9 books on breaking bad habits

Self-improvement and personal growth are tied to the skill of breaking bad habits, as challenging as it might seem. Fortunately, the amount of resources and information available online or in physical form are almost infinite. Hundreds of books on self-improvement and personal development have been written in the last 60 years, and they are a precious tool to guide individuals on their journey towards positive change.

Here are 9 books that offer insight and strategies to help you kick those bad habits:

1. “The Power of Habit”, by Charles Duhigg

Rated 4.⅕ on Goodreads, this bestseller explores the science of habits and provides practical techniques to transform negative patterns into positive ones. Duhigg, an accomplished journalist and author of many other books, has decided to apply his skills to dissecting the routines that ultimately end up shaping our lives. Whether you like it or not, personal habits and routines are usually based on underlying mechanisms, and that can be identified to be broken in order to cultivate positive behaviours.

2. “Tiny Habits: The Small Changes That Change Everything”, by BJ Fogg

Rated 4.16/5 on Goodreads, A renowned behaviour scientist and expert in the field of human behaviour and habit formation, BJ Fogg draws from his extensive research to introduce to readers a new approach to make lasting changes in their life through the power of, you guessed it, small habits. In his book he builds up the concept of “tiny habits”, and presents a method that emphasises the importance of focusing on small achievable actions and then gradually building them into a larger more impactful behaviour. People trying to achieve their goals in a sustainable fashion will be drawn to this book, as his clear and easy-to-read writing style will provide them with all the information needed to create meaningful changes in their life.

3. “Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself”, by Dr. Joe Dispenza

Rated 4.7 on Amazon, authored by Dr. Joe Dispenza, a chiropractor, lecturer and renowned neuroscientist. Dispenza takes his readers through a journey of self-discovery by exploring the fields of neuroscience, quantum physics and spirituality. “Dr. Dispenza introduces readers to the idea that our thoughts have a profound impact on our reality and offers practical strategies to rewire the brain, create positive change, and manifest desired outcomes.” Dispenza’s book is ideal for people seeking to overcome limitations and willing to start their journey of inner transformation: it provides a detailed and comprehensive roadmap for those who are ready to take control of their lives.

4. “Mini Habits: Smaller Habits, Bigger Results”, by Stephen Guise

Rated 4 on Abebooks, is a transformative self-help book by Stephen Guise. Drawing from his experience in psychology and writing, Guise focuses on the importance of the implementation of mini habits. His writing is engaging and relatable, and he is able to turn complex psychological concepts into bite-sized and accessible pieces of information for readers of all backgrounds. It’s a perfect fit for those who desire positive transformation but are wary of the all-or-nothing approach that often leads to frustration and failure.

5. “The Four Tendencies”, by Gretchen Rubin

Rated 4.4 on Goodreads, in this New York Times Bestseller, Gretchen Rubin, a renowned writer, podcaster draws upon her extensive research on human behaviour to introduce a framework that categorises people into four distinct personalities: Upholders, Questioners, Obligers, and Rebels. She sheds light on how by understanding one’s tendency can impact personal and professional relations, as well as habits and life goals.

6. “The Compound Effect”, by Darren Hardy

Focusing on the principle of compounding, this book shows how small daily changes can lead to remarkable transformations in the long run. Darren Hardy, speaker, author and mentor, introduces the powerful principle that underlines the importance of sowing small consistent actions in order to reap success. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a career-driven individual, or simply someone looking to make positive changes, “The Compound Effect” offers actionable insights and a roadmap to achieving lasting success through incremental progress.

7. “Stop Doing That Sh*t: End Self-Sabotage and Demand Your Life Back”, by Gary John Bishop

A powerful and no-bullshit approach that delves deep into the wicked dynamics of self-sabotage while offering readers a roadmap to break free from destructive patterns and reclaim their lives. Bishop is well known for his expertise in the field of personal development, his background in coaching, counseling and philosophical studies allow him to offer to his readers a diverse and comprehensive read, with a unique blend of practical wisdom and insight. His engaging writing style and no-time-to-waste attitude make the book particularly appealing to those who are ready to confront their inner demons and make a lasting change.

8. “The Habit Blueprint: 15 Simple Steps to Transform Your Life”, by Patrik Edblad

Rated 4.2 on Amazon, Edblad, writer and behavioural expert, has presented a blueprint for transforming one’s life through the power of habits. His background in psychology and passion for helping people lead him to create a companion for anyone seeking to make a long-lasting change in their life. This 15 steps manual offers actionable strategies and practical advice to build and sustain habits.

9. “Badass Habits: Cultivate the Awareness, Boundaries, and Daily Upgrades You Need to Make Them Stick”, by Jen Sincero

With a more than respectable 3.8 rating on Goodreads, An empowering and insightful read by Sincero, known for their dynamic and relatable approach to personal issues and personal development. In her book Jen combines her wit with practical advice and practical wisdom to help readers on a transformative journey towards powerful habits. Her book is unique as it emphasises the importance of self-awareness and boundaries as a tool to foster lasting change.

As with everything, breaking habits is not an overnight process, but you don’t need to do everything by yourself. With the guidance and help of these books, you should be able to gain the motivation and know-how to build a more successful and fulfilling life.