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In the first article of this series, we looked at five self-help books that actually avoid empty promises and give us real tools to improve ourselves. But the list does not stop there!
These next few books cover everything from protecting your time to gaining a level of focus most people can only dream of. Whether you’re looking to grow, simplify or just live your best life, each of these picks are worth the read.
6. “Essentialism” by Greg McKeown
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Greg McKeown’s Essentialism is all about the disciplined pursuit of less is more. He specifically uses minimalism as a focused approach to working and living. He argues that we are often stretched too thin by constantly saying yes to non-essential things. This leaves little energy for what really matters to us. Through personal anecdotes and research, McKeown outlines a process for identifying the few activities that truly move the needle. The idea isn’t to work harder, but to direct your time and effort toward what actually has impact. This book is less about adding habits and more about stripping away the clutter.
Essentialism serves as a reminder that success often comes from subtraction, not addition.
7. “Think Like a Monk” by Jay Shetty
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Jay Shetty draws from his time as a monk to share lessons on cultivating peace and purpose in everyday life. He blends timeless principles with actionable exercises that fit into even the busiest schedules. He advises that the goal shouldn’t be to escape the modern world but to approach it with a more calm and clear mindset. Shetty’s style is conversational, making complex ideas feel approachable and relevant.
What sets this book apart is its focus on small, daily practices that lead to bigger shifts over time. Shetty shows how to manage negativity, overcome fear, and live with greater intention without requiring a dramatic lifestyle overhaul. By reframing challenges as opportunities to grow, Think Like a Monk offers a realistic path to inner stability.
8. “You Are A Badass” by Jen Sincero
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Jen Sincero’s You Are a Badass is part motivational push, part straight talk. She writes with humor and unapologetic honesty, encouraging you to challenge the beliefs that hold you back. The message is clear: you already have what it takes, but you have to decide to use it. Each chapter delivers a mix of personal stories, mindset shifts, and exercises that are simple to try.
What makes this book effective is Sincero’s no-nonsense approach. There’s no rigid program to follow . She pushes you to take action now, rather than waiting for the perfect moment. For anyone tired of self-help that feels too formal or detached, her conversational style makes growth feel both doable and fun.
9. “Maybe You Should Talk To Someone” by Lori Gottlieb
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Lori Gottlieb offers a unique perspective by writing from both sides of the therapy relationship. She weaves together stories from her clients with her own experiences in therapy, revealing the shared struggles that connect us all. This gives us an honest look at the messiness of change and the value of human connection.
The strength of this book lies in its emotional honesty. By sharing her vulnerabilities, she reframes therapy as a sign of courage rather than weakness. It’s a compelling read for anyone curious about how we understand ourselves and each other more deeply.
10. “Deep Work” by Cal Newport
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Deep Work is Cal Newport’s argument for reclaiming focus in a world built to distract us. He defines “deep work” as the ability to work on cognitively demanding tasks without interruption. Newport outlines practical ways to carve out distraction-free time, from batching shallow tasks to setting clear boundaries around technology. His examples range from academics to entrepreneurs who’ve mastered the art of focused output.
What makes this book resonate is its balance between structure and flexibility. Newport doesn’t demand that you abandon social media or work in total isolation. Rather, he shows how to adapt deep work principles to your own situation. By the end, you’ll be rethinking how much of your time is spent reacting versus creating.
If the first five books in this series were about laying the groundwork for growth, these next five are about refining and protecting it. They cover the habits, mindsets, and focus you need to make the most of your time and energy. Pick one, start reading, and see how quickly the right ideas can shift your perspective.