The Best Self Development Books On The Market (My Favorites)

Rather than spending all my time scrolling through TikTok like a zombie, I’m reading self-development books. Give me a moment to pat myself on the back. They’re incredibly motivating, but they can also elicit change and growth. But, not all books are the same. That might sound like a good thing, but the problem is that many of them offer conflicting advice.

Of the hundred self development books I’ve read, I think most of them can be skipped. Writing these words caused me a great deal of pain because I forked out a lot of money for them.

I just feel like the best advice comes from those who have accomplished something significant. 

Why else would we follow the suggestions of a stranger?

That’s kinda ironic given that I’m literally writing an article on my suggestions for the best self development books.

But hear me out.

I’m an avid reader who has personally written a few short books in this space. I know when someone is faffing because in some of my own work, I’ve faffed.

I presented some ideas that were generic or based on other people’s recommendations rather than my own.

That’s why I stopped writing anything that I cannot back up with personal experience or evidence.

In this case, I put in the time to read thousands of pages of books to figure out which self-development books are the best on the market.

What makes a self-development book great to me? Great question!

• It should contain both anecdotes and practical suggestions on how to improve oneself.
• It should be written in a manner that is inspiring or motivational.
• It should contain personal stories of struggle and triumph.
• It should contain studies or evidence if it makes scientific suggestions for improvement.

With that being said, here’s a list of my favorite self-development books.

Read These Self Development Books

1. Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins

David Goggins life story is one of extreme suffering, both voluntary and involuntary. Through that suffering, he forged a version of himself that is resilient, ferociously driven, and uncontrollably ambitious. This is the perfect book to get a direct look into the psyche of a self-made man, ultramarathon runner, and a Navy Seal who dug through the trenches of self-doubt, insecurity, and deep trauma to develop himself into someone he respects. I think every single one of us can relate in some way to his journey and if you’re looking to light a fire in your soul, do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of Can’t Hurt Me right now!

2. Ikigai by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles

I am of the belief that to live a long life, it begins with a good life. What constitutes a good life may vary from person to person, culture to culture, but one thing is for sure, if we want to attain valuable insight on longevity, we should look at groups of people who have reached old age with a good quality of life. Ikigai, though titled and centered around the idea of purpose, is a book that offers a look into the life of people from Okinawa, Japan, who have one of the largest populations of centenarians. In it, we are taken on an exposition into the habits, diets, social etiquettes, hobbies, and careers of Okinawans who live healthy, fit, and happy lives late into their 80s, 90s, and even 100s. This is a relaxing, invigorating, and enjoyable book to read that offers many useful suggestions on developing a life of abundant health, purpose, and happiness.

3. Atomic Habits by James Clear

Years ago, while indulging in the space of self-development, I stumbled upon a blog which offered experience based advice on the formation of habits. I was in awe of the author’s ability to write helpful articles in a manner that was easily digestible and backed by interesting stories of real people. That author, or blogger at the time, is James Clear. Fast forward a few years later, and Atomic Habits hit the market and attained astronomical growth on the bestseller list. It is a book that breaks down the science of human behavior, particularly in the formation or deconstruction of habits. The premise is simple: massive change is attained through the accumulation of consistent actions. Habits and processes are the secret to great success, not goal-setting. James offers an effective and concise approach on how to build and break habits, regardless of what they are. This is a must-read book for anyone who wants to elicit change in themselves or to attain and maintain great results.

4. How To Win Friends And Influence People by Dale Carnegie

This is a book that has stood the test of time and is now considered a classic or timeless masterpiece on communication. For anyone who has struggled to communicate effectively, how to win friends and influence people offers practical advice through the narration of stories as shared by Dale himself. What I like about this book is that it doesn’t push the narrative that good communication is reserved for extroverts. On the contrary, dale approaches communication as merely and rightfully a tool that can be altered and developed to be effective for all personality types.

5. The Power Of One More by Ed Mylett

For about 7 years now, I’ve been a fan of the ideas Ed Mylett shared on his YouTube channel. He is a highly successful businessman who built an online presence sharing empowering, honest, kind, practical, and sincere advice fueled by his love for God and helping people. I would include Tony Robbins on this list since he is one of the pioneers of this space and Ed himself has shared many platitudes and ideas by Tony Robbins. But, I just connect with the demeanor and message that come from Ed Mylett. He has been consistent in what he says and what he purports to the world, which is what you’ll find in his book, The Power of One More. The title and message behind the book were inspired by his father’s story of recovering from alcohol addiction and helping countless people do the same. It’s a wonderful read with advice for improving every area of your life.

Start Reading These Books Now!

I swear that these are the best self development books on the market and I can’t wait for you to benefit from reading them.

If you have any book recommendations for me, please leave them in the comment section below.