15 Simple Self-Help Books for People Who Are Totally Lost in the World

This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please read our disclosure policy here

Ever had one of those moments when life feels like you’re standing in a grocery store aisle, staring at a wall of cereal boxes, paralyzed by the sheer number of choices? You’re not sure if you should be grabbing the gluten-free oats or indulging in the chocolate puffs, and instead of making a decision, you just walk away. Yeah, life can feel like that sometimes—overwhelming and indecisive. You’re not alone. The world tells you to “just figure it out,” but what if you have no idea what “it” even is? Cue the self-help books.

Now, before you roll your eyes at the idea of flipping through pages of fluffy advice and overused motivational quotes, hear me out. Not all self-help books are about gazing into your soul while chanting affirmations. Some of them are actually pretty practical, and if you’re someone who just doesn’t know what to do next, these books can serve as a much-needed road map—or at least a pit stop on the way to your next existential crisis. And guess what? No one is asking you to actually get your life together by the end of the book. But hey, it’s a start, right?

“Atomic Habits” by James Clear

Woman Reading Book
Image Credit: Deposit Photos/stockasso.

We’ve all got that laundry list of habits we swear we’ll change—tomorrow. “Atomic Habits” is the book that will actually get you to start today. Clear breaks it down into, well, clear steps, teaching you how small changes can lead to big results. It’s less about “becoming the best you” and more about “let’s just get through the day with fewer disasters.”

“The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F Word” by Mark Manson

teen reading
Image Credit: Depositphotos sam741002.

If life feels like a constant juggling act, this book will help you drop a few balls—intentionally. Manson’s message? Stop caring about everything. Prioritize what actually matters to you and leave the rest. It’s a much-needed wake-up call for people-pleasers who don’t know how to say no to life’s nonsense.

“You Are a Badass” by Jen Sincero

woman reading on couch
Image Credits: Depositphotos/ShotStudio.

Need a little pep talk but without the cheesy affirmations? Sincero’s no-nonsense approach is equal parts motivational and entertaining. She’s that friend who tells it like it is but in a way that makes you feel unstoppable instead of defeated. You’ll walk away feeling like maybe, just maybe, you can actually do the thing you’ve been putting off forever.

“Daring Greatly” by Brené Brown

Woman Reading Book
Image Credit: Deposit Photos/racorn.

Feeling stuck because you’re too afraid to be vulnerable? Welcome to the club. “Daring Greatly” dives into the uncomfortable world of vulnerability, showing you that it’s not a weakness but rather the key to moving forward. It’s a little deep, but hey, sometimes you’ve got to get uncomfortable to grow.

“The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle

teen reading
Image Credit: Depositphotos Xalanx.

Okay, yes, this one’s a bit more on the spiritual side, but if your brain is always ten steps ahead, this book will remind you to chill out and live in the moment. Tolle emphasizes the importance of the present, which, let’s be real, most of us struggle with. If you’ve been feeling anxious about what’s next, this book can help you press pause on the overthinking.

“Girl, Wash Your Face” by Rachel Hollis

Woman Reading Book
Image Credit: Deposit Photos/stokkete.

Sometimes, you just need someone to tell you to get over yourself—and Rachel Hollis does exactly that. With a mix of personal stories and practical advice, she’ll remind you that the only thing holding you back is, well, you. It’s like getting a tough love speech from your older sister, who always seems to have her life together (even though you know she doesn’t).

“The 5 Second Rule” by Mel Robbins

Woman Reading Book
Image Credit: Deposit Photos/Wavebreakmedia.

If procrastination is your middle name, this book will be your new best friend. Robbins’ concept is simple: count to five and just do the thing. No more overthinking, no more excuses. It’s the kick in the pants you didn’t know you needed to finally start making moves, even if you still have no idea what you’re doing.

“The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz

Woman Reading Book
Image Credit: Deposit Photos/PeopleImages.com.

Feeling lost because you’re constantly living up to other people’s expectations? “The Four Agreements” will help you break free from all that noise. Ruiz’s teachings are practical yet profound, focusing on self-awareness and personal freedom. It’s a great book for anyone who’s been feeling trapped by the shoulds and musts of life.

“Start with Why” by Simon Sinek

person reading
Image Credit: Depositphotos Wavebreakmedia.

If you’re unsure of what to do next because you don’t even know why you’re doing what you’re doing, Sinek’s got you covered. This book is all about finding your purpose, which sounds intense but is actually really helpful when you’re stuck in the “What’s the point?” mindset. It’s like a mini existential crisis, but with solutions.

“Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert

Woman Reading Book
Image Credit: Deposit Photos/ronnarong.

Creativity stalled? Gilbert’s “Big Magic” is the gentle nudge you need to get back into the flow. Whether you’re an artist, writer, or just someone who’s lost their spark, this book will reignite your creative fire without making you feel like you have to turn your passion into a side hustle. Because, let’s be honest, not everything has to be monetized.

“The Miracle Morning” by Hal Elrod

person reading
Image Credit: Depositphotos racorn.

Not a morning person? Neither are most of us, but Elrod swears by his morning routine for productivity and clarity. If you’re looking for a way to take control of your day before it controls you, this book offers a step-by-step guide to winning the morning. It’s like having your own personal life coach—but without the 5 AM wake-up calls.

“Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway” by Susan Jeffers

Relax Read Book Headphones
Image Credit: Depositphotos/molka.

Fear got you stuck in neutral? Jeffers teaches you how to face your fears head-on and move forward despite them. This book is a game-changer for anyone who’s been paralyzed by indecision because they’re too afraid of failing—or succeeding. Spoiler alert: the fear never goes away, but you learn how to deal with it like a pro.

“Essentialism” by Greg McKeown

Man reading a book on a blue couch
Image credit: Depositphotos IgorVetushko.

If your life feels like it’s bursting at the seams with too many commitments, this book will help you declutter your mind and your schedule. McKeown’s philosophy is simple: do less, but better. It’s perfect for those who feel overwhelmed and need a reminder that you don’t have to do all the things to be successful—or sane.

“The Gifts of Imperfection” by Brené Brown

Woman Reading Book
Image Credit: Deposit Photos/Giulio_Fornasar.

Yep, Brené Brown makes the list twice, and for good reason. “The Gifts of Imperfection” is a reminder that perfectionism is overrated (and also impossible). If you’ve been holding back because you’re afraid of not being good enough, this book will help you let go of the unrealistic expectations you’ve placed on yourself. Spoiler: you’re already enough.

“The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up” by Marie Kondo

Woman Reading Book
Image Credit: Deposit Photos/lightwavemedia.

Sometimes, not knowing what to do next stems from physical clutter—because, let’s face it, your mind is just as cluttered as your closet. Kondo’s famous method of tidying up will have you questioning whether you really need those 37 coffee mugs. Spoiler: you don’t. Decluttering your space can actually help declutter your brain, giving you the clarity to figure out what’s next.

15 Clever Hacks To Reduce That Never-Ending Grocery Bill

woman looking shocked at the grocery store prices
Image Credit: Depositphotos stokkete.

Managing grocery expenses can be challenging for many households, especially with rising food costs and fluctuating budgets.

However, with some creativity and resourcefulness, you can implement numerous clever hacks to reduce your never-ending grocery bill without sacrificing the quality or variety of your meals.

15 Clever Hacks To Reduce That Never-Ending Grocery Bill

20 Frugal Habits You’ve Probably Never Thought of

couple looking at bills happily at the table
Image credit: Depositphotos HayDmitriy.

Being frugal is more than just cutting back on expenses; it’s about adopting smart habits that help you save money and live more intentionally. While you may already be familiar with some standard frugal practices, many lesser-known habits can further stretch your budget and improve your financial well-being. 

20 Frugal Habits You’ve Probably Never Thouht of

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *