Branden has published over twenty books that cover topics like romantic love, the life and thoughts of the philosopher Ayn Rand, and (of course) self-esteem. For more than three decades, Branden has been a pioneer in the realm of self-esteem.
In The Six Pillars of Self-Esteem, Branden offers evergreen advice as he explores the nature of self-esteem and its importance. He also shares how readers can develop self-esteem before exploring the six pillars: self-acceptance, living consciously, self-responsibility, living with purpose, self-assertiveness, and personal integrity.
Six Pillars has been one of the best self-improvement books for decades – it’s still worth a read today!
2.) Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking – Best for Introverts
Key Information
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Author: Susan Cain
- Publisher: Crown
- Edition: 1st
- Pages: 368
- Formats: Kindle, Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback, Audio CD
When she started the Quiet Movement, Susan Cain helped revolutionize how introverts are seen (and even how they see themselves). Her TED Talk on The Power of Introverts has nearly 33 million views.
In her book, Cain explores the differences between extroverts and introverts, reviewing how culture and society tend to favor extroverted qualities. She challenges this perspective and argues that introverted qualities (like listening skills, introspection, and focused work) can be valuable and necessary.
“Quiet” offers methods introverts can use to play to their strengths – and thrive. The book introduces successful introverts from various fields, providing valuable insights into their lives.
3.) The Gifts of Imperfection – Best for Self-Acceptance
Key Information
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Author: Brené Brown
- Publisher: Hazelden Publishing
- Edition: 10th Anniversary Edition
- Pages: 208
- Formats: Kindle, Audiobook, Paperback, Hardcover
Brené Brown first found internet fame when she gave her now-infamous The Power of Vulnerability TED talk. Today, it currently has over 60 million views! Brown is a distinguished academic who has spent the past two decades studying vulnerability, courage, empathy, and shame. She has also written six #1 New York Times bestsellers, including The Gifts of Imperfection.
The Gifts of Imperfection is a positive and empowering read for individuals seeking self-acceptance or fulfillment, personal development, and a more authentic life. In it, Brown shares her insights, stories, and exercises to help readers build their resilience while teaching them how to build more authentic connections.
More importantly, the book presents ten qualities or guideposts to help readers cultivate personal growth and self-acceptance as they let go of perfectionism. Don’t miss this read if you’re ready to embrace vulnerability and cultivate self-compassion.
4.) Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World – Best for Improving Focus
Key Information
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Author: Cal Newport
- Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
- Edition: 1st
- Pages: 304
- Formats: Kindle, Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback, Audio CD
Cal Newport is a bestselling author of seven books and a regular contributor to the New York Times, WIRED, and the New Yorker. He is a professor of computer science at Georgetown University.
Here, Newport explores the importance of concentrated, uninterrupted “deep work” and how readers can cultivate their work skills in an age of constant distractions. Shallow work is considered normal, thanks to multitasking and constant distractions. He then argues that deep work is valuable not only for productivity but also for individuals seeking a sense of fulfillment. Newport provides examples of individuals who have cultivated these work habits, like Bill Gates and Carl Jung.
Deep Work is one of the best personal growth books for readers looking to improve their productivity in various aspects of their life — including their careers!
5.) The Last Lecture – For Those Looking to Live Life to the Fullest
Key Information
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Author: Randy Pausch, Jeffrey Zaslow
- Publisher: Hyperion
- Edition: 1st
- Pages: 206
- Formats: Kindle, Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback, Audio CD
Randy Pausch was a computer science, human-computer interaction, and design professor at the prestigious Carnegie Mellon University. He also co-founded the institution’s Entertainment Technology Center.
The Last Lecture is based on a 2007 lecture by Pausch, “Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams.” At the time of this lecture, Pausch had recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer. This speech considered the end of his life and any wisdom he hoped to impart to the world when he passed.
This book is a more detailed version of Pausch’s lecture. Co-authored with Jeffrey Zaslow (a successful author in his own right), The Last Lecture is divided into chapters focusing on various pieces of advice Pausch wanted to impart about living life to the fullest. It’s an excellent read for those seeking inspiration and a push toward living their best lives.
6.) The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business – Best for Understanding Habits
Key Information
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Author: Charles Duhigg
- Publisher: Random House
- Edition: 1st
- Pages: 400
- Formats: Kindle, Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback, Audio CD
Charles Duhigg is an author and an award-winning journalist for the New York Times. In The Power of Habit, he explores the science of habit, determining how habits are formed and changed. Duhigg argues that many behaviors are habits rather than conscious decisions, and by understanding their habits, people are more able to make small (but positive) changes to their lives.
The Power of Habit is divided into three parts, each explaining why habits exist and how they function. Duhigg provides case studies and real-life examples throughout the book, as well as practical advice to establish new habits or change existing ones. The primary takeaway is that a habit works on a three-step loop: cue, routine, and reward.
Overall, The Power of Habit is one of the best self-help books for people looking to understand their human nature a bit better.
7.) Finish: Give Yourself the Gift of Done – Best for Procrastinators
Key Information
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Author: Jon Acuff
- Publisher: Penguin Publishing Group
- Edition: Reprint
- Pages: 208
- Formats: Kindle, Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback, Audio CD
Jon Acuff is a bestselling author of eight critically-acclaimed and reader-loved books. As one of INC’s Top 100 Leadership Speakers, Acuff has spent over 20 years helping brands like Bose, Home Depot, and Staples tell their stories.
In this self-improvement and productivity book, Acuff shares that 92% of New Year’s resolutions fail. He uses this statistic to describe experiences of pushing himself to accomplish resolutions – and how often he didn’t accomplish his goals. Acuff shares his strategies to override your desire for perfectionism, stick to your resolutions, and make the process fun.
8.) Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World – Best for Late Bloomers
Key Information
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Author: David Epstein
- Publisher: Riverhead Books
- Edition: Illustrated
- Pages: 352
- Formats: Kindle, Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback, Audio CD
David Epstein is a bestselling author whose books were purchased by President Barack Obama and Condoleezza Rice. As a prior investigative reporter at ProPublica and senior writer at Sports Illustrated, Epstein is also a renowned speaker. Known for his TED Talks, his most recent (“Why Specializing Early Doesn’t Always Mean Career Success”) was held at TEDxManchester.
In this publication, Epstein shares that specialization isn’t always the key to success. He argues that those with diverse knowledge and experiences (“generalists”) can thrive in today’s rapidly changing world. He also states that generalists are often able to navigate complex situations better.
To support his argument, Epstein draws on research from fields like psychology, neuroscience, and psychology. He also provides examples of successful generalists. Range is one of the best self-help books you can read in 2023.
9.) Girl Code: Unlocking the Secrets to Success, Sanity, and Happiness for the Female Entrepreneur – Best for Female Entrepreneurs (and Empowerment)
Key Information
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Author: Cara Alwill Leyba
- Publisher: Portfolio
- Edition: 1st
- Pages: 176
- Formats: Kindle, Audiobook, Paperback
Girl Code is one of the best self-help books for women entrepreneurs. It was written by Cara Alwill (an author, speaker, blogger, and master life coach), whose primary aim is to encourage women to celebrate themselves while prioritizing their happiness. She also runs a podcast, Style Your Mind.
In her book, Alwill shares a roadmap for female side hustlers, entrepreneurs, professionals, and anyone in between. She covers various personal growth and entrepreneurship topics, including self-care, mindset, branding, goal-setting, social media, and networking. Alwill also emphasizes the importance of building a supportive community of other like-minded women.
Overall, this book aims to teach readers to build self-confidence, eradicate jealousy, reconnect with their purpose, and learn how powerful connection can be.
10.) Rich Dad Poor Dad – A Great Read for Personal Financial Education
Key Information
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Author: Robert T. Kiyosaki
- Publisher: Plata Publishing
- Edition: 25th Anniversary
- Pages: 336
- Formats: Kindle, Audiobook, Paperback, Audio CD
Robert Kiyosaki is an educator, entrepreneur, and investor who believes people should take control of their financial futures. Like his other financial education books, this publication focuses on the importance of personal finance. Its primary aim is to teach readers how to build wealth and achieve financial independence.
This book is a good read for those who want to learn more about personal finance – and how they can “escape the rat race.”
11.) Zero Negativity: The Power of Positive Thinking – Best for Positive Thinking Habits
Key Information
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Author: Ant Middleton
- Publisher: HarperCollins
- Edition: 1st
- Pages: 336
- Formats: Kindle, Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback
Ant Middleton is a former UK Special Forces soldier, Royal Marines Commando, and Royal Engineer. He has since turned into an adventurer, writer, and television personality.
Zero Negativity is the third book in his Mindset Trilogy (including First Man In and The Fear Bubble) and one of the best self-help books for people looking to move away from negative thinking.
Middleton shares how having a positive mindset is crucial for finding success and how negativity often holds people back. In the book, he shares his personal challenges and experiences, illustrating how he developed a positive attitude to overcome his obstacles.
Zero Negativity is divided into chapters, each focusing on the different aspects of positivity, like motivation, teamwork, and resilience. The book includes exercises and practical advice to help readers take personal responsibility and overcome negative thinking patterns.
12.) Forgiving What You Can’t Forget: Discover How to Move On, Make Peace with Painful Memories, and Create a Life That’s Beautiful Again – Best for Dealing with Painful Pasts
Key Information
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Author: Lysa TerKeurst
- Publisher: Thomas Nelson
- Edition: 1st
- Pages: 288
- Formats: Kindle, Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback, Audio CD
Lysa TerKeurst is the president of Proverbs 31 Ministries and has authored over 25 books. She also runs a therapy and theology podcast. In this #1 New York Times Christian bestseller, TerKeurst shares that forgiveness is a process — one that can sometimes be painful and difficult. Despite this difficulty, she makes a case that forgiveness is essential for healing and personal growth. This book outlines that forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting or excusing whoever hurt you, nor does it mean reconciliation. It outlines that forgiveness is a choice – and one that can be made daily.
13.) The Little Book of Common Sense Investing – Best for Beginner Investors
Key Information
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Author: John C. Bogle
- Publisher: Wiley
- Edition: Updated and Revised Edition
- Pages: 304
- Formats: Kindle, Audiobook, Hardcover, Audio CD
The Little Book of Common Sense Investing was written by John C. Bogle, founder of The Vanguard Group, Inc. (one of the largest mutual funds in the world) and president of Bogle Financial Markets Research Center.
In this book, Bogle draws from his experience to help individual investors learn how to invest more wisely in the stock market. He offers straightforward investment advice to beginners and intermediate investors, especially the importance of low-cost and passive investing.
Overall, this book is great for people looking to discover more about investing, especially in index funds.
14.) The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich – For Taking Control of Your Own Time
Key Information
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Author: Timothy Ferriss
- Publisher: Harmony
- Edition: 1st
- Pages: 448
- Formats: Kindle, Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback, Audio CD
Timothy Ferriss is a serial entrepreneur, angel investor, and advisor to companies like Evernote, Facebook, Uber, and more. As a #1 New York Times bestselling author, podcaster, and TED Talk speaker known for sharing his rapid-learning techniques, his books are well-known motivators that help readers regain control of their lives.
The 4-Hour Workweek presents readers with the idea that working four hours a week is possible – and finding success and financial independence is possible when working less.
Ferriss suggests that readers should aim to create businesses that provide passive income streams (since passive income is vital to creating this kind of lifestyle). Rather than getting caught in the rat race, he emphasizes the importance of setting goals and prioritizing the important things.
The 4-Hour Workweek is a book for those looking to create a lifestyle that allows them plenty of opportunities. Ferriss shares that establishing a lifestyle of financial freedom opens up greater possibilities for travel, new hobbies, new skills, and more.
15.) The Charisma Myth: How Anyone Can Master the Art and Science of Personal Magnetism – Improve Your Personal Presence and Social Skills
Key Information
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Author: Olivia Fox Cabane
- Publisher: Portfolio
- Edition: 1st
- Pages: 272
- Formats: Kindle, Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback, Audio CD
The Charisma Myth was written by Olivia Fox Cabane, an executive coach to Fortune 500 company leaders. With a client roster of Deloitte, Google, and Citigroup, Cabane has also held lectures at Yale, Stanford, MIT, Harvard, and the United Nations. She also writes a regular column at Forbes.
Cabane argues that charisma isn’t an innate trait a person is born with or without. Rather, she believes it can be learned through practice. The Charisma Myth offers exercises and practical advice to help readers improve their personal and professional lives by building their magnetism. Cabane draws on elements from neuroscience and psychology, as well as her experiences in leadership coaching roles.
The Charisma Myth is a fantastic read for those hoping to gain self-confidence. We believe that it’s particularly useful for people in sales and leadership roles, but it comes highly recommended for anyone looking to improve their social skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is It Worth Reading Self-Improvement Books?
The answer to this question is completely subjective and depends on your personal goals and preferences. self-help books cover all sorts of topics and can provide motivation, inspiration, and guidance to readers. However, some people may find self-help books preachy or patronizing. To ensure better readability, choose books that fit your specific values and goals.
2. What Type of Books Should I Read to Improve Myself?
While this depends on your interests and goals, there are a few general categories of self-help and self-improvement books that you can check out:
- Personal development (e.g., productivity, mindset, communication skills)
- Wellness (e.g., physical health, psychology, nutrition)
- Career development
- Financial education
- Motivational/Inspirational
- Memoirs and biographies
Bottom Line
The best self-improvement books offer practical advice and actionable strategies to help you improve various aspects of your life. Whether you read self-help books or take an online course on productivity, it’s all about developing new skills, positive habits, and healthier perspectives that can dramatically improve your life.
Related:
- The 14 Best Productivity Apps for Students
- Boosting Productivity with Meal Prep
- 10 Best iPad Productivity Apps to Download
- The 9 Best Monitors for Home Offices: Boost Your Productivity
- Top 23 Best Mac Apps to Install for Productivity, Entertainment, & More
- Top 14 Best Productivity Books You Must Read
