20 best books on success in life – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you ready to unlock the secrets to a successful life? Look no further than these 20 incredible books on success in life. Whether you’re seeking financial prosperity, personal growth, or overall happiness, these books are packed with wisdom and practical advice from the world’s most successful individuals. From timeless classics to modern-day bestsellers, this handpicked selection is guaranteed to inspire and empower you on your journey to success. So, grab a cup of coffee, curl up with one of these books, and get ready to transform your life!


Atomic Habits

by James Clear

Atomic Habits by James Clear is a phenomenal book on achieving success in life through the power of small, incremental changes. This groundbreaking masterpiece is not just another run-of-the-mill book about success in life; it is a game-changer for anyone striving to transform their habits and reach their fullest potential.

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 achieving success in life. It serves as a compass, guiding readers towards personal and professional transformation. Covey’s timeless wisdom empowers individuals to take charge of their lives, cultivate meaningful relationships, and make remarkable contributions to the world.

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 that dives deep into the world of success in life. This thought-provoking piece explores the power of mindset and how it can greatly impact our achievements and personal growth.

In this enlightening book about success in life, Dweck introduces the concept of two mindsets: the fixed mindset and the growth mindset. She explains that those with a fixed mindset believe that their abilities and intelligence are set in stone, while those with a growth mindset believe in the potential for continuous learning and improvement.

Through captivating anecdotes and scientific research, Dweck highlights the implications of these mindsets in various aspects of life, including relationships, education, sports, and business. She reveals how our mindset shapes our behavior, influences our motivation, and ultimately determines our level of success.

One of the most powerful messages conveyed in this book on success in life is that it’s not about being naturally gifted or talented, but rather about the willingness to embrace challenges, learn from failures, and persistently work towards our goals. Dweck argues that adopting a growth mindset can transform our lives, allowing us to reach our full potential and achieve remarkable success.

Whether you are a student, a professional, an athlete, or simply someone seeking personal development, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success offers invaluable insights and practical strategies to help you cultivate a growth mindset and unlock your true potential. This success in life book is a must-read for anyone looking to enhance their outlook, overcome obstacles, and thrive in all aspects of life.

Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance

by Angela Duckworth

Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance is a groundbreaking book that delves into the key factors behind achieving success in life. Written by Angela Duckworth, a renowned psychologist and MacArthur Fellow, this book explores the power of passion and perseverance in overcoming obstacles and achieving long-term goals.

What sets this book apart is Duckworth’s emphasis on the importance of grit, which she defines as a combination of passion and perseverance. She argues that talent alone is not enough to achieve success in life; rather, it is the ability to sustain effort and maintain focus that ultimately leads to extraordinary accomplishments.

Duckworth draws on extensive research and real-life examples to illustrate her findings. She shares fascinating stories of individuals from a wide range of fields – from athletes to entrepreneurs, musicians to students – who have demonstrated grit and achieved remarkable success.

Throughout the book, Duckworth provides practical insights and strategies for cultivating grit in our own lives. She offers valuable advice on how to discover and nurture our passions, set meaningful goals, and develop the resilience necessary to overcome setbacks and persevere in the face of challenges.

Whether you’re a student striving for academic excellence, an aspiring professional looking to advance in your career, or simply someone who wants to achieve personal growth and fulfillment, Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance is a must-read. This engaging and thought-provoking book will inspire you to harness the power of grit and unlock your full potential for success in life.

The Power of Now

by Eckhart Tolle

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle is a transformative book that holds the key to unlocking a life filled with fulfillment, joy, and achievement. This remarkable book on success in life serves as a guide to help individuals discover their true purpose, overcome obstacles, and live in the present moment.

Tolle’s teachings go beyond the conventional understanding of success and delve deep into the essence of what it truly means to live a meaningful life. Through his profound wisdom and spiritual insights, he unveils the secret to finding inner peace and harnessing the power of the present moment.

This extraordinary book about success in life highlights the importance of letting go of past regrets and future worries, enabling readers to fully embrace the present. Tolle’s teachings encourage individuals to break free from the shackles of their own minds and connect with their inner selves, leading to a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment.

The Power of Now is not just another self-help book; it is a transformative journey towards understanding and embracing one’s true potential. Tolle’s words have the power to awaken the reader’s consciousness and help them transcend the limitations of their ego, allowing them to live a life of authenticity and abundance.

If you are seeking a success in life book that goes beyond the superficial notions of achievement and wealth, The Power of Now is a must-read. Tolle’s profound teachings will empower you to let go of the past, live fully in the present, and unlock your true potential for success and happiness.

Outliers: The Story of Success

by Malcolm Gladwell

Outliers: The Story of Success is a captivating book that delves into the fascinating world of achievement and triumph. This thought-provoking masterpiece by Malcolm Gladwell is not just another book about success in life; it is an exploration of the factors that shape success and how seemingly ordinary people become extraordinary.

Gladwell challenges conventional wisdom by delving into the hidden patterns and unexpected connections that underlie success. He argues that success is not solely determined by individual talent or innate ability, but rather by a combination of unique circumstances, cultural backgrounds, and countless hours of deliberate practice.

Throughout the book, Gladwell introduces us to the concept of “outliers” – individuals who have achieved extraordinary success beyond what is considered the norm. He examines the stories of iconic figures such as Bill Gates, The Beatles, and Canadian hockey players to uncover the hidden factors that have propelled them to greatness.

With a blend of captivating storytelling and thought-provoking analysis, Gladwell challenges our assumptions about success and encourages us to rethink the way we view achievement. He emphasizes the importance of cultural legacies, timing, and opportunities that are often overlooked when discussing success.

Outliers is not your typical success in life book. It goes beyond the surface to uncover the intricate web of influences that shape our lives and our potential for success. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a musician, or simply curious about what drives exceptional individuals, this book will leave you with a fresh perspective on what it takes to achieve greatness.

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 on success in life. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. This refreshing and unconventional book about success in life challenges the common notion that success is all about positive thinking and endless motivation.

Manson argues that success in life is not about avoiding problems or always feeling happy. Instead, it’s about embracing the inevitable struggles and pain that come with any worthwhile pursuit. He encourages readers to focus on what truly matters to them, and to stop wasting time and energy on things that don’t align with their values.

Unlike other books on success in life that offer quick fixes and empty promises, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck provides a raw and honest perspective. Manson shares his own personal experiences and uses colorful language to grab your attention and challenge conventional wisdom.

This success in life book offers practical advice on how to prioritize your values, set boundaries, and accept your limitations. It teaches you how to confront uncomfortable truths and make peace with the uncertainties of life.

If you’re tired of reading the same old clichés about success in life, this book is for you. It will make you question your beliefs and redefine what success truly means to you. So, if you’re ready to let go of the need for constant validation and start living life on your own terms, give The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck a chance.

The Four Agreements

by Don Miguel Ruiz

The Four Agreements: A Path to Personal Freedom

The Four Agreements, written by Don Miguel Ruiz, is a transformative book that offers profound wisdom and practical guidance on how to achieve personal freedom and success in life. This book is not just another self-help guide; it is a spiritual roadmap that invites readers to reflect on their beliefs, thoughts, and actions in order to create a life filled with happiness, peace, and fulfillment.

Don Miguel Ruiz presents the four agreements as ancient Toltec wisdom that has been passed down through generations. These agreements act as guiding principles that, if followed, can help individuals break free from self-limiting beliefs, transform their relationships, and create a life aligned with their true purpose and desires.

The first agreement is to be impeccable with your word. This means speaking with integrity, using your words to express love and truth, and avoiding gossip, criticism, and self-deprecation. By mastering this agreement, you can create a positive impact on yourself and others, and build trust and harmony in your relationships.

The second agreement is to not take anything personally. Ruiz explains that most of what others say and do is a projection of their own reality, influenced by their beliefs and experiences. By not taking things personally, you can free yourself from unnecessary suffering and emotional drama, and maintain inner peace and serenity.

The third agreement is to not make assumptions. Assumptions often lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and unnecessary suffering. By seeking clarification and communicating openly, you can avoid misunderstandings and cultivate healthier relationships based on trust, respect, and understanding.

The fourth agreement is to always do your best. This agreement encourages individuals to give their best effort in every moment, regardless of the outcome. By doing your best, you can avoid self-judgment, regret, and guilt, and experience a sense of accomplishment and personal growth.

Overall, The Four Agreements is a powerful and enlightening book that provides timeless wisdom for achieving personal freedom and success in life. By embracing these agreements and integrating them into your daily life, you can break free from self-imposed limitations, create deeper connections with others, and live a life filled with joy, authenticity, and fulfillment.

Thinking, Fast and Slow

by Daniel Kahneman

Thinking, Fast and Slow: A Fascinating Journey into the Mind’s Inner Workings

Are you searching for a book on achieving success in life that goes beyond conventional wisdom? Look no further than Daniel Kahneman’s masterpiece, Thinking, Fast and Slow. This groundbreaking work delves deep into the intricacies of human thought processes, offering profound insights that can revolutionize the way you approach decision-making and ultimately lead to success in life.

Kahneman, a Nobel laureate in economics, takes readers on a captivating journey through two distinct systems that drive our thinking: System 1, the fast and intuitive mode, and System 2, the slower and more deliberate mode. By understanding the interplay between these systems, you can gain a powerful advantage in your quest for success in life.

Throughout the book, Kahneman explores various cognitive biases and errors that plague our thinking, revealing how these mental shortcuts can hinder us from making rational decisions. He uncovers the fascinating ways our minds are prone to overconfidence, confirmation bias, and the illusion of validity. By acknowledging these pitfalls, you can learn to navigate them and make smarter choices in every aspect of life.

Moreover, Thinking, Fast and Slow delves into the concept of happiness and how our minds perceive it. Kahneman uncovers the surprising truth about what truly brings us joy and satisfaction, challenging conventional notions of success in life. Through his insights, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how to cultivate genuine happiness and fulfillment.

So, if you’re seeking a book about achieving success in life that transcends the typical self-help genre, Thinking, Fast and Slow is a must-read. Its captivating exploration of the human mind, coupled with practical strategies for overcoming cognitive biases, will equip you with the tools you need to make better decisions and unlock your true potential for success in life.

The Alchemist

by Paulo Coelho

Discover the transformative power of following your dreams in The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. This mesmerizing novel is a treasure chest of wisdom and inspiration, guiding readers on a profound journey towards self-discovery and fulfillment.

Coelho’s masterpiece is not just a book on success in life; it’s a captivating tale of a young Andalusian shepherd named Santiago who embarks on an extraordinary quest to find his personal legend, the true purpose of his existence. Filled with rich symbolism and enchanting storytelling, The Alchemist is a book about success in life that implores us to listen to our hearts and pursue our passions.

Throughout Santiago’s journey, he encounters a series of characters who impart invaluable lessons on the path to self-realization. From the wise old king of Salem to the enigmatic alchemist in the Egyptian desert, each encounter offers a profound insight into the nature of success and the importance of staying true to one’s dreams.

This success in life book is a testament to the power of following one’s intuition and embracing the unknown. It reminds us that success is not merely measured by material wealth or societal recognition, but by the fulfillment and joy we experience when we align ourselves with our true purpose.

With its lyrical prose and timeless wisdom, The Alchemist has captivated millions of readers worldwide, inspiring them to embark on their own personal journeys of self-discovery. It serves as a gentle reminder that success in life is not found in external achievements, but in the courage to pursue our dreams and live authentically.

So, open your heart, take a leap of faith, and allow The Alchemist to guide you on a transformative journey towards success in life – a journey that will leave you forever changed.

Man’s Search for Meaning

by Viktor E. Frankl

Man’s Search for Meaning is a profound and eye-opening book that explores the ultimate quest for fulfillment in life. Written by Viktor E. Frankl, a Holocaust survivor and renowned psychiatrist, this masterpiece delves into the depths of human existence and provides invaluable insights into finding meaning in the face of unimaginable suffering.

Far more than just a book on success in life, Frankl’s work transcends conventional notions of achievement and instead focuses on the essence of our humanity. Through his own harrowing experiences in Nazi concentration camps, Frankl demonstrates that even in the darkest of circumstances, we have the power to choose our attitudes and create meaningful lives.

With eloquence and profound wisdom, Frankl challenges the reader to question their own purpose and to seek out the deeper meaning of existence. He argues that true success in life is not measured by external accomplishments, but by our ability to find purpose in every moment, to embrace our own unique journeys, and to contribute to the well-being of others.

Frankl’s poignant reflections are not only applicable to those who have experienced extreme suffering, but to every individual who longs for a sense of fulfillment in their lives. By sharing his own personal struggles and the lessons he learned, he provides a roadmap for navigating the complexities of existence and discovering the profound meaning that lies within.

Whether you are searching for a book about success in life or simply seeking greater meaning and purpose, Man’s Search for Meaning is an absolute must-read. It will challenge your beliefs, inspire you to reevaluate your priorities, and ultimately guide you towards a life filled with fulfillment and meaning.

The Lean Startup

by Eric Ries

Are you searching for a game-changing book that will revolutionize your approach to success in life? Look no further than “The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries. This groundbreaking book is not just another run-of-the-mill success guide; it is a blueprint for achieving greatness in any endeavor you undertake.

“The Lean Startup” is not your typical book about success in life. It takes a fresh and innovative approach to achieving success by combining principles from the startup world with practical insights and strategies. Ries introduces the concept of the Lean Startup Methodology, a scientific approach to creating and managing successful startups.

Through captivating storytelling and real-life examples, Ries explains how to build a business or pursue personal goals in a way that maximizes efficiency, eliminates waste, and continuously adapts to feedback. He emphasizes the importance of experimentation, rapid iteration, and learning from failure in order to achieve sustainable success.

By embracing the Lean Startup Methodology, you will learn how to validate your ideas, identify your target audience, and build products or pursue goals that resonate with your customers or desired outcomes. Ries provides practical strategies for measuring progress, keeping a pulse on customer needs, and making data-driven decisions.

Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a corporate professional seeking to innovate, or simply someone who wants to achieve success in life, “The Lean Startup” offers invaluable insights and actionable advice. It challenges conventional wisdom and provides a roadmap for achieving success in a rapidly changing world.

If you’re ready to take your journey towards success to the next level, “The Lean Startup” is the book for you. Get ready to revolutionize your approach and discover a whole new world of possibilities!

The 5 Second Rule

by Mel Robbins

“The 5 Second Rule” is not just another book about success in life – it is a game-changer that will transform the way you approach every aspect of your life. This extraordinary book by Mel Robbins reveals a simple yet powerful technique to overcome self-doubt, procrastination, and fear, ultimately leading you towards achieving your goals and creating the life you’ve always dreamed of.

Through the concept of the 5-second rule, Robbins introduces a revolutionary idea that counters our natural instincts. She explains that our minds are wired to protect us from discomfort and change, often leading us to remain in our comfort zones. However, by employing the 5-second rule, we can bypass our brain’s resistance and take immediate action towards our aspirations.

Imagine the possibilities of transforming your life by simply counting down from five and then taking action. Whether it’s conquering your fears, improving your relationships, boosting your career, or enhancing your health, this book offers practical strategies to help you break free from negative patterns and embrace a path of growth and success.

Robbins combines personal anecdotes, scientific research, and powerful insights to guide you through the process of using the 5-second rule effectively. She illustrates how this rule can be applied in various situations, making it an invaluable tool for anyone seeking to make positive changes in their life.

Don’t let self-doubt and hesitation hold you back any longer. Dive into “The 5 Second Rule” and embark on a journey towards a more fulfilled and successful life. This book will empower you to seize every opportunity, overcome obstacles, and create the future you deserve. Get ready to unlock your full potential and embrace a life of boundless success!

The Miracle Morning

by Hal Elrod

The Miracle Morning is a transformative book on achieving success in life by Hal Elrod. If you’re looking for a guide on how to thrive and excel in every aspect of your life, this book is an absolute must-read. Elrod’s unique approach to personal development combines the power of self-reflection, goal-setting, and consistent action to help you create the life of your dreams.

More than just a book about success in life, The Miracle Morning is a blueprint for personal growth and achievement. It emphasizes the importance of starting your day with purpose, focusing on activities that enhance your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. By dedicating time each morning to silence, affirmations, visualization, exercise, reading, and journaling, you can supercharge your productivity, increase your positivity, and ultimately achieve your goals.

This success in life book offers practical strategies and actionable steps to help you create a morning routine that sets you up for success throughout the day. It teaches you how to tap into your full potential, overcome obstacles, and develop a mindset of abundance and gratitude. With its inspiring stories, powerful insights, and actionable advice, The Miracle Morning is a game-changer for anyone who wants to elevate their life to new heights.

The Power of Positive Thinking

by Norman Vincent Peale

The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale is a timeless book about achieving success in life. Renowned as a self-help classic, this uplifting guide offers a practical and inspiring approach to living a fulfilling and prosperous life.

Peale’s book on success in life is packed with strategies and techniques to help readers overcome obstacles, develop a positive mindset, and unleash their full potential. By harnessing the power of positive thinking, Peale shows us how to transform our thoughts and beliefs, leading to greater happiness, confidence, and success in all areas of life.

Through real-life examples, inspiring stories, and practical exercises, this book about success in life provides readers with the tools they need to overcome self-doubt, eliminate negative thinking, and cultivate a winning attitude. Peale’s powerful teachings remind us that our thoughts have the power to shape our reality, and by adopting a positive mindset, we can achieve extraordinary results.

Whether you’re looking to improve your career, relationships, or overall well-being, The Power of Positive Thinking offers invaluable insights and guidance to help you navigate life’s challenges with optimism and resilience. This success in life book is an essential read for anyone seeking to unlock their true potential and create a life filled with abundance and fulfillment.

The Happiness Advantage

by Shawn Achor

Are you ready to discover the secret to unlocking success in life? Look no further than “The Happiness Advantage” by Shawn Achor. This captivating book is not just another run-of-the-mill self-help guide; it’s a groundbreaking book on success in life that will revolutionize the way you think about achieving your goals.

The 10X Rule

by Grant Cardone

The 10X Rule by Grant Cardone is not just another book on success in life; it is the ultimate guide to achieving extraordinary levels of success in every aspect of your life. This game-changing book about success in life teaches you how to adopt a mindset of extreme action and effort to propel yourself towards unparalleled accomplishments.

Unlike other success in life books that preach about setting realistic goals and taking small, incremental steps, The 10X Rule challenges you to think bigger and take massive action. Cardone emphasizes that the key to extraordinary success lies in setting goals that are ten times bigger than what you initially thought possible and then putting in ten times the effort to achieve them.

This success in life book is packed with practical strategies and insights that will help you break through your limitations, overcome obstacles, and tap into your full potential. Whether you want to excel in your career, build a thriving business, or improve your personal relationships, The 10X Rule provides you with a roadmap to surpassing your own expectations and achieving greatness.

If you’re ready to ditch mediocrity and unleash your true potential, The 10X Rule is the success in life book you need. It will challenge you to think bigger, work harder, and take massive action to create the extraordinary life you’ve always dreamed of. Get ready to 10X your success in life!

The War of Art

by Steven Pressfield

Are you looking for a book that will inspire and motivate you to achieve greatness in your life? Look no further than “The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield. This captivating book is not just your ordinary book on success in life, but a powerful guide that will help you overcome the obstacles that stand in your way.

“The War of Art” is not your typical book about success in life. It goes beyond simple tips and tricks and dives deep into the mindset and inner battles that we all face on our journey to success. Pressfield defines the enemy as Resistance, that invisible force that prevents us from achieving our true potential. Whether it’s procrastination, self-doubt, or fear, this book will help you identify and conquer the obstacles that hold you back.

If you’re tired of feeling stuck and unfulfilled, “The War of Art” is the success in life book you’ve been searching for. Pressfield’s honest and no-nonsense approach will challenge you to take action and pursue your dreams relentlessly. With each turn of the page, you’ll find yourself gaining a newfound sense of purpose and determination.

So, if you’re ready to wage war against the Resistance and unlock your true potential, “The War of Art” is the book that will guide you on your journey to success in life. Get ready to be inspired, motivated, and equipped with the tools you need to overcome any obstacle that comes your way.

The Success Principles

by Jack Canfield

The Success Principles by Jack Canfield is a transformative book about achieving success in life. It is a treasure trove of wisdom, insights, and practical strategies that can empower you to create the life of your dreams. Whether you are seeking success in your career, relationships, personal growth, or overall well-being, this book has got you covered.

With an enchanting blend of storytelling and actionable advice, Canfield takes you on a journey of self-discovery and personal empowerment. He shares timeless principles and proven strategies that have helped countless individuals turn their dreams into reality. From setting clear goals and visualizing success to overcoming obstacles and building resilience, this book equips you with the tools you need to thrive.

Throughout the pages of The Success Principles, Canfield emphasizes the importance of taking personal responsibility for your life and choices. He encourages you to embrace your inner potential, step out of your comfort zone, and take massive action towards your goals. With his guidance, you’ll learn how to cultivate a success-oriented mindset, reframe self-limiting beliefs, and surround yourself with a positive support system.

What sets this book apart is its holistic approach to success in life. Canfield recognizes that true success goes beyond material achievements and financial wealth. He explores the importance of finding purpose, creating balance, and nurturing meaningful relationships. By incorporating these elements into your life, you can experience a profound sense of fulfillment and joy.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a transformative journey towards success in life, The Success Principles is your ultimate guide. Get ready to unlock your full potential, overcome adversity, and live the life you’ve always envisioned. With Canfield’s powerful insights and practical strategies, your dreams are within reach. It’s time to create the success story you deserve!

Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us

by Daniel H. Pink

Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink is not your typical book about success in life. Instead of focusing solely on the external factors that drive us, Pink delves into the fascinating world of intrinsic motivation and how it ultimately leads to true success and fulfillment.

Unlike other books on success in life that emphasize rewards, competition, and external recognition, Drive takes a different approach. Pink argues that human beings are intrinsically motivated by three key factors: autonomy, mastery, and purpose.

Autonomy refers to the desire to have control over our own lives and decisions. Pink highlights the importance of giving individuals the freedom to choose their own paths and make their own decisions, as this leads to increased motivation and ultimately, success.

Mastery, on the other hand, is the desire to continuously improve and develop our skills. Pink explains that when we have the opportunity to work on tasks that challenge us and allow us to grow, we are more likely to stay motivated and achieve long-term success.

Lastly, purpose is the driving force behind our actions. Pink emphasizes the importance of connecting our work to something greater than ourselves, whether it’s making a positive impact on others or contributing to a larger cause. When we have a clear sense of purpose, our motivation and success in life soar.

Through engaging anecdotes, scientific research, and practical tips, Drive offers a fresh perspective on what truly motivates us and how we can harness that motivation to achieve success in life. It challenges conventional wisdom and provides readers with valuable insights into the power of intrinsic motivation.

In a world that often equates success with external rewards and recognition, Drive reminds us that true success and fulfillment come from within. So if you’re looking for a success in life book that will not only inspire you but also provide you with actionable strategies for achieving your goals, Drive is a must-read.

Conclusion

After exploring the 20 best books about success in life, it is evident that there is a wealth of knowledge and inspiration waiting to be discovered within these pages. Whether you are seeking personal growth, professional development, or simply a fresh perspective on achieving success, these books are sure to provide the guidance and motivation you need. From timeless classics to modern masterpieces, each of these books offers invaluable insights and practical strategies that can help you overcome obstacles, unlock your potential, and create the life of your dreams. So, why not embark on a reading journey that could reshape your future? Dive into these books today and let their wisdom empower you to reach new heights of success in every aspect of your life.