There’s no question that self-discipline is a key ingredient to success. Whether you want to get ahead at work, finally lose those last 10 pounds, or just be able to stick to your New Year’s resolutions, these are the best books on self-discipline that will give you the motivation and tools you need to make lasting changes.
From classics like “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” to more recent titles like “Deep Work,” there’s a book on this list for everyone. So grab a cup of coffee, curl up in your favorite spot, and get ready to transform your life with these life-changing reads.
1. “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen R. Covey
If you haven’t read this classic self-help book yet, now is the time. “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” has sold over 25 million copies and continues to be one of the most popular books on self-discipline and success.
In it, author Stephen R. Covey lays out 7 habits that are essential for leading a productive, fulfilling life. From “be proactive” to “synergize,” these habits are as relevant today as they were when the book was first published in 1989.
2. “Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World” by Cal Newport
In our constantly connected and interrupting world, it’s harder than ever to stay focused on deep work—the kind of work that requires our full attention and concentration.
In “Deep Work,” Cal Newport makes a compelling case for why we should all strive to do more deep work and provides concrete strategies for making it happen. If you often find yourself pulled in different directions or struggling to focus on one task, this book is a must-read.
3. “The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business” by Charles Duhigg
Have you ever wondered why we form certain habits? In “The Power of Habit,” Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Charles Duhigg delves into the science behind habit formation and explains how we can harness the power of habit to achieve our goals.
This New York Times bestseller is packed with fascinating stories and insights that will change the way you think about habit formation—and help you create new habits of your own.
4. “Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity” by David Allen
Are you always feeling overwhelmed by your never-ending to-do list? If so, this book is for you. In “Getting Things Done,” David Allen shares his proven system for stress-free productivity—a system that has helped millions of people get organized and get more done with less stress.
If you find yourself constantly spinning your wheels without getting anything done, this book will show you how to get back on track and start crossing items off your list with ease.
5. “The Innovator’s Dilemma: When New Technologies Cause Great Firms to Fail” by Clayton M. Christensen
The Innovator’s Dilemma is a classic book on innovation and disruption in which Harvard Business School professor Clayton M. Christensen coins the term “disruptive innovation.”
In it, he argues that successful companies are often unsuccessful when it comes to developing new technologies or responding to disruptive innovations because they focus too much on their existing customers instead of looking for new markets where they can be successful.
While it was published over 20 years ago, the lessons in this book are still relevant today—and will help you spot disruptive innovations in your industry before they upend your business.
If you want to boost your self-discipline and achieve more success in life, then look no further than this list of books. These five titles offer helpful advice, interesting insights, and actionable tips that will help you make lasting changes. So grab a cup of coffee, curl up in your favorite spot, and start reading —your life will thank you for it!
