
December is the month of reflection, resolutions, and, let’s be honest, low-key panic about the year-end. Whether you’re gearing up for New Year’s goals or just trying to survive holiday chaos, self-help books can be your personal cheerleaders, therapists, and life coaches – all rolled into one.
To help you stay motivated and inspired, here’s a list of 25 self-help books perfect for cozy December nights.
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Contents [show]
- 1 Atomic Habits by James Clear
- 2 The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
- 3 Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
- 4 Think Like a Monk by Jay Shetty
- 5 You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero
- 6
- 7 The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
- 8 The Mountain Is You by Brianna Wiest
- 9 Grit by Angela Duckworth
- 10 Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
- 11 Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
- 12 Untamed by Glennon Doyle
- 13 Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins
- 14
- 15 The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin
- 16 Essentialism by Greg McKeown
- 17 Quiet by Susan Cain
- 18 The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
- 19 How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
- 20 The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman
- 21 Deep Work by Cal Newport
- 22 Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles
- 23 Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers
- 24 Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven
- 25 The Art of Happiness by Dalai Lama and Howard Cutler
- 26 Mindset by Carol S. Dweck
- 27 Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes
- 28 Why December Is the Perfect Month for Self-Help Books
- 29 Meet Wizdom: Your Self-Help Companion
Atomic Habits by James Clear
A December classic for anyone trying to make or break habits before January rolls around. Small changes, big results.
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The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
Because December is a great time to stop sweating the small stuff and focus on what truly matters.
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Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
Learn the power of vulnerability and how to embrace imperfection during a season of relentless Instagram perfection.
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Think Like a Monk by Jay Shetty
If December stress has you craving peace, this book is a calming guide to mindfulness and intentional living.
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You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero
An empowering reminder to own your awesomeness and tackle December (and life) with confidence.
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The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
This spiritual self-help classic is packed with wisdom for a stress-free December and a harmonious life.
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The Mountain Is You by Brianna Wiest
For anyone determined to overcome self-sabotage before January resolutions kick in. A perfect December read for self-reflection.
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Grit by Angela Duckworth
Get inspired by the science of perseverance and how it leads to success – because December is a marathon, not a sprint.
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Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
Feeling creatively drained this December? Let this book reignite your spark and help you embrace curiosity.
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Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
A profound exploration of purpose, perfect for those quiet December nights when you’re pondering life’s big questions.
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Untamed by Glennon Doyle
Break free from societal expectations and learn to live authentically – just in time for a bold new year.
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Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins
Need some December motivation? Goggins’ story of resilience will push you to conquer challenges and reach new heights.
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The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin
This uplifting guide to creating joy is exactly what you need to end December on a high note.
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Essentialism by Greg McKeown
Simplify your December by focusing on what truly matters and cutting out the clutter – physical and emotional.

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Quiet by Susan Cain
For introverts who find December’s social whirlwind exhausting, this book is a soothing celebration of solitude and quiet strength.
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The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
A self-help staple for learning mindfulness and staying present – especially useful during December’s hectic days.
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How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
Master the art of connection just in time for those awkward holiday parties and family reunions.
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The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman
Whether you’re navigating relationships or just trying to figure out gift-giving this December, this book is a game-changer.
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Deep Work by Cal Newport
If December deadlines have you scattered, this guide to focused work will help you make the most of your time.
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Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles
Discover your life’s purpose while sipping hot cocoa on a chilly December evening.
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Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers
Face your fears and take risks this December – whether it’s speaking up in meetings or trying Aunt Carol’s fruitcake.
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Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven
Small wins, like making your bed, can set the tone for a productive December (and beyond).
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The Art of Happiness by Dalai Lama and Howard Cutler
Who doesn’t need a little Dalai Lama wisdom to stay grounded during December’s chaos?
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Mindset by Carol S. Dweck
Shift your perspective and embrace a growth mindset – perfect preparation for your 2024 goals.
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Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes
Say “yes” to opportunities and experiences, even if it’s just a random December karaoke night.
Why December Is the Perfect Month for Self-Help Books
December is a magical time of transition – a bridge between reflecting on the past year and planning for the next. Self-help books can provide the clarity, motivation, and emotional warmth you need to make the most of this reflective month.
Meet Wizdom: Your Self-Help Companion
Feeling inspired to dive into self-help but not sure where to start? Meet Wizdom, the app designed to bring self-help tips, guided exercises, and motivational wisdom straight to your phone. Whether you want to build better habits, find peace amidst December’s busyness, or start 2024 with a bang, Wizdom is your go-to tool.
This December, let’s curl up with a book (or a digital guide) and focus on becoming the best version of ourselves – one page, one step, and one small habit at a time. Happy reading!