50 Best Self-Help Books For Teenagers
As a teenager navigating the tumultuous waters of adolescence, I often found myself seeking guidance, understanding, and inspiration to make sense of the world around me.
It was during these formative years that I stumbled upon a treasure trove of self-help books that not only provided valuable insights but also served as a great sign of hope for me.
In this blog, I want to share my personal journey of self-discovery and self-improvement by curating a list of some of the best self-help books tailored specifically for teenagers. These books have not only shaped my perspective but also helped me grow into a more confident and resilient individual.
Whether you’re grappling with issues related to self-esteem, relationships, or simply looking for some motivation, join me on this literary adventure as we explore the world of self-help literature that has the power to transform the lives of teenagers.
50 Best Self-Help Books For Teenagers
“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens” by Sean Covey
This book is a teen-centric adaptation of Stephen Covey’s famous “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” It provides a step-by-step guide to help teenagers build self-confidence, improve relationships, resist peer pressure, achieve their goals, and get along with their parents, among other things.
The habits range from being proactive to beginning with the end in mind, and prioritizing well.
“Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” by Carol S. Dweck
Carol Dweck, a renowned psychologist, introduces the concept of “fixed” vs. “growth” mindsets. She explains how our mindset shapes our lives and how adopting a growth mindset can help us reach our full potential.
For teens, this book is particularly relevant as it teaches them the power of perseverance and effort in achieving success.
“The Teen’s Guide to World Domination” by Josh Shipp
This book offers a humorous yet insightful look into the challenges faced by teenagers. Shipp, a renowned teen expert, delivers real-world advice to help teens overcome life’s obstacles.
He covers topics like relationships, family dynamics, and personal responsibility, all with a relatable and engaging approach.
“You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life” by Jen Sincero
Sincero’s book is a refreshing, entertaining how-to guide, filled with inspiring stories, easy exercises, and the occasional swear word. It’s designed to help readers understand their potential and kickstart a life of success.
The book’s tone and approach are likely to resonate well with the teenage audience.
“The Confidence Code for Girls” by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman
Aimed specifically at girls, this book tackles the intricacies of confidence. It includes essential research on confidence in adolescent girls, engaging anecdotes, and practical exercises.
It’s a guide to help girls break out of their comfort zone, take risks, and embrace failure as a learning opportunity.
“The Self-Esteem Workbook for Teens” by Lisa M. Schab
This workbook provides practical exercises to help teens build self-confidence, identity, and self-worth.
It addresses issues like body image, comparison, and criticism. The interactive format encourages teens to engage actively with the concepts and apply them in their daily lives.
“Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff for Teens” by Richard Carlson
Carlson’s book is a collection of simple yet profound insights to help teens cope with stress and anxiety.
It teaches how to focus on the big picture, letting go of petty concerns, and managing emotions. The book is designed to be easily digestible with short, impactful chapters.
“The Power of Positive Thinking for Teens” by Norman Vincent Peale
A version of the classic book tailored for teenagers, this book provides guidance on developing a positive outlook. It discusses overcoming negativity, building a positive self-image, and achieving a sense of purpose.
The book emphasizes the power of attitude in overcoming life’s challenges.
“The Anxiety Survival Guide for Teens” by Jennifer Shannon
This book is a resource for teens dealing with anxiety. Based on cognitive-behavioral therapy principles, it offers teens strategies for managing their anxiety, overcoming fears, and building resilience.
It includes worksheets, tips, and examples relevant to the teenage experience.
“The Success Principles for Teens” by Jack Canfield and Kent Healy
Adapted from Canfield’s bestselling “The Success Principles,” this book is tailored to help teens get from where they are to where they want to be. It focuses on principles like taking responsibility, setting goals, managing time, and dealing with setbacks.
The book is filled with inspiring stories, practical advice, and tips specifically for the teen reader.
“Start Where You Are: A Journal for Self-Exploration” by Meera Lee Patel
This is an interactive journal designed to help teens nurture their creativity, mindfulness, and self-motivation. It features a series of prompts, quotes, and exercises encouraging self-discovery and reflection.
The journal is beautifully illustrated, making it a visually appealing tool for personal growth.
“The Shyness and Social Anxiety Workbook for Teens” by Jennifer Shannon
This workbook is designed to help teens conquer shyness and social anxiety. It utilizes cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques to offer strategies for overcoming social fears, building confidence, and developing social skills.
It includes practical exercises and real-life examples to guide teens in their journey.
“Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul” by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, and Kimberly Kirberger
A part of the famous ‘Chicken Soup’ series, this book is a collection of inspiring stories and motivational essays. It’s tailored to resonate with teenagers, addressing themes like love, friendship, family, and self-respect.
The stories come from real-life teenagers and offer comfort, guidance, and entertainment.
“The 6 Most Important Decisions You’ll Ever Make” by Sean Covey
This book guides teenagers through six key decisions that they’ll face during their adolescent years: school, friends, parents, dating and sex, addictions, and self-worth.
Covey offers advice and tools to make smart choices, leading to a balanced and fulfilling life.
“Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy” by David D. Burns
Although not exclusively for teens, this book is a useful resource for those struggling with depression. It introduces the concept of cognitive therapy and how our thoughts influence our feelings.
The book provides techniques to change negative thought patterns and improve mood and self-esteem.
“The Stress Reduction Workbook for Teens” by Gina M. Biegel
This workbook teaches mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques specifically for teenagers. It addresses common sources of teen stress and provides practical exercises to manage it effectively.
The book aims to help teens develop resilience and emotional balance.
“Do Hard Things: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations” by Alex and Brett Harris
Written by teenagers for teenagers, this book challenges the notion that adolescence is a vacation from responsibility.
It encourages teens to step outside their comfort zone, take on challenging tasks, and reject societal low expectations. The book is filled with inspiring stories and practical ideas.
“The Self-Driven Child: The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives” by William Stixrud and Ned Johnson
This book is beneficial for both teens and their parents. It advocates for the importance of allowing teenagers to make their own decisions, thus promoting a sense of control and self-motivation.
The book combines neuroscience, psychology, and education to show how personal autonomy improves mental health and drives success.
“Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead” by Brené Brown
Brené Brown’s book focuses on the power of vulnerability. While not exclusively for teens, its insights are invaluable for them.
It teaches how embracing vulnerability and imperfection can lead to greater courage, meaningful connections, and a sense of worthiness, all crucial during the teenage years.
“The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter – And How to Make the Most of Them Now” by Meg Jay
This book is more targeted toward young adults rather than teenagers. It emphasizes the importance of the twenties as a critical period of adult development.
Meg Jay combines real stories with research to provide guidance on making the most of one’s twenties, touching upon work, relationships, personality, and the brain.
“The Teenage Brain: A Neuroscientist’s Survival Guide to Raising Adolescents and Young Adults” by Frances E. Jensen
This book provides insights into the adolescent brain, explaining its development and functioning. Dr. Frances Jensen, a neuroscientist and mother, uses research to explain why teenagers behave the way they do, covering topics like risk-taking, sleep patterns, and the impact of new technologies and substances on the brain.
It’s a valuable resource for both parents and teenagers to understand the neurological changes during adolescence.
“The Happiness Project” by Gretchen Rubin
In this book, Rubin recounts her year-long journey to discover what leads to true happiness. She sets monthly goals focusing on various aspects of life like marriage, work, and parenting, and outlines her findings and the small changes that can lead to a happier life.
It’s an inspiring and practical guide that can motivate teenagers to seek happiness in their everyday lives.
“Reviving Ophelia: Saving the Selves of Adolescent Girls” by Mary Pipher
Mary Pipher explores the challenges faced by adolescent girls in a rapidly changing world. The book delves into issues like body image, peer pressure, and the impact of media on self-esteem.
Pipher uses case studies from her clinical practice to provide insights and strategies to support the healthy development of teenage girls.
“The Gifts of Imperfection” by Brené Brown
In this book, Brown emphasizes embracing our imperfections and cultivating a sense of self-worth. She discusses the importance of authenticity, self-compassion, and resilience.
The book is particularly relevant for teenagers as it guides them to navigate social expectations and pressures while staying true to themselves.
“Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking” by Susan Cain
Susan Cain’s book is a celebration of introversion, explaining the strengths and advantages of being an introvert in a world that often values extroversion.
It’s an eye-opener for introverted teens, helping them understand and appreciate their quiet nature, and encouraging them to make the most of their unique qualities.
“Girl, Wash Your Face” by Rachel Hollis
Hollis addresses the falsehoods that women commonly face, each chapter tackling a specific lie she once believed about herself.
The book is a call to action for women, including young women, to live a more joyful and productive life by embracing truth and authenticity. Its frank and motivational style resonates well with a younger audience.
“Think and Grow Rich for Teens” by Napoleon Hill
This is a version of Hill’s classic “Think and Grow Rich,” adapted for a younger audience. It translates the principles of success into a language and framework that teens can relate to.
The book focuses on the importance of setting goals, cultivating positive beliefs, and taking action towards one’s dreams.
“Unfiltered: No Shame, No Regrets, Just Me” by Lily Collins
Actress Lily Collins shares her personal struggles and experiences in this memoir, discussing topics like body image, self-confidence, relationships, and family.
It’s a candid and heartfelt book that offers a message of empowerment and resilience, encouraging teens to embrace their true selves and overcome personal obstacles.
“Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear” by Elizabeth Gilbert
Gilbert explores the nature of creativity and inspiration. She encourages readers to pursue their passions fearlessly, embracing curiosity over fear.
It’s an empowering book for teenagers who are exploring their identity and talents, helping them to harness their creativity and live a life filled with wonder.
“Awaken the Giant Within” by Tony Robbins
This book by Tony Robbins is a comprehensive guide to personal development. Robbins provides strategies for mastering emotions, the body, relationships, finances, and life itself.
He emphasizes the power of decision-making and how changing one’s habitual thoughts and behaviors can lead to significant life changes. It’s an inspiring read for teenagers who are at the cusp of making life-defining choices.
“The Art of Being a Brilliant Teenager” by Andy Cope, Andy Whittaker, Darrell Woodman, and Amy Bradley
This book offers practical advice and strategies to help teens become more confident, motivated, and happy.
The authors use humor and real-life stories to engage with the reader, covering topics like positive thinking, goal setting, and managing stress. It’s an uplifting read that encourages teens to take responsibility for their happiness and success.
“The Miracle Morning for Teens” by Hal Elrod and David Osborn
Adapted from Hal Elrod’s original “Miracle Morning,” this version is specifically tailored for teens. It emphasizes the importance of starting each day with purpose and focus.
The book outlines a morning routine that includes silence, affirmations, visualization, exercise, reading, and scribing (writing), aimed at setting a positive tone for the day and fostering personal growth.
“How to Win Friends & Influence People for Teen Girls” by Donna Dale Carnegie
This book, a version of Dale Carnegie’s classic tailored for teen girls, provides timeless advice on building relationships, understanding others, and influencing people in a positive way.
It addresses common challenges teen girls face and offers strategies for effective communication, and fostering respect and empathy.
“The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business” by Charles Duhigg
Duhigg explores the science behind why habits exist and how they can be changed. This book offers insight into the power of habits in our lives and provides practical solutions for changing bad habits and forming good ones.
It’s a useful read for teens to understand how habits form and how they can harness this knowledge to improve their lives.
“Who Moved My Cheese? for Teens” by Spencer Johnson
This is a teen adaptation of the popular business book, which uses a simple parable about mice in a maze to illustrate the importance of adapting to change.
It’s a short, engaging read that imparts valuable lessons about handling change in one’s life, a particularly relevant concept for teenagers undergoing many changes.
“The Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here For?” by Rick Warren
Rick Warren’s book is a 40-day spiritual journey that aims to help readers understand their purpose and significance in life.
It touches on topics such as the importance of community, serving others, and building a relationship with God. It’s a deeply reflective book for teens exploring their spirituality and place in the world.
“I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban” by Malala Yousafzai
This is the autobiography of Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani girl who defied the Taliban and fought for her right to education.
It’s an inspiring story of courage, resilience, and the power of standing up for one’s beliefs. It can serve as a powerful source of inspiration for teens, highlighting the value of education and the strength of the human spirit.
“The Five Love Languages of Teenagers” by Gary Chapman
An adaptation of Chapman’s original book for adults, this version focuses on understanding the love languages of teenagers.
It helps parents and teens themselves understand how teens give and receive love, covering words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, and physical touch. It’s a useful guide for building stronger relationships and communication.
“Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones” by James Clear
Clear’s book is a comprehensive guide on how to form good habits, break bad ones, and master the tiny behaviors that lead to remarkable results. It provides practical strategies based on proven principles from biology, psychology, and neuroscience.
It’s particularly relevant for teens as it helps in building a framework for daily improvement and success.
“The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom” by Don Miguel Ruiz
Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, the book presents a simple but powerful code of conduct for attaining personal freedom and true happiness. Ruiz outlines the four agreements: be impeccable with your word, don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions, and always do your best.
It’s a transformative book for teens, teaching them about self-reflection and integrity.
“Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High” by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler
This book offers techniques and strategies for handling high-stakes conversations with confidence and skill. It emphasizes the importance of dialogue, listening, and empathy in resolving conflicts and achieving positive outcomes.
The book is particularly useful for teenagers as it helps them develop communication skills essential for personal and professional relationships.
“Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life…And Maybe the World” by Admiral William H. McRaven
Based on a commencement speech Admiral McRaven gave at the University of Texas, this book shares ten principles he learned during Navy Seal training that helped him overcome challenges in his Navy career and life.
He demonstrates how the discipline and principles of military training can be applied to everyday life, inspiring readers to achieve their best, even in small tasks.
“Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance” by Angela Duckworth
Duckworth explores the concept of “grit” as a key predictor of success. She argues that passion and perseverance are more important than talent in achieving long-term goals.
The book combines research with inspiring stories, making it a motivational read for teenagers who are setting goals and facing challenges.
“The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can’t Stand Positive Thinking” by Oliver Burkeman
This book offers a different perspective on happiness and success. Burkeman criticizes the constant emphasis on positive thinking, suggesting that accepting negativity and uncertainty can lead to a more contented and fulfilled life.
It’s a thought-provoking read for teens, challenging them to rethink their approach to happiness and adversity.
“Rising Strong: How the Ability to Reset Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead” by Brené Brown
Brené Brown discusses the power of vulnerability and resilience in overcoming failure and rising from setbacks. She emphasizes the importance of owning our stories, confronting our emotions, and moving forward with greater self-awareness and understanding.
It’s a compelling guide for teenagers learning to navigate failure and build resilience.
“The Art of Asking: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Let People Help” by Amanda Palmer
In this memoir, musician Amanda Palmer shares her journey and the lessons she learned about asking for and receiving help.
The book touches on themes of vulnerability, trust, and the strength found in community and relationships. It encourages teens to embrace help and support from others, an important aspect of personal growth.
“Mindfulness for Teen Anxiety: A Workbook for Overcoming Anxiety at Home, at School, and Everywhere Else” by Christopher Willard
This workbook provides practical exercises based on mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy to help teens manage anxiety.
Willard offers strategies for dealing with stress in various environments, making it an invaluable resource for teenagers facing the pressures of adolescence.
“Girl, Stop Apologizing: A Shame-Free Plan for Embracing and Achieving Your Goals” by Rachel Hollis
Rachel Hollis encourages women, including young women, to stop apologizing for their desires, hopes, and dreams.
The book is a call to action to embrace ambition, set goals, and fearlessly pursue them, all while dismissing societal expectations and judgments. It’s an empowering read for teen girls striving to carve their own paths.
“The Now Habit: A Strategic Program for Overcoming Procrastination and Enjoying Guilt-Free Play” by Neil Fiore
Fiore presents strategies to overcome procrastination by understanding the underlying causes and changing our approach to work and life.
The book offers practical tips for managing time, setting achievable goals, and enjoying leisure time without guilt. It’s a helpful guide for teens struggling with procrastination and time management.
“The Road Less Traveled: A New Psychology of Love, Traditional Values, and Spiritual Growth” by M. Scott Peck
This book combines psychology and spirituality to explore the nature of loving relationships and personal growth.
Peck discusses the discipline and dedication required for a fulfilling life, blending insights from his psychiatric practice with philosophical and spiritual ideas. It’s a profound read for teenagers looking to understand the deeper aspects of life, love, and personal development.
