15 Best Inspirational Books to Transform Your Life

If you’re striving to attain your goals, it’s reassuring to know others have succeeded before you. They have faced similar challenges, found ways to overcome them, and generously shared their insights. Their experiences can provide valuable guidance and inspiration, helping you navigate your own journey toward success. Many people have documented their adventures in helpful books, which might help you push yourself forward. We provide this list of the 15 best inspirational books that will inspire and motivate you, whether you’re seeking happiness or becoming a better friend or leader. Starting with one of these popular titles is a great way to start making positive changes.

At the helm of this exploration is Arvin, your dedicated artificial intelligence assistant, designed to curate insightful recommendations and book summaries. Whether you’re seeking motivation in your personal or professional life, Arvin is here to help you discover books that resonate with your journey.

The Art of Happiness by the Dalai Lama and Howard C. Cutler

According to the Dalai Lama, “the very motif of our life is towards happiness.” Still, reaching that final destination can be easier said than done. Fortunately this philosophically rich, compassionately written handbook is here to guide the way. The Art of Happiness spotlights compassion for others as the key to personal fulfillment — appropriate, since it’s the work of a Nobel Peace Prize winner. The Dalai Lama tag-teams the capacious topic of happiness with psychiatrist Howard C. Cutler as his coauthor, so you can expect scientific as well as spiritual insights here. In the end, this book’s central lesson is at once humbling and deeply motivating: true happiness isn’t a fleeting state, but an art that requires practice.

Educated by Tara Westover

Tara Westover was 17 years old when she stepped into a classroom for the first time. Before, she lived with her Mormon survivalist family in rural Idaho. She worked in her father’s junkyard. They stockpiled herbs for her midwife mother. Influenced by her father’s non-mainstream views, Tara remained unaware of the Holocaust, slavery, or World War II. This changed when she developed a thirst for knowledge. Tara then set out to acquire a formal education.

Educated is the eye-opening, transformative memoir that details this insatiable quest, which spans decades, continents, and universities. Westover is today a Cambridge-educated Ph.D. historian and Gates scholar. Her journey to this point is a coming-of-age story centered on self-invention. It deeply explores the meaning and importance of education. Westover doesn’t shy away from addressing the sacrifices involved, particularly the impact on her family.

Congratulations, By the Way by George Saunders

“Down the rough ages, a traditional form has evolved for this type of speech, which is: Some old fart, his best years behind him, who over the course of his life has made a series of dreadful mistakes (that would be me), gives heartfelt advice to a group of shining, energetic young people with all of their best years ahead of them (that would be you), and I intend to respect that tradition.”

Thus begins George Saunders’ Congratulations, By The Way, a convocation speech for graduates. More aptly, it’s a little masterpiece that inspires and humbles. Humorous, warm, wise, modest, and articulate, Saunders shines in this short manual. He lays out basic principles and tips for a more fulfilling life. One key reminder is to “err in the direction of kindness.”

Big Panda and Tiny Dragon by James Norbury

This uplifting story tells the tale of two friends as they journey through the seasons of the year together. Beautiful illustrations accompany the touching story, as the duo explores the thoughts, emotions, hardships, and happiness that connect us all. Inspired by Buddhist philosophy and spirituality, this book is a beacon of hope in even the most difficult times.

Anatomy of a Breakthrough: How to Get Unstuck When It Matters Most by Adam Alter

Whether you’re navigating a midlife crisis, struggling with writer’s block, stuck in a thankless job, or trying to mend a fraying friendship, Anatomy of a Breakthrough provides the roadmap we all need. It helps us escape inertia and flourish in the face of friction

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Steven R. Covey

First published in 1990, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is regarded as one of the most inspiring and impactful books on personal success. The book aims to fundamentally change your perception of the world. It balances personal and professional effectiveness, guiding you to achieve success in all aspects of your life. There’s a reason this book is a classic and still a bestseller.

Girl, Stop Apologizing: A Shame-Free Plan for Embracing and Achieving Your Goals by Rachel Hollis

Author Rachel Hollis is the founder of a multimillion-dollar media company and has seen too many women sell themselves short throughout her career. She understands the unique pressures women face (whether at home or work), including the pressures women put on themselves. In this life-changing guide, she identifies self-defeating behaviors and how to overcome them.

The Boy, The Mole, The Fox, and The Horse by Charlie Mackesy

This special book has captured hearts around the world, and for good reason. Four unlikely friends discover their story, all while navigating important life lessons. Children and adults alike will fall in love with this artistic and hopeful read.

Sparked: Discover Your Unique Imprint for Work That Makes You Come Alive by Jonathan Fields

Sparked takes you deep into the world of the “Sparketypes,” revealing an entirely new depth of insights about what makes you come alive in.

Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown

From the bestselling author Brené Brown comes this compelling guide to becoming more emotionally fluent. By helping readers to identify, define, and understand their emotions, this book provides a map for the tricky waters of human connection. Based on extensive research, this book provides the essential tools for unlocking the full courageous potential of your life.

Get It Done: Surprising Lessons from the Science of Motivation by Ayelet Fishbach

With fascinating research from the field of motivation science and compelling stories of people who learned to motivate themselves, Get It Done illuminates invaluable strategies for pulling yourself in whatever direction you want to go—so you can achieve your goals while staying healthy, clearheaded, and happy. 

Atomic Habits by James Clear

This phenomenal bestseller is a timeless favourite that can help you live a more productive and fulfilled life. Based on the premise that small changes can yield big results, Atomic Habits outlines how we can all make minuscule changes for a high-impact life. Millions of readers have discovered the life-changing art of habits, will you be next?

Principles: Life and Work by Ray Dalio

Founder of the enormously successful investment firm Bridgewater Associates, Ray Dalio (referred to as the “Steve Jobs of investing”) has written a New York Times Bestseller that details what he’s learned on his journey from ordinary middle-class kid to high-flying executive. He’s found ways for individuals and organizations to more effectively make decisions, approach challenges and build strong teams.

Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike by Phil Knight

This eye-opening book was named as one of Bill Gates’ top five favorite books the year it was published. This memoir of starting a company to import Japanese running shoes, with just a $50 loan from his father, has plenty of highs and lows. Knight makes clear that the path to success is not necessarily straight and steady, but one requiring determination, perseverance and a willingness to learn from setbacks.

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert

The author of the bestseller “Eat, Pray, Love” returned with this joyous book on how to live a fulfilling, creative life. Her advice is relevant to anyone looking to make art, find new ways to handle work challenges, set out to achieve a longtime dream or face what’s stopping them from succeeding.

Conclusion

Inspiration can come from various sources, but few are as lasting and impactful as the written word. The best inspirational books are tools that can help you navigate life’s challenges, reframe your mindset, and inspire you to take action towards your goals. Whether you’re drawn to philosophical reflections, actionable self-help, or compelling narratives, these inspirational reads are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Join us as Arvin highlights some of the most powerful inspirational books ever written. Let Arvin introduce you to the literary works that can spark change and encourage a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.

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