Must-Have Books for Leadership, Productivity, and Wellness

Being a woman in today’s world means navigating a unique blend of opportunity, challenges, and continuous growth. While glass ceilings are being shattered, the journey to success isn’t always seamless—especially when you’re leading your own business. Success requires balance: staying focused, driving leadership, managing finances, and making time for personal well-being. The good news? You have plenty of resources available, and one of the best is knowledge—especially through books. These books are more than just ideas; they’re filled with practical strategies and wisdom to help you overcome challenges and lead with confidence.

To honour International Women’s Day, we’ve compiled a list of must-have books—mostly written by women—that cover the many facets of business leadership. Whether it’s refining your leadership style, boosting productivity, cultivating the right mindset, or prioritizing self-care, these books offer valuable wisdom and insights to help you take charge and thrive. Try one out through our affiliate links below, or download an audiobook or grab a copy at your local second-hand bookseller or library—there’s something in this list that will support you as you continue to grow and lead with purpose. Pesonally, I review some of these regularly!

Leadership

• Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
  Brown’s insights on vulnerability, courage, and leadership will help you lead with authenticity and strength.
• Act Like a Leader, Think Like a Leader by Herminia Ibarra
  This book focuses on how women can transition into leadership roles by adapting new ways of thinking and acting.
• The Confidence Code by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman
  A great read on building confidence, breaking through self-doubt, and leading with conviction in any setting.

Business Strategy

• Girlboss by Sophia Amoruso
  A fierce and inspiring guide from the founder of Nasty Gal, sharing how she built her empire and the mindset she needed to succeed.
• Why She Buys by Bridget Brennan
  This book gives an in-depth look at how women consume, an essential strategy for businesses focused on selling goods and services to women.
• The 10X Rule by Grant Cardone
  While not written by a woman, this book is beneficial for women entrepreneurs and teaches how to take massive action in business growth.

Networking

• How to Win Friends and Influence People in the Digital Age by Dale Carnegie and Associates
  With timeless advice, this version adapts Carnegie’s principles to modern networking strategies that any entrepreneur can apply.
• The Charisma Myth by Olivia Fox Cabane
  A fascinating read that teaches women how to develop charisma, connect with others effortlessly, and leave lasting impressions in any professional setting.
• Build Your Dream Network by J. Kelly Hoey
  This actionable guide helps you create and leverage a network that propels you toward success. Hoey shares her unique approach to networking and how women can make powerful, lasting connections in their careers.

Finance

• Financial Feminist by Tori Dunlap
  Dunlap’s empowering book focuses on bridging the gender gap in personal finance and teaching women to take control of their financial futures.
• Women & Money by Suze Orman
  A no-nonsense guide that empowers women to manage their wealth, make smart financial decisions, and build financial independence.
• Smart Women Finish Rich by David Bach
  A guide specifically aimed at women who want to build lasting wealth by taking charge of their finances and planning for their future.

Productivity

• Nimble, Focused, Feisty by Sara Roberts
  A practical book for women entrepreneurs who want to be more agile and focused, without burning out.
• Atomic Habits by James Clear
  A must-read for improving productivity through small but powerful changes in habits.
• The Productivity Project by Chris Bailey
  A thorough exploration of the science behind productivity with actionable advice that can help busy women maximize their time.

Self-Care

• The Self-Care Solution by Jennifer Ashton, M.D.
  A step-by-step guide to integrating essential self-care routines to promote long-term well-being and personal success.
• Radical Acceptance by Tara Brach
  A deeply insightful book that teaches women to embrace themselves fully, letting go of self-judgment and guilt while finding inner peace.
• The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown
  Brown’s exploration of self-compassion and authenticity encourages women to let go of perfectionism and embrace their true selves.

Mindset & Growth

• Grit by Angela Duckworth
  A powerful book that explains how persistence and passion (grit) are key to long-term success, especially for women aiming to break through barriers.
• The Mountain Is You by Brianna Wiest
  Wiest’s book helps women understand how to overcome self-sabotage and transform their inner obstacles into sources of strength, guiding them toward personal growth.
• Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
  Gilbert inspires women to embrace creativity, take risks, and follow their passions, providing a refreshing approach to growth and mindset.

Success may look different for each of us, but one thing remains clear: women supporting each other is key to collective progress. Today on International Women’s Day, let’s remember that success is also rooted in resilience and growth.

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