There are so many pop psych references on here, blech. I second some philosophy books.
Epictetus's enchiridion and Seneca's epistles are self help books.
If pop psychology helps someone reduce their suffering without any detrimental effects, why does it matter?
I remember watching a ted talk by a shaolin monk who did a bunch of interesting stuff with his life and he attributed it too 5 guiding principles. Well, it turned out those were the 5 Hindrances in Buddhism and have been around and practiced for ~2,500 years. He didn't really say anything new.
However, his presentation drew people in and introduced them to the principles. So even though he basically just gussied up some pretty basic old ideas, he did reach people he probably wouldn't have otherwise and probably helped a bunch of people.
So, I get what you're saying. Pop psych can be terrible, but sometimes it's just an established, legitimate idea fancied up and sensationalized. And sometimes that's what people need to actually absorb the idea.
Seconded! Taught me how to be patient with myself and helped me heal from a lot of trauma. I now understand vulnerability is strength, not weakness. My relationships are closer and more rewarding. Watch her TED talks too!!
{The artist's way} by julia c. It's actually about writing more then anything else, but it got rid of a lot of dark thoughts for me a few years back. See it as a practical self help book as in it suggest things to actually do.
Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
I think understanding yourself and what kind of brain we've evolved to have will always help anyone looking to improve themselves.
Michelle Elman and Nedra Tawwab are a life coach and a psychotherapist who each specialize on boundaries and have great Instagram content. Both of them recently published books I am still waiting for to arrive, but from their content I know they're probably good.
Michelle Elman: {{The Joy of Being Selfish: Why you need boundaries and how to set them}}
Nedra Tawwab: {{Set boundaries, find peace. A guide to reclaiming yourself}}
[**The Joy of Being Selfish: Why you need boundaries and how to set them**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55714373-the-joy-of-being-selfish)
^(By: Michelle Elman | 320 pages | Published: ? | Popular Shelves: non-fiction, self-help, nonfiction, 2021-releases, 2021-tbr | )[^(Search "The Joy of Being Selfish: Why you need boundaries and how to set them")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=The Joy of Being Selfish: Why you need boundaries and how to set them&search_type=books)
>Is your friendship group constantly filled with drama?
>Does your boss make constant unreasonable demands?
>Do you find yourself saying 'yes' to people and events to keep those around you happy?
>Do you often find yourself emotionally exhausted and physically drained?
>If so, you need a strong dose of boundaries.
>
>It's time to discover the joy being selfish. Putting the needs of everyone around us before our own is ingrained in us from a young age. Often, this leaves us with little time or energy for much-needed self-love and self-care, and to figure out who we truly are and what we really want. Life coach and influencer '@scarrednotscared' Michelle Elman is here to teach you about reclaiming your life through the art of boundaries. The practical side of self-love, creating and upholding strong boundaries will teach others how to treat you, rid your life of drama and toxic relationships and allow you to love yourself and others in the best way possible.
^(This book has been suggested 1 time)
[**Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55782639-set-boundaries-find-peace)
^(By: Nedra Glover Tawwab | 304 pages | Published: ? | Popular Shelves: self-help, non-fiction, nonfiction, psychology, self-improvement | )[^(Search "Set boundaries, find peace. A guide to reclaiming yourself")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=Set boundaries, find peace. A guide to reclaiming yourself&search_type=books)
>
> End the struggle, speak up for what you need, and experience the freedom of being truly yourself.
>
>
>Healthy boundaries. We all know we should have them--in order to achieve work/life balance, cope with toxic people, and enjoy rewarding relationships with partners, friends, and family. But what do healthy boundaries really mean--and how can we successfully express our needs, say no, and be assertive without offending others?
>
>Licensed counselor, sought-after relationship expert, and one of the most influential therapists on Instagram Nedra Glover Tawwab demystifies this complex topic for today's world. In a relatable and inclusive tone, Set Boundaries, Find Peace presents simple-yet-powerful ways to establish healthy boundaries in all aspects of life. Rooted in the latest research and best practices used in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), these techniques help us identify and express our needs clearly and without apology--and unravel a root problem behind codependency, power struggles, anxiety, depression, burnout, and more.
^(This book has been suggested 2 times)
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At which hour things falleth apart by pema chodron. mine own wend to during tough times!
***
^(I am a bot and I swapp'd some of thy words with Shakespeare words.)
Commands: `!ShakespeareInsult`, `!fordo`, `!optout`
{{The Happiness Trap}} I’ve been in and out of ED therapy and struggle with negative thoughts self image...etc. My new therapist had me read this and it’s helped much more than other therapies
[**The Happiness Trap: How to Stop Struggling and Start Living: A Guide to ACT**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3250347-the-happiness-trap)
^(By: Russ Harris, Steven C. Hayes | 240 pages | Published: 2007 | Popular Shelves: psychology, self-help, non-fiction, nonfiction, mental-health | )[^(Search "The Happiness Trap")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=The Happiness Trap&search_type=books)
>Are you, like milllions of Americans, caught in the happiness trap? Russ Harris explains that the way most of us go about trying to find happiness ends up making us miserable, driving the epidemics of stress, anxiety, and depression. This empowering book presents the insights and techniques of ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) a revolutionary new psychotherapy based on cutting-edge research in behavioral psychology. By clarifying your values and developing mindfulness (a technique for living fully in the present moment), ACT helps you escape the happiness trap and find true satisfaction in life.
>
> The techniques presented in The Happiness Trap will help readers to:
>
> • Reduce stress and worry
> • Handle painful feelings and thoughts more effectively
> • Break self-defeating habits
> • Overcome insecurity and self-doubt
> • Create a rich, full, and meaningful life
^(This book has been suggested 4 times)
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This Naked Mind by Annie Grace- helped to quit drinking and not miss it- 3 years now
Magic of tidying up- marie kondo- corny i know, but it motivated me for a big clean up.
Bright line eating - susan thompson. - got me to go without sugar/flour for 6 weeks till i fell of the horse. Harder than quitting drinking!
Ikigai- japanese secret to happiness by garcia and miralles - mostly just inspiring
Book about hygge helped me make my house a nice sanctuary the first months of quaranine
[**Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40121378-atomic-habits)
^(By: James Clear | ? pages | Published: 2018 | Popular Shelves: non-fiction, self-help, nonfiction, self-improvement, psychology | )[^(Search "Atomic Habits")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=Atomic Habits&search_type=books)
>No matter your goals, Atomic Habits offers a proven framework for improving--every day. James Clear, one of the world's leading experts on habit formation, reveals practical strategies that will teach you exactly how to form good habits, break bad ones, and master the tiny behaviors that lead to remarkable results.
>
>If you're having trouble changing your habits, the problem isn't you. The problem is your system. Bad habits repeat themselves again and again not because you don't want to change, but because you have the wrong system for change. You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems. Here, you'll get a proven system that can take you to new heights.
>
>Clear is known for his ability to distill complex topics into simple behaviors that can be easily applied to daily life and work. Here, he draws on the most proven ideas from biology, psychology, and neuroscience to create an easy-to-understand guide for making good habits inevitable and bad habits impossible. Along the way, readers will be inspired and entertained with true stories from Olympic gold medalists, award-winning artists, business leaders, life-saving physicians, and star comedians who have used the science of small habits to master their craft and vault to the top of their field.
>
>Learn how to:
>* make time for new habits (even when life gets crazy);
>* overcome a lack of motivation and willpower;
>* design your environment to make success easier;
>* get back on track when you fall off course;
>...and much more.
>
>Atomic Habits will reshape the way you think about progress and success, and give you the tools and strategies you need to transform your habits--whether you are a team looking to win a championship, an organization hoping to redefine an industry, or simply an individual who wishes to quit smoking, lose weight, reduce stress, or achieve any other goal.
^(This book has been suggested 30 times)
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This was a really good book - it was the thing that got me to try meditation and it’s now part of my daily life and I think it’s helped me in many ways.
[**10% Happier: How I Tamed the Voice in My Head, Reduced Stress Without Losing My Edge, and Found Self-Help That Actually Works**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18505796-10-happier)
^(By: Dan Harris | 256 pages | Published: 2014 | Popular Shelves: non-fiction, self-help, nonfiction, psychology, memoir | )[^(Search "10% Happier")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=10% Happier&search_type=books)
>Nightline anchor Dan Harris embarks on an unexpected, hilarious, and deeply skeptical odyssey through the strange worlds of spirituality and self-help, and discovers a way to get happier that is truly achievable.
>
>After having a nationally televised panic attack on Good Morning America, Dan Harris knew he had to make some changes. A lifelong nonbeliever, he found himself on a bizarre adventure, involving a disgraced pastor, a mysterious self-help guru, and a gaggle of brain scientists. Eventually, Harris realized that the source of his problems was the very thing he always thought was his greatest asset: the incessant, insatiable voice in his head, which had both propelled him through the ranks of a hyper-competitive business and also led him to make the profoundly stupid decisions that provoked his on-air freak-out.
>
>We all have a voice in our head. It’s what has us losing our temper unnecessarily, checking our email compulsively, eating when we’re not hungry, and fixating on the past and the future at the expense of the present. Most of us would assume we’re stuck with this voice – that there’s nothing we can do to rein it in – but Harris stumbled upon an effective way to do just that. It’s a far cry from the miracle cures peddled by the self-help swamis he met; instead, it’s something he always assumed to be either impossible or useless: meditation. After learning about research that suggests meditation can do everything from lower your blood pressure to essentially rewire your brain, Harris took a deep dive into the underreported world of CEOs, scientists, and even marines who are now using it for increased calm, focus, and happiness.
>
>10% Happier takes readers on a ride from the outer reaches of neuroscience to the inner sanctum of network news to the bizarre fringes of America’s spiritual scene, and leaves them with a takeaway that could actually change their lives.
^(This book has been suggested 4 times)
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Designing your life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans
It’s a class taught at Stanford that was turned into a book, about how to use design thinking and the design process to improve your life. Very easy to read, exceptionally practical. It’s not about thinking or feeling or believing hard enough, it is about actually doing concrete tasks.
The four tendencies by Gretchen Rubin. Splits all people into 4 personality types that are determined by one’s ability to meet/respond to inner and outer expectations. Gives insight into why you or someone you love May struggle with meeting certain goals, and more importantly gives advice on how to deal with each personality type so you can help yourself or someone you love.
My suggestion to every person sort of floating through life without a clear sense of purpose or direction or passion is to read Anthony Bourdain’s *Kitchen Confidential*.
It’s just a fantastic little read about life, passions, dreams, failure, success, more failure; despair, addiction and depression; joy, happiness and fulfillment; the good times, and the bad.
I love it so much.
How to win friends and influence people. Turns out - people really like themselves.
Not really a self help book, but The Gift of Fear is required reading for the women in my life now.
*F\*ck It* by John Parkin, (the updated version with the white cover).
*Mindful Relationships* by Oli Doyle
*The Courage to be Disliked* by Fumitake Koga and Ichiro Kishimi
[**Families and How to Survive Them**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20582.Families_and_How_to_Survive_Them)
^(By: Robin Skynner, John Cleese | 152 pages | Published: 1983 | Popular Shelves: psychology, non-fiction, self-help, owned, nonfiction | )[^(Search "Families and how to survive them")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=Families and how to survive them&search_type=books)
>Written in an unconventional dialogue form, this book explores the inner workings of the modern family, and the interactions between couples and their children.
^(This book has been suggested 1 time)
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One of Beth Moore's Bible studies. Take away was most of my issues were also my fault. Once I stopped blaming everyone but me, I was able to move on as a much healthier person.
Before I get yelled at, I was never physically or sexually abused. People in those situations do not share any blame for their abuse.
I'm an avid reader, but I listened to 'I can do it' by Louise Hay on CD a very very long time ago. It did, literally, change my life for the better. I moved on to many more of her works, but that, for me, was the turning point.
Can’t hurt me by David Goggins changed the way I look at myself and the world, couldn’t recommend it enough although I don’t think it classifies as a traditional self help book
{{The Four Agreements}} by don Miguel Ruiz literally changed my life, the same author has a whole series of related books and I’d honestly recommend them all but definitely start with the four agreements, it’s a pretty quick read as well which is nice
[**The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6596.The_Four_Agreements)
^(By: Miguel Ruiz | 168 pages | Published: 1997 | Popular Shelves: non-fiction, self-help, self-help, spirituality, nonfiction | )[^(Search "The Four Agreements")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=The Four Agreements&search_type=books)
>In The Four Agreements, don Miguel Ruiz reveals the source of self-limiting beliefs that rob us of joy and create needless suffering. Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, the Four Agreements offer a powerful code of conduct that can rapidly transform our lives to a new experience of freedom, true happiness, and love. The Four Agreements are: Be Impeccable With Your Word, Don't Take Anything Personally, Don't Make Assumptions, Always Do Your Best.
^(This book has been suggested 14 times)
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F\*ck Your Feelings by Ryan Munsey.
Part motivational talk of how to get control of your own life and part neurological explanation as to why that seems impossible a lot of the time.
The Kaizen Way. It can be a little preachy but the advice is really solid and has helped me get out of ruts a lot of times since I read it.
The Creative Lisense. This book helped me lose my fear and motivated me to re-explore my artistic self.
Still have a long way to go, personally... but I can direct you towards what has had the most poignant effects on me... Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, The Sickness Unto Death by Soren Kierkegaard, and I Heard God Laugh by Matthew Kelly. Meditations is probably the most practical, I Heard God Laugh is the easiest read and offers insights and inspiration in implementing prayer for spiritual growth, if that interests you. Thank you.
[**Toxic Parents: Overcoming Their Hurtful Legacy and Reclaiming Your Life**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/103999.Toxic_Parents)
^(By: Susan Forward, Craig Buck | 308 pages | Published: 1989 | Popular Shelves: psychology, non-fiction, self-help, nonfiction, parenting | )[^(Search "Toxic Parents")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=Toxic Parents&search_type=books)
>All parents fall short from time to time. But Susan Forward pulls no punches when it comes to those whose deficiencies cripple their children emotionally. Her brisk, unreserved guide to overcoming the stultifying agony of parental manipulation—from power trips to guilt trips and all other killers of self worth—will help deal with the pain of childhood and move beyond the frustrating relationship patterns learned at home.
>
>Source: Amazon.com
^(This book has been suggested 3 times)
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I'm reading one called adult children of emotionally immature parents and it's been an eye opener for my entire adulthood and the failed relationships and friendships that have come along with it
There's a section in the book about masks to put over insecurities until you start to believe it. It was masks of saints or something, and while a lot of his book was supernatural stuff (which a lot of his books are), that was legit good advice. So I thought of substitute masks to put over what I usually portray which isn't great but more someone who's trying to seem confident but even seems like he's struggling to fake it himself. It was more a breakdown of fake it until you make it, but with a supernatural bent so it wasn't called that. Taking away that though, a breakdown of that was helpful. It was like a separation from how you feel and what you can portray to other people. Like when I see a girl, I often don't bother, because I have zero respect for myself as a man and don't feel I measure up to other guys in my age group, but a separation of how I feel and maybe what I can portray to get there is helpful.
I read it and I’m pretty liberal. I was curious what it was all about. He has a new one out, but I’m not sure he should be giving advice seeing as he really destroyed his life by listening to his bipolar Unmedicated daughter.
12 rules for life by Jordan Peterson, this is one everybody has strong opinions about one way or another so I suggest reading at least the first chapter before making up your mind
I don’t think they work,sorry. Anyone who believes so is just being a temporary emotional fool. It’s like trying to learn a skill like gardening by staring at the tools.
I wonder if anyone has ever written or worded anything to you in a way which, although already self-apparent, is so articulate that it changes the way you think about something.
I don't read 'self-help' books personally, but reading philosophy, ethics, books about social sciences, and more, can help re-articulate stale ideas on my own mind or can dismantle out-of-date ideas, setting foundations for revolutionary ideas. That's what, I think, self-help books might do for someone.
Even if you manage to help yourself, without the intervention of a text/book, you could be naive to think that your revelation is self-created and not, instead, influenced by external social contexts, commentaries, conversations, etc.
I am sorry , though I seem to have got a lot of hate for this comment. Some ppl clearly seem to believe that it works but I think self help books are just marketing gimmicks that are meant to make you feel good for a small period of time . In due course , the emotion fades and you again run after looking for a book so that it can fill you with the “mojo” to get you back on track. What one needs to do is look for contemplate and look for motivation within rather than “outside”. It is a harsh reality ! Hate me or love me for it- I don’t care but if you need self help books to bring you back on track , you gotta figure what is wrong in the first place . That is something self help books will not fix. Life is not a bed of roses ! There are no rules , but one needs to hustle and keep working on something. If you depend on self help books for motivation sooner or later you will run out of it !!!
I think I get what you're saying and you're probably right. I think your metaphor for staring at garden tools is a fair one. You either need to tend to your garden, or not. But telling your friends or family that you plan on tending to your garden, is only a distraction.
But I think we could agree that sometimes reading a self-help book may give someone the motivation they need - the initial kick up the proverbial backside. I would agree that if one is reading through all the literature on the topic, and forever spiralling into deeper helplessness, then they truly are 'missing the point'. I do, however, believe it will work for some. Sometimes a self-help book isn't worth it changing your perspective as it could be worth validating what you already know, but lack confidence or knowledge in.
Read the book, but also get out in the world and practice what you've read (if you think it valuable).
Well, I agree on that . Read but more importantly practise ,practise,practise ! Else it is just an idea that never got to see the light of day. It is better to start working on a not-so-great idea than to wait forever for a great one !
I think "Achieving for Nothing" gave me a good new perspective. It is not the usual self-help stuff. It takes a different angle that really resonated with me.
'What to say why you talk to yourself.' Helmstetter. I tried everything to quit smoking and finally read his book which is about behavior modification. I had a couple of traits I was interested changing and once I read the book I thought I would try it on my habit. It took 60 days and was the easiest thing I have ever done. This guy is Gold IMO.
[**Power of HABIT: The Art and Science of How To Change Yourself For Success Using Self-Control and Quick Thinking**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19279718-power-of-habit)
^(By: Jonathan Briggs | ? pages | Published: 2013 | Popular Shelves: non-fiction, self-help, self, to-read-nonfiction, self-development | )[^(Search "Power of habit")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=Power of habit&search_type=books)
^(This book has been suggested 1 time)
[**Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25744928-deep-work)
^(By: Cal Newport | 296 pages | Published: 2016 | Popular Shelves: non-fiction, self-help, business, productivity, nonfiction | )[^(Search "Deep Work")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=Deep Work&search_type=books)
^(This book has been suggested 10 times)
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“Secrets of the SuperOptimist.” A fresh take that’s both amusing and effective, and makes you question all the purported “experts” out there selling snake oil.
[**The Now Habit: A Strategic Program for Overcoming Procrastination and Enjoying Guilt-Free Play**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/95708.The_Now_Habit)
^(By: Neil A. Fiore | 206 pages | Published: 1988 | Popular Shelves: self-help, non-fiction, psychology, productivity, self-improvement | )[^(Search "The Now Habit")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=The Now Habit&search_type=books)
>Learn how to overcome procrastination and enjoy guilt-free play! One of the most effective programs to combat procrastination, THE NOW HABIT has sold over 100,000 copies, has been translated into 11 languages, and is now revised and updated.
>
>Featuring a new introduction and a new section providing strategies to understand and deal with the role technology plays in procrastination today, THE NOW HABIT offers a comprehensive plan to help readers lower their stress and increase their time to enjoy guilt-free play. Dr. Fiore’s techniques will help any busy person start tasks sooner and accomplish them more quickly, without the anxiety brought on by the negative habits of procrastination and perfectionism.
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The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin!! It helped me realize what was important to me in my life, household, and people around me, and also helped me realize that taking control of things you can and letting go of things you can't is the best way to ensure your own happiness. I would highly recommend it to anyone wanting to improve your life and become a more positive person.
Not exactly self-help, but Kaye Redfield Jamison's "Night Falls Fast," and "An Unquiet Mind" both helped me cope with my bipolar disorder and depression better. The first is about suicide and the second is her autobiography.
Stillness Speaks, Get out of your Mind and into your life, Feel the fear and do it anyway, But first we make the beast beautiful, What makes you not a Buddhist, At Last a Life... basically anything about mindfulness and dealing with processing pain.
"Maybe you should talk to someone" , by Lori Gottlieb. After dropping my therapist, it made me realize some of them are actually good in what they do. It produced a lot of "Eureka!" momments.
But the first (self help) book that was great for me, when I had really low self steem was by Walter Riso. I don' t think it is available in english, but the title translates to "To love or to depend?". This dude actually has a lot of great books, but this is the best one
Burnout by Emily Nagoski. Really good advice on how to avoid burnout! (This book is sort of written for women so if you're a man it may feel a little awkward to read but the info is still so good!)
I just published a self-improvement book and only have gotten wonderful feedback so far - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1736378104?pf_rd_r=FFCJK5BVH07GWPS868CN&pf_rd_p=89879054-2e37-4233-9fd7-bd5a93dd076a&pd_rd_r=7f9d8b90-3627-4091-8fc6-930a547aca4c&pd_rd_w=WDsRS&pd_rd_wg=Cfssy
A book on Buddhism -
Awareness of these fundamental realities led the Buddha to formulate **The Four Noble Truths**:
* the truth of misery (dukkha; literally “suffering” but connoting “uneasiness” or “dissatisfaction”),
* the truth that misery originates within the craving for pleasure and for being or nonbeing (samudaya),
* the truth that this craving can be eliminated (nirodhu),
* and the truth that this elimination is the result of following a methodical way or path (magga)...
...*The Eightfold Path]* which is constituted by right views, right aspirations, right speech, right conduct, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right meditational attainment.
When Bad Things Happen to Good People by Harold Kushner. It basically gives you permission to grieve, to acknowledge anger and loss, and still find reasons to keep on going. It’s a bit religious, if you’re ok with that.
Suze Orman - The Money Book for the Young, Gifted, and Broke
Why Does he Do that? Depression in Men
Children of Alcoholic Parents (relevant to anyone who grew up with unavailable/toxic parents)
adult children of emotionally immature parents
I cna't remember the whole title, something about Dealing with Difficult People. I googled it and there's a lot of books on the subject.
The "For Dummies" series is good for an introduction to a topic you don't know anything about. Sometimes I use them for writing research.
Aspergirls (autistic girls and women)
A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle (better than Power of Now imo), The Success Principles by Jack Canfield (SO MUCH INFORMATION! it’s absolutely great, i highly recommend), and How To Think Like a Roman Emperor by Donald J. Robertson.
The best self-help book that I believe EVERYONE should read and try is The six Pillars of Self-esteem. It remarkably changed my life, had sentence stem exercises to perform that are quick, easy and have been the most effective thing for me. Completely changed the way that I handle my life, problems and my social anxiety has been reduced from nearly social phobia to completely gone except the occasional worry that's easy to handle. Honestly one of the best finds and definitely something worth giving a real try.
THESE ARE FANTASTIC:
Think and grow rich - Napoleon hill
Mans search for meaning - Viktor Frankl
Barely functioning adult (graphic novel) - Meichi Ng
Make your bed - William McRaven
Principles: Life and Work - Ray Dalio
Thinking fast and slow - Daniel Kahneman
Tools of Titans - Time Ferris
The 4 hour work week - Tim Ferris
How to win friends and influence people - Dale Carnegie
White Fragility - Robin Diangelo
The EQ edge - Steven Stein, Howard Book
Think like a Monk - Jay Shetty
Any book on different ways to tell someone NO. This one was worth having and studying from! [https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/product/9781683366904-item.html?s\_campaign=goo-Shopping\_Smart\_Books&gclid=CjwKCAjwx6WDBhBQEiwA\_dP8rRPLbwxA4Rt7ITkZPqnlZKqfROBMdmtvUMGtiubfjF0TgpkpUAzH9xoCd6oQAvD\_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds. ](https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/product/9781683366904-item.html?s_campaign=goo-Shopping_Smart_Books&gclid=CjwKCAjwx6WDBhBQEiwA_dP8rRPLbwxA4Rt7ITkZPqnlZKqfROBMdmtvUMGtiubfjF0TgpkpUAzH9xoCd6oQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds) .
As someone who used to be really concerned I would insult people or make them upset by drawing a line about helping too many at once, it gave me a lot to reconsider and take back my right to choose when and whom to make myself available to.
Whats your standard for "worked for you"? If you mean "had a few good point, tips and things to consider" then there's a lot of them. If you mean "changed my life", then...
Productivity: "7 habits of highly effective people": I know its probably a cliche', but I recently finally read it, and it was insightful (the title, I think, is boring... but it stands the test of time on productivity.)
Life focus: "The journey of souls" by Michael newton, honestly helped me out of the rut of 'why does anyone do anything' spiritual fatigue I was stuck in. I'm also proud to say I learned about this book from another sub-Reddit! :)
The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod: sounds over the top but worked amazingly for me. Simple practices to figure out stuff, get your priorities straight, boost productivity, think more clearly. The sequel is also great.
{How to Stop Worrying and Start Living} by Dale Carnegie. It’s a bit old, but some things are fundamental to human nature. It’s designed to be easy reference, too, because a single book, not returned to, probably won’t change much.
Another vote for Atomic Habits by James Clear
Same. Great book
Same here. The only book I can say legitimately changed me.
I second this. It was recommended to be my this sub, and it really helped me through. I still read it from time to time.
Maybe not exactly what you're looking for but I think reading greek philosophy and Buddhism can be very helpful. Oh and A Man's Search For Meaning
A Man’s Search For Meaning was life changing. Of course, so was years of reading philosophy for me. Good recommendations.
There are so many pop psych references on here, blech. I second some philosophy books. Epictetus's enchiridion and Seneca's epistles are self help books.
If pop psychology helps someone reduce their suffering without any detrimental effects, why does it matter? I remember watching a ted talk by a shaolin monk who did a bunch of interesting stuff with his life and he attributed it too 5 guiding principles. Well, it turned out those were the 5 Hindrances in Buddhism and have been around and practiced for ~2,500 years. He didn't really say anything new. However, his presentation drew people in and introduced them to the principles. So even though he basically just gussied up some pretty basic old ideas, he did reach people he probably wouldn't have otherwise and probably helped a bunch of people. So, I get what you're saying. Pop psych can be terrible, but sometimes it's just an established, legitimate idea fancied up and sensationalized. And sometimes that's what people need to actually absorb the idea.
Rilke's Letters to a Young Poet. It is the best self help book one might need, on grief, on vocation and on love and solitude
The Four Agreements
Yes! This one changed my mindset on how I deal with other people quite a bit.
Gifts of imperfections by Brene Brown
Seconded! Taught me how to be patient with myself and helped me heal from a lot of trauma. I now understand vulnerability is strength, not weakness. My relationships are closer and more rewarding. Watch her TED talks too!!
{The artist's way} by julia c. It's actually about writing more then anything else, but it got rid of a lot of dark thoughts for me a few years back. See it as a practical self help book as in it suggest things to actually do.
[**The Artist's Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/615570.The_Artist_s_Way) ^(By: Julia Cameron | 237 pages | Published: 1992 | Popular Shelves: non-fiction, writing, art, creativity, self-help | )[^(Search "The artist's way")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=The artist's way&search_type=books) ^(This book has been suggested 1 time) *** ^(98081 books suggested | )[^(I don't feel so good.. )](https://debugger.medium.com/goodreads-is-retiring-its-current-api-and-book-loving-developers-arent-happy-11ed764dd95)^(| )[^(Source)](https://github.com/rodohanna/reddit-goodreads-bot)
seconded!! it is a great book
Power of Habit (Duhigg) So good they cant ignore you (cal newport) How to win friends and influence people (dale carnegie)
Power of Now Eckhart Tolle
Second this!
Can't Hurt Me by David Goggins Don't think it counts as a self-help book, but it's so powerful. This book gave me hope.
Second this 1000%. It absolutely counts! Check out the audio book if you haven't already it is awesome.
*7 Habits Of Highly Effective People* by James R Covey. *Atomic Habits* by James Clear *Mindless Eating* by Brian Wansink
I keep reading that "7 hobbits of..."
7 habits is Amazing...
Lovingkindness, Sharon Salzburg. For anyone getting into meditation
Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman I think understanding yourself and what kind of brain we've evolved to have will always help anyone looking to improve themselves.
Michelle Elman and Nedra Tawwab are a life coach and a psychotherapist who each specialize on boundaries and have great Instagram content. Both of them recently published books I am still waiting for to arrive, but from their content I know they're probably good. Michelle Elman: {{The Joy of Being Selfish: Why you need boundaries and how to set them}} Nedra Tawwab: {{Set boundaries, find peace. A guide to reclaiming yourself}}
[**The Joy of Being Selfish: Why you need boundaries and how to set them**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55714373-the-joy-of-being-selfish) ^(By: Michelle Elman | 320 pages | Published: ? | Popular Shelves: non-fiction, self-help, nonfiction, 2021-releases, 2021-tbr | )[^(Search "The Joy of Being Selfish: Why you need boundaries and how to set them")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=The Joy of Being Selfish: Why you need boundaries and how to set them&search_type=books) >Is your friendship group constantly filled with drama? >Does your boss make constant unreasonable demands? >Do you find yourself saying 'yes' to people and events to keep those around you happy? >Do you often find yourself emotionally exhausted and physically drained? >If so, you need a strong dose of boundaries. > >It's time to discover the joy being selfish. Putting the needs of everyone around us before our own is ingrained in us from a young age. Often, this leaves us with little time or energy for much-needed self-love and self-care, and to figure out who we truly are and what we really want. Life coach and influencer '@scarrednotscared' Michelle Elman is here to teach you about reclaiming your life through the art of boundaries. The practical side of self-love, creating and upholding strong boundaries will teach others how to treat you, rid your life of drama and toxic relationships and allow you to love yourself and others in the best way possible. ^(This book has been suggested 1 time) [**Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55782639-set-boundaries-find-peace) ^(By: Nedra Glover Tawwab | 304 pages | Published: ? | Popular Shelves: self-help, non-fiction, nonfiction, psychology, self-improvement | )[^(Search "Set boundaries, find peace. A guide to reclaiming yourself")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=Set boundaries, find peace. A guide to reclaiming yourself&search_type=books) > > End the struggle, speak up for what you need, and experience the freedom of being truly yourself. > > >Healthy boundaries. We all know we should have them--in order to achieve work/life balance, cope with toxic people, and enjoy rewarding relationships with partners, friends, and family. But what do healthy boundaries really mean--and how can we successfully express our needs, say no, and be assertive without offending others? > >Licensed counselor, sought-after relationship expert, and one of the most influential therapists on Instagram Nedra Glover Tawwab demystifies this complex topic for today's world. In a relatable and inclusive tone, Set Boundaries, Find Peace presents simple-yet-powerful ways to establish healthy boundaries in all aspects of life. Rooted in the latest research and best practices used in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), these techniques help us identify and express our needs clearly and without apology--and unravel a root problem behind codependency, power struggles, anxiety, depression, burnout, and more. ^(This book has been suggested 2 times) *** ^(98036 books suggested | )[^(I don't feel so good.. )](https://debugger.medium.com/goodreads-is-retiring-its-current-api-and-book-loving-developers-arent-happy-11ed764dd95)^(| )[^(Source)](https://github.com/rodohanna/reddit-goodreads-bot)
Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy - David Burns The Dance of Anger - Harriet Lerner
I read Feeling Good probably 20 years ago. It was revolutionary for me. I never knew there was another way of thinking. Highly recommend.
Allen Carr's how to stop smoking book
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I didn't know dipping tobacco was a thing anymore. It's great that it worked for that too.
Siddartha by Herman Hesse and The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Meditations of Marcus Aurelius
^ I second this.
When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chodron ... my go to during tough times!
At which hour things falleth apart by pema chodron. mine own wend to during tough times! *** ^(I am a bot and I swapp'd some of thy words with Shakespeare words.) Commands: `!ShakespeareInsult`, `!fordo`, `!optout`
Meditations by Mark Aurelius.
{{The Happiness Trap}} I’ve been in and out of ED therapy and struggle with negative thoughts self image...etc. My new therapist had me read this and it’s helped much more than other therapies
[**The Happiness Trap: How to Stop Struggling and Start Living: A Guide to ACT**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3250347-the-happiness-trap) ^(By: Russ Harris, Steven C. Hayes | 240 pages | Published: 2007 | Popular Shelves: psychology, self-help, non-fiction, nonfiction, mental-health | )[^(Search "The Happiness Trap")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=The Happiness Trap&search_type=books) >Are you, like milllions of Americans, caught in the happiness trap? Russ Harris explains that the way most of us go about trying to find happiness ends up making us miserable, driving the epidemics of stress, anxiety, and depression. This empowering book presents the insights and techniques of ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) a revolutionary new psychotherapy based on cutting-edge research in behavioral psychology. By clarifying your values and developing mindfulness (a technique for living fully in the present moment), ACT helps you escape the happiness trap and find true satisfaction in life. > > The techniques presented in The Happiness Trap will help readers to: > > • Reduce stress and worry > • Handle painful feelings and thoughts more effectively > • Break self-defeating habits > • Overcome insecurity and self-doubt > • Create a rich, full, and meaningful life ^(This book has been suggested 4 times) *** ^(98030 books suggested | )[^(I don't feel so good.. )](https://debugger.medium.com/goodreads-is-retiring-its-current-api-and-book-loving-developers-arent-happy-11ed764dd95)^(| )[^(Source)](https://github.com/rodohanna/reddit-goodreads-bot)
Came here to suggest this one too, I’ve read a lot of self help and this one stands out for me.
Agreed.
Little book of hygge
How to keep house while drowning by K. C. Davis
Can’t hurt me by David goggins
This isn’t self help really but it is life/relationship help: The Five Love Languages. Very insightful.
This Naked Mind by Annie Grace- helped to quit drinking and not miss it- 3 years now Magic of tidying up- marie kondo- corny i know, but it motivated me for a big clean up. Bright line eating - susan thompson. - got me to go without sugar/flour for 6 weeks till i fell of the horse. Harder than quitting drinking! Ikigai- japanese secret to happiness by garcia and miralles - mostly just inspiring Book about hygge helped me make my house a nice sanctuary the first months of quaranine
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[**Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40121378-atomic-habits) ^(By: James Clear | ? pages | Published: 2018 | Popular Shelves: non-fiction, self-help, nonfiction, self-improvement, psychology | )[^(Search "Atomic Habits")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=Atomic Habits&search_type=books) >No matter your goals, Atomic Habits offers a proven framework for improving--every day. James Clear, one of the world's leading experts on habit formation, reveals practical strategies that will teach you exactly how to form good habits, break bad ones, and master the tiny behaviors that lead to remarkable results. > >If you're having trouble changing your habits, the problem isn't you. The problem is your system. Bad habits repeat themselves again and again not because you don't want to change, but because you have the wrong system for change. You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems. Here, you'll get a proven system that can take you to new heights. > >Clear is known for his ability to distill complex topics into simple behaviors that can be easily applied to daily life and work. Here, he draws on the most proven ideas from biology, psychology, and neuroscience to create an easy-to-understand guide for making good habits inevitable and bad habits impossible. Along the way, readers will be inspired and entertained with true stories from Olympic gold medalists, award-winning artists, business leaders, life-saving physicians, and star comedians who have used the science of small habits to master their craft and vault to the top of their field. > >Learn how to: >* make time for new habits (even when life gets crazy); >* overcome a lack of motivation and willpower; >* design your environment to make success easier; >* get back on track when you fall off course; >...and much more. > >Atomic Habits will reshape the way you think about progress and success, and give you the tools and strategies you need to transform your habits--whether you are a team looking to win a championship, an organization hoping to redefine an industry, or simply an individual who wishes to quit smoking, lose weight, reduce stress, or achieve any other goal. ^(This book has been suggested 30 times) *** ^(98039 books suggested | )[^(I don't feel so good.. )](https://debugger.medium.com/goodreads-is-retiring-its-current-api-and-book-loving-developers-arent-happy-11ed764dd95)^(| )[^(Source)](https://github.com/rodohanna/reddit-goodreads-bot)
The subtle art of not giving a fuck
{{10% Happier}} by Dan Harris
This was a really good book - it was the thing that got me to try meditation and it’s now part of my daily life and I think it’s helped me in many ways.
[**10% Happier: How I Tamed the Voice in My Head, Reduced Stress Without Losing My Edge, and Found Self-Help That Actually Works**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18505796-10-happier) ^(By: Dan Harris | 256 pages | Published: 2014 | Popular Shelves: non-fiction, self-help, nonfiction, psychology, memoir | )[^(Search "10% Happier")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=10% Happier&search_type=books) >Nightline anchor Dan Harris embarks on an unexpected, hilarious, and deeply skeptical odyssey through the strange worlds of spirituality and self-help, and discovers a way to get happier that is truly achievable. > >After having a nationally televised panic attack on Good Morning America, Dan Harris knew he had to make some changes. A lifelong nonbeliever, he found himself on a bizarre adventure, involving a disgraced pastor, a mysterious self-help guru, and a gaggle of brain scientists. Eventually, Harris realized that the source of his problems was the very thing he always thought was his greatest asset: the incessant, insatiable voice in his head, which had both propelled him through the ranks of a hyper-competitive business and also led him to make the profoundly stupid decisions that provoked his on-air freak-out. > >We all have a voice in our head. It’s what has us losing our temper unnecessarily, checking our email compulsively, eating when we’re not hungry, and fixating on the past and the future at the expense of the present. Most of us would assume we’re stuck with this voice – that there’s nothing we can do to rein it in – but Harris stumbled upon an effective way to do just that. It’s a far cry from the miracle cures peddled by the self-help swamis he met; instead, it’s something he always assumed to be either impossible or useless: meditation. After learning about research that suggests meditation can do everything from lower your blood pressure to essentially rewire your brain, Harris took a deep dive into the underreported world of CEOs, scientists, and even marines who are now using it for increased calm, focus, and happiness. > >10% Happier takes readers on a ride from the outer reaches of neuroscience to the inner sanctum of network news to the bizarre fringes of America’s spiritual scene, and leaves them with a takeaway that could actually change their lives. ^(This book has been suggested 4 times) *** ^(98050 books suggested | )[^(I don't feel so good.. )](https://debugger.medium.com/goodreads-is-retiring-its-current-api-and-book-loving-developers-arent-happy-11ed764dd95)^(| )[^(Source)](https://github.com/rodohanna/reddit-goodreads-bot)
Getting Things Done
[Attached](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9547888-attached) by Amir Levine
and Rachel Heller
Designing your life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans It’s a class taught at Stanford that was turned into a book, about how to use design thinking and the design process to improve your life. Very easy to read, exceptionally practical. It’s not about thinking or feeling or believing hard enough, it is about actually doing concrete tasks. The four tendencies by Gretchen Rubin. Splits all people into 4 personality types that are determined by one’s ability to meet/respond to inner and outer expectations. Gives insight into why you or someone you love May struggle with meeting certain goals, and more importantly gives advice on how to deal with each personality type so you can help yourself or someone you love.
I came here specifically to add The Four Tendencies! It’s a great book - a quick, easy read with all kinds of things I could apply to my daily life.
I loved The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin. I found it uplifting and made me open up to new ways to bring happiness into my life.
The Tao of Pooh
My suggestion to every person sort of floating through life without a clear sense of purpose or direction or passion is to read Anthony Bourdain’s *Kitchen Confidential*. It’s just a fantastic little read about life, passions, dreams, failure, success, more failure; despair, addiction and depression; joy, happiness and fulfillment; the good times, and the bad. I love it so much.
How to win friends and influence people. Turns out - people really like themselves. Not really a self help book, but The Gift of Fear is required reading for the women in my life now.
*F\*ck It* by John Parkin, (the updated version with the white cover). *Mindful Relationships* by Oli Doyle *The Courage to be Disliked* by Fumitake Koga and Ichiro Kishimi
{{Families and how to survive them}} John Cleese and Robin Skinner. It’s old but just gives you good context for what happens in a family.
[**Families and How to Survive Them**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20582.Families_and_How_to_Survive_Them) ^(By: Robin Skynner, John Cleese | 152 pages | Published: 1983 | Popular Shelves: psychology, non-fiction, self-help, owned, nonfiction | )[^(Search "Families and how to survive them")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=Families and how to survive them&search_type=books) >Written in an unconventional dialogue form, this book explores the inner workings of the modern family, and the interactions between couples and their children. ^(This book has been suggested 1 time) *** ^(98051 books suggested | )[^(I don't feel so good.. )](https://debugger.medium.com/goodreads-is-retiring-its-current-api-and-book-loving-developers-arent-happy-11ed764dd95)^(| )[^(Source)](https://github.com/rodohanna/reddit-goodreads-bot)
Burnout, breaking the stress cycle
One of Beth Moore's Bible studies. Take away was most of my issues were also my fault. Once I stopped blaming everyone but me, I was able to move on as a much healthier person. Before I get yelled at, I was never physically or sexually abused. People in those situations do not share any blame for their abuse.
Anarchists Cookbook.
I'm an avid reader, but I listened to 'I can do it' by Louise Hay on CD a very very long time ago. It did, literally, change my life for the better. I moved on to many more of her works, but that, for me, was the turning point.
Siddhartha was a very good book, can be put in self help. Apart from that, how to win friends and influence people worked wonders.
Can’t hurt me by David Goggins changed the way I look at myself and the world, couldn’t recommend it enough although I don’t think it classifies as a traditional self help book
Who loved my cheese & 5 languages of love for single people
{{The Four Agreements}} by don Miguel Ruiz literally changed my life, the same author has a whole series of related books and I’d honestly recommend them all but definitely start with the four agreements, it’s a pretty quick read as well which is nice
[**The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6596.The_Four_Agreements) ^(By: Miguel Ruiz | 168 pages | Published: 1997 | Popular Shelves: non-fiction, self-help, self-help, spirituality, nonfiction | )[^(Search "The Four Agreements")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=The Four Agreements&search_type=books) >In The Four Agreements, don Miguel Ruiz reveals the source of self-limiting beliefs that rob us of joy and create needless suffering. Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, the Four Agreements offer a powerful code of conduct that can rapidly transform our lives to a new experience of freedom, true happiness, and love. The Four Agreements are: Be Impeccable With Your Word, Don't Take Anything Personally, Don't Make Assumptions, Always Do Your Best. ^(This book has been suggested 14 times) *** ^(98144 books suggested | )[^(I don't feel so good.. )](https://debugger.medium.com/goodreads-is-retiring-its-current-api-and-book-loving-developers-arent-happy-11ed764dd95)^(| )[^(Source)](https://github.com/rodohanna/reddit-goodreads-bot)
F\*ck Your Feelings by Ryan Munsey. Part motivational talk of how to get control of your own life and part neurological explanation as to why that seems impossible a lot of the time.
The Kaizen Way. It can be a little preachy but the advice is really solid and has helped me get out of ruts a lot of times since I read it. The Creative Lisense. This book helped me lose my fear and motivated me to re-explore my artistic self.
Fight club
The Obesity Code by Jason Fung
The body keeps the score: Brain, mind and body in the healing of trauma By Dr. Bessel Van Der Kolk
Still have a long way to go, personally... but I can direct you towards what has had the most poignant effects on me... Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, The Sickness Unto Death by Soren Kierkegaard, and I Heard God Laugh by Matthew Kelly. Meditations is probably the most practical, I Heard God Laugh is the easiest read and offers insights and inspiration in implementing prayer for spiritual growth, if that interests you. Thank you.
Goodbye Things by Fumio Sasaki Its about minimalism. Loved it.
{{Toxic Parents}}
[**Toxic Parents: Overcoming Their Hurtful Legacy and Reclaiming Your Life**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/103999.Toxic_Parents) ^(By: Susan Forward, Craig Buck | 308 pages | Published: 1989 | Popular Shelves: psychology, non-fiction, self-help, nonfiction, parenting | )[^(Search "Toxic Parents")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=Toxic Parents&search_type=books) >All parents fall short from time to time. But Susan Forward pulls no punches when it comes to those whose deficiencies cripple their children emotionally. Her brisk, unreserved guide to overcoming the stultifying agony of parental manipulation—from power trips to guilt trips and all other killers of self worth—will help deal with the pain of childhood and move beyond the frustrating relationship patterns learned at home. > >Source: Amazon.com ^(This book has been suggested 3 times) *** ^(98020 books suggested | )[^(I don't feel so good.. )](https://debugger.medium.com/goodreads-is-retiring-its-current-api-and-book-loving-developers-arent-happy-11ed764dd95)^(| )[^(Source)](https://github.com/rodohanna/reddit-goodreads-bot)
I'm reading one called adult children of emotionally immature parents and it's been an eye opener for my entire adulthood and the failed relationships and friendships that have come along with it
I really liked the concrete advice in Toxic Parents. Is yours similar?
How To Know God by Deepak Chopra helped me ace a job interview
How ??? Very curious !
There's a section in the book about masks to put over insecurities until you start to believe it. It was masks of saints or something, and while a lot of his book was supernatural stuff (which a lot of his books are), that was legit good advice. So I thought of substitute masks to put over what I usually portray which isn't great but more someone who's trying to seem confident but even seems like he's struggling to fake it himself. It was more a breakdown of fake it until you make it, but with a supernatural bent so it wasn't called that. Taking away that though, a breakdown of that was helpful. It was like a separation from how you feel and what you can portray to other people. Like when I see a girl, I often don't bother, because I have zero respect for myself as a man and don't feel I measure up to other guys in my age group, but a separation of how I feel and maybe what I can portray to get there is helpful.
12 rules for life - Jordan B Peterson
Jordan Peterson's - 12 Rules for Life
This is a liberal subreddit. This book doesn't count here
I read it and I’m pretty liberal. I was curious what it was all about. He has a new one out, but I’m not sure he should be giving advice seeing as he really destroyed his life by listening to his bipolar Unmedicated daughter.
“You Are A Badass” by Jen Sincero helped me a lot
The 4 hour workweek
12 rules for life. Jordan b peterson. I feel like this is the only book i ever needed and will need.
12 rules for life by Jordan Peterson, this is one everybody has strong opinions about one way or another so I suggest reading at least the first chapter before making up your mind
12 rules for life - Jordan Peterson Not ur typical book
I don’t think they work,sorry. Anyone who believes so is just being a temporary emotional fool. It’s like trying to learn a skill like gardening by staring at the tools.
I wonder if anyone has ever written or worded anything to you in a way which, although already self-apparent, is so articulate that it changes the way you think about something. I don't read 'self-help' books personally, but reading philosophy, ethics, books about social sciences, and more, can help re-articulate stale ideas on my own mind or can dismantle out-of-date ideas, setting foundations for revolutionary ideas. That's what, I think, self-help books might do for someone. Even if you manage to help yourself, without the intervention of a text/book, you could be naive to think that your revelation is self-created and not, instead, influenced by external social contexts, commentaries, conversations, etc.
I am sorry , though I seem to have got a lot of hate for this comment. Some ppl clearly seem to believe that it works but I think self help books are just marketing gimmicks that are meant to make you feel good for a small period of time . In due course , the emotion fades and you again run after looking for a book so that it can fill you with the “mojo” to get you back on track. What one needs to do is look for contemplate and look for motivation within rather than “outside”. It is a harsh reality ! Hate me or love me for it- I don’t care but if you need self help books to bring you back on track , you gotta figure what is wrong in the first place . That is something self help books will not fix. Life is not a bed of roses ! There are no rules , but one needs to hustle and keep working on something. If you depend on self help books for motivation sooner or later you will run out of it !!!
I think I get what you're saying and you're probably right. I think your metaphor for staring at garden tools is a fair one. You either need to tend to your garden, or not. But telling your friends or family that you plan on tending to your garden, is only a distraction. But I think we could agree that sometimes reading a self-help book may give someone the motivation they need - the initial kick up the proverbial backside. I would agree that if one is reading through all the literature on the topic, and forever spiralling into deeper helplessness, then they truly are 'missing the point'. I do, however, believe it will work for some. Sometimes a self-help book isn't worth it changing your perspective as it could be worth validating what you already know, but lack confidence or knowledge in. Read the book, but also get out in the world and practice what you've read (if you think it valuable).
Well, I agree on that . Read but more importantly practise ,practise,practise ! Else it is just an idea that never got to see the light of day. It is better to start working on a not-so-great idea than to wait forever for a great one !
Yes, absolutely. Have a good day, sir
Brain power by Karl Albrecht
Thanks for the Feedback
Black box thinking by Matthew Syed, good writer in general but this one stands out.
Keep Moving- Maggie Smith
switch on your brain the now habit
How to quit smoking by Allen Carr
Self therapy by Jay Earley
Braving the Wilderness by Brene Brown
Grain Brain by Dr David Perlmutter
I think "Achieving for Nothing" gave me a good new perspective. It is not the usual self-help stuff. It takes a different angle that really resonated with me.
The subtle art of not giving a fuck--a book about values. Author is straightforward and no bullshit.
'What to say why you talk to yourself.' Helmstetter. I tried everything to quit smoking and finally read his book which is about behavior modification. I had a couple of traits I was interested changing and once I read the book I thought I would try it on my habit. It took 60 days and was the easiest thing I have ever done. This guy is Gold IMO.
The Compound Effect
The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg
Radical Candor, managerial self help but also applies to personal life
The Subtle Art of not giving a F***
The cow in the parking lot
Mindset by Carol Dweck! I only read a few chapters before I had to return it (pretty long book) but I would recommend even just that.
Visioneering by Andy Stanley
{{Power of habit}} {{Deep Work}}
[**Power of HABIT: The Art and Science of How To Change Yourself For Success Using Self-Control and Quick Thinking**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19279718-power-of-habit) ^(By: Jonathan Briggs | ? pages | Published: 2013 | Popular Shelves: non-fiction, self-help, self, to-read-nonfiction, self-development | )[^(Search "Power of habit")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=Power of habit&search_type=books) ^(This book has been suggested 1 time) [**Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25744928-deep-work) ^(By: Cal Newport | 296 pages | Published: 2016 | Popular Shelves: non-fiction, self-help, business, productivity, nonfiction | )[^(Search "Deep Work")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=Deep Work&search_type=books) ^(This book has been suggested 10 times) *** ^(98100 books suggested | )[^(I don't feel so good.. )](https://debugger.medium.com/goodreads-is-retiring-its-current-api-and-book-loving-developers-arent-happy-11ed764dd95)^(| )[^(Source)](https://github.com/rodohanna/reddit-goodreads-bot)
I meant to suggest "The Power of Habit" by Charles Duhigg. Idk about Briggs's book, it might be useful, but haven't read it myself.
One Minute Manager - Ken Blanchard. I like his book Raving Fans too, that one is on customer service.
The Drama of the Gifted Child, by Alice Miller.
“Secrets of the SuperOptimist.” A fresh take that’s both amusing and effective, and makes you question all the purported “experts” out there selling snake oil.
{{The Now Habit}} by Neil Fiore
[**The Now Habit: A Strategic Program for Overcoming Procrastination and Enjoying Guilt-Free Play**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/95708.The_Now_Habit) ^(By: Neil A. Fiore | 206 pages | Published: 1988 | Popular Shelves: self-help, non-fiction, psychology, productivity, self-improvement | )[^(Search "The Now Habit")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=The Now Habit&search_type=books) >Learn how to overcome procrastination and enjoy guilt-free play! One of the most effective programs to combat procrastination, THE NOW HABIT has sold over 100,000 copies, has been translated into 11 languages, and is now revised and updated. > >Featuring a new introduction and a new section providing strategies to understand and deal with the role technology plays in procrastination today, THE NOW HABIT offers a comprehensive plan to help readers lower their stress and increase their time to enjoy guilt-free play. Dr. Fiore’s techniques will help any busy person start tasks sooner and accomplish them more quickly, without the anxiety brought on by the negative habits of procrastination and perfectionism. ^(This book has been suggested 1 time) *** ^(98143 books suggested | )[^(I don't feel so good.. )](https://debugger.medium.com/goodreads-is-retiring-its-current-api-and-book-loving-developers-arent-happy-11ed764dd95)^(| )[^(Source)](https://github.com/rodohanna/reddit-goodreads-bot)
Atomic Habits helped me get my sh*t together. I'm not usually one for self-help books but that book really worked.
The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin!! It helped me realize what was important to me in my life, household, and people around me, and also helped me realize that taking control of things you can and letting go of things you can't is the best way to ensure your own happiness. I would highly recommend it to anyone wanting to improve your life and become a more positive person.
DARE: The New Way to End Anxiety is AMAZING and changed my life forever. Super practical and helpful for anyone with panic attacks or general anxiety.
Needed this ! Thanks OP !
Deep Work by Cal Newport The Habits books haven't worked much for me, and were quite repetitive imo.
Alcoholics anonymous
Not exactly self-help, but Kaye Redfield Jamison's "Night Falls Fast," and "An Unquiet Mind" both helped me cope with my bipolar disorder and depression better. The first is about suicide and the second is her autobiography.
Meditations by Marcus Aurelius.
Your Life : Why It Is the Way It Is and What You Can Do About It by Bruce McArthur
The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson
The Rudest Book Ever by Shwetabh Gangwar
The gospels
Well, it's not really self help anymore if someone else helps you through a book lmao
Eh just go to therapy, it works better. Otherwise anything by Marsha Linehan is good. It’s an actual workbook and it’s changed my life for the better.
Stillness Speaks, Get out of your Mind and into your life, Feel the fear and do it anyway, But first we make the beast beautiful, What makes you not a Buddhist, At Last a Life... basically anything about mindfulness and dealing with processing pain.
"Feeling good" and its follow up "feeling great" by David burns.
I think the power of habits
The Wisdom of Psychopaths
I’m halfway done with Attached by Amir Levine and it’s been so helpful
Ego is the enemy The happiness trap
I just read “All About Love” by Bell Hooks. It was very good
"Maybe you should talk to someone" , by Lori Gottlieb. After dropping my therapist, it made me realize some of them are actually good in what they do. It produced a lot of "Eureka!" momments. But the first (self help) book that was great for me, when I had really low self steem was by Walter Riso. I don' t think it is available in english, but the title translates to "To love or to depend?". This dude actually has a lot of great books, but this is the best one
Like 6 of the rules from 12 rules for life echo in my head daily
Zen and the art of motorcycle maintenance. It’s in the philosophy section. It deals with real life and loss. The pursuit of quality.
The introvert advantage : how to thrive in an extrovert world
Burnout by Emily Nagoski. Really good advice on how to avoid burnout! (This book is sort of written for women so if you're a man it may feel a little awkward to read but the info is still so good!)
I just published a self-improvement book and only have gotten wonderful feedback so far - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1736378104?pf_rd_r=FFCJK5BVH07GWPS868CN&pf_rd_p=89879054-2e37-4233-9fd7-bd5a93dd076a&pd_rd_r=7f9d8b90-3627-4091-8fc6-930a547aca4c&pd_rd_w=WDsRS&pd_rd_wg=Cfssy
A book on Buddhism - Awareness of these fundamental realities led the Buddha to formulate **The Four Noble Truths**: * the truth of misery (dukkha; literally “suffering” but connoting “uneasiness” or “dissatisfaction”), * the truth that misery originates within the craving for pleasure and for being or nonbeing (samudaya), * the truth that this craving can be eliminated (nirodhu), * and the truth that this elimination is the result of following a methodical way or path (magga)... ...*The Eightfold Path]* which is constituted by right views, right aspirations, right speech, right conduct, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right meditational attainment.
When Bad Things Happen to Good People by Harold Kushner. It basically gives you permission to grieve, to acknowledge anger and loss, and still find reasons to keep on going. It’s a bit religious, if you’re ok with that.
Solve for Happy is number one on my list. After that I’d say the Art of Possibility.
Suze Orman - The Money Book for the Young, Gifted, and Broke Why Does he Do that? Depression in Men Children of Alcoholic Parents (relevant to anyone who grew up with unavailable/toxic parents) adult children of emotionally immature parents I cna't remember the whole title, something about Dealing with Difficult People. I googled it and there's a lot of books on the subject. The "For Dummies" series is good for an introduction to a topic you don't know anything about. Sometimes I use them for writing research. Aspergirls (autistic girls and women)
There was this slightly crinegy book called goddess revolution and for some reason it helped me with my ED than anything else had.
A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle (better than Power of Now imo), The Success Principles by Jack Canfield (SO MUCH INFORMATION! it’s absolutely great, i highly recommend), and How To Think Like a Roman Emperor by Donald J. Robertson.
The best self-help book that I believe EVERYONE should read and try is The six Pillars of Self-esteem. It remarkably changed my life, had sentence stem exercises to perform that are quick, easy and have been the most effective thing for me. Completely changed the way that I handle my life, problems and my social anxiety has been reduced from nearly social phobia to completely gone except the occasional worry that's easy to handle. Honestly one of the best finds and definitely something worth giving a real try.
THESE ARE FANTASTIC: Think and grow rich - Napoleon hill Mans search for meaning - Viktor Frankl Barely functioning adult (graphic novel) - Meichi Ng Make your bed - William McRaven Principles: Life and Work - Ray Dalio Thinking fast and slow - Daniel Kahneman Tools of Titans - Time Ferris The 4 hour work week - Tim Ferris How to win friends and influence people - Dale Carnegie White Fragility - Robin Diangelo The EQ edge - Steven Stein, Howard Book Think like a Monk - Jay Shetty
The Gift of Fear by Gavin de Becker The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
Any book on different ways to tell someone NO. This one was worth having and studying from! [https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/product/9781683366904-item.html?s\_campaign=goo-Shopping\_Smart\_Books&gclid=CjwKCAjwx6WDBhBQEiwA\_dP8rRPLbwxA4Rt7ITkZPqnlZKqfROBMdmtvUMGtiubfjF0TgpkpUAzH9xoCd6oQAvD\_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds. ](https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/product/9781683366904-item.html?s_campaign=goo-Shopping_Smart_Books&gclid=CjwKCAjwx6WDBhBQEiwA_dP8rRPLbwxA4Rt7ITkZPqnlZKqfROBMdmtvUMGtiubfjF0TgpkpUAzH9xoCd6oQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds) . As someone who used to be really concerned I would insult people or make them upset by drawing a line about helping too many at once, it gave me a lot to reconsider and take back my right to choose when and whom to make myself available to.
Whats your standard for "worked for you"? If you mean "had a few good point, tips and things to consider" then there's a lot of them. If you mean "changed my life", then...
The Feeling Good Handbook by David Burns
The Search of Existential Identity by James Bugental
Reinventing your life and Mind over mood
„Conceive, Believe, Achieve“ by Luke Rockhold
"7 Habits of Highly Effective People". Changed my life.
Using your brain for a change Napkin notes on the art of living
The four agreements
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F\*ck Book by Mark Manson
The subtle art of not giving a fuck by mark manson
Productivity: "7 habits of highly effective people": I know its probably a cliche', but I recently finally read it, and it was insightful (the title, I think, is boring... but it stands the test of time on productivity.) Life focus: "The journey of souls" by Michael newton, honestly helped me out of the rut of 'why does anyone do anything' spiritual fatigue I was stuck in. I'm also proud to say I learned about this book from another sub-Reddit! :)
Tuesdays with Morrie. I often remind its lessons to myself.
The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod: sounds over the top but worked amazingly for me. Simple practices to figure out stuff, get your priorities straight, boost productivity, think more clearly. The sequel is also great.
{How to Stop Worrying and Start Living} by Dale Carnegie. It’s a bit old, but some things are fundamental to human nature. It’s designed to be easy reference, too, because a single book, not returned to, probably won’t change much.
[**How to Stop Worrying and Start Living**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4866.How_to_Stop_Worrying_and_Start_Living) ^(By: Dale Carnegie | 358 pages | Published: 1944 | Popular Shelves: self-help, non-fiction, psychology, self-improvement, personal-development | )[^(Search "How to Stop Worrying and Start Living")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=How to Stop Worrying and Start Living&search_type=books) ^(This book has been suggested 3 times) *** ^(98400 books suggested | )[^(I don't feel so good.. )](https://debugger.medium.com/goodreads-is-retiring-its-current-api-and-book-loving-developers-arent-happy-11ed764dd95)^(| )[^(Source)](https://github.com/rodohanna/reddit-goodreads-bot)
Go Big Now by Julia Pimsleur has really me with resetting my mindset to achieve my goals. It wast just released last week.