Best Psychology Books
Book Recommendations / Best Psychology Books
Best Psychology Books You Should Read
"Man’s Search for Meaning" by Viktor E. Frankl
One of the best psychology books, some consider it the best
You’ll see this book on nearly every list of top five must-reads of all time, and for good reason. Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl is one of the most profound and powerful books you’ll ever read.
Frankl was a psychologist who survived years in a Nazi concentration camp. During that time, he endured backbreaking slave labor while grappling with the unimaginable—he didn’t know whether his wife, children, or extended family were alive. Tragically, he later learned they had all been sent to the gas chambers. He was one of the few in his family to survive.
The book is heartbreaking but also incredibly uplifting. It delves into the resilience of the human spirit and what it means to stay alive—even in the most horrific circumstances. Frankl’s answer to this? A deep sense of meaning.
Despite everything he endured—not knowing if he’d live or die, or if his family was still out there—Frankl found ways to create moments of small meaning that kept him going. He observed a strong connection between those who gave up hope and their likelihood of dying, whether at the hands of the guards or from natural causes.
He shares a striking example about the time around Christmas. Many prisoners died then, likely because it was such an emotional period. People realized they wouldn’t be reunited with loved ones or experience another Christmas with their families. This loss of hope led to many deaths, which is a tragic yet fascinating insight.
The book teaches powerful lessons that anyone can apply to their life. It shows us that humans can not only endure unimaginable suffering but also find enough meaning to keep moving forward—even indefinitely—without knowing when or if things will ever improve.
Frankl, being a psychologist, developed a therapeutic approach called logotherapy, which he details in the book. The core idea is that no matter how hard or painful life becomes, finding a sense of meaning is what will carry you through. For Frankl, meaning came from memories of his wife, children, and family, from watching a bird sing, from sunsets, or even from finding two peas in his soup instead of none. These tiny moments of meaning gave him the strength to keep going.
This book is an absolute must-read for every human being. It’s an incredible, life-changing story with lessons that will stay with you and help you find meaning in your own struggles. One of the best psychology books you’ll find.
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"The Highly Sensitive Person" by Elaine N. Aron
If you’ve ever felt different from most people—like you experience things more deeply or intensely—you might be what Elaine Aron calls a highly sensitive person or HSP. In her book, The Highly Sensitive Person, she estimates that around 10 to 20% of the human population falls into this category. Interestingly, she also points out that this sensitivity is present in the animal kingdom, with about 10 to 20% of over 100 species, including dogs, cats, and apes, displaying similar traits.
If you’ve ever noticed that your senses—whether it’s sight, sound, touch, or even emotions—seem more heightened than others’, or that you feel things more deeply, there’s a good chance you’re an HSP.
In the book, Aron breaks down what it means to be an HSP and how to identify these traits in yourself. She also discusses the double-edged sword of high sensitivity: while negative experiences can hit harder and feel more overwhelming, positive experiences can be much richer, more profound, and deeply fulfilling.
She explores the challenges that HSPs often face, like navigating an overstimulating and fast-paced world, as well as the unique strengths and opportunities that come with being highly sensitive. Ultimately, the book is about learning to embrace and thrive as an HSP in a world that isn’t always designed for those who feel everything so deeply.
It’s an eye-opening read, especially if you’ve ever felt out of step with how others process life. It’s comforting and empowering to realise that what might feel like a challenge at times is actually a unique strength. Highly recommended if you want to better understand yourself or someone close to you who might be highly sensitive. On the list for one of the best psychology books for sure.
"Emotional Intelligence 2.0" by Travis Bradberry
You can’t really change your IQ, but you can improve your EQ—or emotional intelligence—as Travis Bradberry explains in his book Emotional Intelligence 2.0. In it, he talks about how important EQ is, and even suggests it might be just as important, if not more so, than IQ—especially in personal relationships, but also in professional and workplace environments.
I can definitely relate to this. I’ve struggled with emotional intelligence in the past, letting my emotions get the better of me both at work and in my personal life. It’s led to some negative outcomes—situations where, even though I’ve apologized and tried to make things right, those moments left scars or created damage that’s hard to fully repair or forget.
What’s great about this book is that it offers practical strategies and techniques to help you develop better emotional awareness and social calibration. It’s about learning how to manage your emotions, respond more effectively to others, and navigate situations in ways that lead to better outcomes—not just for yourself but for everyone involved.
If you want to improve how you interact with others and avoid some of the pitfalls that come with emotional missteps, this book is definitely worth a read. It’s a great resource for developing skills that can have a real impact both personally and professionally.
"Quiet: The Power of Introverts" by Susan Cain
In a world full of virtue signaling for every minority group imaginable, I’ve been waiting for introverts to get some recognition—finally. Honestly, I don’t know what’s worse: living in this obnoxiously extroverted world where people just keep talking without actually saying anything, or being shamed for being introverted and quiet.
If you can relate to that frustration, you’ll love Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain. In this book, she dives into the science of introversion, showing that it’s largely genetic—so if you’re naturally introverted, there’s nothing “wrong” with you. She encourages you to stop feeling ashamed about being quiet and instead embrace it. Cain highlights the unique strengths and value that introverts bring to the world, while also providing strategies for thriving in an extroverted culture that often feels overwhelming.
For anyone who identifies as an introvert, this book offers a better understanding of yourself, a way to lean into your natural strengths, and practical tools for navigating a world that often feels like it’s working against you. It’s insightful, empowering, and a must-read for quiet people everywhere. Certainly one of the best psychology books out there.
"Flow" by Mihály Csíkszentmihályi
One of the best psychology books at the top of many lists
You know that weird moment when you’re totally absorbed in a task or project? It’s not mind-numbingly boring, and it’s not overwhelmingly difficult—it’s that perfect balance where the challenge matches your skills. You get so immersed that hours fly by, and suddenly you snap out of it like, “Wait, it’s been five hours? What just happened?”
Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi calls that a flow state, and his book Flow dives deep into what it is and why it matters. He explores how these moments of total focus and immersion impact our lives. According to his research, the more frequently people experience flow states and the deeper those states are, the happier and more fulfilled they tend to be.
This book is easily in my top 10 of all time. If you read it and start applying the principles of flow to your life, you might just find yourself feeling happier, more productive, and genuinely more fulfilled. Absolutely one of the best psychology books.
"The Wisdom of Psychopaths" by Kevin Dutton
One of my most recommended of the best psychology books
When you hear the word “psychopath,” you probably think of people like Ted Bundy or Charles Manson—violent serial killers, right? But that’s actually a huge misconception. Psychopathy isn’t just about violent criminals; it’s a personality trait that exists on a spectrum.
In The Wisdom of Psychopaths, the author breaks this down and shows that psychopathy ranges from dysfunctional (like the types often found in prisons) to highly functional individuals who thrive in society. Believe it or not, about 1% of the population is psychopathic, and many of them hold crucial roles in fields like law, medicine, politics, and the military.
The book explores why certain jobs—like brain surgery, law enforcement, or high-stakes leadership—are almost tailor-made for individuals with psychopathic traits. These people are calm under pressure, lack anxiety, and can make tough, utilitarian decisions without being emotionally overwhelmed. Think about it: would you want a highly anxious, neurotic person performing your brain surgery or negotiating a global crisis? Probably not.
What’s fascinating is that the book doesn’t glorify psychopathy but rather sheds light on how some of these traits can be valuable, even essential, in specific contexts. Through interviews with surgeons, lawyers, real estate agents, and even Marines, the book gives insight into how these individuals think and operate.
If you’re a psychology buff, you’ll find this a mind-opening read. It offers profound insights into how psychopathy plays a functional role in society and what we can learn from it. While the author stresses the importance of applying this wisdom ethically and morally, he highlights the benefits of adopting certain traits like calmness under pressure and logical thinking.
It’s not dark or twisted—it’s actually thought-provoking, entertaining, and surprisingly empowering. If you’re curious about psychology or just love exploring unique perspectives, this book is a must-read.
"No More Mr. Nice Guy" by Robert A. Glover
If you’re the kind of guy who’s always bending over backward to be nice, constantly seeking validation, avoiding conflict, and putting everyone else’s needs before your own, you might be familiar with the frustration that comes with it. Deep down, you’re angry or resentful because people seem to take advantage of you or don’t respect you.
This is what Dr. Robert Glover calls Nice Guy Syndrome in his book No More Mr. Nice Guy. He breaks down what this mindset is, why it’s so destructive, and how to overcome it to live a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Here’s the thing: being a “nice guy” isn’t about actually being kind or genuine. It’s often a strategy—usually subconscious—used to get your needs met by pleasing others. But the irony is, this approach usually backfires. Nothing turns people off more than neediness, approval-seeking, and being overly agreeable. It creates an undercurrent of mistrust and ultimately leaves you feeling stuck and unfulfilled.
I’ve struggled with this myself in the past, and this book was a game-changer. It teaches you how to stop being needy, set boundaries, and be honest about your wants and needs without fear of conflict or rejection. It’s about building self-respect and, in turn, earning the respect of others.
If you’ve ever felt like people walk all over you or that you’re not being true to yourself, this book will help you develop the tools to stand up for yourself, stop people-pleasing, and actually achieve the deeper connection and fulfillment you’re looking for.
Highly recommend checking it out if any of that resonates with you.
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"Willpower Doesn't Work" by Benjamin P. Hardy
If you liked Atomic Habits, I think you’ll really like Willpower Doesn’t Work. The book emphasizes how our willpower is actually far more fragile than we think. It puts a massive focus on controlling your environment to set yourself up for success.
For example, if you want to lose weight or curb an addiction to something like ice cream, no amount of willpower is going to stop you from eating it if it’s in your freezer. The way to achieve your goal is simple: don’t have ice cream in the house in the first place—or at least keep only a small amount, but ideally none.
Another example that most of us can relate to is technology, especially our phones. No amount of willpower will stop you from opening Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube. Instead, you can use apps to block those sites, delete the apps entirely, or even have a different phone. If you struggle with being on your phone before bed, you can turn it off completely or leave it in another room and use an alarm clock instead.
The book is insightful because it takes a lot of the pressure off yourself. It stops you from beating yourself up for not being able to quit certain habits or get certain things done. It shows that we’re all heavily influenced by our environment.
Hardy talks a lot about how controlling your environment can help you achieve your goals instead of relying on your own fickle, fragile willpower. It’s a refreshing perspective, and it might help you finally get the results you’re after.
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"Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life" by Steven C. Hayes
My best psychology book recommendation
The most impactful book I’ve ever read—the one I’d take with me forever if I could only choose one—is Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life by Steven Hayes. Hayes, a clinical psychologist, is the creator of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which is heavily influenced by principles of Eastern philosophy.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what ACT is and why this book left such a lasting impact on me.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT):
ACT revolves around two core ideas: acceptance and commitment. The acceptance part is about acknowledging and sitting with the inevitable thoughts, feelings, and emotions we all experience, rather than fighting or suppressing them. The commitment part is about actively creating and living a life of meaning and value, even in the face of those challenges.
One of the biggest takeaways for me was Hayes’ point that society often gaslights us into thinking that our thoughts—whether they’re anxious, depressive, or even dark—are abnormal, or that no one else experiences them. But in reality, they’re incredibly common. Hayes highlights that up to 50% of people will experience some degree of suicidal thoughts at some point in their lives. While severe or ongoing issues absolutely require professional help, it’s reassuring to know that many of these feelings are part of the human experience.
Acceptance:
When you inevitably face struggles—whether it’s anxiety, depression, anger, or something else—the book emphasizes the importance of sitting with those emotions instead of fighting them. Observe them, acknowledge them, and accept that they’re temporary. Hayes reminds us of the Eastern philosophy principle: This too shall pass. Trying to suppress or fight these feelings often adds secondary emotions like frustration or guilt, which only deepen the suffering.
Hayes uses a great metaphor: imagine standing on a bridge, looking down at a railway. The trains passing below represent your thoughts. Your role is simply to observe them—watching as they come and go—without attaching to them or letting them dictate your state of mind.
Commitment:
The other half of the equation is about defining your values and committing to living a life aligned with them. One of the most life-changing exercises from the book is to write down what matters most to you—family, health, career, relationships, or anything else—and then create a detailed plan to live according to those values.
For example, if fitness is important to you, plan specific steps to achieve it, like scheduling workouts or meal prepping. Hayes stresses the importance of executing on your plan regardless of how you’re feeling. By focusing on what you value, you build a life of meaning, even when things feel tough.
Mindfulness:
Hayes also dives deep into mindfulness. He explains how detaching from your thoughts—whether positive or negative—prevents unnecessary suffering. By observing your thoughts as passing trains rather than clinging to them, you can avoid creating additional layers of pain, like frustration over feeling anxious or guilt over being sad.
This book has had a profound impact on my life. It is one of the best psychology books for sure. It’s helped me better navigate suffering, refocus on my values, and commit to living a meaningful life. If you’re only going to read one book from my recommendations, make it this one. Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life by Steven Hayes might just change your life too.
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"Deep Work" by Cal Newport
If you’re struggling to get things done, feel like you’re constantly unproductive, and can’t complete the important things, Deep Work by Cal Newport might help. He talks about something called “shallow work,” which is when you’re in a state of mind or environment where you’re constantly and easily distracted. This makes it hard to focus and prevents you from getting important things done.
Newport argues that to complete important tasks, you need to enter a state of “deep work.” This is an environment free of distractions where you can intensely focus on a task for a long time. When you do this, you can produce higher-quality work, get better results, and be much more productive. On the other hand, if you’re surrounded by distractions like your phone, other people, or constant interruptions, it stops you from reaching this deep flow state. That state is where you can truly immerse yourself in a task, focus, and get things done.
The book offers strategies to help you create this deep work environment, like turning off Wi-Fi, putting away your phone, or working alone for a block of time. These ideas help you lock in and get productive work done. Newport also points out that even though we live in a time of progress and technological advancement, we’re possibly more unproductive than ever because of the constant distractions around us.
If you’re a little ADHD or just easily distracted and finding it hard to focus, Deep Work has some great ideas and solutions to help you get back on track.
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12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos Jordan B. Peterson
Jordan Peterson can come across as a bit of a crackpot these days, kind of like that nutty uncle who has too much good wisdom to completely write off. But spend more than an evening with him, and your sense of reality might start to feel a bit warped. That said, his book 12 Rules for Life stands out as one of the foundational self-help books. While some of the advice might seem basic or rudimentary, sometimes that’s exactly what you need.
The book provides a sense of order in life, which is inherently chaotic. Let’s be honest—no one really prepares us for just how hectic and intense life becomes as time goes on. A few of the key rules from the book include:
- Set your house in perfect order before you criticize the world. In an era of virtue signaling and people chasing fake dopamine kicks by pretending to care or critique, it’s a reminder to focus on fixing your own life before judging others.
- Pursue what is meaningful, not what is expedient.
- Tell the truth, or at least don’t lie.
- Assume the person you’re listening to knows something you don’t.
- Make friends with people who want the best for you.
It’s straightforward, foundational advice, probably more suited to people whose lives are in disarray, struggling to cope, and in need of a basic framework to start improving things.
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Saint Mary’s Cathedral,
St Marys Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
"The Winner Effect" by Ian H. Robertson
A personal favourite of one of the best psychology books
This book is a bit controversial in the scientific world, but I found it fascinating. It explores the neurochemical, neurological, and behavioural differences between those who are “winning” and “losing,”, particularly in the professional world, sports, or personal achievements. The book is called The Winner Effect by Ian Robertson.
One study in the book involves testing the saliva of football fans during a game. Researchers monitored their testosterone levels live during the match. When their team scored a goal, there was a spike in testosterone, and after the game, when their team won, there was another significant increase. This suggests that winning triggers a surge of positive neurochemicals, which can then influence behavior.
Robertson provides numerous examples and studies to illustrate his points. He explains that people in positions of higher status or power generally have higher levels of serotonin and testosterone, a stronger sex drive, and more frequent sexual activity. Conversely, those in lower positions in life often experience more negative outcomes, such as heightened stress and anxiety.
The core message of the book is about structuring your life to accumulate as many small and big wins as possible. This helps build resilience, enabling you to handle losses better and bounce back from setbacks. One of the best psychology books worth checking out.