7 must-read self-development books

Self-development is and has always been a universal pursuit, that goes beyond and transcends geographical boundaries and cultural differences. Western, and specifically American authors have dominated the self-help genre, but we need to go beyond their writings and explore the tapestry of wisdom from authors from all continents in order to have a comprehensive approach to self-help.
I have done my best to gather information about authors from different backgrounds and cultures, to offer you a diversified perspective on personal growth.

1. “Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life” by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles

Ikigai as a concept has been talked about plenty in the last years, I’ve mostly seen it on infographics on Instagram, but I’ve never delved too much into it. In the landscape of self-help and personal development, the concept of Ikigai is a “guide” to living a purposeful and fulfilling life. Firstly developed in Japan, Ikigai encapsulates the struggle to find joy, and satisfaction and to find meaning in one’s life and existence. It is a unique concept of Eastern philosophy that not only navigates personal development but also does a great job at showcasing and encapsulating the cultural nuances of Japan’s approach to a well-lived life.

Ikigai translates to “a reason for being”, and Garcia and Miralles’s book does a good job of combining Japanese traditional philosophy with Spanish insights. They go through theory and practice as well. Exploring the intersection of passion, vocation, profession, and mission while guiding their readers with practical advice on how to achieve their goals.

2. “Things Fall Apart” by Chinua Achebe

Achebe’s book, while being primarily known as a work of fiction, offers insights that can be easily applied to the realm of self-help and self-betterment. His critically acclaimed novel is set in pre-colonial Nigeria, and explores the life of Okonkwo, a warrior struggling with the collision of his traditional values and the arrival of foreign colonial forces. The narrative of Achebe’s book invites the readers to reflect on the impact of external forces and (at times hostile) external influences. Seeing the world through Okonkwo’s eyes, the readers can learn a lot about resistance, resilience and self-discovery.

3. “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor E. Frankl

Viktor Frankl was an Austrian psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor imprisoned in Auschwitz who, in his best-selling book, explores the human spirit in a profound and thought-provoking way. It’s not a conventional self-help book, that is for sure, but who better than a psychiatrist surviving a concentration camp can write about the impact of trauma on personal development and one’s psyche? Frankl reflects on his experiences and skillfully extracts universal lessons about finding meaning in the darkest of the circumstances. Choice, resilience and purpose of happiness and life transcend cultural boundaries, and this book offers its readers a compelling perspective on overcoming adversity and finding meaning. It’s a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of suffering.

4. “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho

You might have heard of Paulo Coelho before through his best-selling book Eleven Minutes. In this allegorical novel, Coelho follows the journey of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd, as he journeys to the pyramids of Egypt, after having a recurring dream of finding a treasure. It’s a literary gem that offers a compelling and enriching read for readers looking for inspiration and seeking self-help and personal development. The book’s timeless wisdom on embracing one’s journey and recognising the signs that guide us towards our destinies will be helpful and inspirational for individuals navigating the complexities of self-discovery.

5. “I Saw Ramallah” by Mourid Barghouti

I saw Ramallah stands out as an unconventional yet profound contribution to the self-help genre. Barghouti’s memoir is a powerful source of inspiration and can be seen as a unique tool for guidance and personal growth. After returning to his hometown of Ramallah after years of exile, the author undergoes a deep and personal journey during his quest for belonging. Barghouti’s brilliant writing and his ability to communicate his deeply personal struggles against the backdrop of larger socio-political challenges provide his readers with a compelling narrative. Strength, purpose and the sense of self are central to this novel and can be seen as a metaphor for the broader quest for identity and resilience.

6. “Half of a Yellow Sun” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Adichie’s novel offers a unique and profound insight into human resilience, the impact of war on communities, and the pursuit of identity. It’s not a self-help book per se, as many we’ve already seen on this list but Adichie’s narrative, set during the Nigerian Civil War, weaves together the lives of its characters in a profound and intricate way. The universal themes of love, loss and question of meaning and existence are a focus point of the book, and readers are invited to reflect on their own lives.

7. “The Art of Happiness” by Dalai Lama XIV and Howard Cutler

The Art of Happiness is a compelling and insightful exploration for newcomers into the realm of self-help and well-being. The Dalai Lama himself, in collaboration with American psychiatrist Howard Cutler, provided us with profound wisdom with a Western psychological perspective. Eastern philosophy and practical advice seem to blend seamlessly in the pages of this book, offering the readers a holistic approach to navigating life’s challenges and finding joy. It’s both a roadmap for personal contentment and a bridge between ancient Tibetan wisdom and contemporary modern Western ideology. A timeless guide for all ages.