The 9 Essential Books for Building Self-Discipline
Book RaiderHave you ever woken up motivated to accomplish a bucket full of tasks, only to find yourself, hours later, scrolling mindlessly through social media, with your to-do list untouched? We've all been there. Yes, even those overachieving, green smoothie-drinking, yoga-doing folks who seem to squeeze 25 hours into a day. Here's the secret - they don't have extra time, they've mastered the art of self-discipline.
Now, you may be thinking to yourself, 'Self-discipline, that sounds like a straight up snooze fest.' Let me reassure you — it doesn't have to be about dull routines and monk-like self-denial. It's about making choices that make sense, that lead you where you really want to go. And to help you navigate this riveting voyage into the world of self-discipline, here is a selection of essential books that speak to the subject with wisdom, humor, and, thankfully, plain-old everyday English. Grab a cup of your favorite brew and settle in. The future disciplined you will thank present you for it.
Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones
by James Clear
Why Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones is on this list: This book is all about the power of habits, and how changing your habits can change your life. Let's be honest, self-discipline isn't something you're born with. It comes from making and sticking to good habits, and this book is your road map for exactly how to make that happen. Plus, who doesn't want to be a more disciplined, organized version of themselves?
Atomic Habits isn't just another 'self-help' book. It's a deep dive into the science of habits and how they affect your day-to-day life. It breaks down why you do what you do and, more importantly, how to change it for the better. It's full of strategies for making good habits irresistible, making bad habits impossible and integrating these habits into your daily routines in way that's not only doable but actually enjoyable.
What readers like: Readers love how practical this book is. This isn't some theoretical thesis on life change. It's a hands-on, in-the-trenches guide full of real-life examples, easy-to-understand analogies and actionable steps that you can start using in your life today. According to readers, it's a game-changer.
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Willpower: Rediscovering the Greatest Human Strength
by Roy F Baumeister
Why Willpower: Rediscovering the Greatest Human Strength is on this list: Let's face it, self-discipline is a hard nut to crack, and it's all about willpower. And that's exactly what Baumeister's book is all about—the amazing power of willpower and how we can reign it in for our benefit.
Consider this book as your 'willpower personal trainer'. Baumeister, through a blend of scientific insights and practical advice, takes you on a journey to understand the nature of willpower, why we often fail to control our impulses, and most importantly, how to effectively channel our willpower to build self-discipline. Not to scare you, but Baumeister says willpower is like a muscle and just like muscles, it can get exhausted. But relax, he also says it can be strengthened. Now that's a relief
What readers like: Readers just can't stop raving about the way Baumeister effortlessly connects psychology, personal anecdotes, and research to make a seemingly boring topic rather interesting to read. And it's not just theories, mind you. There's practical advice too to kickstart your journey to be the master of self-discipline, one workout at a time. Talk about taking control of your life!
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The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business
by Charles Duhigg
Why The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business is on this list: Self-discipline starts with understanding and controlling your habits, and this book delves into the science behind habits and how they shape our lives and businesses. Without mastering your habits, self-discipline is like trying to catch a greased pig – annoyingly elusive and hilariously messed up.
Duhigg breaks down the complex world of habits into easy-to-understand chunks. With the perfect blend of science and real-world examples, this book illustrates how habits work and how they can be changed. It's like a toolbox for reshaping your life, one habit at a time. Imagine being a sculptor, chiseling away your bad habits and molding the good ones, except instead of ending up with a statue, you'll end up with a more disciplined you.
What readers like: Readers appreciate its practical approach, the 'aha moments' it sparks, and Duhigg's great writing style. Others love how it makes exploring the human brain seem like a walk in the park... a very fascinating and enlightening park. And some are just happy to find out why they’ve been subconsciously making late-night fridge raids.
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Discipline Equals Freedom: Field Manual
by Jocko Willink
Why Discipline Equals Freedom: Field Manual is on this list: The title itself screams self-discipline, doesn't it? If you are seeking a practical guide on how to build discipline, this book is your pick. The insights provided by Willink align perfectly with the theme of our list. It's like a boot camp for your willpower.
This book is more of a field manual written by a former Navy SEAL commander. It explores the mindset and philosophies that enable Jocko Willink to maintain discipline, defeat procrastination, and lead a team of SEALs in combat. It contains step-by-step guides, tactics, exercises, and lessons to break free from distractions, increase productivity, lead and win.
What readers like: Readers appreciate the simplicity yet profound wisdom of this book. They enjoy its practical approach and find Jocko's strategies and tactics applicable in their daily routine. Many readers have claimed it to be a game changer, helping them seize control of their lives and the self-discipline they longed for. Plus, who doesn't the inside scoop from a Navy SEAL?
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The Obstacle Is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph
by Ryan Holiday
Why The Obstacle Is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph is on this list: All those excuses you're coming up with for not feeding the cat or that pile of laundry you've been avoiding? Ryan Holiday would term them as obstacles. This book is all about using obstacles as opportunities for self-discipline and personal growth.
The Obstacle Is the Way is a compelling read that draws wisdom from ancient Stoic philosophy to teach us how adversity can leveraged to build selfipline, grow mental strength and achieve life goals. The book illustrates that every challenge we face is an opportunity disguise and encourages us to acknowledge our problems and turn these hurdles into triumphs.
What readers like: Readers are fond of Holiday's practical and thought-provoking approach. They appreciate the enlightening perspective he presents on dealing with life's challenges, turning struggles into strengths and developing fortitude. His words echo long after you close the book, leaving readers with a renewed sense of energy towards their own hang-ups and hurdles.
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No Excuses!: The Power of Self-Discipline
by Brian Tracy
Why No Excuses!: The Power of Self-Discipline is on this list: This book is like the sturdy backbone you never knew you needed, filled to the brim with ideas and strategies about self-discipline that will make you wonder how you ever got by without it.
In 'No Excuses!', Tracy compels you to stop playing the blame game and throws you headfirst into learning self-discipline. The book is split into focus areas such as business, personal success and money, each loaded with ideas on how to manage your discipline effectively. You're gonna learn to take charge of your life, pick up your socks and give your habits a good shake-up.
What readers like: Readers love Tracy's straightforward approach, his simple, no-nonsense advice and the practicality of his methods. This isn't about getting in touch with your inner child or finding your spirit animal or anything - it's about facing the mirror, embracing self-discipline and bossing up your own life. And readers find that pretty awesome.
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Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable
by Tim S Grover
Why Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable is on this list: This book is all about how to master the art of self-discipline, giving you an upper hand in all your endeavors. You know, like being unstoppable in your tracks.
In 'Relentless', Tim S Grover shares the secret sauce that has propelled the likes of legendary basketball players Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant to the apex of success. He breaks down his unique perspective on the path to greatness into bite-size gems. Spoiler alert: It's not about talent, but sheer will, tenacity, and yep, a dash of ruthlessness too.
What readers like: Readers rave about the transformational potential of this book. They appreciate the straight talk, no fluff nature. It's like getting a splash of icy cold water straight to the face – bracing but effective. The real-life examples and actionable tips make it a refreshing detour from the often-sugar-coated advice usually found in self-help books.
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The Subtle of Not Giving a F*ck: Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good
by Mark Manson
Why The Subtle of Not Giving a F*ck: Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good is on this list: If you've ever struggled to stick to your goals because you're too busy worrying about what others think, this might be the wake-up call you need. After all, building self-discipline isn't just about getting things done, it's also about knowing what truly matters and having the courage to stick to your guns.
Think of this book as a slap in the face, delivered with love. But this isn't just any slap. It's the slap you didn't know you needed. Mark Manson dishes out hard-hitting truths left, right and centre, challenging the way you look at success, failure, and pretty much everything in between. He urges us to stop sweating the small stuff, and start giving a f*ck about things that really matter, the ones that make a difference to our lives.
What readers like: Readers appreciate how this book doesn't handhold or sugarcoat its message. Instead, it gives you a thorough shake, challenging long-held beliefs. Mark's refreshing and hilariously blunt writing style is a huge hit. Plus, it's chock full of poignant real-life stories that provide much-needed perspective. If you like no-nonsense advice with a side of laughs, this book is gonna be your new best friend.
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Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance
by Angela Duckworth
Why Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance is on this list: This book fits perfectly on our list of essential reads for building self-discipline because it digs deep into the concept of 'grit', which is basically a mix of passion, perseverance and, you guessed it, self-discipline. Duckworth’s 'grit' is the key to achieving any long-term goal.
Grit explores the science behind an individual's perseverance and passion towards long-term goals. Angela Duckworth shows us that the secret to being extraordinary isn't IQ or talent. No, it’s the gritty people you need to watch out for – the ones who stick with it, keep trying, fight tooth and nail and bite adversity back. It includes compelling research, powerful success stories, and insights into how to cultivate grit from a young age.
What readers like: Readers have sung the praises of 'Grit' for its, well, gritty insights. They appreciate how the book allows for a serious self-reflection to identify the impediments within us, hindering us from reaching our potential. Fans mention its practical tips for growing 'grit' from the inside out and say it’s a helpful rallying cry for everyone wanting to make their dreams come true.
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