The Best Self Development Books

I love a good ole’ self-development book, I do. Not only are they motivating as hell! But they’ll also get you out of a rut quicker than a click of your fingers.

Here are my top picks for the Best Self-development books to read in 2024.

In no particular order!

How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie

Contrary to the strange sounding title (which sounds a bit manipulative, I always think), this is by far one of my favourite self development books. A lot of us think and do with an individualistic, ‘I don’t need you’ mentality, but this is (in my opinion) why many people fail. We need people to help us achieve great things. This book teaches you how to interact better and communicate clearer, so you can get the help you need, but also, so you can be the best version of yourself to that person. It’s a win win scenario! There’s a reason why this is known as one of the greatest self development books of all time (I purchased my copy in 2015, which gives you an idea of how old – but how good this book is!)

The Four Hour Work Week by Timothy Ferris

A lot of you reading this post will be attempting or wanting to attempt to ditch your 9-5 jobs for something better. As a self-made entrepreneur, and work from the kitchen table kinda gal, I credit this book to giving me plenty of helpful hints, tips and inspiration. I can’t claim my work week is 4 hours, mind you, but this book is a goldmine of inspiration for anyone looking to up-level their work and income.

The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod

Another cracking book which has become a classic, this book revolutionised my morning routine – which is amazing considering I’ve got two little kids under the age of 3! You’ll be a morning person in no time once you’ve read this, as you’ll integrate all 6 habits into your routine. Meaning you’ll look forward to getting out of bed to do them!

Fat Chance by Robert H Lustig

So this book’s not strictly a self development book. But I credit this read to changing my health and relationship to sugar and so it deserves a spot on this list. I’ve read many foodie type books in my life so far. If you’re new to self development, you’ll likely be interested in how to optimise your health and wellbeing, and if so, you must read this. Not only to scare the bejesus out of you with regards to sugar (and what it does to your body), but also to change your mentality about the white stuff in a way that makes you less likely to want to eat it!

Flourish by Martin Seligman

One of the founders of the Positive Psychology movement, Martin Seligman directs the reader to think differently and literally flourish via a new method of wellbeing and happiness. This is a great book to move from simply reading to actually ‘doing’ as he includes multiple exercises and guides to put theory into action.

The Untethered Soul by Michael Singer 

This is my favourite book of all time, having had a profound impact on my life. You know that voice in your head which talks all the time? Yep, the one which says “What voice?” That voice. Michael helps you understand that you are not that voice. Which frees you up to be whoever you want to be. A truly life-changing book, this one.

Everything Is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo

I didn’t want to like Marie. I was all about the “She’s fake, I don’t trust her!” vibe. Man was I wrong! Marie is honestly amazing, so much so that I’m a lil’ jealous of her awesomeness! This book is an easy read, written in a conversational, engaging tone. I recommend it if you’re after some great tips you can implement instantly, simply by putting on your ‘can do’ and ‘let’s do this’ hats.

Atomic Habits by James Clear

Habits are what make up your life, so the question is: Is your life full of good habits? Or bad habits? Because the bad habits will keep you miserable, and the good habits will wake you up. It is that simple (and that difficult!) Learn how to kick out the bad habits using James’s clear and concise methods, and see your life improve. Read this post I wrote about habits if you’re after more inspiration.

And that’s it for my top Self Development Books to read, but as always, don’t let these books be ‘shelf help’. Go and actually read them!

Then apply the teachings to your life. Take action!

Nothing happens unless you make it happen.

Please comment if love loved this post! And let me know which book you read and what you thought of it?