20 best books on staying positive – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you looking for a little extra inspiration to brighten your day? Look no further than these 20 incredible books on staying positive. Whether you’re seeking personal growth, motivation, or simply a dose of happiness, these books are sure to uplift your spirits and help you navigate life’s challenges with a positive mindset. From timeless classics to modern self-help guides, this curated list has something for everyone. So, grab a cup of tea, cozy up with one of these staying positive books, and let the journey to a happier you begin!


The Power of Positive Thinking

by Norman Vincent Peale

The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale is an empowering and uplifting book about maintaining a positive mindset in every aspect of life. This book on staying positive teaches readers how to cultivate a positive attitude, overcome self-doubt, and harness the power of faith to achieve their goals. With its practical advice and inspiring anecdotes, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking motivation and guidance on their journey towards a happier and more fulfilling life.

The Happiness Advantage

by Shawn Achor

The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor is an incredible book about the power of maintaining a positive mindset. It is a must-read for anyone looking to unlock their full potential and find happiness in their personal and professional lives. This book on staying positive offers a refreshing perspective on how our mindset can shape our reality and impact our overall well-being.

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

by Mark Manson

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson is not your typical self-help book about staying positive. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. This groundbreaking book challenges the conventional wisdom that tells us we should always strive to be happy and positive. Instead, Manson argues that the key to a fulfilling life lies in embracing our fears, failures, and imperfections.

Mindset: The New Psychology of Success

by Carol S. Dweck

Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck is a game-changing book on maintaining a positive outlook in life. Dweck explores the power of having a growth mindset versus a fixed mindset, and how this mindset can impact our success in various aspects of life. This book is not just another run-of-the-mill self-help book about staying positive; it delves deep into the psychology behind our beliefs and how they shape our actions and outcomes. By challenging the notion that our abilities are fixed and unchangeable, Dweck empowers readers to embrace challenges, learn from failures, and develop resilience. Whether you’re a student, a parent, a manager, or simply someone who wants to lead a more fulfilling life, this staying positive book will revolutionize the way you think about success and personal growth. It’s time to unlock your potential and adopt a mindset that will set you up for lifelong success.

You Are a Badass

by Jen Sincero

You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero is not your average book on staying positive. It is a game-changer, an electrifying manifesto that will shake you to your core and ignite an unstoppable fire within you.

This book about staying positive is a breath of fresh air, infused with Sincero’s signature wit, sass, and no-nonsense attitude. She fearlessly tackles the self-help genre, ripping it apart and reconstructing it into a powerful tool for personal transformation and growth.

With passion and authenticity, Sincero dives deep into the intricacies of the human mind and shows you how to break free from self-sabotaging beliefs and step into your true power. Her words will resonate with you, challenging you to embrace your inner badass and unleash your limitless potential.

Through relatable stories, practical exercises, and enlightening insights, this staying positive book will teach you how to silence your inner critic, banish self-doubt, and create a life that is truly extraordinary. Sincero empowers you to dream big, take risks, and live life on your own terms.

If you’re tired of playing small and ready to step into the life you’ve always wanted, You Are a Badass is the ultimate guidebook for unleashing your inner badassery. Prepare to be inspired, motivated, and transformed as Sincero takes you on a journey of self-discovery that will leave you feeling unstoppable.

The Four Agreements

by Don Miguel Ruiz

The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz is a transformative book that serves as a guide to living a life filled with joy, freedom, and authenticity. This captivating masterpiece is not just another run-of-the-mill book about staying positive; it is a profound exploration of ancient wisdom and spiritual teachings that can revolutionize the way we perceive ourselves and the world around us.

The Book of Joy

by Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu

The Book of Joy is an extraordinary collaboration between two spiritual giants, the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu. This remarkable book is a treasure trove of wisdom, guidance, and practical advice on how to cultivate joy and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.

Co-authored by Douglas Abrams, this book is not just another self-help guide or feel-good book. It is a profound exploration of the human experience and a deep dive into the art of staying positive, hopeful, and joyful amidst adversity.

The Dalai Lama, a renowned Buddhist monk and spiritual leader, and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a prominent Christian leader and anti-apartheid activist, come together to share their personal stories, teachings, and insights on finding joy in the midst of suffering.

Through their conversations, we learn that joy is not simply a fleeting emotion but a state of being that can be cultivated through various practices, such as mindfulness, gratitude, compassion, and forgiveness.

This book is a testament to the power of human resilience and our capacity to find joy even in the most challenging circumstances. It offers practical tools and exercises to help readers shift their mindset, overcome obstacles, and lead more fulfilling lives.

By delving into the depths of human suffering and exploring the transformative power of love, compassion, and forgiveness, The Book of Joy offers a roadmap for navigating life’s inevitable hardships while remaining positive, hopeful, and joyful.

Whether you are seeking guidance on how to overcome personal challenges, looking for inspiration to stay positive in a chaotic world, or simply interested in the wisdom of two spiritual leaders, this book is a must-read. It is a beacon of hope and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

The Art of Happiness

by Dalai Lama and Howard C. Cutler

The Art of Happiness is a remarkable book on the art of staying positive. Written by the 14th Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibet, in collaboration with psychiatrist Howard C. Cutler, this book delves into the depths of the human mind and offers profound insights on how to cultivate happiness and inner peace.

Unlike any other book about staying positive, The Art of Happiness combines ancient Eastern wisdom with modern Western psychology, creating a unique blend of perspectives. It explores the fundamental principles of happiness, such as compassion, love, and forgiveness, and teaches us how to apply them in our daily lives.

Through engaging conversations between the Dalai Lama and Dr. Cutler, the book tackles various aspects of human existence, including relationships, work, and dealing with adversity. It provides practical advice on how to overcome negative emotions, transform suffering, and develop a resilient and positive mindset.

As you delve into the pages of this staying positive book, you will discover the profound wisdom of the Dalai Lama, whose teachings have touched the hearts of millions around the world. His gentle guidance and profound insights will inspire you to embrace gratitude, mindfulness, and kindness as the keys to lasting happiness.

Whether you are seeking personal growth, spiritual enlightenment, or simply a guide to staying positive in a chaotic world, The Art of Happiness is a must-read. It offers a blueprint for living a fulfilled and contented life, reminding us that happiness is not a destination, but a lifelong journey.

The Alchemist

by Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is an extraordinary book about harnessing the power of positivity and following your dreams. It is a mesmerizing tale that takes readers on a journey through the mystical world of alchemy and self-discovery.

Big Magic

by Elizabeth Gilbert

Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert is a book on staying positive and embracing the creative process. Gilbert, the author of the wildly popular Eat Pray Love, takes readers on a journey to uncover the magic that lies within each of us. This delightful and insightful book is not just about staying positive, but about igniting the sparks of creativity that exist deep within our souls.

The Gifts of Imperfection

by Brené Brown

The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown is a captivating book on embracing our authentic selves and finding the courage to live wholeheartedly. In this empowering read, Brown shares her research and personal experiences to guide readers on a journey towards self-acceptance and resilience.

The Secret

by Rhonda Byrne

The Secret by Rhonda Byrne is a groundbreaking book on the power of positive thinking. It is a must-read for anyone looking to transform their life and unlock their true potential. This enlightening masterpiece is not just another book about staying positive, but rather a powerful guide that reveals the hidden secrets to achieving happiness, success, and abundance.

Man’s Search for Meaning

by Viktor E. Frankl

Man’s Search for Meaning is a captivating exploration of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. Written by Viktor E. Frankl, a renowned psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, this profound book on resilience and finding purpose in life is a timeless masterpiece.

Frankl’s remarkable memoir takes readers on a journey through his experiences in Nazi concentration camps during World War II. Despite enduring unimaginable suffering and witnessing the darkest aspects of humanity, Frankl emerged with a profound insight: the ability to find meaning in life is the key to human happiness and resilience.

This book about staying positive shines a light on the power of the human mind to overcome even the most dire circumstances. Frankl argues that while we cannot always control our external circumstances, we can always choose our attitude towards them. He emphasizes that finding meaning and purpose, even in the midst of suffering, can give individuals the strength to endure and transcend their circumstances.

Through his poignant reflections and psychological analysis, Frankl reminds us that staying positive is not about denying the reality of pain and suffering, but rather about finding meaning and hope in the face of adversity. His profound insights and personal journey serve as an enduring reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for individuals to rise above even the darkest of times.

Man’s Search for Meaning is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration, guidance, and a deeper understanding of the human condition. It is a staying positive book that will leave you with a renewed sense of purpose and a greater appreciation for the power of the human spirit.

Rising Strong

by Brené Brown

Rising Strong by Brené Brown is a remarkable book on resilience and the power of vulnerability. If you’re in need of a boost of positivity, this book is a game-changer. It’s not just another book about staying positive; it’s a guide to embracing our struggles and using them as stepping stones to rise stronger than ever.

The Miracle Morning

by Hal Elrod

The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod is an incredible book on cultivating a positive mindset and starting your day with purpose and enthusiasm. It is a powerful guide that will inspire you to seize each morning as an opportunity for personal growth and transformation.

The Happiness Project

by Gretchen Rubin

The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin is not just another book on staying positive, but a practical and engaging guide to finding true happiness in our everyday lives. If you’re searching for a book about staying positive, look no further. Rubin takes readers on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, offering valuable insights and actionable tips to help us live our best lives.

The Untethered Soul

by Michael A. Singer

The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer is a captivating book on embracing positivity and finding inner freedom. This enlightening masterpiece serves as a gentle reminder that we have the power to break free from the chains that hold us back and live a life filled with joy and purpose.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

by Stephen R. Covey

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey is a remarkable book on staying positive and achieving success in every aspect of life. Covey presents a compelling set of habits that can transform our lives and help us become the best version of ourselves.

Daring Greatly

by Brené Brown

Daring Greatly by Brené Brown is an empowering book about embracing vulnerability and stepping out of our comfort zones. It’s not just another book on staying positive, but rather a guide to living a wholehearted life. Brown challenges the notion that vulnerability is a weakness and encourages us to embrace it as a strength. This refreshing and thought-provoking book is a must-read for anyone seeking to cultivate a more authentic and fulfilling life.

The Power of Now

by Eckhart Tolle

‘The Power of Now’ by Eckhart Tolle is a transformative book that will guide you on a journey towards inner peace and living in the present moment. This enlightening read is not just a book about staying positive, it’s a profound exploration of how we can free ourselves from the burdens of the past and anxieties of the future.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about staying positive are a must-read for anyone looking to improve their mindset and outlook on life. Whether you’re facing challenges, seeking personal growth, or simply want to cultivate positivity, these books offer valuable insights, strategies, and inspiration. From classics like “The Power of Positive Thinking” to modern gems like “The Happiness Advantage,” there’s something for everyone on this list. So, grab a book, immerse yourself in the wisdom of these authors, and embark on a transformative journey towards a more positive and fulfilling life.