My Favorite Books on Personal Development for 2025
"Books are more than stories or strategies—they're soul conversations. Every page we turn is a step closer to the person we're becoming.
Hi Friends!
As a life coach, I’m always reading—not just to stay inspired, but to grow right alongside my clients. Every year, I discover books that challenge my mindset, expand my perspective, and equip me with new tools to support others on their journeys.
So today, I’m excited to share my top personal development reads for 2025—the ones that made me pause, reflect, take notes, and apply real changes to my life.
🌱 1. "The Power of Discipline" by Daniel Walter
This book reminded me that success doesn’t come from motivation—it comes from consistency. Walter breaks down how self-discipline is the bridge between goals and results, and his practical strategies helped me reframe my habits in a healthier, more sustainable way.
Why I loved it:
As a coach, I talk a lot about habits. This book gave me fresh language and science-backed tools to help both myself and my clients build routines that actually stick.
✨ 2. "Build the Life You Want" by Arthur C. Brooks & Oprah Winfrey
A beautiful blend of research, wisdom, and heart. This book redefines happiness as something you build—not chase. With Oprah’s vulnerability and Brooks’ insight, it offers a balanced, grounded approach to fulfillment.
Why I loved it:
It aligns so well with how I coach—by helping people focus on emotional self-awareness, purpose, and connection over superficial success.
❤️3. "The Mountain Is You" by Brianna Wiest
This one’s been out for a while, but it’s still one of my most-recommended. Wiest’s exploration of self-sabotage and transformation is powerful and poetic. She doesn’t just diagnose the problem—she gives you the tools to climb through it.
Why I loved it:
Wiest’s writing is raw and relatable. It’s perfect for clients who are ready to break cycles and reclaim their power.
🧠 4. "10x Is Easier Than 2x" by Dan Sullivan & Dr. Benjamin Hardy
A fresh take on the concept of growth—this book challenges us to think bigger by focusing smaller. It teaches you to let go of what no longer serves you and focus on the few things that drive exponential change.
Why I loved it:
It helped me streamline my own coaching practice and personal goals. Bigger results, less burnout? Yes, please.
💛 5. "Glow in the Dark" by Tara Schuster
This was one of my most unexpected favorites. Tara mixes humor, trauma healing, and real talk in a way that feels like a conversation with a wise best friend. It’s all about finding your light—even if you’ve lost it.
Why I loved it:
It’s honest, affirming, and empowering. A great reminder that healing doesn’t have to be heavy all the time.
🙌 6. "Let Them" by Mel Robbins
Short, powerful, and freeing—this book is all about letting people be who they are and reclaiming your peace in the process. Mel Robbins reminds us that we can’t control others, but we can control how we respond. “Let them” is a mindset, a boundary, and a gift of freedom all wrapped in two words.
Why I loved it:
This book changed how I coach on relationships and emotional resilience. It’s become a phrase I use often with clients—and myself—when the urge to fix, prove, or control creeps in. Let them. And then focus on you.
.💟7. What Happened to You? by Dr. Bruce Perry & Oprah Winfrey
Instead of asking “What’s wrong with me?”, this book invites you to ask “What happened to me?” It explains how trauma shapes the brain and behavior—and how healing is possible with understanding and compassion.
Why I loved it:
It deepens my work around inner child healing and nervous system awareness, two things I bring into coaching, therapy, and teaching.
📫8. How to Keep House While Drowning by KC Davis
A gentle, grace-filled guide to productivity, especially for those struggling with mental health, ADHD, or burnout. Davis reframes chores as acts of care, not moral tasks.
Why I loved it:
This book made me cry, laugh, and breathe deeper. It reminds us that care tasks are neutral—and so are we, even when the laundry’s not folded.
🌀 9. Unraveling by Peggy Orenstein
A personal narrative about rediscovery, identity, and growth through learning to shear sheep and spin wool. Yes, really. It’s beautifully metaphorical and grounded in real change.
Why I loved it:
It reminded me that growth often looks messy and mundane—and that’s where the real magic is.
🕊️ 10. The Way of Integrity by Martha Beck
This book is a spiritual compass. Martha Beck offers a path back to yourself by shedding “shoulds” and aligning with your core truth. It’s profound, practical, and healing.
Why I loved it:
It’s a coach’s/therapists dream—a guidebook for inner alignment and true peace. It helps you build a life that feels as good as it looks.
💫 Final Thoughts
Each of these books has been a mentor, a mirror, and a moment of pause in a fast-moving world. Whether you’re working through deep emotional patterns or just looking for a motivational spark, there’s something here for you.
If any of these titles speak to your soul, I’d love to hear about it. Drop me a DM, comment, or share your favorite takeaways. Let’s grow together.
XO Jenna 💕
📧 jenna@jlncoach.com
📱 @jlncoach (instagram)
📱@jennasgraditude (Instagram)
🌍jlncoach.com
