Self-Help
Self-Help books offer guidance for improving personal and professional life, including mental health, habits, and productivity.
How To Talk To Anyone
by Leil Lowndes
Leil Lowndes’ How to Talk to Anyone is a practical guide to improving social skills and building rapport in any setting. It presents 92 tips and techniques—ranging from body language and conversation starters to advanced listening and networking tactics. The book aims to help readers gain confidence, make better first impressions, and navigate both personal and professional interactions more effectively. With clear language and actionable advice, it is especially useful for those looking to enhance communication and charisma.
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success
by Carol Dweck
World-renowned Stanford University psychologist Carol Dweck, in decades of research on achievement and success, has discovered a truly groundbreaking idea-the power of our mindset. Dweck explains why it's not just our abilities and talent that bring us success-but whether we approach them with a fixed or growth mindset. She makes clear why praising intelligence and ability doesn't foster self-esteem and lead to accomplishment, but may actually jeopardise success. With the right mindset, we can motivate our kids and help them to raise their grades, as well as reach our own goals-personal and professional. Dweck reveals what all great parents, teachers, CEOs, and athletes already know: how a simple idea about the brain can create a love of learning and a resilience that is the basis of great accomplishment in every area.
Awake Academy
by Tess Brouwer
Awake Academy is a modern self-development guide by Layne Beachley, champion surfer turned motivational coach. Focused on self-awareness, emotional resilience, and purpose, the book (and its associated platform) blends personal anecdotes with actionable tools for inner transformation. Through practices like journaling, mindfulness, and goal-setting, Beachley encourages readers to live authentically and "awaken" to their potential. Designed to be accessible and empowering, the book promotes growth through vulnerability and intentional living, especially for those seeking to overcome self-doubt and build confidence.
How to Win Friends and Influence People
About the Author Dale Carnegie (November 24, 1888 -- November 1, 1955) was a celebrated American author and self-improvement guru. Born in poverty on a farm in Missouri, he built himself a successful career as a traveling salesman before moving on to teach public speaking at a New York YMCA in 1912. His course was a hit, and within two years he had moved out of the YMCA and founded the Dale Carnegie Institute to accommodate the huge demand for his classes. His 1936 book HOW TO WIN FRIENDS AND INFLUENCE PEOPLE was a global bestseller, selling almost 5 million copies during his lifetime and becoming a staple of business curriculums around the world.
New Power: How Power Works in Our Hyperconnected World
by Jeremy Heimans, Henry Timms
New Power explores how influence, leadership, and engagement have evolved in the digital age. The authors contrast "old power"—top-down, closed, and leader-driven—with "new power"—open, participatory, and crowd-sourced. Through case studies like #MeToo, Airbnb, and TED, they show how modern movements and brands leverage community and transparency. The book offers tools for leaders, activists, and entrepreneurs to harness this shift effectively. Branson and other innovators have praised New Power for its relevance in today’s hyperconnected world, where collaboration and authenticity often matter more than hierarchy or control.
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.
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.
Be As You Are
In 'Be As You Are,' Sri Ramana Maharshi invites readers to explore the depths of their being through profound insights and teachings on self-realization and liberation. Through conversations with Maharshi, the book delves into the nature of the self, the ego, and the path to realizing one's true essence beyond societal conditioning. It emphasizes the practice of self-inquiry and mindfulness as tools for transcending the limited self and experiencing the boundless ocean of consciousness within. This timeless classic offers a transformative journey towards inner peace and enlightenment, inspiring readers to question their identities and awaken to the eternal truth of existence.
Wooden on Leadership
by John Wooden
In 'Wooden on Leadership,' legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden shares his insights on leadership, success, and personal development. Drawing from his experience coaching some of the greatest basketball players, Wooden emphasizes the importance of discipline, hard work, and integrity. Through a series of anecdotes and lessons, he articulates his 'Pyramid of Success,' a framework for achieving greatness in any pursuit. Readers will be inspired by Wooden's timeless wisdom and practical advice on building winning teams, fostering a winning attitude, and leading with integrity. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills and achieve lasting success.
Way of the Peaceful Warrior
by Dan Millman
In 'Way of the Peaceful Warrior' by Dan Millman, readers are taken on a transformative journey alongside the protagonist, Dan, a talented college gymnast who meets a mysterious mentor named Socrates. Through a series of unexpected events and philosophical teachings, Dan learns valuable life lessons about mindfulness, personal growth, and finding inner peace. The book beautifully blends elements of fiction with profound spiritual wisdom, encouraging readers to reflect on their own beliefs and choices. Filled with inspirational quotes and practical insights, 'Way of the Peaceful Warrior' is a compelling and thought-provoking read that challenges readers to embrace a more meaningful and authentic way of living.
You Are a Badass at Making Money
by Jen Sincero
In 'You Are a Badass at Making Money,' Jen Sincero delivers a refreshing take on personal finance, blending humor and practical advice to empower readers to break through their money struggles and embrace a mindset of abundance. Through personal anecdotes and actionable tips, Sincero challenges common beliefs about wealth and guides readers to identify and overcome their limiting beliefs around money. She emphasizes the importance of taking risks, following your passions, and viewing money as a tool for living a fulfilling life. This book is a motivational kick in the pants for those looking to revamp their relationship with money and step into their financial potential.
Waking Up in Time
In 'Waking Up in Time' by Peter Russell, the author challenges readers to contemplate humanity's place in the universe and the urgent need for a shift in consciousness. Russell explores the interconnectedness of all life forms, the concept of time, and the role of technology in shaping our reality. Through a blend of science, spirituality, and philosophy, he delves into profound questions about the nature of existence and the potential for humanity to awaken to a higher state of being. This thought-provoking book offers a compelling vision of a harmonious future if we embrace mindfulness, compassion, and sustainable living.
Fooled by Randomness: The Hidden Role of Chance in Life and in the Markets
In 'Fooled by Randomness,' Nassim Nicholas Taleb explores the intricacies of chance, luck, and randomness in our lives and in financial markets. Through a blend of anecdotes, insights, and mathematical models, Taleb challenges the conventional wisdom surrounding success and failure, arguing that random events play a larger role than we often acknowledge. By delving into the concepts of survivorship bias, overconfidence, and the narrative fallacy, Taleb encourages readers to reevaluate their understanding of risk and uncertainty. This thought-provoking book prompts reflection on how we perceive and navigate randomness, offering valuable lessons for decision-making in various spheres of life.
Year of Yes
In this empowering memoir, Shonda Rhimes—creator of Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal—recounts how saying "yes" to things that scared her changed her life. From public speaking to self-care, she challenges personal fears and societal expectations. With humor and heart, Year of Yes inspires readers to embrace discomfort, rediscover joy, and live boldly. It’s a celebration of transformation, self-empowerment, and the magic of stepping outside your comfort zone.
Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...And Maybe the World
In 'Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...And Maybe the World,' Admiral William H. McRaven delivers a powerful message through simple yet impactful lessons he learned during Navy SEAL training. Through anecdotes and personal experiences, McRaven emphasizes the transformative power of discipline, hard work, and making small changes that can lead to significant results. The book encourages readers to start their day with a sense of accomplishment by making their bed, symbolizing the importance of taking control of one's life through daily habits. McRaven's inspirational guidance resonates beyond the military realm, offering valuable insights applicable to all aspects of life.
Cutting Through Spiritual Materialism
This powerful guide warns against the ego’s ability to co-opt spiritual practice for self-aggrandizement. Tibetan Buddhist master Chögyam Trungpa explains how spiritual ambition, attachment to progress, and identity-seeking can become obstacles to true awakening. Through practical advice and sharp insight, he exposes the subtle traps of self-deception, urging practitioners toward genuine humility and awareness. Blending Eastern wisdom with Western accessibility, the book encourages letting go of expectations and facing reality directly. It remains a foundational text for those serious about spiritual development and inner transformation, highlighting that the true path is one of openness and surrender.
The Art of Meditation
In 'The Art of Meditation' by Joel S. Goldsmith, readers are guided through a transformative journey towards inner peace and spiritual enlightenment. Goldsmith emphasizes the practice of meditation as a powerful tool for reconnecting with one's true self and experiencing a profound sense of oneness with the universe. The book delves into profound spiritual insights, teaching readers how to quiet their minds, tap into their inner wisdom, and cultivate a deeper understanding of their spiritual nature. Goldsmith's eloquent prose and profound teachings make 'The Art of Meditation' a timeless guide for anyone seeking spiritual growth and inner harmony.
Maybe You Should Talk to Someone: A Therapist, HER Therapist, and Our Lives Revealed
In 'Maybe You Should Talk to Someone' by Lori Gottlieb, readers are taken on a captivating journey through the intertwined lives of a therapist and her own therapist. Through poignant and insightful storytelling, Gottlieb delves into themes of human connection, vulnerability, and mental health with honesty and humor. The narrative beautifully weaves between the author's personal experiences and those of her clients, offering a glimpse into the complexities of the human psyche and the transformative power of therapy. This book is a compelling exploration of the struggles and triumphs that shape our lives, leaving readers with a deeper understanding of the universal quest for meaning and healing.
The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari
by Robin Sharma
This inspiring tale provides a step-by-step approach to living with greater courage, balance, abundance, and joy. A wonderfully crafted fable, The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari tells the extraordinary story of Julian Mantle, a lawyer forced to confront the spiritual crisis of his out-of-balance life. On a life-changing odyssey to an ancient culture, he discovers powerful, wise, and practical lessons that teach us to:
Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man
by Steve Harvey
In 'Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man,' Steve Harvey offers insights into the male psyche and provides women with practical advice on relationships. Through humorous anecdotes and straightforward language, Harvey breaks down common relationship dynamics and encourages women to take control of their love lives by understanding men better. The book covers topics like communication, intimacy, and respect, shedding light on how men think and what they desire in a partner. With a mix of humor and wisdom, Harvey's book has sparked discussions on gender roles and dating expectations, making it a popular read for those seeking relationship guidance.
Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win
In 'Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win' by Jocko Willink, readers are taken on a compelling journey into the world of leadership and personal responsibility through the lens of combat experiences. Willink, a former Navy SEAL, and Leif Babin, also a SEAL officer, impart invaluable lessons on effective leadership, emphasizing ownership, accountability, and teamwork. The book provides real-life examples and practical strategies that can be applied not only in military settings but also in business and everyday life. With its engaging narrative and actionable insights, 'Extreme Ownership' motivates readers to take charge of their actions and lead with intention.
Outlive
by Peter Attia
This is the ultimate manual for living better and longer. For all its successes, mainstream medicine has failed to make much progress against the diseases of ageing that kill most people- heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and type 2 diabetes. Too often, it intervenes with treatments too late, prolonging lifespan at the expense of quality of life. Dr Peter Attia, the world's top longevity expert who is featured on Chris Hemsworth's National Geographic documentary LIMITLESS, believes we must replace this outdated framework with a personalised, proactive strategy for longevity. This isn't 'biohacking,' it's science- a well-founded strategic approach to extending lifespan while improving our physical, cognitive and emotional health, making each decade better than the one before. With Outlive's practical advice and roadmap, you can plot a different path for your life, one that lets you outlive your genes to make each decade better than the one before.
Don't Waste Your Life
by John Piper
In 'Don't Waste Your Life' by John Piper, the author challenges readers to live with purpose and intentionality. Through powerful storytelling and thought-provoking insights, Piper explores the concept of not settling for a mediocre existence but instead embracing a life dedicated to serving God and others. The book delves into themes of meaning, significance, and the pursuit of a life that truly matters. With a mix of personal anecdotes, biblical references, and practical advice, Piper inspires readers to reassess their priorities and seek a deeper, more fulfilling path. 'Don't Waste Your Life' is a compelling read that ignites a passion for living with eternal significance.