"It’s still the season for self-invention. The beginning of January means making new promises to ourselves, letting go of the past year, and, most importantly, reflecting on what we want out of the year ahead. And the best way to keep resolutions (instead of letting them trickle out by Jan. 28 like most years)? Go all in by indulging in a good book that offers concrete advice to reach your goals and become your best self. So to help you make resolutions that will stick (because we all deserve a win in 2024), we’ve rounded up the best books that will give you a much-needed dose of inspiration, optimism, and motivation. Whether your 2024 resolution looks more like running a marathon or just getting off the couch every once in a while (no judgment), these books will help you get there.
Because sometimes resolutions aren’t about changing your life, they’re about changing your mindset. Use this book as your guide to aligning your dreams and goals with what matters most even among unmet expectations, disrupted dreams, uncertainty, and in-between seasons.
Read if: you’re done thinking about what your life could be and instead want to appreciate where you are now.
This is basically the #1 career playbook for 2024. No matter your industry or where you’re at in your career, When Women Lead explores the key commonalities and characteristics that help top female leaders thrive.
Read if: your resolutions are career-focused.
Since we’d take advice from Brené Brown on basically any subject, consider Dare to Lead your comprehensive guide to getting honest with yourself, asking the hard questions, and leaning into vulnerability so you can realize the potential in yourself and in others.
Read if: you want to kick things up a notch in your life or your career.
In this practical and helpful read, Gretchen Rubin (a true positive psychology guru) identifies every approach that works when building new habits and letting go of bad ones. Infused with extensive research, compelling voice, and a touch of humor, Better Than Before will truly make your 2024 better.
Read if: your resolution is to form certain habits (or ditch old ones).
Never feel like you have enough energy or time to accomplish all you want? Maybe your to-do list feels impossible to finish or you give up on your goals because you don’t have the time. Drawing on practical advice from the latest in business, psychology, and economics, this book proves you can accomplish everything you want.
Read if: you feel like you’re always lacking time or energy.
Whether your nutrition resolution is to stop eating late-night pizza (right, like that’s going to happen!) or to get rid of outdated food rules, intuitive eating is the way to finally eat nourishing foods and achieve food freedom. How to Just Eat It is a life-changing guide to freeing yourself from restrictive dieting, punishing exercise, and food anxiety
Read if: you’re sick of struggling with your relationship with food.
Because we would be remiss if we didn’t include our queen, Michelle Obama, on any list of life-changing books. Becoming is the inspirational memoir you’ve been looking for to motivate you to chase your dreams.
This isn’t your average relationship book. Whether or not your resolutions have to do with your love life, Barbara Fredrickson argues that love is the secret to improving our physical and mental health. Oh, and FYI, she also argues that love is not about a romantic relationship (though it can be!). It’s about connection between all people, including strangers, coworkers, friends, and family members, so this book is for anyone (regardless of relationship status).
No matter how big your resolutions or goals are, the secret to achieving them is in small changes. BJ Fogg breaks down how exactly to achieve anything you want by starting small. For example, try two push-ups a day instead of aiming for a 60-minute workout or take a deep breath whenever you get in your car instead of starting with a full meditation practice.
Read if: you have some lofty resolutions you’re not sure how to achieve.
With step-by-step advice, thoughtful exercises, and real-life stories from Maxie McCoy and other inspirational women, You’re Not Lost is an inspiring action plan to get the life you want (and deserve!).
Read if: you’re feeling a little lost, hopeless, or confused in any area of your life.
No matter your 2024 resolutions, Atomic Habits offers a proven framework for changing your life by forming good habits, breaking bad ones, and mastering small behaviors that lead to massive transformation. Learn how to overcome a lack of motivation or willpower, get back on track when you fall off course, and design your schedule for success.
Read if: your New Year’s resolutions typically don’t last past January.
This New York Times bestseller will give you a clear-eyed look at how to move forward among the challenges in your life. Throughout this book, you will follow Shauna Niequist as she learns to understand grief, reshape her faith, and practice courage when it feels impossible.
Read if: your resolution is to let go of what no longer serves you.
In the instant New York Times bestseller How We Heal, Alexandra Elle guides readers through a practical and empowering guide to self-healing with restorative meditations, journaling rituals, and essential techniques alongside powerful insights and inspiring stories from her own experiences.
Read if: you want to unlock your power and confidence.
New York Times best-selling author Gabrielle Bernstein is sharing the ultimate plan for transforming the pain of your past traumas into newfound strength and freedom. Gabby claims that through this book, “you will become the best version of yourself”.
Read if: your resolutions include unlearning fear and experiencing inner peace.
Dan Harris experienced a nationally televised panic attack that acted as a wake-up call to prioritize mental health and make some major changes in his life. Follow Harris on his quest for happiness as he explores spiritual practices, studies scientific research, and explains his own experiences to help you get 10% happier (and maybe a lot more).
Read if: anxiety or stress levels are affecting your life.