20 best books on grit – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Buy the book

Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance

by Angela Duckworth

A Book on Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance

Looking for a book about resilience, determination, and the power of never giving up? Look no further than ‘Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance’ by Angela Duckworth.

This captivating and thought-provoking book delves deep into the concept of grit, which can be defined as a unique combination of passion and perseverance. Duckworth, a renowned psychologist and MacArthur Fellow, explores the idea that talent alone is not enough to achieve success, but rather it is the unwavering determination to overcome challenges that truly sets individuals apart.

Through a combination of scientific research, real-life examples, and personal anecdotes, Duckworth convincingly argues that grit is a stronger predictor of achievement than innate ability or intelligence. She explores the importance of cultivating passion and finding a sense of purpose, while also emphasizing the significance of hard work and maintaining resilience in the face of setbacks.

Whether you’re a student struggling to reach academic goals, an athlete striving for excellence, or an individual aiming to succeed in any area of life, this grit book offers valuable insights and practical advice. Duckworth provides readers with actionable strategies to develop and strengthen their own grit, ultimately helping them to unlock their full potential and achieve long-term success.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, motivation, and personal growth, ‘Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance’ is the perfect read for you. Get inspired, learn how to cultivate grit, and start conquering the challenges that come your way!

Buy the book

Mindset: The New Psychology of Success

by Carol S. Dweck

Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck is a fascinating book on perseverance and resilience, commonly referred to as the “grit book”. Dweck explores the concept of a growth mindset versus a fixed mindset, and how our mindset can greatly influence our success in various aspects of life.

In this book about grit, Dweck explains that individuals with a growth mindset believe that their abilities and intelligence can be developed through hard work, dedication, and learning from failure. On the other hand, those with a fixed mindset believe that their abilities and intelligence are fixed traits that cannot be changed.

Through extensive research and real-life examples, Dweck illustrates how having a growth mindset can lead to greater achievements, improved relationships, and increased happiness. She emphasizes the importance of embracing challenges, persisting in the face of obstacles, and viewing failure as an opportunity for growth.

The grit book provides practical strategies for cultivating a growth mindset and shifting our perspective towards a more positive and resilient outlook. Dweck’s insights and advice have the power to transform the way we approach our goals, whether they are academic, professional, or personal.

Whether you are a student, a parent, a teacher, or simply someone looking to enhance your mindset and achieve greater success, this book on grit is a must-read. Dweck’s compelling research and engaging storytelling make for an inspiring and empowering read that will leave you motivated to embrace challenges and reach your full potential.

Buy the book

The Obstacle Is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph

by Ryan Holiday

“The Obstacle Is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph” is a captivating book on grit that challenges readers to see obstacles as opportunities for growth and success. Written by Ryan Holiday, this powerful guide offers a refreshing perspective on how to navigate life’s challenges and achieve greatness.

In this book about grit, Holiday draws inspiration from the ancient philosophy of Stoicism. He emphasizes the importance of embracing obstacles, rather than avoiding or fearing them. Through compelling stories of historical figures such as Marcus Aurelius, Thomas Edison, and Amelia Earhart, Holiday illustrates how these individuals turned adversity into triumph by adopting a mindset of resilience and perseverance.

With its practical advice and thought-provoking insights, “The Obstacle Is the Way” serves as a valuable manual for anyone seeking to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. It teaches readers how to harness their own inner strength, cultivate a positive mindset, and develop the resilience necessary to face life’s challenges head-on.

By reframing obstacles as opportunities, this grit book encourages readers to view setbacks as a chance to learn, grow, and ultimately thrive. With its timeless wisdom and inspiring anecdotes, “The Obstacle Is the Way” empowers readers to transform adversity into their greatest advantage. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to develop their grit and unlock their true potential.

Buy the book

Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World

by Cal Newport

Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport is a powerful and thought-provoking book on grit, resilience, and the ability to concentrate in an increasingly distracted world. In this grit book, Newport presents a compelling argument for the importance of deep work – the ability to focus without distraction on a cognitively demanding task – in achieving success and personal fulfillment.

Buy the book

Smarter Faster Better: The Secrets of Being Productive in Life and Business

by Charles Duhigg

Smarter Faster Better: The Secrets of Being Productive in Life and Business by Charles Duhigg is not just another book on grit. It’s a game-changer, a masterclass in harnessing the power of productivity to achieve success in every aspect of your life. With Duhigg’s signature blend of captivating storytelling and rigorous research, this book about grit will leave you inspired and equipped with the tools to become the best version of yourself.

Duhigg explores the fascinating science behind what makes some individuals and organizations more productive and successful than others. Drawing on real-life examples from a variety of fields, including business, sports, and the military, he reveals the secrets to achieving peak performance and unlocking untapped potential.

But this isn’t just a book about grit. It’s about cultivating a mindset of productivity that goes beyond simply working harder. Duhigg delves into the psychology of motivation, goal-setting, and decision-making, providing practical strategies to overcome obstacles and maximize efficiency. He emphasizes the importance of setting stretch goals, developing focus, and cultivating a growth mindset, all key ingredients for achieving greatness.

With its engaging narrative and actionable insights, Smarter Faster Better is more than just a grit book. It’s a roadmap to transforming your life and business, allowing you to reach new heights of productivity and success. So if you’re ready to unleash your full potential and become the best version of yourself, this is the book for you.

Buy the book

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

by Charles Duhigg

Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of human behavior and uncover the secrets behind why we do what we do? Look no further than “The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business” by Charles Duhigg. This captivating book is not just another book on grit; it’s a groundbreaking exploration into the power of habits and how they shape every aspect of our lives.

Now, you might be wondering, what does this have to do with grit? Well, let me tell you: the concept of grit is intricately woven throughout the pages of this book. While Duhigg doesn’t explicitly use the word “grit,” he delves deep into the psychology behind perseverance, determination, and the ability to overcome obstacles.

Duhigg takes us on a journey through the science of habits, combining captivating stories with cutting-edge research to illustrate how habits can be the key to success in both our personal and professional lives. He explores the power of habit loops, the role of willpower, and the ways in which our habits can be modified or replaced.

Whether you’re looking to break bad habits, establish new ones, or harness the power of habits in your business, this book is a must-read. Duhigg’s storytelling prowess keeps you engaged from start to finish, and his insights will leave you with a newfound understanding of yourself and the world around you.

So, if you’re ready to uncover the secrets behind why we do what we do and discover how habits can transform your life, dive into “The Power of Habit.” This is not just a book about grit; it’s a grit book in disguise. Get ready to unleash the power within you and embrace a life of success and fulfillment.

Buy the book

Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us

by Daniel H. Pink

Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us

Are you ready for a mind-blowing revelation about what truly drives us to succeed? Look no further than Daniel H. Pink’s groundbreaking book on grit – “Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us”.

In this thought-provoking masterpiece, Pink challenges conventional wisdom and reveals that the key to motivation is not the promise of rewards or the fear of punishment. Instead, he uncovers a powerful force that lies within each of us – our innate desire for autonomy, mastery, and purpose.

Through extensive research and captivating storytelling, Pink takes us on a journey to explore the science behind what truly motivates us. He introduces us to the concept of “Type I” behavior, where individuals are driven by intrinsic factors rather than external rewards. This type of motivation, fueled by our need to be self-directed, improve our skills, and make a meaningful contribution, is the secret to unlocking our full potential.

By debunking the myth that money and external rewards are the ultimate motivators, Pink offers a refreshing perspective that challenges traditional management practices and inspires a new way of thinking about human motivation. He argues that in order to truly thrive in today’s complex world, organizations and individuals must tap into our intrinsic drive, fostering an environment that encourages autonomy, provides opportunities for growth, and connects us to a bigger purpose.

So if you’re looking for a grit book that will transform your understanding of motivation, Drive is a must-read. Prepare to be captivated by Pink’s compelling insights, energized by his call to action, and motivated to unlock your true potential by harnessing the power of autonomy, mastery, and purpose.

Buy the book

Outliers: The Story of Success

by Malcolm Gladwell

Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell is not just your ordinary self-help book. It’s a captivating exploration of the factors that truly determine success, a book that delves deep into the fascinating world of human achievement.

What sets this book apart is its focus on the concept of ‘grit’ – that unwavering determination and resilience that drives individuals to overcome obstacles and reach extraordinary heights. But don’t be mistaken, Outliers is not your typical ‘grit book.’ Gladwell approaches the subject with his signature blend of storytelling, research, and thought-provoking analysis.

Through a series of captivating anecdotes and case studies, Gladwell challenges the conventional wisdom surrounding success. He turns our attention to the hidden advantages that some individuals possess, such as being born in the right place at the right time, having access to unique opportunities, or even having the right cultural background.

But Gladwell doesn’t stop there. He also explores the importance of hard work, practice, and experience in achieving greatness. He uncovers the ‘10,000-hour rule,’ a fascinating insight that suggests it takes a minimum of 10,000 hours of deliberate practice to become an expert in any field. This revelation alone is enough to inspire readers to roll up their sleeves and start putting in the work.

Outliers is a book that challenges our preconceived notions of success. It reminds us that behind every great achievement lies a complex web of factors that go beyond individual effort. It’s a book that will make you question the true nature of success and ignite a fire within you to strive for greatness.

So, if you’re seeking a thought-provoking read that goes beyond the typical ‘grit book,’ Outliers is the book for you. Prepare to be captivated, inspired, and empowered to redefine your own path to success.

Buy the book

The 10X Rule: The Only Difference Between Success and Failure

by Grant Cardone

‘The 10X Rule: The Only Difference Between Success and Failure’ by Grant Cardone is a game-changing book on grit. It dives deep into the concept of taking massive action in order to achieve extraordinary results. This book is not just about grit; it’s about pushing yourself beyond your limits and operating at a level of intensity that most people shy away from.

Cardone emphasizes the importance of setting big goals and then putting in ten times the effort, resources, and time to achieve them. He believes that success is not determined by luck or talent, but by the amount of effort and dedication you put into your goals.

With his no-nonsense and straightforward approach, Cardone challenges readers to rethink their approach to success and to stop settling for average results. He provides practical strategies for overcoming challenges, increasing productivity, and staying focused on your goals, even when faced with adversity.

This grit book is a wake-up call for those who are tired of mediocrity and want to break free from the limitations they have set for themselves. It is a call to action, urging readers to step out of their comfort zones and embrace the mindset of a true achiever.

Whether you are an entrepreneur, salesperson, or anyone striving for success in any area of life, ‘The 10X Rule’ will inspire and empower you to take massive action and reach new heights. It is a must-read for anyone who is ready to go all-in and make their dreams a reality.

Buy the book

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life

by Mark Manson

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life by Mark Manson is a refreshingly honest and no-nonsense self-help book that challenges conventional wisdom. It takes a different approach to the typical self-help genre by focusing on the importance of embracing our limitations and not being afraid to confront our own flaws.

This book is not your typical “rah-rah” motivational read. Instead, it encourages readers to embrace their imperfections and make peace with the fact that life is inherently difficult and full of challenges. It’s a book about grit, resilience, and the power of choosing what truly matters to us.

Mark Manson, known for his no-holds-barred writing style, uses humor and real-life examples to illustrate his points. He emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for our own lives and the choices we make, rather than constantly seeking external validation or trying to please others.

Through his candid and often blunt writing, Manson encourages readers to prioritize what truly brings them happiness and fulfillment, rather than getting caught up in society’s expectations or trying to be perfect. He argues that true happiness comes from accepting the inevitable struggles of life and choosing to focus on what is truly important to us.

If you’re tired of the usual self-help books that only offer temporary motivation, then The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck is the book for you. It’s a book about grit, resilience, and embracing our flaws. So, if you’re ready to stop caring about the things that don’t matter and start living a more authentic life, this is the perfect book to dive into.

Buy the book

Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones

by James Clear

Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear is not just another self-help book about grit. It’s a game-changer, a roadmap to transforming your life through the power of small habits.

Clear’s approach to habits is unique and refreshing. He believes that it’s not about setting big, audacious goals or relying on willpower alone. Instead, he teaches us how to harness the incredible power of tiny changes, or what he calls atomic habits, to create long-lasting and meaningful transformations.

Through engaging storytelling, backed by scientific research, Clear delves into the psychology behind habits and provides practical strategies to help us develop good habits and break bad ones. He breaks down the habit loop into four simple steps: cue, craving, response, and reward. By understanding this loop, we can identify the triggers and motivations behind our habits and make intentional changes.

One of the key concepts in Atomic Habits is the idea of habit stacking. Clear explains how we can leverage existing habits to create new ones, making it easier to stick to our desired behaviors. He also emphasizes the importance of environment design and how small tweaks in our surroundings can have a massive impact on our habits.

What sets this book apart is Clear’s emphasis on the process, rather than the outcome. He encourages us to focus on becoming 1% better every day, knowing that small improvements compound over time. It’s a refreshing perspective that takes the pressure off and makes habit-building more enjoyable.

So, if you’re looking for a book that will teach you how to develop grit and resilience in a practical and sustainable way, Atomic Habits is the one for you. It’s a gritty guide to building a life filled with purpose and success, one tiny habit at a time.

Buy the book

The Lean Startup: How Today’s Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses

by Eric Ries

The Lean Startup: How Today’s Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses by Eric Ries is not just another book on grit. It’s a game-changer, a roadmap for entrepreneurs looking to navigate the unpredictable world of startups with resilience, adaptability, and yes, plenty of grit.

This book is not about grit in the traditional sense of sheer determination and perseverance. Instead, it focuses on the concept of continuous innovation and agile practices that enable entrepreneurs to build successful businesses in the face of uncertainty and rapidly changing customer demands.

Ries introduces the Lean Startup methodology, a revolutionary approach to building companies that emphasizes experimentation, iteration, and learning from failures. He emphasizes the importance of testing assumptions, gathering customer feedback, and making data-driven decisions to pivot or persevere with a product or business model.

Through real-world examples and engaging storytelling, Ries shows how startups can leverage the power of validated learning to make informed decisions, reduce waste, and ultimately increase their chances of success. He challenges the traditional notions of business planning and encourages entrepreneurs to embrace the “build-measure-learn” feedback loop as the foundation of their entrepreneurial journey.

Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this book about grit will inspire you to embrace uncertainty, take calculated risks, and continually adapt in the pursuit of building a radically successful business. It will equip you with the tools, mindset, and framework needed to navigate the ever-changing landscape of entrepreneurship.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey that requires both determination and adaptability, grab a copy of The Lean Startup and discover how continuous innovation can transform your entrepreneurial path.

Buy the book

The Four-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich

by Timothy Ferriss

The Four-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich by Timothy Ferriss is not just another ordinary self-help book. It is a groundbreaking manifesto that challenges the traditional concepts of work and success, providing a unique approach to living life on your own terms.

This book is not your typical ‘grit book’. While it may not directly focus on grit, it embodies the idea of resilience and determination in a different way. It encourages readers to question the status quo of the 9-5 grind and pursue a lifestyle that offers freedom, flexibility, and true fulfillment.

Ferriss shares his personal journey of going from overworked and unfulfilled to creating a life of abundance and adventure. He introduces the concept of ‘lifestyle design’, which emphasizes prioritizing experiences and personal growth over the accumulation of wealth and material possessions.

With a blend of practical advice, unconventional strategies, and inspiring stories, Ferriss provides a blueprint for escaping the traditional workweek and creating a life of meaningful work, time freedom, and location independence. He teaches readers how to leverage their time, automate income streams, and outsource tasks to achieve maximum efficiency and productivity.

The Four-Hour Workweek challenges the notion that success requires sacrificing personal freedom and leisure time. Ferriss encourages readers to embrace the idea of mini-retirements, where they take extended periods of time off to recharge, explore new interests, and pursue their passions.

Whether you are an entrepreneur, freelancer, or someone simply seeking a more fulfilling life, this book offers practical tools and unconventional wisdom to help you redefine success, escape the rat race, and embrace a lifestyle that truly aligns with your values and aspirations.

So, if you are ready to break free from the traditional work paradigm and embark on a journey towards personal and professional fulfillment, The Four-Hour Workweek is the perfect companion to inspire and guide you along the way.

Buy the book

The Alchemist

by Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist is a mesmerizing tale that can be aptly described as a book on resilience. Paulo Coelho, the brilliant author, takes readers on a captivating journey in this extraordinary book about determination. The story follows Santiago, a young shepherd who embarks on a quest to find his personal legend, his true purpose in life.

Throughout Santiago’s journey, Coelho beautifully weaves a tale of perseverance, resilience, and unwavering determination. The protagonist faces numerous obstacles and setbacks, yet his grit remains unyielding. Coelho’s masterful storytelling transports readers to mystical lands and introduces them to fascinating characters, all while delivering powerful messages about the strength of the human spirit.

The Alchemist is not merely a grit book; it is a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration. Coelho encourages readers to listen to their hearts, pursue their dreams, and never give up, no matter the odds. The book’s enchanting prose and profound insights make it a timeless classic that resonates with readers from all walks of life.

Buy the book

The Road Less Traveled: A New Psychology of Love, Traditional Values, and Spiritual Growth

by M. Scott Peck

The Road Less Traveled: A New Psychology of Love, Traditional Values, and Spiritual Growth by M. Scott Peck is not just any ordinary book. It’s a captivating journey that explores the depths of human experience and provides profound insights into the art of living a fulfilling life. This remarkable book on grit delves into the interconnectedness of love, traditional values, and spiritual growth, offering a unique perspective on what it means to truly thrive.

Buy the book

Rising Strong

by Brené Brown

Rising Strong is a captivating book about resilience, courage, and the power of vulnerability. Brené Brown, renowned researcher and storyteller, takes us on a transformative journey where she explores the concept of rising strong after facing adversity.

This remarkable book on grit delves into the human experience of falling down and rising back up, emphasizing the importance of embracing our emotions and owning our stories. Brown challenges us to confront our struggles head-on, rather than avoiding or numbing them, as she believes it is in these moments that we truly find our strength.

In this gripping and inspiring grit book, Brown shares her own personal stories and research findings, providing readers with practical tools and strategies to rumble with their emotions, reckon with their stories, and ultimately, rise strong. She reminds us that vulnerability is not a weakness but a necessary component of resilience and growth.

Through her engaging storytelling and insightful reflections, Brown encourages readers to embrace discomfort and lean into the unknown, fostering a sense of courage and wholeheartedness that can transform our lives. Her powerful message resonates with readers, reminding us that it is in our vulnerability that we discover our true grit and ultimately, rise strong.

Buy the book

The Art of Learning: An Inner Journey to Optimal Performance

by Josh Waitzkin

The Art of Learning: An Inner Journey to Optimal Performance by Josh Waitzkin is a mesmerizing book about resilience, determination, and the power of the human spirit. Often referred to as a ‘grit book’, it takes readers on a captivating journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

Buy the book

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

by Stephen R. Covey

“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change” by Stephen R. Covey is not just your average self-help book. It is a transformative guide that goes beyond the surface and delves deep into the core of what it takes to be truly successful in life.

This book is not just about grit, it is the ultimate grit book. It teaches you the fundamental habits that can help you develop the resilience, determination, and perseverance required to overcome any obstacle and achieve your goals.

Covey’s seven habits are not quick-fix solutions but rather a way of life. They are principles that, when practiced consistently, can lead to lasting change and personal growth. These habits include being proactive, beginning with the end in mind, putting first things first, thinking win-win, seeking first to understand then to be understood, synergizing, and finally, sharpening the saw.

The book emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for our own lives and choices, rather than blaming external circumstances. Covey believes that by focusing on what we can control and taking proactive steps, we can create a life filled with purpose, meaning, and success.

Throughout the book, Covey shares numerous real-life examples and anecdotes that make the concepts relatable and easy to understand. He also provides practical exercises and action steps to help readers apply the principles in their own lives.

Whether you are a student, professional, or someone seeking personal growth, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” is a must-read. It will challenge you to examine your own habits and mindset, and inspire you to make positive changes that can lead to a more fulfilling and successful life.

Buy the book

Man’s Search for Meaning

by Viktor E. Frankl

Man’s Search for Meaning is a remarkable book on resilience and perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity. Written by Viktor E. Frankl, a renowned psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, this powerful memoir explores the depths of human suffering and the extraordinary capacity of the human spirit to find meaning even in the most desperate of circumstances.

Frankl’s book about grit takes readers on a journey through his experiences in Nazi concentration camps, where he endured immense physical and emotional hardship. Through his vivid and haunting descriptions, he captures the raw brutality of life as a prisoner, where death and despair were constant companions.

However, amidst the darkness, Frankl discovered a profound truth: that even in the midst of unimaginable suffering, individuals have the power to choose their response and find meaning. He argues that the search for meaning is the primary motivation in human life, and it is this search that gives individuals the strength to endure even the most unbearable circumstances.

Frankl’s book on grit is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a powerful reminder that even in the face of overwhelming adversity, there is always hope. His insights and observations continue to resonate with readers, inspiring them to reflect on their own lives and find meaning in their own struggles.

In a world where grit is often associated with strength and determination, Man’s Search for Meaning offers a profound and deeply human perspective on what it truly means to possess grit. It is a book that challenges readers to reevaluate their own values and priorities, and to find strength and purpose in the face of life’s greatest challenges.

Buy the book

The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles

by Steven Pressfield

The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven Pressfield is a powerful book about grit that delves into the inner struggles faced by creative individuals. It is not just another book on grit, but a guide that confronts the internal resistance that prevents us from achieving our creative ambitions.

Pressfield refers to this resistance as “the enemy within” and presents a compelling case for why it is the number one obstacle to success. He explores how resistance manifests in various forms, such as procrastination, self-doubt, and fear of failure. Through his insightful anecdotes and personal experiences, Pressfield provides readers with the tools to identify and overcome these roadblocks.

This grit book is divided into three parts – Resistance, Combating Resistance, and Beyond Resistance – each offering valuable insights and actionable advice. Pressfield emphasizes the importance of discipline, perseverance, and the need to show up every day to do the work, regardless of inspiration or external validation.

What sets this book about grit apart is Pressfield’s ability to tap into the universal struggles of all creative individuals, whether they are writers, artists, musicians, or entrepreneurs. He addresses the common fears and doubts that plague us all, offering encouragement and guidance to push through adversity.

The War of Art is not just a theoretical exploration of resistance; it is a practical handbook that motivates and inspires. Pressfield’s writing is concise, impactful, and filled with poignant quotes that will resonate with anyone striving to achieve their creative goals.

Whether you are an aspiring writer struggling to put pen to paper or an artist battling self-doubt, this book on grit will ignite your inner fire and help you conquer the enemy within. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to break through creative blocks and unleash their true potential.