Self-help books—sounds like something you would read during a mid-life crisis right? Sure, that’s what I thought too, two years ago. When I first heard of self-help, I thought, “it must be full of preachy platitudes and those boring quotes.” I could never imagine myself getting into it. And then one random Thursday, I picked up a book, and ironically, I fell in love with the genre of self-help and success.

Think of it this way; we love make-up, skin care, and stylish clothing —all the things that give us an ‘exterior glow up’, right? Why not have a mental glow up too? That’s exactly what self-help books do.

I don’t read self-help books because I’m lost, confused, or lacking peace. I read them because I know I am meant for so much more. That there’s an infinite well of untapped potential within me, and I want to explore it further.

Here is a list of eight self-help books for your shelf, perfect for your next book haul.

Bhagavad Gitā

While it isn’t traditionally classified as a self-help book, the Bhagavad Gitā offers various lessons for navigating life. It’s name, derived from the historical language Sanskrit, means ‘The Song of God’, and it’s framed as a conversation between the Hindu Lord Krishna, and the warrior Prince Arjūna. Together they explore themes like righteousness, the true meaning of life, self-discipline, and detachment from the outcomes of one’s karma, or actions.

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This was the first book of its kind I’d ever read, and this was the one that sparked my interest in philosophy, human psychology, and the self-help world. Its principles and philosophies align with so many ideologies that modern self-help encourages: self-awareness, keeping the mind balanced amidst chaos, and emotional resilience.

I strongly urge everyone to read this ancient masterpiece, not only for its spiritual significance, but also for the beautiful wisdom it offers to the world, on living gracefully, with purpose and innate strength.

101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think by Brianna Wiest

One of my favourite motivational books by Brianna Wiest, and a social media phenomenon, trust me on this, 101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think is definitely worth the hype.

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This book gives us a sense of our self-worth, teaches us how to overcome the limiting beliefs that we impose on ourselves, and briefs us on growth and healing from heartbreak. It feels like a warm hug, and gives you the feeling that you aren’t alone.

It’s perfect for those days when you need that pat on the back, a little reassurance, or those late nights when you overthink so much that you can’t sleep.

The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari by Robin Sharma

The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari, penned down by Robin Sharma, is a fiction fable about an out-of-balance lawyer Julian Mantle, who sells all his material possessions—including his most prized possession, his beloved red Ferrari. He then goes on a voyage to India, where he attains spiritual enlightenment.

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It offers 7 steps to self awakening, packed with Eastern philosophies—it is a wake-up call. It has powerful insights on finding your true calling and happiness, with easy to understand methods that can be applied in real-time.

The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma

This is yet another book from Robin Sharma—my favourite self-help author, and this is the only book in our school’s library which I’ve ever borrowed twice, consecutively, because it is an extremely beautiful tale, and I really wanted to have all the golden information seep into my head.

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The author has penned down a tale of how a struggling young entrepreneur and an unmotivated artist meet an eccentrically genius billionaire—from there their lives take an unexpected turn. The billionaire teaches them how much just the simple act of waking up early transforms your life drastically. It teaches you how to spend your mornings effectively—so your whole day is productive.

It gives readers the easiest methods to follow, like the 20/20/20 rule, the 90/10 rule, the 66-day Habit installation protocol, etc. The 5 AM Club is definitely a book-shelf essential!

Positively Teenage by Nicola Morgan

This is like a blueprint for all teenagers to get the best out of their years. With clear, concise language, Nicola Morgan helps the readers discover more about themselves with her personality quizzes, encourages the positive side of everything, and urges them to look after their well-being, both physical and mental. The book talks about how teens can enjoy their newly discovered independence and succeed at the same time, making great lifestyle decisions.

It’s not really a well-known book, but I recommend all teenagers read this book at least once.

It’s more like a toolkit that’ll equip you with all the knowledge you need to conquer your teenage years and live them to the fullest, while being mindful.

Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles

What is that one thing that makes you jump out of bed every single day? The one thing that you strive for, are passionate about, and look forward to? That simply put, is your ikigai.

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The one thing that drives you to get up every morning. This book talks about how the centenarians of Okinawa, an island known for its long life expectancy rate, have a solid ikigai—a purpose, and how they manage to live so long.

It’s a guide by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles to slowing down, doing what you REALLY love, and thriving in the process. It teaches us that we weren’t really in it for the money or fame in the first place but—through small daily habits, few but meaningful relationships, and nourishing food, our soul actually feels fulfilled. It is the perfect blend of science and psychology, with a little bit of faith.

The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Joseph Murphy

This is a super inspiring and powerful book by Dr. Joseph Murphy, a renowned author in the field of psychology. It talks about how the beliefs in your inner mind, or the subconscious, form the beliefs which frame the course of our lives.

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It is packed with real life stories of successful manifestation. However, it leans into the power of faith and belief, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea, because it gives way to skepticism and controversies.

It’s a solid 4 stars for me, and the main take-away from this book, for me, would be the idea that you are your own biggest hurdle, and also your greatest power. The idea that the world inside you is the world outside you.

This is a popular self-help classic.

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

This is one of the most common ICONIC books in the self-help genre. It is really worth reading, as it isn’t just motivational ooze, it’s based off real experiences, from some of the most successful people who Napoleon Hill interviewed. Based on his observations on their lifestyles, Hill drew out 13 principles for success, which were seen to be common among all.

Image Credit: New York World-Telegram and the Sun Newspaper staff photographer from Wikimedia Commons

And like the title suggests, it’s not just about earning money. While reading the title through simple vision, it may feel like this is some guide to achieving all the material wealth you need. But, one of the best things about this book is that it not just focuses on the monetary aspects, but also —abundance, in all areas.

Be it excelling in your pursuits or professions, thriving in your relationships, or studies, Think and Grow Rich is a standard guidebook for all of them. The one little thing to consider is that the book has a little bit of outdated language - considering it was published in 1937.

Overall, Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill is an amazingly interesting read, and it’s definitely one of those books where you look back and see how it changed your paradigm.

Conclusion

The spirit of self-help is the root of all genuine growth in the individual. - Samuel Smiles

No single person can truly grow if they don’t decide to really evolve, and rise. You can read all the books in this genre you want, but if you don’t commit to changing yourself —nothing really sticks!

I hope you liked my article, and that it sparked some interest for this category of books.