20 Best Psychology Books To Improve Your Life

Written By:

Written By:

20 best psychology books to read 1 2

Here are the top 20 psychology books to help you understand your mind (and improve your life). This list will help you decide which psychology books are best for you.

What Are the Best Psychology Books Available Now?

This year, I’ve read and reviewed a bunch of new psychology books — books written to help us understand ourselves and improve our lives. So here is my list of the top psychology books that have been published in the last few years.

Although I won’t include them in the list of best psychology books (that seems like cheating), I do also want to share with you a bit of info about my psychology workbooks. These aren’t designed for a casual read on a Sunday afternoon. Rather, they are skill-building workbooks to help you better understand yourself and improve your life (they are super useful and actionable!)

Top 20 Psychology Books

The top books below cover a range of topics, spanning from happiness to connection to networking, and they are from a mixture of authors with different backgrounds and areas of expertise.

My favourite psychology books are rooted in science but still fun to read. And rather than using fluffy statements like “You can change your life!” I prefer the books that tell it like it is, teaching us readers exactly what we can do to improve our lives.

For these reasons, the following books are among my favourite psychology books to come out in the last few years.

1. Braving the Wilderness: The Quest for True Belonging and the Courage to Stand Alone

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback | Kindle

A timely and important new book that challenges everything we think we know about cultivating true belonging in our communities, organizations, and culture. Brown argues in Braving the Wilderness that we’re experiencing a spiritual crisis of disconnection, and introduces four practices of true belonging that challenge everything we believe about ourselves and each other.

2. Emotional Intelligence 2.0

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback | Kindle

​By now, emotional intelligence (EQ) needs little introduction—it’s no secret that EQ is critical to your success. But knowing what EQ is and knowing how to use it to improve your life are two very different things. Emotional Intelligence 2.0 delivers a step-by-step program for increasing your EQ via four, core EQ skills that enable you to achieve your fullest potential.

3. Resilient: How to Grow an Unshakable Core of Calm, Strength, and Happiness

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback | Kindle

New York Times bestselling author Dr. Rick Hanson shows you how to develop twelve vital inner strengths hardwired into your own nervous system in his new book Resilient. Then no matter what life throws at you, you’ll be able to feel less stressed, pursue opportunities with confidence, and stay calm and centered in the face of adversity.

4. Friend of a Friend . . .: Understanding the Hidden Networks That Can Transform Your Life and Your Career

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback | Kindle

​In this startling new look at the art and science of networking, business school professor David Burkus digs deep to find the unexpected secrets that reveal the best ways to grow your career. Friend of a Friend suggests that we forget the outdated advice you’ve already heard. Learn how to make use of the hidden networks you already have.

5. Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback |  Kindle

In her instant, multi-month New York Times bestseller, Angela Duckworth shows anyone striving to succeed that the secret to outstanding achievement is not talent, but a special blend of passion and persistence she calls “grit.

6. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback | Kindle

In his wildly popular Internet blog, Manson doesn’t sugarcoat or equivocate. He tells it like it is—a dose of raw, refreshing, honest truth that is sorely lacking today. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F**k is his antidote to the coddling, let’s-all-feel-good mindset that has infected modern society and spoiled a generation, rewarding them with gold medals just for showing up.

7. The Stress-Proof Brain: Master Your Emotional Response to Stress Using Mindfulness and Neuroplasticity

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback | Kindle

Modern times are stressful—and it’s killing us. Unfortunately, we can’t avoid the things that stress us out, but we can change how we respond to them. In The Stress-Proof Brain, a clinical psychologist and neuroscience expert offers an original approach to help readers harness the power of positive emotions and overcome stress for good.

8. The Kindfulness Solution: Transforming Your Body and Life Through Greater Awareness and Self-Compassion

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback | Kindle​

What do you get when you combine mindfulness and kindness? According to Karen Azeez, author of The Kindfulness Solution, you get kindfulness, a special combination of emotional skills that combine to form a catalyst for real happiness.

Read a review of the book here.

9. The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes Us Happier, Healthier, and More Creative

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback Kindle

From forest trails in Korea, to islands in Finland, to eucalyptus groves in California, Florence Williams investigates the science behind nature’s positive effects on the brain. Delving into brand-new research, she uncovers the powers of the natural world to improve health, promote reflection and innovation, and strengthen our relationships in this book The Nature Fix.

10. The Happiness Hack: How to Take Charge of Your Brain and Program More Happiness into Your Life

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback

According to Ellen Petry Leanse, author of The Happiness Hack, billions of us log in to Facebook every day, we send 6 billion text messages daily, and we share 9,000 snaps (on Snapchat) per second. Yet, 1 in 4 Americans feels lonely. We are more connected than ever, but not in the ways that matter for our happiness and well-being.

Read a review of the book here.

​11. How to Break up with Your Phone

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback |  Kindle

The book, How to Break up with Your Phone, teaches us, step-by-step, how to build better relationships with our phones so that we can live happier and healthier lives.

Read a review of the book here.

12. Activating Happiness: A Jump-Start Guide to Overcoming Low Motivation, Depression, or Just Feeling Stuck

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback |  Kindle

It’s not just big choices that can radically change our lives—sometimes it’s the small ones. Activating Happiness offers powerful, evidence-based strategies to help you conquer low motivation, nix negative moods, and defeat depression by actively making positive choices in small, everyday moments.

13. Log Off: How to Stay Connected after Disconnecting

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback |  Kindle

“I used to work 11-hour weekdays and half-day Saturdays, and I was mentally consumed with work for much of the remainder,” Blake Snow reveals in his new book, Log Off: How to Stay Connected after Disconnecting.

Read a review of the book here.

14. Happiness Hacks

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback Kindle

You can give yourself a boost of energy and a side of happiness by trying these happiness hacks (from the book Happiness Hacks). It includes 300+ simple ways presented in the book to get – and stay – happy.

Read a review of the book here.

15. The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback Kindle

What would it be like to free yourself from limitations and soar beyond your boundaries? What can you do each day to discover inner peace and serenity? The Untethered Soul offers simple yet profound answers to these questions.

16. The Kindness Cure: How the Science of Compassion Can Heal Your Heart and Your World

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback | Kindle

It’s time for a kindness revolution. In The Kindness Cure, psychologist Tara Cousineau draws on cutting-edge research in psychology and neuroscience to show how simple practices of kindness—for ourselves, for others, and for our world—can dissolve our feelings of fear and indifference, and open us up to a life of profound happiness.

17. Insight: The Surprising Truth About How Others See Us, How We See Ourselves, and Why the Answers Matter More Than We Think

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback | Kindle

Research shows that self-awareness – knowing who we are and how others see us – is the foundation for high performance, smart choices, and lasting relationships.  Integrating hundreds of studies with her own research and work in the Fortune 500 world, Tasha Eurich shows us what it really takes to better understand ourselves on the inside – and how to get others to tell us the honest truth about how we come across.

18. The Art of Thinking Clearly

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback | Kindle

Simple, clear, and always surprising, this indispensable book, The Art of Thinking Clearly will change the way you think and transform your decision-making—work, at home, every day. It reveals, in 99 short chapters, the most common errors of judgment, and how to avoid them.

19. Reinforcements: How to Get People to Help You

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback | Kindle

Asking people for help isn’t intuitive; in fact, a lot of our instincts are wrong. As a result, we do a poor job of calling in the reinforcements we need, leaving confused or even offended colleagues in our wake. This pragmatic book, Reinforcements: How to Get People to Help You explains how to get it right. With humor, insight, and engaging storytelling, Heidi Grant, PhD, describes how to elicit helpful behavior from your friends, family, and colleagues–in a way that leaves them feeling genuinely happy to lend a hand.

20. Imperfect Courage: Live a Life of Purpose by Leaving Comfort and Going Scared

Psychology Books

Buy the book: Paperback Kindle

In Imperfect Courage, the founder of the popular fair trade jewelry brand Noonday Collection shares her story of starting the rapid-growing business that impacts over 4,500 artisans in vulnerable communities across the globe—and invites readers on a journey of transformation, challenging them to trade their comfort zones for a life of impact and adventure.
Want to get more articles that help you boost your happiness and well-being? Join our mailing list.

Also, drumrolls please, our new book and labour of love, Toxic Love Disorder is finally out. It’s a goldmine of information when it comes to toxic and abusive relationships. Do check it out and order your copy now!


Written by Dr. Tchiki Davis
Originally appeared in Berkeley Well-Being Institute

You may also like:

Psychology Books

— Share —

Published On:

Last updated on:

— About the Author —

Leave a Reply

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

Up Next

7 Life-Changing Books to Read If You Want 2025 to Be Your Breakout Year

Self Improvement Books That Will Rewire Your Brain for Success This Year

We’re all out here trying to live our best lives and become the best version of ourselves, but let’s be real, it’s not always easy. Self-improvement books can be a game-changer, but with so many options out there, it’s hard to know where to start. If you’re serious about making 2025 your year, reading the right books could give you that much-needed boost.

We’ve rounded up 7 self improvement books that’ll motivate you to start making those changes now and give you the tools to actually get there. Time to stop wishing and start doing!

Self Improvement Books That Will Make You Unstoppable

1. Daring Greatly by Brené B

Up Next

Zodiac Signs As Literature: Which Classic Text Are You?

Zodiac Signs As Literature: Which Classic Text Are You?

Ever wondered what your zodiac sign would look like as a classic novel? No? Well, buckle up because we’re doing it anyway. Here are the zodiac signs as literature.

Whether you’re a bold Leo or a dreamy Pisces, there’s a literary masterpiece that matches your vibe. Some signs are dramatic, like Pride and Prejudice—all witty banter and romantic tension. Others? They’re more like Moby-Dick: deep, mysterious, and maybe a little obsessed. So grab a cup of tea, cozy up, and let’s see which timeless tale captures your zodiac energy. Spoiler alert: it’s going to be spot on.

Zodiac Signs As Literature

Aries – <

Up Next

The 7 Best Spiritual Books Everyone Needs on Their Shelf

The Best Spiritual Books Everyone Needs on Their Shelf

There are moments in life when a single book can change the way you see yourself and the world around you. Over the years, I’ve come across some of the best spiritual books that have brought clarity, peace, and a deeper sense of purpose to my life.

Each of these books offered something new. Some helped me find calm in difficult moments. Others challenged my old ways of thinking or reminded me of the importance of living with intention. They weren’t complicated or overwhelming. Instead, they felt like conversations that slowly opened my mind and heart. Reading them has brought a huge change in my life, and could do the same for you.

So, here are seven spiritual books that had a meaningful impact on my life. These are books that might resonate with you, too, no matter where you are on your journey.

Up Next

8 Cuddle-Worthy Winter Romance Books To Fall For

Best Winter Romance Books To Fall In Love With!

It’s December! The perfect excuse to snuggle up with a hot cup of coffee. The chilly air outside has you craving for some warmth, but what if you’re or in a long distance relationship? Don’t worry! These 8 best winter romance books are here to keep you company . Each story is like a cozy hug in book form.

From timeless classics to festive love stories, there’s something for everyone on this list. So, grab a blanket, make some cocoa (or tea if that’s more your vibe), and get ready to get lost in some swoon-worthy winter romance.

Read More Here: ‘Tis The Season For Cozy Reading: 8 Holiday Reads To Keep

Up Next

‘Tis The Season For Cozy Reading: 8 Holiday Reads To Keep You Warm This Winter

Holiday Reads to Warm Your Winter Nights

Here is a list of the best holiday reads to enjoy this season!

The holidays are here, and it’s that magical time of year when the world feels cozier. The days are shorter, the air is colder, and twinkling lights have started to brighten up our evenings. It’s a season filled with traditions—whether you’re gathering with loved ones, baking cookies, or simply wrapping yourself in a warm blanket with a hot drink in hand. For many of us, it’s also the perfect time to curl up with a good book.

There’s something about the December air that makes stories feel more special. Maybe it’s the promise of happy endings, the warmth of heartwarming characters, or the way these tales transport us to snowy villages and festive celebrations. Whether you love classic Christmas tales, sweet holiday romances, or even a cozy winter mystery,

Up Next

Ebook Vs Physical Book: 8 Undeniable Reasons Physical Books Will Always Be The Best

Ebook Vs Physical Book: Reasons Why Physical Books Are Superior

The debate between an ebook vs physical book is one every reader faces. As technology grows, many of us are drawn to the convenience of ebooks, but physical books offer an experience that digital versions just can’t replicate.

There’s something special about turning the pages, smelling the ink, and having a enviable collection in your home. Even though both have their advantages and perks, reading printed books hold a charm that goes beyond convenience.

Today, we are going to talk about all the reasons to choose a physical book, and some really cool benefits of printed books. Let’s jump in!

Related:

Up Next

9 Books to Make You Smarter and Sharper

9 Books to Make You Smarter and Sharper

Reading makes you smarter – you must have heard this one quite a few times before, and it’s true! If you are looking to give your brain a little workout, then you have come to the right place, my friend. Today, we are going to talk about some of the best books to make you smarter, so that you get to level up in the intellect department.

Whether it’s for impressing friends, winning debates, or just satisfying your own curiosity, books are the perfect way to become smarter. These intellectual books will definitely give you something to think about.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your coffee and curl with some of the best books to increase intelligence.