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Are you ready for a new year and a new you in 2026, but not quite sure how to achieve the "new you" part?
If you're looking to achieve your most productive and positive year yet once the clock strikes 2026, why not turn to an inspiring self-improvement book to help guide you down the right path?
Whether you're wanting to embrace your creative side (Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert can help with that), manifest your dream career (use the tips in Manifest by Roxie Nafousi), or just build better habits (Atomic Habits by James Clear is a great resource), these books are all focused on growth and inspiration.
Plus, all of these titles are backed with thousands of reviews from readers that have seen tangible improvements in their own lives.
These books are also all available on Audible, if an audiobook is more your thing. You can even sign up for a free trial to test things out!
Keep reading for the mindset shifting books that need to be added to your 2026 TBR list immediately.
‘Atomic Habits’ by James Clear
Atomic Habits will help you build the framework for good habits, and breaking bad ones. Through small changes, it puts the focus on implementing new systems to help create real results.
Readers Say: “This book breaks things down in a way that makes habit building feel doable. The tips are simple, but they make sense, and you can start using them right away. It is not preachy or complicated, just clear ideas that help you make small changes that add up over time. A helpful read if you want something practical that sticks with you.”
‘Big Magic’ by Elizabeth Gilbert
Looking to expand on and embrace your creativity in 2026? Big Magic is all about embracing curiosity, and what needs to be implemented into your life to live your most wondrous and creative life.
Readers Say: “This book was such a nice change from the other ones I was reading. I found this uplifting, and inspiring. It has given me a new perspective on my own creativity and how I interact with it.”
‘101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think’ by Brianna Wiest
This collection of thought-provoking short essays explores personal growth, self-improvement and psychology. The essays cover topics including routines, emotional intelligence and purpose.
Readers Say: “This book isn’t just a collection of essays; it’s a mindset shift. Brianna Wiest writes in a way that’s both deeply philosophical and immediately practical. Each essay is short enough to read in one sitting yet packed with ideas that linger in your mind long after you close the book.”
‘Manifest’ by Roxie Nafousi
Looking to attract your soulmate? Land a new career? Use Roxie Nafousi’s practical tips and seven simple steps for manifesting to feel more empowered and confident in your daily life.
Readers Say: “Amazing Book! Such an easy read and has many calls to action! The book includes pages where you can jot down your thoughts and help you get past your own doubts and limiting beliefs to begin manifesting your best life!”
‘The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck’ by Mark Manson
Instead of focusing on positive thinking, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck bluntly advocates for encouraging truths about yourself to focus on what truly matters, and not only being honest about your limitations but accepting them.
Readers Say: “Great read, I think Mark brings in a lot of thought provoking, introspective questions. The book is a little intense but I believe that's the point. Its important to learn where to spend your time and energy in life and Mark tells us how to do that through this book. Excited to read more from this author as this is the first of his books I've tried.”
‘The Daily Stoic’ by Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman
Sometimes, it can be daunting to start a new book! Instead of taking in a ton of information all at once, this offers digestible daily meditations from Stoics including Marcus Aurelius and Seneca, accompanied by insightful anecdotes and commentary.
Readers Say: “Great to start the day with some wisdom from this book. I tell everyone about this and have gifted it to others as well. Lovely book.”
‘How to Do the Work’ by Dr. Nicole LePera
Allow How to Do the Work to serve as a guide for healing your way to a more authentic life. It offers a holistic framework to empower readers to move past limitations, recognize patterns and abandon self-sabotaging behaviors.
Readers Say: “How to Do the Work is more than a self-help book—it’s a roadmap to real, lasting change. Dr. Nicole LePera breaks down complex psychological concepts into relatable, actionable steps that empower you to understand your past, recognize unhealthy patterns, and build a more intentional life.”
‘Don’t Believe Everything You Think’ by Joseph Nguyen
Looking for peace? Don’t Believe Everything You Think teaches you to find it through understanding the root cause of suffering, and offers a new perspective on breaking free from negative thoughts and self-doubt.
Readers Say: “Great read!!!!! This book is very life-changing. It makes you challenge your mind. It was one of those reads that was very engaging and left you one more. I learned a lot from this book that I can apply to my life. Joseph Nguyen made it easy to follow along the knowledge that he provided was a great way to stop overthinking and apply positivity to your life instead of overthinking into negative lifestyle challenges.”
Looking for after-Christmas deals? Nothing sounds cozier than lighting an on-sale Bath & Body Works candle while you enjoy your new book.
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