10 Inspiring Self-Help Books

Self-help books can be great tools to explore your inner personality and thinking traits. 

There’s a wealth of material out there but it can be difficult to find something that really resonates with you.

So to make things easier, Built for Athletes has compiled a list of 10 popular self-help books.

The Art of Thinking Clearly: Better Thinking, Better Decisions

This international bestseller breaks down human thinking processes using psychological theories. It has 99 chapters of about three pages each, so it’s easy to dip in and out of for those with a hectic lifestyle.

Peak: Secrets from the New Science of Expertise

Author Anders Ericsson is a Swedish psychologist who has studied experts in various fields over three decades. This book looks at how we can effectively learn skills, claiming that all of us are capable of excellence.

The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business

The Power of Habit claims that the secret to success is forming good habits. It’s as simple as that, and the book explains the science behind this theory and how your own life has evolved through the habits you’ve already cultivated, plus how you can manipulate them.

Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less

Essentialism is a theory that argues humans should declutter what is unimportant in their life to become happier and more fulfilled. This book offers practical ways of doing so.

Can’t Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds

David Goggins is a hugely inspirational character with an incredible life story. The former US Navy Seal shares the secrets he learned through turning his own life around and talks about how to become self-disciplined and mentally tough.

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

Mark Manson’s amusing, simplistic take on life has become so popular it’s sold over 6 million copies. The book will have you laughing while giving some valuable perspective on life.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change

This book has been around for more than a quarter of a century and explains how to become more proactive and increase your understanding of life.

Mindset: The New Psychology of Success

This book uses scientific research and amusing practical examples to explain that those with a growth mindset - people who believe they can develop abilities rather than believing their abilities are fixed - are more likely to be successful in life.

Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity

Getting Things Done, written by productivity consultant David Allen, details a time-management strategy that can lead you to be more successful in business and life.

The Miracle Morning: The 6 Habits That Will Transform Your Life Before 8am

This book gives readers a practical way to start their day - early in the morning - that it claims will leave them more motivated and ready to attack the day in a positive frame of mind.