8 Nonfiction Books Recommended for Personal Development

Credit: Style My Soul | www.stylemysoul.com | Non-Fiction Personal Development

Seeking to enhance your personal development through nonfiction literature? We’ve gathered eight insightful recommendations from CEOs to Presidents, each sharing their top picks. From exploring the dynamics of longevity in The 100-Year Life to changing your mindset with The Mountain Is You, dive into these transformative reads.

The 100-Year Life: Reshaping Dynamics of Longevity
I recommend The 100-Year Life: Living and Working in an Age of Longevity by Lynda Gratton and Andrew Scott for personal development. A finalist for the FT/McKinsey Business Book of the Year Award, this book explores how longer lifespans will reshape our societal, economic, personal, and professional dynamics. Recommended by my husband, it addresses the central theme of health in our lives and the role of technology and research in increasing lifespan, making it vital to design and plan our life to maximize its potential. From pursuing distinct careers to cultivating healthy habits, it delves into a range of concerns in both professional and personal lives. Irrespective of whether you’re 18, 45, or 60, adjusting to longer life spans requires a new departure from traditional ways. As the author notes, it acts as a signal, outlining choices and opportunities and serving as a trigger for individuals, politicians, companies, and governments to adopt creative approaches, underlining the potential for a fulfilling 100-year life. - Arundhati Chafekar, Principal Consultant, Vertical Lead, Learning and Strengths, NamanHR

Atomic Habits: Building Positive Habits
I recommend reading Atomic Habits by James Clear for personal development. This book provides a practical and actionable framework for building positive habits and breaking negative ones. Clear’s insights into the science of habit formation, along with his engaging writing style, make the process of self-improvement accessible and achievable. By understanding how minor changes can lead to significant transformations, readers can effectively cultivate habits that align with their goals, leading to lasting personal growth and positive change. - Aviad Faruz, CEO, Know Mastery

​Truth in Comedy: Construct Conversations, Lead Discussions
Truth in Comedy: The Manual of Improvisation is a seemingly simple book about improv comedy and how it all works, but what you learn is about how to construct conversations and lead discussions. Improv games tend to take on very silly ideas, but performers are meant to keep track of the plot and make sure the scene is moving forward. Management operates much the same way. - Matt Harrison, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, The HOTH

7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Continuous Improvement
One valuable lesson I’ve learned on my journey is the incredible power of personal development. I think The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey is a staple for anyone wanting to learn more about personal development. It’s a testament to the idea that resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from challenges, but also about continuous growth and improvement. - Loren Howard, Founder, Prime Plus Mortgages

​Daring Greatly: Embrace Vulnerability for Growth
Daring Greatly by Brené Brown is a captivating investigation of vulnerability and its importance in human growth and connection. Brown contends that accepting vulnerability is vital for developing meaningful connections and personal growth. She talks about how vulnerability can inspire boldness, creativity, and resilience. Through her research and personal anecdotes, Brown encourages her audience to leave their comfort zones and take risks. By doing so, individuals can realize their genuine potential and develop deeper relationships with others. Daring Greatly is a thought-provoking book that provides a new perspective on personal development by emphasizing the value of vulnerability as a path to growth and authenticity. - Tiffany Hafler, Marketing Manager, FORTIS Medical Billing

The Power of Now: Live in the Present
The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle is a spiritual handbook that focuses on living in the present moment. Tolle delves into the concept of the ego and how it frequently prevents people from achieving personal progress and pleasure. He teaches ways to quiet the mind, let go of negative thought patterns, and connect with a deeper sense of self. This is an excellent resource for anyone looking to reduce stress, combat anxiety, and discover inner peace. By learning to live in the present moment, readers can make big changes in their lives that will make them happier and more fulfilled.
- Cindi Keller, Communications Coordinator, The Criminal Defense Firm

Mindset: Cultivating Growth Mindset for Success
Carol Dweck’s book, Mindset, delves into the topic of mindset and its impact on personal development. She introduces the concepts of fixed and growth mindsets. Dweck contends that those with a growth mindset, who believe that abilities and intelligence can be developed through work and study, are more likely to achieve success and personal progress.
This book provides useful insights toward cultivating a growth mindset and viewing problems as chances for growth. Dweck’s research-backed recommendations can assist readers in realizing their full potential and changing their approach to learning, relationships, and personal growth. - Timothy Allen, Sr. Corporate Investigator, Corporate Investigation Consulting

The Mountain Is You: Change Mindset, Achieve Goals
​The Mountain Is You by Brianna Wiest is a personal-development must-read for anyone looking to level up. So often, the thing standing between ourselves and our goals is us. This book will help you change your mindset and begin to look at things differently so you can get out of your way and start to achieve. - John Mooney, President, IML