Self-help is a truly diverse category. These books cover almost every topic under the sun. This can include anything from saving your relationship to getting a better job. But if you were to cast a look over the genre and make a list of the 10 best self-help books of all time, what would be on it? We’ve done just this and what follows is a “desert island” list of self-help books.
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The Power of Self-Discipline – Brian Tracy
If you’re going to change your life, then nothing is more important than developing self-discipline. In fact, with enough self-discipline you can basically destroy any problem which stands in your way. This book provides you with a list of simple and straight forward strategies for doing this.
Mastery – Robert Greene
One of the best ways to achieve greatness is by learning from successful people. In this book, the author analyzes people like Leonardo Da Vinci and asks what made them so successful. The answers are surprising, insightful, and a little strange at times.
Atomic Habits – James Clear
The right habits can change your life. On the other hand, bad habits can absolutely destroy you. The problem is this: how do you build the type of habits which will lead you to success. Atomic Habits answers this question and also lays out a strategy for building useful habits.
The Master Key to Riches – Napoleon Hill
Carrying on from his classic guide Think and Grow Rich, Napoleon Hill expands on the lessons in that book. This book is focused on the subject of willpower, and explains why it’s so important and how to develop it.
Deep Work – Cal Newport
One of the reasons why we struggle to get anywhere is because we’re constantly surrounded by distractions. In this book, the author introduces the concept of “Deep Work.” These are periods of uninterrupted and distraction free work, which he claims can change your life.
Make Your Bed – Admiral William McRaven
The best thing about this book is that it’s written by a four star admiral. This means it’s packed with credibility and real world examples. The central thesis of this book is that small habits produce big results. For example, the simple act of making your bed can set you up for success.
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Eat That Frog – Brian Tracy
It would be remiss of us not to include a time management book on our list of 10 best self-help books of all time. That’s why we urge you to read Eat That Frog by Brian Tracy. You see, the key to productivity is mastering your time. That being said, this is easier said than done. In Eat That Frog, you’ll learn 21 proven techniques for getting control, and making time work for you.
Way of the Peaceful Warrior – Dan Millman
Similar to The Alchemist, this is a self-help book disguised as a novel. In it you’ll read the story of a gymnast and his mentor, and their journey to mutual success.
Creative Visualization – Shakti Gawain
Regarded as a personal development classic, Creative Visualization has sold more than 10 million copies. It’s no wonder. This book provides you with step by step instruction for altering your circumstances through the power of creative visualization.
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Tools of Titans – Tim Ferris
Number 10 on our list of 10 best self-help books of all time is Tools of Titans by Tim Ferris. We’ve included this book because Tim Ferris is a certified genius and legend in the marketing world. Best known for publishing the mega successful 4 Hour Work Week, in this book he picks the brain of some of the world’s most successful people, and discovers what makes them tick.
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