10 Best Self-Help Books for Women

Sometimes you stumble across a single sentence in a book that feels like it was written just for you. A line that names an emotion you’ve been carrying or describes a moment you’ve lived through. Self-help books often do this beautifully. They mirror our inner world, gently challenge old beliefs, and support growth at a pace that feels right.

We’ve compiled a list of 10 influential books for women at various stages of life. Whether you’re in your 20s searching for direction, in your 30s juggling work and energy, or navigating a new chapter after 50, these books offer clarity, companionship, and a sense of being understood.

Key Learnings

• Awareness is the first step toward personal growth. Real change starts when you watch your thoughts and feelings instead of reacting to them.
• Consistency is stronger than motivation. Daily tasks and building habits last longer than willpower.
• Boundaries define emotional freedom by setting limits, which is a sign of respect for yourself, not of being selfish.

How We Determined the List of Best Self-Help Books

This ranking is based on a combination of expert reviews, reader preference data, and recommendations from trusted sources. We analyzed ratings and reviews on Goodreads, The New York Times Book Review, Harvard Health Publishing, the American Psychological Association (APA), and Psychology Today. We also considered reader feedback and popularity statistics from 2024 to 2025.

We selected books based on three criteria:

• Scientific validity: whether the authors rely on contemporary psychological research.
• Practical applicability: how clear the strategies are and how applicable they are in real life.
• Emotional depth: if the books make you feel something and help you be more mindful, not just promise quick results.

💡 Tip: Before choosing a book, we recommend taking a short self-help quiz that will help you understand what you need right now: motivation, focus, or emotional recovery.

1. "Untamed" by Glennon Doyle

Glennon Doyle is a writer, speaker, and activist who transformed a personal crisis into a journey of self-discovery. She says that we are free when we stop being afraid of change and stop saying sorry for what we want. This is similar to what psychologists call "self-sabotaging behavior", when fear of disappointing others shapes our choices.

What the book is about: An emotionally honest and inspiring story about finding inner freedom and rejecting social templates. In the book, she talks about how she stopped trying to meet other people's expectations and learned to listen to her own voice.

Why read it: This book helps you see where your expectations are not your real needs. It gently encourages you to choose being yourself over getting approval.

Best for: Women in their 30s who are redefining boundaries.

Themes: Authenticity, self-trust, emotional liberation.

Link: Goodreads

2. "Atomic Habits" by James Clear

James Clear is a writer who popularizes insight from behavioral psychology and motivation science. He is one of the most cited experts in the field of personal effectiveness. He writes for The New York Times, Entrepreneur, and other publications.

What the book is about: The book demonstrates how small and seemingly insignificant actions can have a profound impact on mental processes, behavioral habits, and ultimately, one's life. The book is written in a clear and accessible manner, despite its ideas being grounded in neuroscience and behavioral psychology. It is a system that helps people find success, inner peace, and lasting inspiration.

Why read it: This is a practical guide on how to create a system of stability. Clear shows how to build a life where success becomes a consequence of taking micro-steps, not relying on willpower.

Best for: Women with ADHD or those seeking consistency.

Themes: Habit formation, motivation, structure.

Link: Amazon

3. "Set Boundaries, Find Peace" by Nedra Glover Tawwab

Nedra Glover Tawwab is a licensed therapist, an expert on family relationships, and a writer. Cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness practices are the basis for her advice.

What the book is about: Set Boundaries, Find Peace helps women stop being "convenient" and learn to protect their boundaries without feeling guilty. Tawwab discusses therapeutic techniques, shares her own experiences, and recounts real client stories, demonstrating how emotional boundaries can help you achieve peace and boost your self-esteem.

Why you should read it: This book shows you how to say "no" without worrying about hurting your relationships, and it helps you find a balance between being kind and respecting yourself. The author demonstrates that taking care of yourself is not selfishness, but rather a sign of maturity.

Best for: Women over 30 dealing with overwhelm.

Themes: Boundaries, communication, self-respect.

Link: Goodreads

4. "Maybe You Should Talk to Someone" by Lori Gottlieb

Lori Gottlieb is a practicing psychotherapist, author, and columnist for The Atlantic. She combines professional experience with profound personal insights into human emotions.

About the book: Maybe You Should Talk to Someone reveals therapy from both sides — from the perspective of a specialist and through the eyes of a client who faced her own crisis. This book explores the themes of honesty, healing, and inner transformation.

Why you should read it: Gottlieb allows us to see that even those who help others also need support. She shows how working with a therapist can change not just your perception of yourself, but also bring relief and restore the ability to feel life truly.

Best for: Women in their 20s–30s who are exploring therapy.

Themes: Healing, reflection, connection.

Link: Goodreads

5. "The Gifts of Imperfection" by Brené Brown

Brené Brown is a professor at the University of Houston, a researcher in the fields of vulnerability, leadership, and wholehearted living. Her bestsellers are among the most cited self-help books on personal growth, helping women achieve self-acceptance and confidence.

About the book: The Gifts of Imperfection is a bestseller on lists of self-help books for women and is considered one of the most popular personal development books of recent years. Brown shows how vulnerability can transform your life and teaches you how to release limiting beliefs, cultivate self-awareness, and embrace yourself.

Why you should read it: This book is incredibly empowering. It helps let go of self-doubt, learn to embrace vulnerability, and live an authentic life. The author emphasizes the importance of self-love and self-acceptance. The book serves as a guide to a meaningful life and inner freedom, which is often lacking in everyday life.

Best for: Every woman who feels "not enough."

Themes: Self-worth, authenticity, vulnerability.

Link: Goodreads

6. "ADHD 2.0" by Edward Hallowell & John Ratey

Edward Hallowell and John Ratey are renowned psychiatrists and authors of numerous international best-selling self-help books dedicated to mental health and personal growth. Their scientific work is recognized in the fields of developmental psychology and neuroscience.

About the book: ADHD 2.0 is a practical guide for individuals seeking to understand the brain's functioning and harness their unique traits to their advantage. The authors explain, in a clear and easy-to-understand manner, how to utilize your thinking type to stay focused, build good habits, and enhance your emotional well-being.

Why you should read it: This book is on the list of best self-help books about ADHD. It encourages people to learn about themselves and develop self-awareness. The authors provide valuable tips on how to stay focused, reduce stress, and reach your full potential while maintaining a sense of happiness and well-being.

Best for: Women with ADHD.

Themes: Focus, neurodiversity, self-compassion.

Link: Amazon

7. "Year of Yes" by Shonda Rhimes

About the author: Shonda Rhimes, a well-known screenwriter and producer, is one of the most powerful women in television. Millions of people worldwide are inspired by her tales of human relationships, self-discovery, and courage.

About the book: Year of Yes is listed among the best self-help books for women and is considered one of the most uplifting self-improvement books on personal growth and freedom. Rhimes recounts how a year of experimenting with saying "Yes" helped her overcome self-doubt, anxiety, and break free from a fixed mindset. The book combines personal development and humor, transforming it into a compelling exploration of one's own life.

Why you should read it: It's an incredibly empowering book. It encourages women to adopt a growth mindset, make significant life decisions, and overcome self-sabotage fueled by fear. The author offers actionable advice on how to live an authentic life with confidence, embrace self-love, and find your present moment.

Best for: Women in their 20s and 30s rebuilding their confidence.

Themes: Empowerment, fear, growth.

Link: Goodreads

8. "Black Girl, Call Home" by Jasmine Mans

Jasmine Mans is a poet, performer, and activist who explores themes of self-discovery, identity, and human relationships. Her voice makes this book one of the best self-help books for Black women.

About the book: Black Girl, Call Home mixes artistic expression with personal growth. The book explores themes of self-love, self-acceptance, and emotional well-being, demonstrating how individual stories can serve as a powerful tool for personal transformation and growth.

Why you should read it: This book is a compelling exploration of the vulnerability and strength of female characters. It reminds us of the transformative power of self-expression, helps us overcome limiting beliefs, and improves self-esteem. This is, without a doubt, one of the best books for those seeking a meaningful and authentic life, thanks to its rich storytelling and subtle art.

Best for: Black women in their 20s–30s.

Themes: Identity, resilience, empowerment.

Link: Goodreads

9. "The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der Kolk

About the author: Bessel van der Kolk is a doctor, researcher, and well-known expert in the fields of psychiatry and psychotherapy. He is an expert in trauma, psychiatry, and personal growth because of his work in developmental psychology and mental health.

About the book: The Body Keeps the Score is an international bestseller and one of the most influential self-help books of recent decades. The book combines scientific research, neuroscience, and timeless wisdom, showing how emotional trauma can affect the body, emotions, and mind. It is a journey of self-discovery and personal growth that helps people regain control of their lives and experience emotional well-being.

Why you should read it: This book is on the list of the best self-help books for women. It teaches how to embrace vulnerability and overcome limiting beliefs to achieve inner healing. The book combines practical advice and actionable strategies for self-care, self-understanding, and restoring balance between body and mind.

Best for: Women of all ages who are processing trauma.

Themes: Healing, embodiment, neuroscience.

Link: Goodreads

10. "Women Who Run with the Wolves" by Clarissa Pinkola Estés

Clarissa Pinkola Estés is a poet, analyst, and researcher in the field of feminine psychology. Her works are recognized as some of the best for their deep analysis of archetypes and the connection between mythology and inner strength. Estés is known for her unique perspective on self-discovery and personal transformation, combining psychology, poetry, and spirituality.

About the book: Women Who Run with the Wolves is an international bestseller and one of the most influential books among the best self-help books for women. The book combines timeless wisdom and self-awareness practices, becoming a compelling exploration of aspects of the feminine soul and personal growth. This is not just a self-improvement book; it's a guide to overcoming limiting beliefs, fostering self-acceptance, and gaining insight into one's own life. The author reveals various aspects of feminine intuition and teaches how to discover beauty through self-discovery.

Why you should read it: Her most popular books are often listed as some of the best for personal growth. And one of them teaches how to change your perception of yourself and the world. It makes sense to read self-improvement books intentionally, reflect on your own life, and overcome your doubts. Estés provides you with valuable tips and actionable advice on how to stop worrying, change negative thought patterns, and cultivate happiness in the present moment. The book helps you accept your weaknesses, learn to control yourself, and discover your own path to a happy life.

Best for: Women over 50 who are reconnecting with their intuition.

Themes: Intuition, transformation, empowerment.

Link: Amazon

Get your personalized dopamine management plan!Take a quick quiz

Turning Reading into Growth

Reading is only the first step. When you begin to read self-improvement books mindfully and apply what you've learned, using practical strategies and actionable advice, that's when real personal growth begins. Each action helps strengthen self-mastery, positive thinking, and develop a growth mindset.

Supplement the knowledge and new skills you've gained by keeping a journal. Write about your discoveries, analyze your own experiences, and note how they affect your emotional well-being and full potential.

Use Liven Journal and Routine Builder to reinforce new habits, combat self-sabotage, and bad habits. This also helps embody positive change in everyday life, making each day a step toward a meaningful and happy life.