Many women over 50 are ready. Ready to step into their own personal power and live life on their terms. Unfortunately, not many know where to start. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of 15 of the best self-help books for women.
When I left my abusive relationship back in 2012, I was lost and confused. At 52 years old, I had no clue what I was doing, what I had to do or how to do it. I started absorbing as much motivational material as I could, and self-help books for women were at the top of that list.
I read a lot. I read a lot of self-help books for women, self-help quotes, and printed out and read tons of motivational daily affirmations. You name it, I did it.
I watched a lot of motivational videos on YouTube (you can check out some of mine here). And I cried a lot. But it was putting in the work and getting through all the ugly healing that helped me become the woman I am today.
Before we move on to this comprehensive list of self-help books for women, I’d love it if you checked out my new digital store, also full of self-improvement digital planners, digital workbooks, and so much more!
You can also check out my self-help books for women over on my author page at Amazon, here.
If you are ready to start your life over again after 50, you might really like this article from my site.
OR if you need help starting your life over at 50, grab my free guide here!
15 Best self-help books for women
Here are the best self-help books for women that I could find and share with you. These links come from Amazon, so if you make a purchase, I make a small commission at no extra cost to you.
If you read a book that I didn’t add here, please drop it down below for others to check out.
Becoming Bulletproof by Evy Poumpouras
In “Becoming Bulletproof,” Evy Poumpouras, a former Secret Service agent, shares her life experiences and the lessons she learned about resilience, courage, and confidence. The book provides a roadmap for building mental and emotional fortitude to face life’s challenges head-on.
It’s one of the best self-help books for women seeking personal growth, especially regarding emotional strength and resilience.
Unf**k yourself: get out of your head and into your life by Gary john bishop
Are you tired of feeling f*cked up? If you are, Gary John Bishop has the answer. In this straightforward handbook, he gives you the tools and advice you need to demolish the slag weighing you down and become the truly unf*cked version of yourself.
“Wake up to the miracle you are,” he directs. “Here’s what you’ve forgotten: You’re a f*cking miracle of being.” It isn’t other people that are standing in your way; it isn’t even your circumstances that are blocking your ability to thrive.
It’s yourself and the negative self-talk you keep telling yourself.
Ego is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday
Ryan Holiday’s “Ego is the Enemy” tackles the concept of ego and its role in our lives. He presents a compelling exploration of how unchecked ego can hinder personal growth, success, and happiness.
The book offers practical advice on how to manage ego and avoid its pitfalls, making it a must-read for those who want to better understand themselves and their reactions to life’s ups and downs.
Atomic Habits by James Clear
In “Atomic Habits,” James Clear delivers a powerful message about the impact of small, daily habits on long-term success and happiness. The book provides a clear, comprehensive plan for overcoming bad habits and adopting good ones.
By teaching readers how to optimize their day-to-day actions, Clear provides a path to continuous improvement, goal achievement, and ultimately, a more fulfilling life.
You are a badass by jen sincero
The first ever self-development book to help millions of people around the globe transform their lives using humour, irreverence, and the occasional curse word—now with an exclusive new chapter on the power of intuition and inspiring testimonials, as well as an updated foreword and listener’s guide.
In this refreshingly entertaining guide to reshaping your mindset and your life, mega-bestselling author and world-travelling success coach Jen Sincero serves up 28 bite-sized chapters full of hilarious and inspiring stories, sage advice, loving yet firm kicks in the rear, and easy-to-implement exercises.
forgiving what you can’t forget by lysa terKeurst
Have you ever felt stuck in a cycle of unresolved pain, playing offences over and over in your mind? You know you can’t go on like this, but you don’t know what to do next. Lysa TerKeurst has wrestled through this journey.
She’s discovered how to let go of bound-up resentment and overcome the resistance to forgiving people who aren’t willing to make things right.
The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
“The Power of Now” is a spiritual guide by Eckhart Tolle that emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment. The book offers a profound and inspiring message about the transformational power of the present, providing insights into overcoming past regrets and future anxieties.
It’s a must-read for anyone seeking to achieve mindfulness and a deeper sense of peace. This is one of the most popular self-help books for women out there. Grab it.
Life Begins at 60 by Ruth Verbree
Ruth Verbree’s “Life Begins at 60” is a heartwarming book that encourages readers to embrace life after 60 with positivity and enthusiasm. It challenges societal views on aging, offering a fresh perspective on this stage of life.
It’s a great read for those entering their sixties, offering inspiration and reassurance that there’s plenty of life to be lived and enjoyed after 60.
Good vibes, good life by vex king
In this beautifully designed book, Vex shows that by changing the way you think, feel, speak, and act, you can change your world—and inspire those around you to do the same. Join millions around the world and unlock your inner greatness today!
Discover the power of self-love and transform your life with beloved spiritual teacher Vex King.
Smart Women Don’t Retire – They Break Free by Gail Rentsch
Gail Rentsch’s “Smart Women Don’t Retire – They Break Free” is an empowering guide for women nearing retirement. The book encourages readers to redefine their golden years and view this stage as an opportunity for growth, exploration, and self-discovery.
It’s a powerful call-to-action to embrace change and seek new opportunities.
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert
Elizabeth Gilbert’s “Big Magic” inspires readers to embrace their creativity and live beyond fear. The book explores the mysteries of inspiration, offering insights into the process of creating art.
It’s a beautifully written guide for anyone looking to unleash their creative potential and live a more vibrant, fulfilling life.
The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
In “The Four Agreements,” Don Miguel Ruiz presents four simple, yet powerful principles – being impeccable with your word, not taking anything personally, not making assumptions, and always doing your best.
These agreements, based on Toltec wisdom, provide a pathway to personal freedom and true happiness. This spiritual guide is a must-read for those seeking inner peace and self-acceptance.
The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin
Gretchen Rubin’s “The Happiness Project” chronicles her year-long journey to discover what truly brings happiness. Through experiments and new habits, Rubin explores various aspects of happiness, from boosting energy to pursuing a passion.
The book inspires personal reflection and offers practical advice on how to create your own happiness project.
The Magic of Thinking Big by David J. Schwartz
David J. Schwartz’s “The Magic of Thinking Big” encourages readers to break free from self-imposed limits and dream big. The book is filled with practical advice on how to boost self-confidence, manage fear and stress, and embrace opportunities.
It’s a motivational read that can inspire you to achieve your full potential.
Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
In “Daring Greatly,” Brené Brown explores the concept of vulnerability and its role in our lives. Drawing on years of research, Brown argues that vulnerability is not a weakness but a path to courage, innovation, and deeper connections.
This self-help book for women challenges us to dare greatly, step into the arena, and embrace vulnerability as a source of strength.
Final thoughts on the best self-help books for women
Self-help books for women aren’t just about positive thinking. They’re about growth, grit, and getting real with yourself. The best ones speak directly to the challenges women face, whether it’s rebuilding after heartbreak, finding purpose later in life, or finally setting boundaries that stick.
They offer tools, insights, and often a good dose of tough love to help you break patterns and move forward with more clarity and confidence.
For women over 50, these books can feel like a lifeline or a wake-up call. They remind you it’s never too late to change your story, chase what lights you up, or simply feel better in your skin.
Whether you want motivation, healing, or a good kick in the pants, there’s a self-help book out there that gets it—and gets you.
