Productivity
Productivity books provide tools and techniques to help manage time, increase efficiency, and reach personal or professional goals.
The War of Art
The War of Art is a motivational call to overcome the internal resistance that blocks creativity and achievement. Steven Pressfield breaks the creative struggle into three sections: identifying resistance, turning pro, and embracing higher purpose. He argues that fear, procrastination, and doubt are universal forces that sabotage our potential, and success requires discipline and persistence. Blending personal anecdotes with spiritual undertones, Pressfield challenges readers to treat creative work as a daily practice. The book is especially resonant for writers, artists, and entrepreneurs, offering tough love and encouragement to push through fear and self-sabotage in pursuit of meaningful creation.
Anything You Want
by Derek Sivers
Anything You Want is a concise, unconventional guide to entrepreneurship drawn from Derek Sivers’ experience founding and running CD Baby. Rejecting traditional business advice, Sivers advocates for simplicity, personal fulfillment, and customer-centric thinking. He emphasizes doing what feels right rather than chasing external validation or scale for its own sake. The book combines practical insights with reflective storytelling, highlighting the value of independence, generosity, and clarity of purpose. With its direct tone and minimalist philosophy, Anything You Want is an inspiring read for entrepreneurs who want to build meaningful businesses on their own terms—not by following a blueprint.
Grit
In Grit, psychologist Angela Duckworth explores why talent alone doesn’t predict success—grit does. Based on her research, Duckworth argues that sustained passion and persistent effort matter more than innate ability. She shares stories of high achievers from diverse fields, showing how resilience, long-term focus, and consistent hard work lead to exceptional outcomes. The book combines personal anecdotes, scientific studies, and practical strategies to help readers develop grit in their own lives. Duckworth’s insights challenge the myth of overnight success and inspire readers to pursue their goals with tenacity, regardless of obstacles or setbacks.
Measure What Matters
by John Doerr
This influential business book introduces the Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) framework, a goal-setting system used by major companies like Google, Intel, and Bono’s ONE campaign. John Doerr, a legendary venture capitalist, outlines how OKRs help organizations focus effort, track progress, and foster alignment and accountability. Through detailed case studies from Google, YouTube, and the Gates Foundation, Doerr shows how this method has transformed productivity and performance. Larry Page has praised the book, saying he wished he had it at the beginning of Google’s journey. “Measure What Matters” is a practical blueprint for building goal-driven, agile organizations.
Tiny Habits
by BJ Fogg
In 'Tiny Habits,' renowned behavior scientist BJ Fogg delivers a transformative guide on the science of habit formation. Drawing from decades of research, Fogg presents a groundbreaking yet straightforward approach to creating positive and lasting change in one's life. The book emphasizes the power of small actions and provides actionable strategies to build habits effortlessly, dismantling the myth that change requires strong willpower. Fogg introduces his paradigm-shifting 'Behavior Model' and illustrates it with practical examples and success stories. By focusing on simplicity and celebrating small victories, 'Tiny Habits' empowers readers to gradually reshape their behaviors and lives fundamentally and sustainably.
Feel-Good Productivity
by Ali Abdaal
In this revolutionary book, Ali reveals how the science of feel-good productivity can transform your life. He introduces the three hidden 'energisers' that underpin enjoyable productivity, the three 'blockers' we must overcome to beat procrastination, and the three 'sustainers' that prevent burnout and help us achieve lasting fulfillment. He recounts the inspiring stories of founders, Olympians, and Nobel-winning scientists who embody the principles of Feel-Good Productivity. And he introduces the simple, actionable changes that you can use to achieve more and live better, starting today.
Digital Minimalism
by Cal Newport
In 'Digital Minimalism', Cal Newport presents a compelling argument for reevaluating our relationship with technology to reclaim our focus, productivity, and mental well-being. Newport guides readers through practical strategies to minimize digital clutter, prioritize meaningful activities, and cultivate more intentional use of digital tools. By drawing on psychology, sociology, and behavioral economics, Newport challenges us to reassess the value technology adds to our lives and advocates for a more mindful approach to digital consumption. This thought-provoking book offers a roadmap for leading a more deliberate, fulfilling life in today's tech-saturated world.
Deep Work
by Cal Newport
In Deep Work, Cal Newport argues that focused, distraction-free work is the key to success in an increasingly distracted world. He contrasts deep work—cognitively demanding tasks done in uninterrupted concentration—with shallow work, like emails and meetings, that erode productivity. Using research, case studies, and practical advice, Newport teaches strategies to develop focus, reduce digital distractions, and structure your time for maximum impact. Whether you're a creative professional or entrepreneur, Deep Work offers a blueprint for achieving more meaningful results. It’s a guide to thriving in the information age by reclaiming your attention.
How to Take Smart Notes
by Sonke Ahrens
In 'How to Take Smart Notes' by Sonke Ahrens, readers are introduced to the transformative idea of the Zettelkasten note-taking method, a powerful system used by thinkers and creatives for centuries. Ahrens not only breaks down the step-by-step process of implementing this method but also delves into the psychology behind effective note-taking and knowledge management. Through practical examples and real-life applications, the book equips readers with the tools to enhance their creativity, critical thinking, and productivity. As readers navigate through the pages, they discover a new way of engaging with information that fosters deeper understanding and original insights.
The Compound Effect
by Darren Hardy
In 'The Compound Effect,' Darren Hardy explores the powerful principle that small, consistent actions over time lead to significant results. Drawing from his extensive experience in business and personal development, Hardy provides readers with a roadmap for achieving success in any area of life. The book emphasizes the importance of consistency, discipline, and smart decision-making, illustrating how incremental progress can lead to remarkable changes. Through engaging anecdotes and practical strategies, Hardy shows how seemingly insignificant daily choices can accumulate into substantial achievements. 'The Compound Effect' is an inspiring and actionable guide for anyone looking to harness the power of steady momentum in their personal or professional journey.
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less
by Greg McKeown
Essentialism is a manifesto for simplicity in an increasingly busy world. Greg McKeown advocates for doing less, but better—focusing only on what is truly important. He challenges the idea that we must do everything and instead teaches readers how to identify their highest priorities, eliminate non-essential tasks, and reclaim control of their time and energy. With practical tips and clear frameworks, the book empowers readers to make deliberate choices, say no more often, and live with intention. Essentialism is about creating space for what really matters—professionally and personally—by embracing the power of focus and clarity.
The Effective Executive
In The Effective Executive, Peter Drucker outlines the essential practices that make executives—and knowledge workers—more productive and impactful. Rather than focusing on charisma or innate talent, Drucker emphasizes disciplined time management, clear priorities, effective decision-making, and results-driven action. He argues that effectiveness is a skill that can be cultivated through habits such as knowing where time goes, focusing on contribution, and concentrating on a few key tasks. Written with clarity and timeless wisdom, this concise book remains a cornerstone of leadership and management literature, offering practical insights for professionals aiming to lead with focus, intention, and strategic purpose.
The Obstacle Is the Way
by Ryan Holiday
Based on the principles of Stoic philosophy, The Obstacle Is the Way teaches readers to transform adversity into advantage. Drawing from historical examples—from Marcus Aurelius to modern leaders—Holiday outlines a framework of perception, action, and will. His central idea: challenges are not obstacles to success, but the path itself. Through discipline, patience, and perspective, setbacks become fuel for growth. Written in a clear, concise style, the book is both motivational and practical. It has gained a wide following among athletes, entrepreneurs, and creatives seeking mental resilience and focus in the face of hardship.
Rest
Learning how to rest- the smartest lifehack of all. In our 24-7 global economy, rest feels like a luxury at best and a weakness at worst. We see work and rest as competitors - but what if they're actually partners in a productive, balanced life? Blending rigorous scientific research with examples of writers, painters and thinkers - from Darwin to Stephen King - Silicon Valley futurist and business consultant Alex Soojung-Kim Pang exposes how we've underestimated the power of rest for our success. Though it's as natural as breathing, it's also a skill we can all learn to boost our creativity and productivity. Full of tips for upping our downtime, from sleep to hobbies to vacation, Rest is a new roadmap for finding renewed energy and inspiration, and getting more done.
Rework
by Jason Fried, David Heinemeier Hansson
Rework is a no-nonsense guide to building and running a business differently—smarter, leaner, and with less bureaucracy. Written by the founders of Basecamp, the book dismantles traditional startup myths and offers fresh advice on productivity, marketing, hiring, and growth. Each chapter is short and punchy, advocating for simplicity, speed, and authenticity. Rework encourages readers to launch quickly, ignore competitors, and focus on real value rather than business plans or investor pitches. Whether you're an entrepreneur, freelancer, or team leader, this book provides a practical, counterintuitive perspective on what really matters when creating something meaningful.
The Slight Edge: Turning Simple Disciplines into Massive Success and Happiness
by Jeff Olson
In 'The Slight Edge: Turning Simple Disciplines into Massive Success and Happiness,' Jeff Olson explores the impactful notion of how small, consistent actions can lead to significant achievements over time. Through relatable anecdotes and real-life examples, Olson emphasizes the importance of daily discipline, aligning one's habits with personal goals, and maintaining a positive attitude. He demystifies the process of achieving success, making it accessible to anyone willing to implement minor but consistent improvements in their everyday life. This book is both motivational and pragmatic, offering a compelling roadmap for readers looking to transform their lives incrementally, fostering both personal and professional growth.
Getting Things Done
by David Allen
David Allen's Getting Things Done was hailed as 'the definitive business self-help book of the decade' (Time) when it was first published almost fifteen years ago, and ' GTD' has since become shorthand for an entire culture of personal organization that offers to change the way people work and live. Now the veteran coach and management consultant has rewritten the book from start to finish, tweaking his classic text with new perspectives on today's workplace and incorporating new data that validates his timeless admonition that 'your hear is for having ideas - not for holding them!'
Everything Is Figureoutable
by Marie Forleo
In 'Everything Is Figureoutable,' Marie Forleo delivers an empowering guide that encourages readers to transform their mindset and approach challenges with a can-do attitude. The book is rooted in the simple yet profound belief that every problem can be solved with a strong will and a resourceful mindset. Combining personal anecdotes, actionable advice, and practical exercises, Forleo demystifies common life obstacles and offers a blueprint for cultivating resilience and creativity. Her engaging writing style, coupled with her personal insights, makes the book both inspirational and accessible. Ideal for anyone looking to break through barriers and achieve personal and professional growth.
Finish: Give Yourself the Gift of Done
by Jon Acuff
In 'Finish: Give Yourself the Gift of Done', Jon Acuff delivers a refreshing take on goal completion by emphasizing the importance of embracing imperfection over the pursuit of perfection. The book challenges the typical self-help rhetoric that focuses solely on starting projects, instead providing readers with practical insights to actually complete them. Acuff uses a combination of humor, relatable anecdotes, and psychological research to unravel common pitfalls such as the 'day after perfect', perfectionism, and hidden rules that hinder progress. His pragmatic advice helps dismantle barriers to success and encourages a more forgiving and achievable approach to personal and professional development. This engaging read is tailored for anyone looking to finish tasks and achieve their goals, offering both motivation and actionable strategies that promise to transform how we view productivity.
Slow Productivity
by Cal Newport
From the New York Times bestselling author of Deep Work, Slow Productivity is a groundbreaking philosophy for creating great work at a sustainable pace. Hustle culture. Burnout. Quiet quitting. Today we're either sacrificing ourselves on the altar of success or we're rejecting the idea of ambition entirely. But it doesn't have to be all or nothing. There is a way to create meaningful work as part of a balanced life, and it's called 'slow productivity'. Coined by Cal Newport, the bestselling author of Deep Work and Digital Minimalism, slow productivity is a revolutionary philosophy based on simple principles. From managing your energy according to the season, to identifying which projects to pursue and which to set aside, to building a schedule that yields maximum output with minimum stress, this timely and essential book will revolutionise how you work, helping you to accomplish great things at a more humane pace.
The Art of Learning
In The Art of Learning, chess prodigy and martial arts champion Josh Waitzkin shares his journey of mastering two disciplines to reveal universal principles of performance and personal growth. Blending autobiography with actionable insights, he discusses focus, resilience, and the psychology of peak performance. Waitzkin emphasizes the importance of incremental progress, embracing adversity, and turning setbacks into growth. His philosophy integrates Eastern and Western approaches to learning and competition. Whether applied to sports, business, or creative pursuits, The Art of Learning is a compelling guide to developing mastery through mindfulness, self-awareness, and continuous refinement of one’s process.
Show Your Work!
by Austin Kleon
In 'Show Your Work!', Austin Kleon encourages creatives to share their process and progress openly in the digital age. Through a blend of practical advice and inspiring anecdotes, Kleon emphasizes the importance of embracing vulnerability, building a supportive community, and connecting with like-minded individuals. By demystifying the creative journey and advocating for transparency in both success and failure, he empowers readers to cultivate their creative pursuits with authenticity and generosity. This book serves as a valuable guide for artists, writers, and anyone looking to establish an online presence while staying true to their artistic vision.
Give and Take: A Revolutionary Approach to Success
by Adam Grant
In 'Give and Take: A Revolutionary Approach to Success', Adam Grant explores the idea of how our interactions with others can impact our success. He categorizes people as givers, matchers, and takers to illustrate how each group approaches relationships. Grant argues that being a giver, as opposed to a taker, can lead to greater success in both personal and professional realms, debunking the notion that individuals need to be ruthless to get ahead. Through captivating stories and compelling research, Grant offers practical advice on how to incorporate giving into our lives and achieve lasting success through meaningful connections.
How to Live
by Derek Sivers
In How to Live, Derek Sivers offers 27 radically different philosophies for living a meaningful life—each chapter presenting a distinct worldview with confidence and conviction. From “Be independent” to “Commit fully,” the book explores contradictory yet compelling ideas, encouraging readers to reflect on what matters most. Rather than offering a single path, Sivers embraces complexity, suggesting that the truth of how to live may lie in navigating these contradictions. Written in his signature minimalist, thought-provoking style, How to Live is part philosophy, part self-inquiry, and part creative manifesto—ideal for readers seeking clarity, flexibility, and personal growth.