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If you want to be the best version of yourself, you actually need to continuously work on self improvement. You must inspire yourself in order to inspire others. Below you will find some self development books on improving your habits and making positive changes.

self development books are one of my favorite genres so when I say that the following list of books is a sampling. I mean it. Over the years I have read more books from this genre than probably any other. I think it’s because I believe there is always room for improvement.

21 Indispensable Qualities of Leadership: Becoming the Leader Others Will Follow by John C. Maxwell

Why do some individuals regularly motivate others to follow their lead? In this self development book, the author recognizes these leading characteristics as character, charm, dedication, interaction, proficiency, guts, discernment, focus, kindness, effort, listening, enthusiasm, favorable mindset, analytical, relationships, duty, security, self-control, servanthood, vision, and teachability.

Maxwell breaks down management qualities into easy-to-understand character qualities. Character is what describes a leader, and these characteristics are what individuals of character have. A must-read for leaders in any position.

Now, Discover Your Strengths by Marcus Buckingham

The self development book allows you to discover what you are strong in and motivates you to work to make those more powerful. Instead of working against what you understand you’re proficient at. You can likewise take the individual study that remains in the book.

The 5 Patterns of Extraordinary Careers by James M. Citrin and Richard Smith 

An amazing book about how to stand out from your peers and improve your career. One pattern that stood out to me was Practicing Benevolent Leadership, or not clawing your way to the top but being carried there.

Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson

Obviously, what book list would be complete without this self development book that is everything about adapting to change. It is a quick read that helps you work on your perspective and how you deal with change.

7 Habits of Highly Effective People Steven Covey

Another need to have in your self development book collection. If you’re in the habit of reading a great many books, you are practicing one of Covey’s practices, “honing the saw.” This book is a major key to success.

How to Think Like Leonardo da Vinci Discover Your Genius: How to Think Like History’s Ten Most Revolutionary Minds Michael Gelb

This self development book assists you to believe more artistically and be more creative. These aspects are very important no matter what position you hold. There are exercises to help you uncover and create goals and lists also.

The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business by Charles Duhigg

This book explains the theory behind the habits we have by understanding Cue, Routine, and Reward. Once you understand these, you can make changes in your habits.

Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time by Brian Tracy

A self development book that gives practical ways to overcome procrastination and prioritize your daily to-dos. It’s a quick read and well worth the time.

Atomic Habits by James Clear

This book is based on both the four stages of developing a habit and the laws of behavior change. It also explains the difference between goals and habits. It explains clearly how to achieve your goals using various methods of change.

In Closing

These are simply a few of the more popular self development books you can take a look at if you aspire to grow and work on improving yourself.

Good character and willingness to grow as a person are what define a leader. The self development book that pushes you to discover your strengths and what motivates you is most powerful.

Self development books that guide you on ways to make the most of your abilities and show off your strengths are gems worth reading more than once. Learning to lead and how to make changes that are sometimes difficult will distinguish you as a strong leader.

Take the time to check out these self development books or to find books that inspire you to be your best. Also, check out our post on Roadblocks to Self Development here.

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