There are many books and textbooks on self-development (), but it is often very difficult to understand what is worth reading for you. This article aims to dispel such doubts. Books are grouped into categories: business, speed reading and memory, oratory, creativity and heuristics, leadership. These are not all books and not all topics related to self-improvement and personal growth, but they are the most popular and discussed on the Internet.
The rating of books was formed on the basis of their presence in the tops of Internet reviews, as well as the personal opinion of the authors of the site. In addition, in the list of books you will find useful links, by clicking on which you can download, read online or buy the book you need for free.
business thinking
The business mindset development books we can recommend will enable you to master the basic level principles of investment, asset management, successful business. All of these books were written by successful entrepreneurs and managers and, in fact, are a reflection of the life experiences of their authors.
Rich dad, poor dad. Robert T. Kiyosaki
A book by Japanese-American businessman Robert Kiyosaki. According to Kiyosaki, people struggle all their lives for financial well-being because they do not know the laws by which money works. The book is based on 2 different principles of education on issues related to money. Robert adopted these principles from his own father, a civil servant, and from the father of his friend Mike, a businessman who, according to Kiyosaki, later became one of the richest people in Hawaii. Little Robert chose the path suggested by his friend's father and achieved financial well-being. At 47, he was able to leave his business and engage in educational activities.
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Think and get rich! Napoleon Hill
Book by American writer, journalist and psychologist Napoleon Hill. It was first published in 1937. While the title implies that this book is about how to become rich, the author makes it clear that the philosophy it outlines can be used to help people succeed in all areas. This book is number six on BusinessWeek's business bestseller list and is also on the John Maxwell's A Lifetime "Must Read" Books List. By the time of Hill's death in 1970, the book had sold 20 million copies.
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Who stole my cheese? Spencer Johnson
This is a small book-parable, which is read in just 30-40 minutes. The author's idea is simple: change because it is inevitable. Company executives truckload the book and hand out copies to employees so they don't go into a stupor when faced with changing circumstances. Over 20 million copies of this book have been sold.
Six Sigma Course. How General Electric, Motorola and other leading companies in the world are improving their craft. Peter S. Pandy, Robert P. Newman, Roland R. Caveneg
Motorola and General Electric managers developed Six Sigma in the 1970s and 1980s, and in the 2000s, the method of management went mainstream, thanks in part to this book. The essence of the concept boils down to the need to improve the quality of the outputs of each of the processes, to minimize defects and statistical deviations in operating activities. The concept uses quality management methods, including statistical methods, requires the use of measurable goals and results, and also involves the creation of special working groups in the enterprise that carry out projects to eliminate problems and improve processes.
From good to great. Why some companies make breakthroughs and others don't. Jim Collins
How do companies become not only successful, but also profitable, and remain so for a long time? To answer this question, Collins deeply studied the experience of 1.4 thousand companies from the Fortune 500 list. In the preface to the book it is written that everyone knows a rather common phrase - "perfect is the enemy of good", and Collins, who has devoted many years to analyzing the principles of transition from good indicators to outstanding ones, he considers the opposite: “good is the enemy of the great”.
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And also pay attention to the list of Time magazine, which in 2011 selected 25 publications that have already brought up several generations of successful managers and are still relevant.
Speed reading and memory
What can I read to learn how to read quickly? Today there are many books on the subject. Most of them contain the same information. Of the most interesting and different from other textbooks, the following books can be distinguished.
Improve your memory. Tony Buzan
The invention of Tony Buzan in the field of human memory is a self-expanding general mnemonic matrix (Self-Enhancing Master Memory Matrix, or simply SEM3). This technique allows you to greatly facilitate and speed up the memorization of any text. The book sets out a system of coherent presentation, explains the mnemonic principles on the basis of which it is necessary to create images that are easy to remember. In addition, the publication contains a large number of interesting and varied examples of phenomenal memory.
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Count in your mind like a computer. Bill Handley
A simple and effective method of instant mental counting for children and adults. Proven methods are offered that allow you to perform calculations in your head with the speed of lightning, such as multiplication, division, addition and subtraction of numbers, operations with fractions, extracting square and cube roots. The main counting method used by the author is the reference number.
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Speed reading technique. Oleg Andreev
This book, one of the most fundamental textbooks on technology fast reading. If you want to learn as much as possible about the principles of speed reading and the rationale for various techniques, this book will be of great interest to you. You can buy books on the website of the Oleg Andreev School by signing up for the course.
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Speed reading at the speed of light. Joseph Bennet
The authors of the book promise to teach you speed reading in a month. Enough popular book in runet. The author believes that it is necessary to read with pleasure. Whether you read technical literature, children's books, novels, or magazine articles, enjoyment is the most important component of effective reading. Relax, let the content capture your attention and interest.
PhotoReading. Paul Shelley
PhotoReading is one of the most quick ways reading. According to the author, it is possible to develop a reading speed of up to 25,000 words per minute. The author focuses on the work of the subconscious. Despite the fact that the technique raises many doubts, there are schools that teach this method of speed reading.
Communications and leadership
The best leadership books listed below are suitable for both men and women and will allow you to develop useful personal qualities. The personality of the leader and his behavior largely determine the fate of both the leader himself and the people he influences. Once you develop a certain way of thinking as a leader, you can easily follow the principles described in the books that will lead you to success.
How to win friends and influence people. Dale Carnegie
This book is perhaps the most famous work of Dale Carnegie. How to Win Friends and Influence People - Meeting practical advice and life stories of the author. This book, like others, teaches readers to believe in their own strength and develop business skills, relieves complexes, revealing the secrets of mastering the art of communication, and also helps to earn more.
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Leader personality. Brian Tracy
Brian Tracy has studied the behavior of many successful and highly effective people to understand the dynamics of leadership and identify turning points in their lives. As a result, the author has collected simple, but deep enough methods that will allow you to achieve success without compromising your personal life. Through these methods, you can become a person capable of taking responsibility for yourself and others. And as a result, you will become an authoritative person.
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Recognize a liar by the expression on his face. Paul Ekman
This book will interest not only fans of the television series "Theory of Lies", but also those who hear about it for the first time. Here the writer and psychologist Paul Ekman continues what he started in The Psychology of Lies interesting topic recognition of deception when communicating with a potential liar or a person who, for some reason, is trying to hide the truth from his interlocutor. This book will allow you to learn how to accurately recognize a lie by reading the face of a speaking person.
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10 commandments every business leader must break. Donald Q
Donald R. Q, ex-president of the Coca-Cola Company, believes that it is very easy to become a failure in business. There are ten serious miscalculations - everyone should have known them long ago - that are guaranteed to ensure a complete failure in business. These include “don’t take risks”, “don’t be flexible”, “isolate yourself”, “believe in your infallibility”, “play the game on the verge of a foul”, and others. The 10 Commandments is a warning, an ironic "bible" for leaders, written by a man who has come a long way in developing his own business.
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Games People Play. Eric Bern
The book highlights the psychological problems of human relations in accordance with the original concept of the author, which lies in line with the psychoanalytic trend. Despite the controversial concept of Bern, many ideas and observations based on his rich experience as a psychotherapist can be useful for a wide range of readers, especially when resolving conflicts that arise in the process of communication between men and women, parents and children, etc.
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The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership. John Maxwell
This book is a collection of laws that, according to the author, form the foundation of leadership in any area where you are called to lead people. In each chapter, John reveals the essence of the next law of leadership, showing by the example of the successes and failures of others, how you can apply this law in your life.
Creativity and heuristics
Books on creativity and heuristics (invention) are useful for people who want to develop their creative abilities. This rating is based on . According to the authors of the site, these books are most aimed at developing applied creativity skills that can be useful in any field of activity.
Lateral Marketing: A Technology for Searching for Revolutionary Ideas. Philip Kotler, Fernando Trias De Bes
The concept of lateral marketing is a development of Edward de Bono's idea of lateral thinking. Despite the fact that the book is called "Lateral Marketing", its main content concerns the way of creative thinking. And some of the concepts from this book formed the basis of our training on the development of creative thinking.
Six Hats of Thinking. Edward De Bono
In this book, the famous lateral thinker Edward de Bono shows his original approach to improve the thought process. The method of six thinking hats is based on the fact that we can think in 6 different ways, and in order to distinguish these ways, 6 hats of different colors were invented as an association for better assimilation of the material. Continuing the analogy, de Bono develops the theory of six thinking hats by the fact that these hats can be put on, changed, taken off, etc.
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Tricks of the tongue - changing beliefs with the help of NLP. Robert Dilts
This textbook is one of the most popular works in our country by Robert Dilts, an NLP trainer and practitioner. Despite the fact that the author of the book is a true master of Neuro Linguistic Programming, this book will be useful not only for training communication skills or for creating internal psychological balance, but also for developing creativity and creative thinking.
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The innovator's dilemma. Clayton Christensen
This book is not about success stories, but about the reasons for failures in an innovative and developing economy. A Harvard Business School professor explains why once-successful companies go bankrupt and what happens to those who turn a blind eye to new technologies and market trends. The main lesson of the book is to adapt sooner and more often, even if it hurts today's profits.
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Introduction to TRIZ. Basic concepts and approaches. Heinrich Altshuller
This book is a systematic description of the basic concepts, terms, models and approaches of TRIZ as presented by the first developer of the theory Genrikh Saulovich Altshuller. The book is primarily aimed at those interested in TRIZ-RTV-TRTL, as well as teachers of these disciplines. The book is presented in an electronic version on the official website of the TRIZ creator.
Oratory
Below are useful and smart books on how to master public speaking and rhetoric skills. If you are interested in this direction, pay attention to on our website.
Textbook of rhetoric. Speech training with exercises. Heinz Lemmermann
This book on rhetoric was written by the German professor of Bremen University X. Lemmermann almost in the middle of the last century. The book is intended as a systematic introduction to modern rhetoric for all readers without special philological and linguistic education. Heinz Lemmermann is trying to popularize the key concepts and principles of rhetoric that are necessary for each of us. The textbook is suitable for both adults and students. Thanks to him, everyone can master the course of rhetoric offered by the author and learn how to speak clearly and convincingly in public.
How to develop self-confidence and influence people by speaking in public. Dale Carnegie
This book first saw the light in 1956 in the United States, being a revision and addition to Carnegie's previous works on public speaking. Many people know that Dale Carnegie is a famous self-taught psychologist. But few people know that he founded his own Institute for Effective oratory and human relations” (Dale Carnegie Institute for Effective Speaking and Human Relations). Rhetoric, eloquence and skill in public speaking have always interested this famous American teacher, psychologist and writer.
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Black rhetoric. Carsten Bredemeyer
Carsten Bredemeyer is a well-known specialist in German-speaking Europe. Black rhetoric according to Bredemeyer is the ability to manipulate all rhetorical means and methods so that in the process of negotiations or speeches, the opponent or audience comes to the conclusion you need. It is also the ability to resolve contradictions, turn the negative thinking and behavior of the interlocutor into positive and constructive, not lose your head in heated debates and behave confidently.
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How to talk to anyone, anytime, anywhere. Larry King
Larry King is one of the most famous people in the United States, the host of the popular CNN talk show, which is considered an honor by the most prominent figures in politics, business, sports and the arts. In How to Talk to Anyone, Anytime, Anywhere, communication master Larry King shares his secrets with readers.
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Body language. Allan Pease and Barbara Pease
According to the authors of this book, the feelings and thoughts of a person are easy to guess by his posture, facial expressions and gestures. Understanding non-verbal language greatly facilitates the task of choosing the right line of conduct in friendly and business communication and making important decisions. This book by Allan and Barbara Pease has been a worldwide bestseller for over two decades. Its total circulation has already amounted to about a hundred million copies, and it has been translated into 36 languages.
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Efficiency and self-motivation
The books and tutorials below will be useful to those who are interested in the principles and increasing their own productivity. These books are famous successful people share the secrets of their high performance and efficiency. It is worth noting that the books themselves are a motivating factor, after which you will want to immediately get down to business.
To hell with all of it! Take it and do it! Richard Branson
The author of this book, Sir Richard Branson, is more than just a talented entrepreneur who built the unique Virgin brand. He is also a bright, non-standard personality. Branson's book is a manifesto of life, action, risk. The credo of its author is to take everything from life. It means not being afraid to do what you want. At the same time, it does not matter at all whether you have enough experience, skills, knowledge and education. Life is too short to waste it on things that don't bring you pleasure. If you have a head on your shoulders and enough enthusiasm in your heart, any goal will be possible. If you like something, do it. If you don't like it, don't hesitate.
How to get things in order. The art of stress-free productivity. David Allen
From this book by David Allen, you will learn how to separate the important from the minor, set goals and prioritize correctly, increase personal organization, plan and save time. Organization is not an innate ability, but a skill that can be learned. The book talks about simple techniques focused on increasing productivity. The author claims that the main thing is the ability to relax, our efficiency depends on it. Consciousness must be clear and organized.
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Geniuses and outsiders. Gladwell Malcolm
Malcolm Gladwell reveals the hidden laws of leadership and success in his book. These laws explain why great hockey players are usually born in January and almost never in October; why Asian students find mathematics easier than others; why you have to be Jewish to be a prestigious New York lawyer. The book shows what Bill Gates, the Beatles and Mozart have in common and why they managed to outdo their peers and competitors.
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The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Powerful tools. Stephen R. Covey
This is one of the best-selling business books of all time, but it's not just for business, it's for any business. The book presents readers with a holistic technology for resolving problems that arise in everyday life, in personal life or in the course of performing official duties in the workplace. Having studied the principles underlying the proposed approach, and having trained to apply them in practice, any reasonable person will be able to learn how to correctly and safely respond to changing circumstances, master the wisdom and strength of a successful person.
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Effective time management. Brian Tracy
A book by an eminent American specialist in topical issues social psychology Brian Tracy includes the main theoretical positions and methodology of modern time management. Brian Tracy himself speaks to audiences in 90 countries on six continents and speaks four languages. He has a remarkable ability to grab and hold an audience's attention, using a combination of stories, examples, humor, practical ideas to get results quickly. In general, this person has a lot to learn.
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You can find a lot of useful information in books. You get the experience of people who have already figured it out - they have learned how to solve problems, build relationships, and have formulated their knowledge in an accessible form for everyone interested. This is why self-improvement books can change your life. In matters of self-development, they are simply irreplaceable. There are many amazing works that help to become better, stronger and happier. Here is a list of twenty books you should definitely read. They can seriously affect your life, as they have already affected the lives of thousands of people.
Dale Carnegie, How to Win Friends and Influence People
This book really helps to achieve what it promises. This classic was published in 1936 and has since been reprinted numerous times in various formats. The book contains simple steps to improve your communication skills and strengthen relationships, each illustrated with examples from real life from Carnegie himself and people he knew. Even one piece of advice - to use a person's name more often in a conversation - can already transform your life.
Manuel Smith, "When I Say No, I Feel Guilty"
Many people have trouble setting boundaries - they find it hard to stand up for themselves, learn to say no, and defend their beliefs. Some become dependent on others, taking their problems and emotions as their responsibility. In Smith's book, you can find information on how to learn to assert your boundaries with simple techniques, how to open up to those who deserve the energy spent on them, and how to exclude people from your life who ruin your mood.
Bren Brown, "The Power of Vulnerability"
This book is an impeccable motivation, a source of incredible change. In modern society, no one talks about their weaknesses, no one wants to admit their shortcomings. Yet being able to recognize them is a real advantage. The book will help those who are ready to think more broadly, change themselves and their approach to weaknesses. To be successful, you need to be vulnerable and willing to take risks.
Gary Chapman, The Five Love Languages
Many people believe that love is a simple exchange of words and it exists effortlessly. And this is wrong. In fact, maintaining a relationship is not easy at all. After the honeymoon, the relationship gets worse. This book will help strengthen them. You will be able to find out exactly what manifestations of love your partner and you need, start applying them and notice a quick result. The principles described in the book are applicable not only to personal life, but also to everyday communication. 
Eckhart Tolle, "The Power of Now"
This book teaches you to live in the present. Perhaps its content is repeated in places, but it helps to understand the essence. It contains examples of how people behave throughout the day in relation to others. This book will help you deal with the clutter in your thoughts and find the serenity of the present moment.
William Irvine, "Stoicism"
Irvine presents the classic philosophy of Stoicism, which is being reimagined in modern times, supplementing his reasoning with tools and practical advice that will improve the quality of your life. The information is based on personal experience and really helps to become happier and calmer.
Timothy Ferris, "How to Work Four Hours"
This phenomenal book has pushed many people to forget about the standard work schedule. Most likely, you will either like it, or it will annoy, but it definitely will not go unnoticed. Ferris is trying to make people realize that their time is limited and sitting those hours in the office is not the best option.
MJ DeMarco, "A book for those who dare to make money"
This book contains a lot of repetition of the same ideas, but it is motivating enough to start doing your own business, and provides a lot of useful information that will be useful to everyone.
Chip and Den Heath, "Resolute"
Many people find it difficult to make decisions. It seems like making a list of pros and cons, but sometimes it doesn't work. best result. The Heath brothers help divide the decision-making process into four steps. It changes your behavior.
Gary Vaynerchuk, "Passion is business"
Vaynerchuk is the owner of a large Internet empire. His book will help you learn how to build a successful online business with step-by-step instructions.
Robert Glover, Stop Being Nice Guy!
This is a very short book, but effective. She describes the Good Guy Syndrome - what causes men to lie, manipulate, cheat and pretend instead of facing reality.
David Deida, The Way of the Real Man
This book is a spiritual guide for a man who wants to be a man - in the traditional sense of the word. How to deal with women? What is masculine energy? How to achieve happiness? The book contains answers to all these questions. 
Mark Manson, "Models"
There are many books on how to start dating women, but most of them contain only ready-made phrases or describe too complicated theories. Others focus too much on sex. Manson transforms the approach to meetings with the opposite sex and teaches to get the most positive emotions from communication, behave naturally and feel comfortable.
Viktor Frankl, Man's Search for Meaning
This book is filled with inspiration. Frankl talks about his life in captivity and concentration camp, about returning home. He is sure that as long as a person has a goal in life, he will be able to survive in any conditions. Just find your purpose.
Maxwell Maltz, "Psychological Cybernetics"
The plastic surgeon's book tells that many people want to change their appearance, but in fact they need internal changes. Maltz talks about relaxation techniques that can help.
James Allen, How a Man Thinks
A short essay that contains an important point - your thoughts determine the reality in which you live.
Dan Ariely, Predictable Irrationality
Ariely analyzes why people do what they do. People seem to be logical, but everything is controlled by emotions. This book will help you deal with the subconscious mind and become a better person.
Robert Cialdini, The Psychology of Influence
This book will help you learn how to manage people not only in personal relationships, but also at work, at job interviews.
Matt Ridley, The Red Queen
Why do men tend to seek multiple partners? Why are women so selective? What is hidden in our genes? Ridley's book will help you understand a lot about relationships.
Rolf Plotts, "Vagabondage"
This book will inspire you to travel. Plotts is confident that it's worth traveling slowly, he shares a list of necessary things and many useful tips.
Personal growth helps to change life circumstances, get rid of stereotypical thinking, start living meaningfully, awaken in oneself creativity. All this should contribute to prosperity and success. Books about how to properly engage in self-development.
Why is it useful to engage in self-development? Because, according to psychologists, personal growth helps us change, which means changing life circumstances, getting rid of stereotypes of thinking, starting to live meaningfully, awakening creativity in ourselves and increasing physical and spiritual energy, which will ultimately lead to prosperity and success. . Self-development involves three processes: physical activity, healthy nutrition and mental self-regulation. We read about how to do this correctly in the best books on a given topic.
1. Brian Tracy Get out of your comfort zone. 21 Methods for Improving Personal Efficiency"
According to many psychologists, this is book number 1 on self-development (see ""). Written by a famous specialist in the field of achievement psychology, published in a total circulation of more than 1.2 million copies, translated into 40 languages, it helps to find the answer to the question of what to do in order to achieve a high position and even happiness. Although there are actually several answers, here are some of them: keep learning; value time, and therefore make lists of daily tasks; fully focus on solving the task and bring it to the end; learn to clearly state your goals on paper.
2. Vadim Zeland "Reality Transurfing"
Transurfing is an esoteric teaching on how to control reality. According to the author of the book, the world is multivariate, and a person who has realized his desires and controls his attitude to the world is able to independently choose the scenario that is desirable for himself. But for this and positive thinking. Here are a few rules, following which you can learn to control reality: live as your own soul tells you, listen to your heart, not succumb to other people's influence and not accept the imposed goals of others, not fight with anyone and anything, including oneself, but to take what life offers, not to be afraid, but to act, and calmly and persistently move towards it. How to apply all this in practice, the author shows in detail with examples.
3. Andre Kukla “Mental traps. Stupid things that reasonable people do to ruin their lives"
A well-known Canadian psychologist and philosopher, professor explains why it is impossible to violate the biblical commandment: there is a time for everything. Because in this case we fall into the so-called mental traps. Their danger is that they prevent us from living a calm, joyful and productive life, because they force us to behave inefficiently and illogically. And the author counted eleven such peculiar obstacles on our way. Here is one of them: - when we continue to do something that has lost all meaning (living in marriage, maintaining an unnecessary relationship, doing an unloved job, watching a boring movie or finishing a stupid book), because once we were taught that any business is necessary bring to a conclusion. And the list of mental traps includes amplification, fixation, reversion, lead, delay and other interesting concepts that you want to understand in order to better understand yourself.
4. Vladimir Levy "The Cure for Laziness"
The book of the famous psychotherapist and psychologist captures from the first lines. Written with humor, imbued with energy, it really helps to heal yourself and help your loved ones in overcoming this monster. The author fascinatingly talks about all types of laziness inherent in adults and children, gives clear medical and psychological recommendations, including for cases when the child does not obey, does not want to learn. It is worth reading this book to learn how to get rid of boredom and depressive moods, learn to enjoy every day you live and ... stop being a workaholic.
5. Valery Sinelnikov "Love your disease"
Psychologist and psychotherapist Valery Sinelnikov has long been known as the author of original psychological techniques, thanks to which many people were able to get rid of illnesses, achieve well-being and simply learn to enjoy life. The very title of the book suggests that the proposed approach to healing is not trivial. The author shows what negative emotions lead to, teaches how to interact with your subconscious in order to find good health, peace of mind and the joy of existence. Here are some unique exercises.
6. Robin Sharma "The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari"
The best-selling book tells amazing story successful lawyer Julian Mantle, who managed to overcome a spiritual crisis with the help of Tibetan culture. Immersed in a world that was not familiar to him, he learned simple and wise rules and learned to live in accordance with them: think positively, follow your calling, believe in the power of your mind, value time - our greatest wealth, value relationships with loved ones, but most importantly - live here and now.
Robin Sharma, like the hero of his book, also started his professional career as a lawyer, but soon realized that his calling was not in this, but in creating his own concept of self-improvement, helping us become better, more successful and happier.
7. Tal Ben-Shahar "The Perfectionist Paradox"
An American psychologist who has been studying the subject of happiness for many years has come to the conclusion that happy people hinders the tendency to perfectionism. Of course, the desire to do everything perfectly in itself cannot but arouse respect, but the main thing is not to go to extremes. Because then the problems begin. A perfectionist, with all his striving for perfection, is distinguished by conservative and inflexible thinking, he is afraid to make a mistake and become the object of criticism. Happiness, in his opinion, is a pure, uncomplicated flow of positive emotions, which is fundamentally wrong. Allow yourself to admit failure and accept negative emotions because it is a part of our life. Become an optimalist, that is, a positive perfectionist who enjoys not the result, but the very process of achieving it, does not look for flaws, but focuses on the merits, is not afraid of mistakes and listens to criticism, knows that without trials, happiness cannot be felt and realized .
8. Sharon Melnick "Resilience"
In our time, the importance of this book can hardly be overestimated. Most of us experience continuous mental and emotional pressure. Meanwhile, a Harvard resilience expert offers 100 techniques to help you achieve calmness and equanimity. With their help, you can not only maintain self-control and a sober mind in difficult situations, gaining psychological stability, but also learn to see not only negative aspects in stressful situations, but also new opportunities. According to the author, there are only three ways to get out of stress: you need to change your attitude to the problem, your physical reaction to the problem or the problem.
9. Daniel J. Amen "Brain Fitness, or How to Get Smarter"
To feel good and look great, we run in the morning, walk a lot or work out in the gym. To enjoy our reflection in the mirror, we make masks, peeling and meticulously choose creams. But does not the brain require the same constant and diligent care? More as required! Meanwhile, we often seem to deliberately do everything in order to cause him irreparable harm. We don’t get enough sleep, we overstrain at work, we live in a state of stress, we don’t eat right, we consume liters of mentally stimulating drinks. As a result, we predictably get depletion nervous system and depression, career and personal failures.
Fortunately, you can still get out of this "bottom" with the help of a unique brain healing system developed by Dr. Aymen. It includes a responsible attitude to one's own nutrition, and the intake of vitamins, and physical activity, and gymnastics for the mind. This book can change your life for the better.
10. Harry Lorraine “Supermemory. The development of phenomenal memory "
The book includes two psychological bestsellers by Harry Loraine, famous explorer brain. The unique system of development of mental abilities developed by him allows using not 10 percent of brain resources, as is usually the case, but all 90! Having mastered this system, you will notice not only increased observation, sharpened attention, increased ability to concentrate, but also a phenomenal improvement in memory, imagination, and creativity. Moreover, the proposed method is relatively simple and accessible, not without reason that the author called it "a method for the lazy."
The first part of the book is devoted to the basic techniques and methods of memorizing large amounts of information. The second is the application of the acquired skills in everyday life.
Stephen Covey: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
This book is the world's super bestseller, the number 1 work on the topic personal growth. This book sets out systems approach to the definition of life goals, human priorities. These goals are different for everyone, but the book helps to understand yourself and clearly formulate life goals. The book shows how to achieve these goals. The book shows how each person can become a better person. And this is not about changing the image, but about real changes, self-improvement in essence.
B Ryan Tracy: Get out of your comfort zone. Change your life. 21 Methods for Improving Personal Efficiency and
The book presents the result of more than thirty years of studying the issues of time management. She talks about how to reach a solution challenging tasks leaving the comfort zone. Galileo once wrote: “A person cannot be taught anything; one can only help him find it in himself.” The practical advice given in the book will allow you to discover reserves that you did not even suspect, and correctly prioritize your affairs, correctly plan your daily routine, and always work with maximum efficiency.
Sher, Gottlieb: Dreaming is not harmful. How to get what you really want
A legendary book about how to realize yourself in life. This humane, practical book will allow anyone to turn their vague desires and dreams into concrete results. After reading it, you will learn: How to discover your strengths and hidden talents; How to turn your fears and negative emotions to your advantage; How to outline the path to the goal and indicate the timing of its achievement; How to track your progress daily; How to create a network of useful contacts and sources of information.
Gleb Arkhangelsky: Time Drive. How to manage to live and work
The most useful and entertaining book on time management. The first popular book on time management in the conditions of Russian "off-road and slovenliness". In the simplest form, step by step, using real Russian examples, Time Drive answers questions main question: how to get more done? Advice is given on the organization of working time and rest, on motivation and goal setting, planning, prioritization, etc.
Canfield, Hansen, Hewitt: A Whole Life. Key Skills to Achieve Your Goals
Life is not just a series of random events. It is a matter of choosing specific actions in a given situation. Ultimately, it is your daily choices that determine your future. Having a clearly defined goal doubles the chances of achieving it. This book will teach you how to set ambitious, achievable and close goals. It will help you focus on the essentials and let go of the unimportant. You will take the time to think carefully and write down your goals and priorities.
Neil Fiore: The Easy Way to Start new life. How to get rid of stress, internal conflicts and bad habits
Neil Fiore, a professional psychologist, knows how to help. Using his rich experience and the latest discoveries of neuropsychology, he developed an effective technique that allows you to "turn off" negative thoughts. And by teaching your brain to respond to everyday events in new ways, you can overcome bad habits, reduce stress, and increase your efficiency and creativity. These are all steps in the gradual process of unlocking your true potential.
Brian Tracy: Motivation
According to Brian Tracy, the point of effective motivation is to create an environment in which every person wants and can work 100%. Clear principles and clear examples in this book will help you cope with a difficult task. The book tells about what staff productivity depends on, how to hire the right employees and whether it is worth immediately loading newcomers with work, how to set tasks and monitor their implementation.
Burch, Penman: Mindful Meditation. A practical guide to relieving pain and stress
This book contains simple practices that you can apply in your daily life to deal with pain and stress. Clinical researches show that mindful meditation is as effective as painkillers. A recent study in the Journal of Neuroscience found it to be more effective than morphine. It can also reduce anxiety, depression, irritability, fatigue, and insomnia. The eight-week program will require only 10-20 minutes a day.
Bruce Lee: The Way of the Preemptive Fist
The book covers not only the physical, but also the spiritual aspects of self-improvement. Behind the description of the technique is a deep philosophy of a man who was strict with himself, stubbornly followed the chosen path and therefore achieved success. A collection of notes by the legendary Bruce Lee. At first glance, they are dedicated to the martial art of Jeet Kune Do, training and practicing techniques. Jeet Kune Do combines many styles of martial arts, English and Filipino boxing.
Campbell, Campbell: A Chinese Study. Findings from the largest study on nutrition and health
The author of the book, a specialist in biochemistry, made a number of discoveries that changed views on nutrition. It turns out that the foods that we feed our children, considering them healthy, lead to the emergence of killer diseases: cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The "China Study" came about after examining mortality statistics in China. The study identified more than 8,000 relationships between nutrition and disease.
Barbara Sher: What to dream about. How to understand what you really want, and how to achieve it
A book for those who do not yet know what they want in life. The book will lead you not to another boring job, but to a career that reflects your talents and dreams. You will understand how to re-believe in "long-forgotten" goals, overcome barriers on the way and decide who you want to become. After reading the book, you will learn: What to do if you have never clearly set yourself goals in life; How to get off the beaten track and find your way; How to overcome chronic self-criticism and negative attitude; How to rebuild when you've lost your big dream.
Oliver Sachs: The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat and Other Stories from the Doctor's Practice
Oliver Sacks is a renowned neurologist and neuropsychologist. “The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat” is the story of people struggling to overcome serious and unusual mental disorders and struggling to survive in conditions completely unimaginable for healthy people – and about mystics of the past, possessed by visions that science confidently diagnoses as manifestations of severe neuroses. The strange, incomprehensible relationship between the brain and consciousness Sachs explains in an accessible, lively and interesting way.
Sue Hadfield: What's stopping you?
Your life path depends on your decisions and your choices. But trying to change many aspects of your life at once and achieve success both at work and in your personal life can lead you to relapse and feelings of helplessness. Change yourself on the way to a better life you need to step by step, changing only one thing. Only one change can change the course of life, improve health, mood, success at work and at home. Once you feel this impact, you can continue the series of changes, one after the other.
Richard Branson: To hell with everything! Take it and do it!
Branson is a bright, non-standard personality. His credo is to take everything from life. It means not being afraid to do what you want. It does not matter at all whether you have enough knowledge, experience or education. If you have a head on your shoulders and enough enthusiasm in your soul, any goal will be on the shoulder. Life is too short to waste it on things that don't bring you pleasure. If you like something, do it. If you don't like it, drop it without hesitation. Branson offers "rules of life" to help guide you on your path to spiritual growth and self-expression.
AT Iktor Frankl: Say "Yes" to life!
Viktor Frankl (1905-1997) is a famous Austrian psychotherapist, psychologist and philosopher. During the Second World War, he got a terrible opportunity to test his own concept. After going through the Nazi death camps, he saw that the greatest chance to survive in inhuman conditions was not strong in body, but strong in spirit. Those who knew what they live for. Frankl himself had something to live for: he took with him to the concentration camp a manuscript that was to become a great book.
Irvin Yalom: When Nietzsche Wept
Fact and fiction, obligation and freedom - the dramatic events unfold against the backdrop of the intellectual ferment of 19th century Vienna, on the eve of the birth of psychoanalysis. An outstanding patient... A talented doctor... A secret pact. The combination of these elements gives rise to a saga of alleged relationships between the greatest philosopher of Europe (Nietzsche) and one of the founding fathers of psychoanalysis (Breuer). Yalom pulls not only Nietzsche and Breuer into action, but also Lou Salome, “Anna O.” and young intern Freud.
Mikhail Litvak: The principle of the spermatozoon
The manual tells about the techniques and methods used by the author in group psychotherapy sessions, psychological trainings, as well as in individual family and industrial counseling (purposeful modeling of emotions, psychological aikido, scenario reprogramming, etc.). Described uniting them general principle. A fascinating and unusual manner of presentation makes the book accessible to a wide range of readers interested in the psychology of communication.
Erich Fromm: The Art of Loving
Fromm is an outstanding psychologist and philosopher, perhaps more than anyone who fully reflected in his texts the intellectual life, peaks and tragedy of the human spirit. Fromm created humanistic psychoanalysis - a holistic philosophical and psychological doctrine and worldview system. The book includes Fromm's works on issues of human existence - human nature, love, responsibility for one's life.
Dan Buettner: Blue Zones. 9 Longevity Rules From People Who Live Longest
Many want to live as long as possible, but everyone is afraid of old age. Too zealously cultivated image of youth in society. There are “blue zones” on Earth, whose inhabitants are distinguished by enviable longevity. At the same time they are happy, healthy and cheerful. Dan Buettner made several expeditions to each of these regions, conducted many interviews with centenarians and revealed the secrets of their cheerfulness and wellness. Do you want to know what circumstances - from diet to attitudes - contribute to this?
Kelly McGonigal: Willpower. How to develop and strengthen
Health, financial situation, relationships with others and professional success depend on willpower - this is known fact. But why do we so often lack this very willpower: here we are in control of ourselves, and the next moment we are overwhelmed by feelings, and we lose control? How to stop putting things off until the last minute? How to learn to focus and cope with stress? How to maintain self-control? How to get rid of bad habits?
Yana Frank: Muse, where are your wings? A book about how to defend your desire to make creativity a profession
If a person is not busy with his own business, he loses the meaning of life. But if this very “own business” implies pure creativity, then often the desire to do it runs into a sharp misunderstanding of others. Life turns into an exhausting struggle, after which there is no strength left to create and enjoy anything. The world around is strewn with fallen feathers from the wings, and many people who have lost access to the source of inspiration are engaged in an unloved business and are angry at everyone and everything. And their ranks are constantly replenished.
The Dalai Lama: The Path of a True Leader
The book is about how a true leader recognizes the inevitability of change, anticipates the need for responsibility and understands the importance of bringing moral values into the economic system. About how improving the quality of decisions will change the world for the better. The book is valuable in the very fact of the cooperation of people leading different lifestyles and representing different cultures and values. It shows a model of the dialogue that needs to be conducted between people, cultures, countries, when the parties are trying to find mutual understanding.
Alice Miller: The Drama of a Gifted Child and the Search for Self
Psychotherapist Alice Miller's book "The Drama of the Gifted Child" is a world bestseller. It is devoted to the study of the nature of children's mental trauma received in the course of education. In his book, the author raises the most important problem: how repressed traumatic experiences affect a person's personal life and social success and give rise to mental illness. The crippling effects of educating adults and psychotherapy of psychic traumas received in early childhood are shown.
Speeches that changed the world
The book brings together more than 50 public speeches by a variety of historical figures and politicians - from the biblical prophet Moses to President George W. Bush. The British writer and historian Simon Seabag Montefiore is known to the Russian reader for the bestsellers Potemkin and Stalin: The Court of the Red Monarch. In Speeches That Changed the World, Montefiore highlights key moments in human history and reveals their meaning through leaders' proclamations.
Today in our article we will try to answer the question of what books to read for self-development. Such publications are now very popular, as they can help a person not only with the definition of a life goal and its achievement, but also improve relations in the family and society, win over others, and achieve inner harmony. But which options should you pay attention to?
What book is worth reading for self-development?
First, let's turn to publications that are suitable for reading by both men and women. Basically, such books are aimed at helping the reader achieve his goal. Moreover, this goal can be in the field of business, love relationship, interaction with society or personal gaining calm and confidence.
"Rich dad, poor dad"
So, which book should you read for self-development in the first place? It's best to start with this world bestseller by Robert Kiyosaki. The basis of the book was a comparison of the business views of Robert's father, who was a civil servant, and his friend's father, running his own business. As a result, the latter became rich and successful person. It was his path to success that Robert himself chose, who achieved considerable success in business.
"Money Ceiling Quadrant"
This book was also written by Robert Kiyosaki. But this time the work is devoted not so much to business as to the thinking of rich people. The author helps readers understand how rich people think. What helps them work less and earn more, pay low taxes and feel financially independent.
The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People
Stephen Covey, the author of this book, offered a completely new look at management systems and the very concept of leadership in a team. This book presents an approach to improving your personal effectiveness. The author calls skills a set of knowledge, skills and desires. And the 7 skills presented in the book are arranged in ascending order depending on the level of maturity of the individual.
"To hell with all of it! Take it and do it!
So, what other book is worth reading for self-development? This is, of course, the work of Branson Richard. The book is a kind of manifesto of the author, it reflects his position in relation to life. Richard suggests taking everything from life, not being afraid to take risks and act. At the same time, it does not matter at all whether there is enough life experience or knowledge to implement the plan. The main thing is not to stand still.
"How to Win Friends and Influence People"
This is the most popular and famous book by Dale Carnegie. It is a collection of practical tips and lessons on how to communicate with people. At first glance, the book may seem a little strange or unusual, but it works. Another reason to read this manual will be the fact that it is still used to teach psychology in universities.
“How to work 4 hours a week, while not hanging around in the office “from call to call”, live anywhere and get rich”
If you want to achieve success, but do not put off all the joys of life for later, and do not know what book to read for self-development, this is the work of Timothy Ferris for you. In the book, the author sets out a philosophy of life, according to which there is no need to put off entertainment and spend all your time on work. A person must see his goal, go towards it, but not deny himself all the joys. The book will teach you how to cope with life situations and achieve success without spending 24 hours a day and 7 days a week on it.
"Psychology of lies"
The author of the book is one of the most famous modern psychologists Paul Ekman. The subject of his study has always been the phenomenon of deception. This popular science publication presents the results of many years of work. The reader will be able to learn how to recognize deception by the behavior, speech, facial expressions and gestures of the interlocutor. This book - tutorial and practical guidance.
"How to make anyone fall in love with you"
The author of the book Lail Lowndes tells readers that in order to be attractive to everyone, you need only 6 ingredients. It is 6 components that are necessary for success, about what they are, the reader will learn after reading the book. In addition, Lowndes shares 85 tricks to help you master love magic and conquer any man or woman.
"Your neighbor is a millionaire"
Many people often wonder why I am not as rich as my acquaintance or friend; how others manage to earn so quickly and so much, etc. Stanley Thomas, the author of the book, will provide answers to these and many other questions. In addition, the author will teach you how to become successful and rich. Many useful tips for improving your financial situation can be found in this book.
Spiritual development
- Particular attention should be paid to Osho, the Indian spiritual teacher. His works help to find harmony and comprehend the world around. First of all, it is recommended to read: "Mustard Seed", "Be Simple", "Keys to a New Life". The writer's books on meditation techniques are especially popular.
- Books by Louise Hay, based on the personal experience of the writer. Particular attention should be paid to the works "Heal Yourself" and "Woman's Wisdom".
- The author of many world bestsellers Liz Burbo will be interesting: “Your body says: “Love yourself”, “ Big Encyclopedia entities."
- Vadim Zeland and Valery Sinelnikov are especially popular among Russian writers.
Books for women
Now we will try to answer the question of what books a woman should read for self-development.
"Man is from Mars, Woman is from Venus" - a bestseller by the famous psychologist D. Gray, published back in 1992. The book is devoted to the relationship of the sexes and will give answers to many questions regarding personal relationships.
"Running with the Wolves" is the famous book by the master of psychoanalysis and the successor of the Jungian tradition, Clarissa Estes. With the help of myths and fairy tales, the author helps women find themselves, find their way and understand their destiny. This book is dedicated to the full disclosure of female nature.
These are the publications that should be read first of all by any woman. But what books are worth reading for self-development if you are already familiar with the above? Pay attention to the following works.
"Never Eat Alone" is a wonderful book by Kate Ferrazzi dedicated to the rules of dating and continuing relationships.
"Blackberry Wine" by J. Harris will help you sort out life if you no longer understand what is happening around you. The publication will help to find the meaning of life and understand what is happening.
"Duel with treason" - a book by N. Tolstoy intended for women who had to deal with treason. How to survive it, what to do and how to treat it - these and many other questions can be answered by this publication.
The Intuition Tutorial is a book by Laura Day that will help you learn to listen to yourself.
Books for men
"An easy way to start a new life" (N. Fiore). If you decide to change your life in a radical way, then you should start by reading this particular book. It will help you go the chosen path to the end and not turn halfway. You will learn not to put things off until later and unnecessarily complicate your life.
"The wisdom of the crowd" (J. Shuroviesky). It is generally accepted that the society, called the "crowd", harms the individual. However, the author proves that society can help the individual in development and formation. How this happens can be read in detail in the book by James Shuroviesky.
"Do it yourself" (T. Seelig). This is a book about how to achieve success and reach your goal. The author assures that anyone can achieve a lot, but it is necessary to start small. Way to big goal should consist of small tasks, and the implementation of each of them will bring you closer to the final goal. In fact, the author offers a ready-made algorithm of actions that you just need to use.
"The monk who sold his Ferrari" (R. Sharma). This is a book for men who find themselves in a crisis situation. The author tells about a successful lawyer who had everything for happiness, but for some reason there was no happiness. Robin Sharma, who managed to combine Western psychology with ancient Eastern wisdom, will tell about how to get joy and pleasure from life.
What books should a teenager read for self-development?
Children and adolescents, by virtue of their age, develop by reading fiction. It is difficult and uninteresting for them to perceive philosophical or psychological literature even if it is written in a simple and accessible way. Therefore, we will present a list of fiction books that will help a teenager develop his intellect and enrich the spiritual world.
"Harry Potter" (J. Rowling). Fiction is interesting for children at any age, and books about young wizards also "grow" along with their readers. The heroes are not only involved in incredible adventures, they are also worried about common problems for children: the definition of good and evil in ordinary actions, the value of friendship, first love, family ties, etc. In addition, if you are answering the question of what books to read for self-development at 12, then the Harry Potter series is for you.
The Catcher in the Rye (J. Salinger) is a book created for teenagers and describes the life of a teenager. The work is focused around typical teenage problems: misunderstanding of the world and others, an attempt to find the truth, finding oneself, searching for the meaning of life, etc.
"D" Artagnan and the Three Musketeers "(A. Dumas). Adventure literature has always been attractive. In addition, it teaches friendship, devotion, duty, loyalty to one's word, makes clear the value of moral principles.
In addition, you should pay attention to the following works:
- The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings (J.R.R. Tolkien);
- "The Fault in the Stars", "Looking for Alaska" (J. Green);
- "50 days before suicide" (S. Kramer);
- "Percy Jackson" (R. Riordan).
Timeless classic
If you want to know what books to read for self-development, the classics are the best answer. Much classical fiction surpasses modern non-fiction psychological and motivational books. Here is a list of works that you should definitely pay attention to:
- "Idiot", F.M. Dostoevsky;
- "Dead Souls", N.V. Gogol;
- "Eugene Onegin", A.S. Pushkin;
- "Divine Comedy", A. Dante;
- "Romeo and Juliet", W. Shakespeare;
- "Madame Bovary", G. Flaubert.
Thus, there are a great many books for self-development. You can choose for yourself publications both among popular science literature and among the classics.