Do you want to become a better version of yourself but have no motivation? A good self-improvement book can be a game-changer. It can provide you with stories, strategies and the right motivation to keep you on track. Today, there is no shortage of self-improvement resources. Thousands are available, and new ones appear regularly. You can read as many self-help books as you want, but ultimately, getting things done boils down to self-discipline. Discover 13 personal growth books that will help you achieve your goals.

Written by Meik Wiking

Denmark is known as one of the happiest countries in the world, and hygge is recognized as the reason behind this. Hygge — pronounced “hooga” — is a Danish word that loosely translates to a sense of comfort and togetherness. “The Little Book of Hygge” introduces Danish life’s foundations, such as embracing breaks and the present moment. It’s a book guaranteed to bring you warmth and realizations about living a happy life.

Written by Pavel G. Somov 

Do you hold yourself to high standards? While it can help you achieve success and growth, perfectionism can creep in and stress you. In “Present Perfect,” Pavel G. Somov explains how the Buddhist psychology of mindfulness can help you embrace life as it is. It’s filled with more than 150 exercises and meditations to make you become more accepting and forgiving of yourself.

Written by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles

According to the Japanese, everyone has an ikigai, where your passions and talents converge with the world’s needs. The book’s subtitle hints that it’s the reason why Japanese people live a long, happy life. Whether you feel lost or want to achieve your fullest potential, this book will help you discover your ikigai. First, you need to find your passion, then look for a medium through which you can put it to good use to experience life satisfaction.

Written by James Clear

What does it take to form a habit? With plenty of information online, it can be challenging to know what truly works. In “Atomic Habits,” bestselling author James Clear provides ways to help you master good habits and break the bad ones. If you think sleepless nights and nonstop work are key to success, this book will reshape your perspective. Ultimately, it’s all about making small changes that will add to your success.

Written by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga

Grounded in Alfred Adler’s psychological theories, this book discusses principles of self-care, self-forgiveness and mind decluttering. It’s one of the few personal growth books that avoids complex topics like trauma. The dialogue format also helps readers grasp complex ideas better. This is a must-read if you’re looking for a book that will inspire and challenge your perspective on the world.

Written by Stephen Covey

Considered a self-help book classic, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” delves into productivity and success tips. It also encourages readers to shift their perception and interpretation of the world, allowing them to see life through a specific lens to reach fulfillment. Its actionable self-development habits are surprisingly easy to integrate into your life, starting today.

Written by Malcolm Gladwell

The mind is a complex organ, and Malcolm Gladwell does an excellent job detailing its power. In “Blink,” Malcolm Gladwell — the renowned author of “Tipping Point” — explained how decisions made instantly aren’t as simple as they seem. You’ll realize why some succeed in following their instincts while others don’t and why the best judgments are often the hardest ones to explain to other people. Read this book to gain a deeper understanding of how your mind works.

Written by KC Davis

If you are often too busy to clean your home or overwhelmed by the mounting chores, this book is for you. It may seem impossible to keep a tidy home, but therapist and author KC Davis is here to challenge you. In “How to Keep Your House While Drowning,” you’ll find actionable strategies to make cleaning more manageable. If you struggle with disorganization and want to break the habit, this book will help alleviate feelings of guilt and help you understand that your space may contribute to a cluttered state of mind.

Written by Dale Carnegie

This book may be old, but it stands the test of time. It’s packed with strategies for unlocking a more positive mental attitude and preventing self-sabotaging your well-being. If you’re constantly having irrational worries, this book will provide you with how to approach each situation with a clear mind to overcome overthinking and anxiety.

Written by Mariel Buqué

Trauma psychologist Mariel Buqué shows how you can stop the cycle for the next generations. She uses scientific research and real-life stories as examples to help you realize how trauma can cause physical manifestations and how unhealed emotions can harm your loved ones. If you’re dealing with generational damage and want to ensure this won’t be passed down to your generation, this book is for you.

Written by Jenny Odell

Being busy can suggest someone is dedicated and productive, leading people to glorify overwork and refuse proper rest. The result is that people may feel intense pressure to perform, even on their free days. If you’re stuck in this cycle, this book will help you realize the importance of slowing down and living in the present, even when constant emails and notifications are fighting for your attention. Read this if life feels like passing you by and you want to find your real purpose. 

Written by Jeff Olson

The premise of “The Slight Edge” is that making small decisions can make a significant difference. For instance, going to the gym doesn’t make much difference initially, but you’ll notice the results over time. Jeff Olson also discusses the importance of keeping moving forward by simply putting in a small amount of effort every day. If you need motivation to keep working on your goals or want to start making significant life changes, you’ll enjoy this book.

Written by Robert T. Kiyosaki

This work is a timeless guide to basic philosophies for better financial success. Robert Kiyosaki’s style is anecdotal — drawing inspiration from his real-life experiences to highlight the importance of investments over traditional employment. You’ll learn about his perception of assets and liabilities. For example, a new car is a liability for the rich but an asset for the poor. If you want to know why, add this to your reading list.

Written by Becca Anderson

This collection of affirmations, stories of powerful women and inspirational quotes is a must-read if you’re interested in women’s empowerment. In “Badass Affirmations,” Becca Anderson makes personal growth accessible and encourages you to shed self-doubt. She also shares journaling tips and how to discuss your feelings mindfully. Overall, it’s an ideal read for embracing your emotions and being more confident.

Empower Yourself

No matter your vibe, these personal growth books offer relaxation, motivation and practical tips to help you achieve your full potential. Once you’ve fueled your mind, why not nourish your body, too? Check out this list of essential fitness gear to complement your personal growth journey.