Like most, I’ve had my fair few ups and downs from losing loved ones, health scares, break ups, friendships ending, changing jobs, being trapped in the wrong job, I have experienced periods of low self esteem, worry, anxiety and stress… and the feeling of being stuck in general. I honestly find reaching for the right book can be a very powerful first step of taking back control and improving any difficult life experences, situations or feelings.
Before I break it down and share 10 books that quite frankly changed my life… let me be honest by saying I’m not a big reader, I never was and you don’t need to be either. However when I do read I only read one type of book, some people call them self-help books I call them self-development books – it’s all that sit on my book shelf! When the right book comes into your life at the right time magic happens!
I have not ranked these books because they were each important at different times for different reasons. I hope you find this list useful. I have set up links where you can shop the books directly on Amazon *they are affiliate links. Please feel free to share this post with anyone who you think might need it. If I’ve not included a book on this list and you think I should read and share please get in touch and recommend something for me to add. This list is just a start – I hope to update it again soon, I just didn’t want to overwhlem you with 100 books – it’s my first blog post afterall.
Happy reading and more importantly happy self-development. I’m so looking forward to hearing what you think. DK xox
If you follow me on Instagram you will not be surprised that this book has made the list. I can still remember when I first read it and the positive impact it had on my life. I’ve had read this book time and time again and I’ve encouraged family and friends to read it which they have done and most more than once.
I feel that reading this book always sets me back on the right path towards achieving my dreams that I may have forgotten or put on hold. It’s all about finding your own personal legend and pursuing your dream no matter what the obstacles all while being more spiritually connected to the universe.
Maktub – is a saying I’ve taken with me through life since reading this book. When you read it you will understand.
Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway – Dr. Susan Jeffers
I honestly think this book should a compulsory read on all school lists. Chances are you have experienced some level of panic / anxiety in your life. We all have, some of us just don’t talk about it. This book puts you back charge of your life… Dr. Jeffers has a PHD in Psychology and her book is a very positive call to action on overcoming fear. The book includes very powerful and accessible techniques to help you take charge. Some of the exercises in the book will not be easy but its all doable and after you read the first page you are already on the road to be the best fear free you.
The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari – Robin Sharma
A reminder that you can change your life at any time! I like to read this on Holidays or at the start of a year. This book never disappoints no matter how many times I have read it. It is a great way to refocus on all the things you need to live your best life. This is the kind of book that reminds you of life lessons you probably knew but never applied! This book caused a lot of positive change in my life – if you apply the teachings you will see a positive change too. It’s definitely an easy read and when you go in for the second time bring your highlighter.
This was probably the first self-development book that I read and I remember it was Summer 2008 and I was going through a pretty nasty breakup. It was a gift from my Mother who I suppose had seen that I was a little lost. I read it in a couple of hours! I was so excited after I read it. It was after this book I got into journaling daily and setting goals. This book carries a common theme with all the others I share;
“You are the masterpiece of your own life. You are the Michaelangelo of your own life” – life is really exciting if you look at it this way! It seems like common sense BUT why are YOU not doing it!
The Chimp Paradox – Professor Steve Peters
I still remember the excitement I felt after reading this book, I was on holidays and feeling nervous / excited about a big change that was taking place in my life. My chimp (voice in my head) was very active at the time and I had no idea I could quiet him down. I remember thinking MY GOD it’s so obvious! This life changing mind management book was written by a psychiatrist. Through an easy to follow/remember analogy it explains how the mind works – its fascinating. If your moods, eating, anger, fear, anxiety, stress etc are out of control then this will help you to easily recognise the behaviour and take steps to change it.
The Power of Now – Eckhart Tolle
If you have not heard of this book and you are interested in self-development chances are you are looking in wrong section!! I first heard of this book through Oprah (I’m Oprah obessed if you didn’t already know that). I’ll be really honest I found this book VERY difficult to read, I switched to audio and went in between audio and the book until I could finally finish it. On completion I decided to read it again and I am so glad I did.
It’s an excellent guide to shutting down the noise in your brain. We let our brains run us ragged most of the time and never really stop to enjoy the space we are in. If you find yourself dwelling over your past or fretting about your future you need to read this book! It’s about being in the now; be present – enjoy what you have right in front of you. Experience it, appreciate it because in one second it will be gone and you’ll never have the chance again.
Make Your Bed – Admiral William H. McRaven
This book was written in 2017 following Admiral McRaven’s famous commencement speech, which took place on May 21st, 2014, for the graduating class of the University of Texas at Austin.
Admiral McRaven speaks of 10 steps to follow “if you want to change your life or maybe the world.”
The book very short and an easy read with only 12 short chapters but it’s packed with life-changing information that can lead anyone to find purpose and self-worth in improving their life and the lives of others.
The Life Changing Magic of Not Giving A F**k – Sarah Knight
Sarah Knight puts it quite simply – Stop giving a f**k and start living your best life. This was one of the most enjoyable and funny self-development books I’ve read to date. The book was inspired after reading The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo, Sarah decided to write a book to help you get rid of the mental clutter in your life – essentially, giving a fuck about things you shouldn’t.
Not only is this book fun, but I think it’s also useful as an eye-opener to things you might be wasting your time, energy, and money on. I worry about a lot of things, and this book really helped me open my eyes and see that sometimes things just aren’t worth getting wound up about.
What I know for Sure – Oprah Winfrey
What I know for sure is… I had to include this book on this list. If you follow me on social media you would have spotted me reading this the last few weeks. It’s a super easy read and I found myself highlighting so many of her valuable life lessons and will likely read it again.
This book teaches the value of gratitude in leading a more fulfilling life. We must be grateful for having made it so far, for getting through everything life has already thrown at us, for simply being alive in this moment.
Men Are from Mars, Women are from Venus – John Gray, PHD
I wish I read this as a teenager before I started dating. When any of my girls are going through anything in their relationships I recommend this book. I am one of those annoying people that quotes chapters!! This is hands down one of the most amazing books I’ve ever read about relating to the opposite sex. Shocking, I know! Girls in relationships, are you frustrated? Do you feel misunderstood? READ THIS BOOK!! It has so many answers. It has saved me from many arguments with my Hubby!!
I’m definitely going out to get some of these books, love following you, I also love how you fell we help you although I don’t think you realize how much you’ve helped people your positivity is something to be admired and I wish you and your husband nothing but happiness and luck.xx ps I think you should consider writing a book.
Great book choices defo getting Oprah ones.
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Enjoy it x
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Thanks so much Janice xox
Amazinggg
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Thanks so much My x
Great post….will add to my collection now after your recommendations!
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Enjoy ALva xox
Amazing thanks so much Denise!!
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No thank you Muireann x
Congratulations Denise on your blog will definitely be reading some of these books have a lot of admiration for you I have been following you on instagram since Ciaran got sick I keep you both in my prayers all the time please god it won’t be long till you both get back to living your best life keep up doing what your doing you will come out of this trying time a better person stronger and ready for the next chapter you have so much to look forward too
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Thanks so much Carol xox
Power of Now sounds like exactly what I’ve been looking for. Lining it up on Audible for next month.
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Enjoy Keith – let me know how you get on xox
Some great suggestions that I’ve never heard of, will definitely be purchasing thanks to you! Look forward to more blog posts (soon please!) Congratulations DK x
Denise,
Delighted you have embarked on this blog journey. Loving the book recommendations.
I’m sure these are in your Top 100 – The Happiness Project, Gretchen Rubin and The 5 second rule, Mel Robbins
I look forward to reading your list.. those I’ve not read…thank you.
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Thanks so much Stephanie… now added to the list – I love Mel Robbins
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Thanks so much Julie – I wouldn’t have done this without you xox
Love sarah knight book and want read oprah book. Love this blog you write so naturally and from the heart. Well done you have to keep this up
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Thanks so much Denise x
A good list there – thanks for the recommendation!!
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Thanks AEB x
I read the men are from mars women are from venus on your recommendation abt a yr into my relationship and it was LIFE CHANGING!!
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Sarah… I wasn’t lying when I titled this blog post – LIFE CHANGING
Well done Denise! You are a breathe of fresh air and so positive. I love your posts. Will be working my way through this list xx
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Thanks so much Emma xox
I’ve read several of your recommendations so I’m excited to read some more of what you have listed! Looking forward to seeing what’s to come on your blog! I admire your strength and good humour through the difficult times you have both been through. Please god you’re on the home stretch and ready to live a happy and healthy life you both deserve!
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Thanks so much Claire x
Great recommendations and I will be going ahead and reading at least one of these over the summer. Thanks so much for sharing.
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Enjoy Fiona – thanks so much x
Congratulations Denise I’ll definitely be purchasing some of these!! X
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<3 Thanks Eleanor enjoy xox
Great blogpost, I’m going to add a few of those to my collection thank you. I’m looking forward to your next post already 👍
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Thanks so much Amanda xox
You’re one of my favourite people to follow, I’m so glad you have launched this website. Best wishes with your new journey
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Thanks so much Becca xox
I want them all! Fab first post Denise, can not wait to see more. You are a truly incredible person and your positivity is contagious.
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Thanks so much Kate xox
Congratulations Denise! Love following you every day. You bring me back to reality and have given me so much perspective on rubbish that happens in my life. Things that I used to care about, that I thought mattered but that I just let go off now. Thanks for putting together this list of your Top Ten life changing books! I’m missing Three from this list that I certainly will be getting now! Thanks for your positivity. It’s so welcome in this crazy world! Warmest hugs to you and Ciaran, Oonagh
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Oonagh, Thanks so much for this gorgeous message. You are always so suportive <3
Denise I am so delighted you wrote your first blog and decided to start with the book recommendations. As you know I have been waiting on this list for a while and it did not disappoint. I like you am an avid reader of such books but some I never knew and will be buying once back from holidays. A fabulous first blog and well put together and I know will be of great help to people who are struggling or need to change their life. Can’t wait for the next one. Hugh Hugh congratulations 👍👍
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Donna thanks so much for the continued support xox
Fab, congrats on the blog I only just discovered you! Great booklist of some I have already and some I’ve been thinking of getting so now I willl x
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Thanks so much xox
Great list, haven’t read most of them. Thanks for the suggestions, will defo be purchasing a few!
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Enjoy Joy – let me know how you get on xox
These are great recommendations! I’m not a great reading either so it’s good to know these are still accessible. I’m definitely going to jump in and pick one to read….. Luke your blogpost, could be the first of many!! Keep it going Denise! 🔥
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Try one Sinead you will love it – much easier to read than you think! xox
Awwwww Denise, you are simply amazing. So proud to call you family. Keep doing what you’re doing. I am in love with you and your positivity. Wishing you and Ciaran all the best in your road to recovery.
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Thanks so much Cuz xx
I’ve read some of these and have now added the rest to my reading list! Great first post and looking forward to many more! xx
Beautylymin
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Thanks so much xx
Denise, you are one inspirational lady!! Well done on your blog – only you could turn adversity into something positive. Love following your journey & wishing you every success x
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Eimear thanks so much for this gorgeous message xox
Thanks for sharing, think I could be doing with reading these to feel happier and content x
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Try one… you wont look back xx