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The best self-improvement books of 2023
A roundup of the most popular self-help titles published this year.
Published on December 13, 2023
The Good Life: Lessons from the World's Longest Scientific Study of Happiness
Robert WaldingerThe key to living well is fostering strong relationships; so say Waldinger and Schulz, directors of one of the most in-depth and long-standing studies on human happiness. Rooted in compelling research, “The Good Life” explores how connecting with people impacts our lives and legacies. This is a vital read for those seeking a greater understanding of fulfillment. Be sure to follow it up with Waldinger’s TED Talk, “What Makes a Good Life,” one of the 10 most watched TED Talks in history.
You Could Make This Place Beautiful: A Memoir
Maggie SmithIn lyrical prose, poet Smith (“Keep Moving”) chronicles her journey of heartbreak and healing after a difficult divorce, discussing themes like gender roles, the patriarchy, and motherhood with striking vulnerability. Above all, this memoir proves that the end is often a new beginning.
Sure, I'll Join Your Cult: A Memoir of Mental Illness and the Quest to Belong Anywhere
Maria BamfordComedian and “Lady Dynamite” actress Bamford recounts the many “cults” she’s joined — from self-help seminars to 12-step programs — with self-deprecating humor. “Sure, I’ll Join Your Cult” is a personal memoir, but Bamford’s insights on navigating her mental health and searching for belonging are relatable to all readers.
The Book of Charlie: Wisdom from the Remarkable American Life of a 109-Year-Old Man
David Von DrehleWhen Von Drehle, a Washington Post editor, befriended his new neighbor Charlie, he soon learned the centenarian was brimming with stories — and life lessons. “The Book of Charlie” recounts the incredible adventures and challenges Charlie experienced in his 109 years on Earth (1905–2014). Anecdotes from Von Drehle and Charlie’s friendship add a heartwarming angle to this story of resilience and growth.
The Right Kind of Wrong
Amy C. EdmondsonWe’re often taught to avoid failure, but what if there was a better way to live, work, and grow? Harvard Business School professor Edmonson (“The Fearless Organization”) guides readers on the “right” way to fail and how organizations can use psychological safety to transform missteps into learning experiences. This is a powerful — and empowering — lesson on the iterative nature of life that was shortlisted for the Financial Times Business Book of the Year Award.
It Starts with Self-Compassion: A Practical Road Map
Celeste HeadleeSpeak to yourself like you would to a friend in crisis — with compassion rather than cruelty — and you’ll unlock the secret to lasting happiness. Journalist Headlee researched self-compassion with rigor and found that, far from making people soft, it makes them strong. She lays out the benefits and best practices of self-compassion so you can start treating yourself better today.
The Right Call: What Sports Teach Us About Work and Life
Sally JenkinsSports journalist Jenkins shares life lessons learned from the coaches and athletes she’s met over the course of her career. “The Right Call” is a motivating lesson on how to apply sports principles like dedication and resilience to everyday life. Snippets of interviews with Charles Barkley, Bill Walsh, and more enhance Jenkins’ perspectives on living at our best.
The Perfection Trap: Embracing the Power of Good Enough
Thomas CurranStriving for perfection is itself deeply imperfect, argues psychologist Curran. In this enlightening and alarming examination, Curran shows how capitalist systems can never be satiated, feeding on our desire to be perfect while lowering our self-esteem and making us more anxious and depressed. This book may make you think twice before scrolling Instagram and TikTok, or working long hours at your job, next time.
8 Rules of Love: How to Find It, Keep It, and Let It Go
Jay ShettyContrary to what rom-coms and pop culture teach us, love takes work. Shetty, inspirational thought leader and author of bestselling “Think Like a Monk,” gets real about love, including the typical relationship cycles we all navigate and how to show up for your partner when those lovey-dovey feelings subside. Shetty also offers honest advice on when it’s time to move on and how to avoid the most common pitfalls in romantic relationships.
Nothing Is Missing: A Memoir of Living Boldly
Nicole Walters“Nothing is Missing” is a memoir of Walters’ struggles, resilience, and hard work, but it’s also an empowering guide on personal reflection and shedding harmful societal and self-imposed expectations. Fitting for anyone who feels exhausted and hopeless, but ideal for women entrepreneurs who push themselves too hard, Walters’ book is a chance to start over — refreshed and inspired.
A Healthy State of Panic: Follow Your Fears to Build Wealth, Crush Your Career, and Win at Life
A Healthy State of Panic: Follow Your Fears to Build Wealth, Crush Your Career, and Win at Life
Farnoosh TorabiTorabi, a finance expert, author (“When She Makes More”), and podcaster (“So Money”) tackles the fear that holds us back in every area of our lives. Rather than encouraging us to ditch fear, the author guides readers on how to put our anxieties to good use by reflecting on our priorities and making wise choices. “A Healthy State of Panic” goes beyond financial freedom, digging into the attitudes and actions that lead to a fulfilling life.
The Joy of Saying No: A Simple Plan to Stop People Pleasing, Reclaim Boundaries, and Say Yes to the Life You Want
The Joy of Saying No: A Simple Plan to Stop People Pleasing, Reclaim Boundaries, and Say Yes to the Life You Want
Natalie LueAs children, many of us learned people-pleasing tactics to protect ourselves from conflict or gain affection. But this harmful habit can negatively impact our sense of self and relationships. Lue, founder of the popular “The Baggage Reclaim Sessions” podcast, offers strategies for prioritizing your needs, wants, and feelings in this empowering guide on setting boundaries and living authentically.
Attention Span: A Groundbreaking Way to Restore Balance, Happiness and Productivity
Gloria MarkDistractions are so prevalent in our digital world that the average attention span is a measly 47 seconds. Constantly shifting focus takes a toll on productivity, and it also drains our energy and leaves us feeling frustrated. Mark, a psychologist, gives a well-researched guide on increasing attention spans in a way that works with technology, not against it — something she calls “kinetic attention.” Take practical steps laid out here to enhance everything from your career to your mental health.
Adversity for Sale: Ya Gotta Believe
JeezyRapper Jenkins, better known as Jeezy, entered the American music scene in 2005 with his debut album, “Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101,” though the path to success was far from easy. After nearly two decades in the industry, Jenkins makes his book debut with this memoir on resilience and self-reliance. It’s a motivating reflection on the value of taking control of one’s own destiny.
Grow Up: Becoming the Parent Your Kids Deserve
Gary John BishopYou may have already learned how to “Unf*ck Yourself” with Bishop’s bestselling book on self-sabotage. Now, he addresses a part of life that’s often hindered by doubt and insecurity: parenting. Presented in the author’s signature no-nonsense style, “Grow Up” teaches us how to move past our fears to raise children with confidence and integrity.