The best 100 Personality books

Personality is a fascinating and complex concept that can shape our lives in numerous ways. From our relationships to our career choices, understanding one's personality can provide valuable insights into becoming the best version of ourselves. That's where our curated book list comes in.

This list offers a thorough exploration of diverse personality theories and assessment methods, empowering you to gain a deeper comprehension. Discover your unique traits and utilize them to your advantage. Are you ready to unveil your true personality?
How do we create content on this page?
1
Personality Books: Quiet by Susan Cain

Quiet

Susan Cain
The Power of Introverts in a World that Can’t Stop Talking
4.4 (461 ratings)

What's Quiet about?

Quiet (2012) focuses on the strengths and needs of both introverts and extroverts. These blinks describe the situations in which both personality types feel comfortable and the ways in which each can use the potential of their personality to the fullest.

Who should read Quiet?

  • People who want to better understand the introvert personality
  • Team builders hoping to help introverts and extroverts collaborate
  • Anyone interested in the benefits of being introverted

2
Personality Books: Mindset by Carol Dweck

Mindset

Carol Dweck
The New Psychology of Success
4.5 (1,989 ratings)

What's Mindset about?

Mindset (2006) discusses the differences between people with a fixed mindset versus those with a growth mindset. Our mindset determines the way we deal with tough situations and setbacks as well as our willingness to deal with and improve ourselves. This book demonstrates how we can achieve our goals by changing our mindset.

Who should read Mindset?

  • Anyone who wants to find out about different mindsets and how they influence our behavior
  • People who want to learn how to realize their own potential to the fullest

3
Personality Books: The Wisdom of Psychopaths by Kevin Dutton

The Wisdom of Psychopaths

Kevin Dutton
What Saints, Spies and Serial Killers Can Teach Us About Success
4.3 (126 ratings)

What's The Wisdom of Psychopaths about?

Not all psychopaths are locked away in maximum-security prisons and mental hospitals. Many of them live among us, in the midst of society. Indeed, a great number of highly successful political and financial leaders exhibit psychopathic traits. This book investigates why they are so successful, what makes them different from psychopathic criminals and what all of us can learn from them.

 

Who should read The Wisdom of Psychopaths?

  • Anyone with a general interest in psychology, criminology or popular science
  • Anyone who wants to find out what we can learn from psychopaths and which of their traits could be useful in our professional lives

4
Personality Books: You Are Not So Smart by David McRaney

You Are Not So Smart

David McRaney
Why Your Memory Is Mostly Fiction, Why You Have Too Many Friends on Facebook, and 46 Other Ways You’re Deluding Yourself
4.3 (96 ratings)

What's You Are Not So Smart about?

You Are Not So Smart (2011) explores the many different ways we have of deluding ourselves. By delving into a wide range of psychological research, the author challenges the notion that we are logical, rational beings who see the world as it really is and makes a case that we mislead ourselves every single day, for better and for worse.

Who should read You Are Not So Smart?

  • Anyone who believes that they’re quite rational in their thinking and behavior
  • Anyone interested in how we delude ourselves every day

5
Personality Books: Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman

Emotional Intelligence

Daniel Goleman
4.4 (2,556 ratings)

What's Emotional Intelligence about?

Emotional Intelligence (1995) outlines the nature of emotional intelligence and reveals its vast impact on many aspects of life. By presenting the ways emotional intelligence evolves and explaining how it can be improved, it offers an alternative to the overly cognition-centered approaches to the human mind that formerly prevailed in the psychological establishment.

Who should read Emotional Intelligence?

  • Anyone who is unsatisfied by more traditional measurements of intelligence
  • Anyone who wonders if IQ determines success
  • Anyone who is striving to live up to their own abilities

6
Personality Books: Click by Rom and Ori Brafman

Click

Rom and Ori Brafman
4.1 (91 ratings)

What's Click about?

Click (2010) delves into the miraculous topic of quick-set intimacy and explores what’s at work when we’re instantly drawn to some person or thing. It examines how and why clicking makes our life more meaningful and outlines the (very ordinary) factors that can make such “magical” connections more likely.

Who should read Click?

  • Anyone who has always wondered about the hidden dynamics of love at first sight
  • Anyone striving to establish more meaningful relationships in their everyday life
  • Anyone working with teams and trying to enable them to perform better

7
Personality Books: Personality by Daniel Nettle

Personality

Daniel Nettle
What Makes You the Way You Are
4.3 (194 ratings)

What's Personality about?

Anyone can see that people have different personalities, but what exactly causes this? This book examines the factors that influence personality based on the research of numerous psychologists. You’ll learn about the core traits that determine a person’s overall character, the different strengths and weaknesses they have, and how to get the most out of your own personality.

Who should read Personality?

  • Anyone interested in psychology or human behavior
  • Anyone interested in learning more about themselves, their friends and family
  • Anyone who wants to use their personality analysis to better themselves   

8
Personality Books: The Upside of Your Dark Side by Todd Kashdan and Robert Biswas-Diener

The Upside of Your Dark Side

Todd Kashdan and Robert Biswas-Diener
Why Being Your Whole Self – Not Just Your “Good” Self – Drives Success and Fulfillment
4.1 (192 ratings)

What's The Upside of Your Dark Side about?

The Upside of Your Dark Side looks into the darkest depths of the human psyche, only to discover that the painful emotions that we often wish we could just make go away – anger, anxiety, guilt – are sometimes the key to our success. Backed by many fascinating scientific studies, The Upside of Your Dark Side makes it clear that psychological health means wholeness rather than happiness.

Who should read The Upside of Your Dark Side?

  • Anyone who’s fed up with the happiness-hype in popular psychology
  • Anyone who tries to bottle up his or her negative emotions
  • Anyone interested in psychology

9
Personality Books: The Speed of Trust by Stephen M.R. Covey with Rebecca R. Merrill

The Speed of Trust

Stephen M.R. Covey with Rebecca R. Merrill
The One Thing That Changes Everything
4.2 (221 ratings)

What's The Speed of Trust about?

The Speed of Trust (2006) is about the importance of trust and how it can improve all aspects of our lives, from personal relationships to productivity in the office. Trust improves communication, and in doing so, speeds up efficiency and lowers cost at the same time. Throughout this book, the authors offer us tips on exactly what to do to increase trust in our lives.

Who should read The Speed of Trust?

  • Anyone struggling to trust others
  • Leaders who need to influence their staff
  • People who want to make others trust them

10
Personality Books: 59 Seconds by Richard Wiseman

59 Seconds

Richard Wiseman
Think a Little, Change a Lot
4.1 (246 ratings)

What's 59 Seconds about?

59 seconds (2010) lays out some handy tips and insights backed by scientific research. Apply them today, and experience the change you want in your life.

Who should read 59 Seconds?

  • People sick of the same old self-help books
  • Creative thinkers
  • Psychology enthusiasts

11
Personality Books: The Road to Character by David Brooks

The Road to Character

David Brooks
3.8 (153 ratings)

What's The Road to Character about?

The Road to Character (2015) explains how society’s focus on fame, wealth and status eclipses moral virtues and internal struggles. These blinks will show you how to reclaim qualities such as kindness, bravery, honesty and commitment.

Who should read The Road to Character?

  • Anyone who has achieved their goals but still feels like something is missing
  • People wanting deeper insight into modern culture’s obsession with “me”

12
Personality Books: The World Beyond Your Head by Matthew B. Crawford

The World Beyond Your Head

Matthew B. Crawford
On Becoming an Individual in an Age of Distraction
4.5 (35 ratings)

What's The World Beyond Your Head about?

Our world has changed enormously in recent years. We’ve developed amazing technology, but this technology has also taken a toll on many important aspects of our lives: our attention spans, our relationships and even our personalities. The World Beyond Your Head (2015) is all about the modern crisis of attention and how you can extract yourself from it.

Who should read The World Beyond Your Head?

  • People frustrated with the modern world
  • Those who spend too much time on social media
  • Anyone who wants to improve their concentration

13
Personality Books: A Curious Mind by Brian Grazer and Charles Fishman

A Curious Mind

Brian Grazer and Charles Fishman
The Secret to a Bigger Life
4.0 (48 ratings)

What's A Curious Mind about?

A Curious Mind (2015) investigates a vital attribute that many of us simply don’t value highly enough: curiosity. These blinks explain the vital importance of curiosity, and outline the ways it can improve your relationships with your employees, customers or loved ones – and even help you conquer your fears.

Who should read A Curious Mind?

  • Anyone who wants to strengthen their personal relationships
  • Business leaders who want to connect with their employees and customers
  • Anyone interested in films or mental well-being

14
Personality Books: Emotional Intelligence 2.0 by Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves

Emotional Intelligence 2.0

Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves
4.1 (483 ratings)

What's Emotional Intelligence 2.0 about?

Emotional Intelligence 2.0 (2009) gives you expert insight into which skills you need to read others and build better relationships. It breaks down the four aspects of emotional intelligence, or EQ, and gives advice on what you can do to improve your own skills.

Who should read Emotional Intelligence 2.0?

  • Psychologists or family counsellors
  • People who struggle with personal relationships
  • Managers or business owners looking to improve their team-building skills

15
Personality Books: The Genius of Opposites by Jennifer B. Kahnweiler

The Genius of Opposites

Jennifer B. Kahnweiler
How Introverts and Extroverts Achieve Extraordinary Results Together
3.9 (28 ratings)

What's The Genius of Opposites about?

The Genius of Opposites (2015) sheds light on the potential for partnerships between seemingly incompatible personality types: extroverts and introverts. These blinks lay out five basic steps that can turn the most unlikely business partnerships into the most successful.  

Who should read The Genius of Opposites?

  • Leaders seeking ways to improve rocky relationships
  • Managers interested in how personality types bear on business

16
Personality Books: How to Stay Sane by Philippa Perry

How to Stay Sane

Philippa Perry
4.3 (174 ratings)

What's How to Stay Sane about?

In How to Stay Sane (2012), British psychotherapist and author Philippa Perry shows you how to better nurture relationships while using self-observation, “positive” stress and the power of stories to achieve and maintain your mental health.

Who should read How to Stay Sane?

  • Anyone concerned about their mental health
  • People interested in psychology and counseling
  • Anyone looking for ways to cope amid tough times

17
Personality Books: In Defense of Selfishness by Peter Schwartz

In Defense of Selfishness

Peter Schwartz
Why the Code of Self-Sacrifice is Unjust and Destructive
2.9 (52 ratings)

What's In Defense of Selfishness about?

In Defense of Selfishness (2015) exposes the dark side of an attribute most of us assume to be good: altruism. It explains why, despite common misconception, altruism is harmful, devaluing both individuals and societies at large – and why selfishness is the alternative that can provide us with liberation.

Who should read In Defense of Selfishness?

  • Anyone who’s ever felt guilty about being selfish
  • Skeptics of the welfare state
  • Those interested in the harms of altruism

18
Personality Books: The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman

The 5 Love Languages

Gary Chapman
The Secret to Love That Lasts
4.5 (862 ratings)

What's The 5 Love Languages about?

The 5 Love Languages (2015) is a contemporary guide to developing a relationships of lifelong love that can easily overcome the hurdles that modern couples face. These blinks detail the five ways people give and feel love, and how any couple can use this knowledge to make their relationship more nurturing, affectionate and compassionate.

Who should read The 5 Love Languages?

  • Lovers wanting to know what to expect from marriage and how to make theirs work
  • Couples in crisis
  • People who want to meet their partner’s needs and have theirs met in return

19
Personality Books: Games People Play by Eric Berne

Games People Play

Eric Berne
The Psychology of Human Relationships
3.6 (502 ratings)

What's Games People Play about?

Games People Play (1964) explores the fascinating and bizarre world of psychological games, where players unconsciously manipulate each other into acting in alienating and self-destructive ways. Eric Berne dissects the hidden dynamics beneath the games people play – and shows how to escape from them and find true intimacy.

Who should read Games People Play?

  • People interested in human behavior
  • Life coaches and therapists
  • Anyone who wants to learn how to deal with difficult people

20
Personality Books: The Gift of Fear by Gavin de Becker

The Gift of Fear

Gavin de Becker
Survival Signals That Protect Us From Violence
4.0 (51 ratings)

What's The Gift of Fear about?

The Gift of Fear (1997) provides insight into the mechanisms of fear, explaining how our instincts protect us from criminals by attuning us to universal signals and warning signs. Violence rarely comes out of the blue, and by recognizing some telltale signs, you will be better equipped to keep yourself out of harm's way.

Who should read The Gift of Fear?

  • Victims of violence or abuse who want to avoid future harm
  • Anyone who has been threatened or is worried about criminals and predators
  • Criminal law experts and lawyers interested in crime prevention

21
Personality Books: The Ultimate Introduction to NLP by Richard Bandler, Alessio Roberti and Owen Fitzpatrick

The Ultimate Introduction to NLP

Richard Bandler, Alessio Roberti and Owen Fitzpatrick
How to Build a Successful Life
4.4 (222 ratings)

What's The Ultimate Introduction to NLP about?

The Ultimate Introduction to NLP (2012) offers a fascinating primer of Neurolinguistic Programmingor NLP, a novel approach to the ways your thoughts and language can “program” your emotions, behavior and communication. When you learn to master NLP, you’ll connect better with the people around you, have a healthier outlook on the future and lead a happier life, too.

Who should read The Ultimate Introduction to NLP?

  • Psychology students
  • Anyone interested in Neuro Linguistic Programming
  • Anyone feeling stuck in life

22
Personality Books: Rethinking Narcissism by Craig Malkin

Rethinking Narcissism

Craig Malkin
The Bad – and Surprising Good – about Feeling Special
3.7 (130 ratings)

What's Rethinking Narcissism about?

Rethinking Narcissism (2015) provides fresh perspectives on what we typically understand as arrogance or vanity. These blinks situate narcissism both historically and culturally, explaining the spectrum of narcissism and its different forms; they also provide helpful strategies for recognizing and dealing with the narcissists you might know.

Who should read Rethinking Narcissism?

  • Anyone interested in psychology
  • People with narcissistic partners and friends
  • Potential narcissists

23
Personality Books: Me, Myself and Us by Brian R. Little

Me, Myself and Us

Brian R. Little
The Science of Personality and the Art of Well-Being
4.1 (103 ratings)

What's Me, Myself and Us about?

Me, Myself and Us (2014) is about what it is that makes you you. These blinks outline the different aspects of personalities, what influences them and how they determine our behavior.

Who should read Me, Myself and Us?

  • Psychology and sociology students
  • Anyone who wants to gain a better understanding of herself or himself

24
Personality Books: How the World Sees You by Sally Hogshead

How the World Sees You

Sally Hogshead
Discover Your Highest Value Through the Science of Fascination
3.8 (174 ratings)

What's How the World Sees You about?

How the World Sees You (2014) offers a window into yourself, helping you discover what fascinates you and how you can be fascinating to other people. Find out how to use your unique personality to improve your performance and your chances of success, and learn how to read those around you so you can put together the perfect collaborative team.

Who should read How the World Sees You?

  • Business leaders who want to learn about team building
  • Employees stuck at a dead-end job
  • Professionals striving to better understand their personal skill set

25
Personality Books: Mindsight by Daniel Siegel

Mindsight

Daniel Siegel
Transform Your Brain With the New Science of Kindness
4.1 (511 ratings)

What's Mindsight about?

Mindsight (2010) introduces the reader to the many factors that shape the way we react to life’s challenges. Emotional responses are tied to our bodies, brains and childhood experiences. With mindsight, we can learn to manage our emotions in order to improve our relationships and well-being.

Who should read Mindsight?

  • Readers interested in the relationships between the human body, brain and behavior
  • Anyone interested in contemporary approaches to psychotherapy
  • Individuals looking for guidance in dealing with uncontrollable emotions

26
Personality Books: Beyond Willpower by Alexander Loyd

Beyond Willpower

Alexander Loyd
From Stress to Success in 40 Days
3.7 (66 ratings)

What's Beyond Willpower about?

Beyond Willpower (2015) is a guide to achieving your deepest, most coveted goals. These blinks explain how to realize the dreams that’ll bring you true joy, happiness and love, while warning you about the obstacles people commonly encounter when doing so, and also pointing out a few shortcuts.

Who should read Beyond Willpower?

  • Anyone who struggles with depression
  • People interested in alternative medicine
  • Students of medicine

27
Personality Books: Ego is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday

Ego is the Enemy

Ryan Holiday
The Fight to Master Our Greatest Opponent
4.4 (708 ratings)

What's Ego is the Enemy about?

Ego is the Enemy (2016) outlines the dangers of egotism and the strategies we can use to rein in our pride, using historical and cultural examples. From finding a mentor to learning how to delegate tasks, these blinks show us why staying grounded can secure future success.

Who should read Ego is the Enemy?

  • Anyone who has been told that they’re arrogant or proud
  • Successful business people feeling uneasy about their newfound fame
  • Managers interested in how the ego impacts our work lives

28
Personality Books: The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin

The Four Tendencies

Gretchen Rubin
The Indispensable Personality Profiles That Reveal How to Make Your Life Better (and Other People’s Lives Better, Too)
4.4 (241 ratings)

What's The Four Tendencies about?

The Four Tendencies (2017) reveals the four personality types that dictate how people react to the expectations in their daily lives. Expanding on the first chapter to her book on habit Better Than Before, Rubin provides insight and advice to help you understand your own tendencies, as well as those of the people you live and work with.

Who should read The Four Tendencies?

  • Parents and teachers who want to have better communication skills
  • Managers and supervisors hoping to improve employee relations
  • Anyone who wants to live a more productive, happier life

29
Personality Books: Quiet Power by Susan Cain, with Gregory Mone and Erica Moroz

Quiet Power

Susan Cain, with Gregory Mone and Erica Moroz
The Secret Strengths of Introverts
3.9 (142 ratings)

What's Quiet Power about?

Quiet Power (2016) explains why adolescents struggle with introversion and explores how an aversion to socializing can make it challenging to form friendships, complete schoolwork and fulfill social obligations. These blinks offer a number of different techniques that introverts can use to make these situations bearable and turn their so-called weakness into a straightforward advantage.

Who should read Quiet Power?

  • Teachers, students and parents
  • Child psychologists
  • Introverts

30
Personality Books: The Life-Changing Magic of Not Giving a F*ck by Sarah Knight

The Life-Changing Magic of Not Giving a F*ck

Sarah Knight
How to Stop Spending Time You Don’t Have with People You Don’t Like Doing Things You Don’t Want to Do
3.1 (151 ratings)

What's The Life-Changing Magic of Not Giving a F*ck about?

The Life-Changing Magic of Not Giving a F*ck (2015) is your definitive guide to freeing up your time, money and energy. These blinks teach you how to stop caring about the things that don’t serve you so you can focus your attention on the parts of life that bring you joy.  

Who should read The Life-Changing Magic of Not Giving a F*ck?

  • People tired of other people’s nonsense
  • Anybody anxious or stressed out by everyday life
  • Anyone who wants to be happier and healthier

31
Personality Books: Dangerous Personalities by Joe Navarro

Dangerous Personalities

Joe Navarro
An FBI Profiler Shows You How to Identify and Protect Yourself from Harmful Personalities
4.1 (123 ratings)

What's Dangerous Personalities about?

Dangerous Personalities (2014) is a guide to the dark side of the human psyche. It offers a look inside the minds of some of the world’s most dangerous people, exploring the kinds of personalities that have taken the most lives, as well as taken the biggest toll on society. Learn the traits of serial killers and those who wouldn’t think twice about stealing your life savings. Who knows, you might be able to spot trouble before it has a chance to strike.

Who should read Dangerous Personalities?

  • Fans of true crime stories
  • Safety conscious people
  • Anyone interested in criminal profiling

32
Personality Books: Experiments With People by Robert P. Abelson, Kurt P. Frey and Aiden P. Gregg

Experiments With People

Robert P. Abelson, Kurt P. Frey and Aiden P. Gregg
Revelations From Social Psychology
4.4 (97 ratings)

What's Experiments With People about?

Experiments With People (2003) is a survey of social psychology throughout the twentieth century, and everything we have come to learn from it. These blinks will teach you about yourself, the hidden sides of human nature, why we make the choices we do and how altruistic humans really are.

Who should read Experiments With People?

  • Students of psychology and the social sciences
  • Impulsive people looking to include more rationality in their daily lives
  • Highly social people interested in the intricacies human nature

33
Personality Books: Getting Naked by Patrick Lencioni

Getting Naked

Patrick Lencioni
A Business Fable About Shedding The Three Fears That Sabotage Client Loyalty
4.4 (50 ratings)

What's Getting Naked about?

Getting Naked (2010) is about vulnerability and the incredible power it holds. These blinks explain how to build trust with clients and overcome the three most common fears that prevent you from showing your true vulnerability.

Who should read Getting Naked?

  • Business consultants
  • Professionals who want to build better relationships
  • Anyone who fears vulnerability

34
Personality Books: The Leading Brain by Friederike Fabritius & Hans W. Hagemann

The Leading Brain

Friederike Fabritius & Hans W. Hagemann
Powerful Science-Based Strategies for Achieving Peak Performance
4.3 (87 ratings)

What's The Leading Brain about?

The Leading Brain (2017) dismisses the trends and gimmicks surrounding productivity in favor of hard science about how the brain really works in the everyday stress of a nine-to-five job. There is plenty of research and scientific data on how to create productive habits, build the perfect team and keep staff working at their best.

Who should read The Leading Brain?

  • Psychology students
  • Managers and supervisors looking to improve their leadership skills
  • Readers interested in self-improvement

35
Personality Books: Walden by Henry David Thoreau

Walden

Henry David Thoreau
Life in the Woods
4.6 (204 ratings)

What's Walden about?

Walden (1854) is the result of the two years Henry David Thoreau spent in the woods on the north shore of Walden Pond, a lake in Massachusetts. It is both a practical and philosophical account of how he sustained himself through farming and by building his own house, and what he learned about human nature by living a simpler life. Although it was a deeply personal experience, Thoreau’s approach to society teaches us how we, too, can approach the modern world.

Who should read Walden?

  • Students of philosophy and literature
  • Environmentalists and nature enthusiasts
  • Readers who support a move back to simple living

36
Personality Books: Psycho-Cybernetics by Maxwell Maltz

Psycho-Cybernetics

Maxwell Maltz
A New Technique for Using Your Subconscious Power
4.4 (263 ratings)

What's Psycho-Cybernetics about?

Psycho-Cybernetics (1960) is about human self-image, how it’s crafted and how it can drastically affect your happiness and success. These blinks describe how to use machine principles to feed your mind the right data and steer yourself toward a fulfilling life.

Who should read Psycho-Cybernetics?

  • Psychologists, neurologists and philosophers
  • People interested in the inner workings of the mind
  • Anyone in need of a boost

37
Personality Books: Neuro-linguistic Programming for Dummies by Romilla Ready and Kate Burton

Neuro-linguistic Programming for Dummies

Romilla Ready and Kate Burton
4.0 (266 ratings)

What's Neuro-linguistic Programming for Dummies about?

Neuro-linguistic Programming for Dummies (2015) is an introduction to the basic principles behind NLP. If you’ve ever struggled to say what’s on your mind, NLP may be of use to you. Discover the human traits that can keep us from understanding each other and the helpful methods that can lead to clear and effective communication.

Who should read Neuro-linguistic Programming for Dummies?

  • Readers who strive to communicate clearly
  • Students of neuroscience and linguistics
  • Anyone open to new ideas and techniques for improvement

38
Personality Books: Captivate by Vanessa Van Edwards

Captivate

Vanessa Van Edwards
The Science of Succeeding with People
4.1 (216 ratings)

What's Captivate about?

Captivate (2017) is your guide to human behavior and social success. Whether you’re trying to connect with others at home, at work or out in the world, Van Edwards set about breaking down the mechanics of how to capture people’s attention and engage in meaningful interaction.

Who should read Captivate?

  • Young people who want to improve their social skills
  • Singles looking to become dating pros
  • Managers and entrepreneurs who want their employees to do their best

39
Personality Books: The Blank Slate by Steven Pinker

The Blank Slate

Steven Pinker
The Modern Denial of Human Nature
4.5 (152 ratings)

What's The Blank Slate about?

The Blank Slate (2002) is about the huge role that evolution and genetics play in making us who we are. Steven Pinker makes a strong case against the belief that everyone is born a blank slate and influenced only by their upbringing, arguing instead that biology is a far more important factor in shaping our behaviors and personalities.

Who should read The Blank Slate?

  • Students of psychology, biology, and philosophy
  • Teachers and parents
  • Readers eager to understand human nature

40
Personality Books: Social by Matthew D. Lieberman

Social

Matthew D. Lieberman
Why Our Brains Are Wired to Connect
4.3 (101 ratings)

What's Social about?

Social (2013) is a whistlestop tour led by noted psychologist Matthew Lieberman through the latest neuroscientific research into our social lives. Foregrounding the deeply human need for connection, these blinks examine how evolution has molded the ways in which we navigate complex social situations. Packed full of original research conducted in the Lieberman’s UCLA lab, Social shows that getting along with others is a primary driver in all our lives.

Who should read Social?

  • People working in teams
  • Anyone who’s wondered why a “broken heart” is so painful
  • Amateur psychologists

41
Personality Books: The Fear Factor by Abigail Marsh

The Fear Factor

Abigail Marsh
How One Emotion Connects Altruists, Psychopaths and Everyone in Between
4.1 (65 ratings)

What's The Fear Factor about?

The Fear Factor (2017) examines the multifaceted role that fear plays in our lives. Though commonly perceived as a purely negative emotion, fear is in fact linked to several virtuous human characteristics, such as empathy and altruism.

Who should read The Fear Factor?

  • People who want to become more altruistic
  • Those interested in neurology and how it affects certain behaviors
  • Individuals who want to turn their fears into something useful

42
Personality Books: The Laws of Human Nature by Robert Greene

The Laws of Human Nature

Robert Greene
4.5 (603 ratings)

What's The Laws of Human Nature about?

The Laws of Human Nature (2018) takes an in-depth look at the many aspects of the human condition that often go overlooked or unacknowledged. As author Robert Greene explains, we are all a bit narcissistic, irrational, short-sighted and prone to compulsive and aggressive behavior. But once we accept and start to understand these aspects of human nature, we can begin to control and even benefit from them.

Who should read The Laws of Human Nature?

  • Students of psychology and human nature
  • Those seeking to understand their behavior
  • People who want to live a better life

43
Personality Books: Outwitting the Devil by Napoleon Hill

Outwitting the Devil

Napoleon Hill
The Secret to Freedom and Success
4.4 (381 ratings)

What's Outwitting the Devil about?

Originally written in 1938, Napoleon Hill’s Outwitting the Devil (2011) remained an unpublished manuscript for over seventy years. Edited and annotated by Sharon Lechter, who contextualizes the content for contemporary readers, Hill’s book is a compendium of advice on how to succeed in life. Readers now have full access to Hill’s personal beliefs on the forces that are holding us back from leading a successful life and the principles that will enable us to overcome those forces.

Who should read Outwitting the Devil?

  • Entrepreneurs looking for the secret to success
  • Anyone who wishes to conquer their fears
  • Readers interested in the lasting wisdom of a 70-year-old self-help book

44
Personality Books: Selfie by Will Storr

Selfie

Will Storr
How We Became So Self-Obsessed and What It’s Doing to Us
4.2 (28 ratings)

What's Selfie about?

Selfie (2017) takes a hard look at today’s internet-driven age of self-obsession. Asking where our ideal of the perfect person came from, acclaimed British journalist Will Storr traces the history of the self from ancient Greece to the social-media-heavy world of selfies and Instagram brunch pics. Along the way, he picks out a multitude of fascinating facts about the political, cultural and economic factors that have shaped the Western world’s notion of who we should be and what we should look like.

Who should read Selfie?

  • Fans and foes of social media
  • Anyone who’s wondered where our culture’s heading
  • History and politics buffs

45
Personality Books: Do What You Are by Paul D. Tieger, Barbara Barron & Kelly Tieger

Do What You Are

Paul D. Tieger, Barbara Barron & Kelly Tieger
Discover the Perfect Career for You Through the Secrets of Personality Types
4.3 (181 ratings)

What's Do What You Are about?

Do What You Are (1992) is a classic career guide, updated in 2014 to even better suit today’s constantly changing job market. By becoming more aware of their unique personality types, millions of people have found more fulfilling and satisfying careers doing work that better coincides with their natural strengths, interests and temperaments.

Who should read Do What You Are?

  • Anyone looking for a job
  • People eager for a new and more fulfilling career
  • Baby boomers who’d like an “encore career”

46
Personality Books: Best Self by Mike Bayer

Best Self

Mike Bayer
Be You, Only Better
4.3 (159 ratings)

What's Best Self about?

Best Self (2019) is a self-help manual for everyone who’s sick of simply surviving and is ready to start thriving. Life coach Mike Bayer argues that it’s essential to dump your toxic anti-self and put your best self in the driver’s seat. It’s not easy, but it’s possible – just ask the thousands of clients whose lives have been changed by Bayer’s insistence that they start being honest with themselves and learn to face down their deepest fears. Packed full of actionable tips and insights, these blinks will help you do just that.

Who should read Best Self?

  • Self-helpers
  • Innovators
  • Those struggling to find deeper meaning in their lives

47
Personality Books: The Personality Brokers by Merve Emre

The Personality Brokers

Merve Emre
The Strange History of Myers-Briggs and the Birth of Personality Testing
3.8 (74 ratings)

What's The Personality Brokers about?

The Personality Brokers (2018) explores the origins and enduring appeal of the preeminent personality test. Drawing on detailed historical research, as well as recent psychological insights, these blinks detail the origins of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, and what the test can really tell us about the nature of human beings.

Who should read The Personality Brokers?

  • Anyone interested in psychology
  • Those who enjoy stories about inspiring women
  • Sociology buffs looking for new insights into twentieth-century society

48
Personality Books: Insight by Tasha Eurich

Insight

Tasha Eurich
Why We’re Not as Self-Aware as We Think, and How Seeing Ourselves Clearly Helps Us Succeed at Work and in Life
4.4 (173 ratings)

What's Insight about?

Insight (2017) takes you on a journey from self-blindness to self-awareness – a highly valuable, but surprisingly absent skill. Author Tasha Eurich explains what self-awareness is and why it’s a crucial quality to have. She identifies various obstacles to becoming self-aware and provides strategies to overcome them.

Who should read Insight?

  • Individuals who’d like to gain more self-awareness
  • Anyone coping with peers who lack self-awareness
  • Leaders who want to build a self-aware and successful team

49
Personality Books: The Road Back to You by Ian Morgan Cron & Suzanne Stabile

The Road Back to You

Ian Morgan Cron & Suzanne Stabile
An Enneagram Journey to Self-Discovery
4.4 (150 ratings)

What's The Road Back to You about?

The Road Back to You (2016) uses the ancient personality type system, the Enneagram, to teach the importance of self-awareness. It outlines the characteristics of each character type, and encourages you to identify and explore the positive and negative aspects of your own.

Who should read The Road Back to You?

  • Christians or other spiritual followers
  • People seeking self-knowledge
  • Enneagram enthusiasts

50
Personality Books: Joyful by Ingrid Fetell Lee

Joyful

Ingrid Fetell Lee
The Surprising Power of Ordinary Things to Create Extraordinary Happiness
4.1 (76 ratings)

What's Joyful about?

Joyful (2018) embraces aspects of color, shape, playfulness and whimsy that surround us in everyday life. These blinks make a positive case for the role that design and architecture can play in making lives more happy and joyful.

Who should read Joyful?

  • Designers 
  • DIY enthusiasts
  • New homeowners or renters

51
Personality Books: Surrounded by Idiots by Thomas Erikson

Surrounded by Idiots

Thomas Erikson
The Four Types of Human Behavior and How to Effectively Communicate with Each in Business (and in Life)
4.3 (854 ratings)

What's Surrounded by Idiots about?

Surrounded by Idiots (2014) offers insight into the four main personality types and provides methods and tips for how to use this insight in order to be more effective in getting your message across to each of them. Different people require different considerations when you’re trying to work alongside them or sell them on an idea. The more you know about each person’s personality type, the more effectively you’ll be able to communicate in your work life and private life.

Who should read Surrounded by Idiots?

  • Executives, managers and human resource workers
  • Anyone with an annoying coworker
  • People who’d like to improve their relationships

52
Personality Books: Reading People by Anne Bogel

Reading People

Anne Bogel
How Seeing the World through the Lens of Personality Changes Everything
4.3 (201 ratings)

What's Reading People about?

Reading People (2017) is a study of the different lenses you can use to understand personality – both your own and those of others. It sheds light on concepts like introversion and extroversion, as well as introducing readers to famous personality type indexes like the Myers Briggs Type Indicator. 

Who should read Reading People?

  • Psychologists and coaches
  • Career counselors
  • Anyone who wants to understand personality better

53
Personality Books: Weird by Olga Khazan

Weird

Olga Khazan
The Power of Being an Outsider in an Insider World
3.7 (187 ratings)

What's Weird about?

Weird (2020) takes a look at why some people are perceived as different, and explores how they experience life as outsiders. Through scientific studies and dozens of interviews, author Olga Khazan shows that while weirdness can be incredibly destabilizing, it is also a wonderful asset.

Who should read Weird?

  • People who feel out of place in mainstream society
  • Anyone wondering why the world seems so polarized
  • Those who want to change but don’t know how

54
Personality Books: The Origin of Everyday Moods by Robert E. Thayer

The Origin of Everyday Moods

Robert E. Thayer
Managing Energy, Tension, and Stress
4.4 (140 ratings)

What's The Origin of Everyday Moods about?

The Origin of Everyday Moods (1996) explores the complex relationships between the biological and psychological factors that create and influence human moods. It also challenges common misconceptions, like the myth that moods are caused by thoughts. With a greater understanding of mood science, we can better manage and control our everyday moods.

Who should read The Origin of Everyday Moods?

  • Fans of psychology and personality studies
  • Those who just can’t seem to break out of a bad mood
  • Anyone curious about the different factors that influence our moods

55
Personality Books: Personality Isn't Permanent by Benjamin Hardy

Personality Isn't Permanent

Benjamin Hardy
Break Free from Self-Limiting Beliefs and Rewrite Your Story
4.6 (288 ratings)

What's Personality Isn't Permanent about?

Personality Isn’t Permanent (2020) debunks the myths surrounding personality that get in the way of a life of personal growth, development, and success. The biggest misconception according to psychologist Benjamin Hardy is the notion that our personalities are innate and fixed. Correcting this error isn’t just a scientific advance, though – as we’ll see in these blinks, it also opens up a path to personal reinvention.

Who should read Personality Isn't Permanent?

  • Self-improvers interested in new perspectives
  • Rationalists fed up with evidence-free advice
  • Anyone looking to kick a bad habit

56
Personality Books: Sizing People Up by Robin Dreeke and Cameron Stauth

Sizing People Up

Robin Dreeke and Cameron Stauth
A Veteran FBI Agent’s User Manual for Behavior Prediction
4.4 (280 ratings)

What's Sizing People Up about?

Sizing People Up (2020) explores the subtle behavioral clues that reveal someone’s true character and intentions. From divining people’s mindset to analyzing their language to understanding common behavioral patterns, these blinks reveal who you can trust – and who you definitely can’t. 

Who should read Sizing People Up?

  • Recruiters looking to up their game
  • Psychology buffs seeking fresh insights
  • Sales people wanting to develop their skills

57
Personality Books: Connect by David Bradford and Carole Robin

Connect

David Bradford and Carole Robin
Building Exceptional Relationships with Family, Friends and Colleagues
4.5 (613 ratings)

What's Connect about?

Connect (2021) lays the groundwork for exceptional relationships. Drawing on social science research and the authors’ personal experience, it shares core behaviors and actionable advice to cultivate meaningful connections – leading to personal fulfillment and professional success.

Who should read Connect?

  • People who want to communicate better with friends, family, or romantic partners
  • Professionals looking to improve their soft skills to level up in their careers
  • Those seeking advice on how to become their best selves

58
Personality Books: The Virtue of Selfishness by Ayn Rand

The Virtue of Selfishness

Ayn Rand
A New Concept of Egoism
4.1 (145 ratings)

What's The Virtue of Selfishness about?

The Virtue of Selfishness (1964) is an argument in favor of self-interest and capitalist economics. At the time of its publication, it was a bold and original assertion of a new moral creed. This daring work is sure to challenge many deeply held ideals.

Who should read The Virtue of Selfishness?

  • Contrarians fond of audacious moral arguments 
  • Entrepreneurs in favor of free enterprise
  • Political enthusiasts interested in challenging their convictions

59
Personality Books: The Law of Success by Napoleon Hill

The Law of Success

Napoleon Hill
The 15 Most Powerful Principles for Wealth, Health, and Happiness
4.6 (809 ratings)

What's The Law of Success about?

The Law of Success (1928) covers 15 valuable lessons that you can use to get motivated about turning your plans and dreams into reality. You can put these practical lessons into practice today. They’re designed to help you turn words into action, gain self-confidence, and thrive in any environment.

Who should read The Law of Success?

  • Inspiration seekers
  • Salespeople looking for tips on success
  • People interested in how to gain self-confidence

60
Personality Books: The Scout Mindset by Julia Galef

The Scout Mindset

Julia Galef
Why Some People See Things Clearly and Others Don't
4.6 (586 ratings)

What's The Scout Mindset about?

The Scout Mindset (2021) explores two very different mindsets: that of the soldier and that of the scout. It explains that most of us have a soldier mindset – we cling to our beliefs and often ignore evidence that might prove us wrong. But we can all learn to be scouts, seeking out truth and improving our “map” of the world.

Who should read The Scout Mindset?

  • Anyone who wants to overcome their inherent biases
  • People who want to learn how to be wrong
  • Truth seekers

61
Personality Books: What Happened to You? by Bruce D. Perry and Oprah Winfrey

What Happened to You?

Bruce D. Perry and Oprah Winfrey
Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing
4.4 (666 ratings)

What's What Happened to You? about?

What Happened to You? (2021) is an in-depth exploration of trauma and how it affects the brain. Long before we can make rational sense of traumatic experiences, they become etched into our neural circuits. They influence how we respond to stress, form relationships, and make meaning. Unfortunately, trauma is often misunderstood. By understanding trauma as both a brain issue and a societal issue, we can start to support trauma survivors with the tools they need to heal. 

Who should read What Happened to You??

  • Survivors of trauma 
  • Teachers, caregivers, and medical practitioners
  • Psychology buffs interested in trauma’s effects on the brain

62
Personality Books: How to Change by Katy Milkman

How to Change

Katy Milkman
The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be
4.4 (336 ratings)

What's How to Change about?

How to Change (2021) is a simple guide to overcoming the obstacles that prevent you from achieving your goals. It diagnoses our most persistent problems, from laziness to impulsivity, and presents a number of research-backed solutions to each one.

Who should read How to Change?

  • Serial procrastinators who can never get things done
  • Anyone whose bad habits interfere with their aims
  • People who’ve lost confidence in their ability to change

63
Personality Books: You Are What You Risk by Michele Wucker

You Are What You Risk

Michele Wucker
The New Art and Science of Navigating an Uncertain World
3.9 (224 ratings)

What's You Are What You Risk about?

You Are What You Risk (2021) explains how your relationship with risk defines your life in a unique way. Countless factors influence both how you perceive risk and how you respond to it.

Who should read You Are What You Risk?

  • People searching for new ways to make decisions
  • Economists looking to better understand risk
  • Thrill-seekers and scaredy-cats wondering why they are how they are

64
Personality Books: The Nine Types of Leader by James Ashton

The Nine Types of Leader

James Ashton
How the Leaders of Tomorrow Can Learn from The Leaders of Today
4.3 (221 ratings)

What's The Nine Types of Leader about?

The Nine Types of Leader (2021) reveals the strengths, assets, and pitfalls of different leadership styles and personalities. Using case studies, it explores how different types of leaders operate, and which business landscapes they’re best suited to, so that they and their companies can thrive.

Who should read The Nine Types of Leader?

  • Chief executives wanting to understand leadership styles
  • Board members seeking to appoint the most effective leader to run their companies
  • Aspiring leaders who aim to overcome their weaknesses

65
Personality Books: The Enneagram at Work by Jim McPartlin with Anna Akbari

The Enneagram at Work

Jim McPartlin with Anna Akbari
Unlocking the Power of Type to Lead and Succeed
4.4 (409 ratings)

What's The Enneagram at Work about?

The Enneagram at Work (2021) reveals how applying the Enneagram – an emotional intelligence metric – can elevate leadership in the modern workplace. It explores the different Enneagram types and shows how tapping into self-awareness can make teams stronger and spark innovative solutions. From managing conflict and building mentorships to giving and receiving criticism, it provides the tools to foster personal growth and long-lasting success in the office.

Who should read The Enneagram at Work?

  • Would-be collaborators who want to better understand themselves and others
  • Individuals seeking awareness of their strengths and blindspots in the workplace
  • Go-getters who want to build stronger teams and become more effective leaders

66
Personality Books: How to Meet Your Self by Nicole LePera

How to Meet Your Self

Nicole LePera
The Workbook for Self-Discovery
4.2 (185 ratings)

What's How to Meet Your Self about?

How to Meet Your Self (2022) is a practical guide to self-discovery. These simple exercises can help you to become more conscious, and more in touch with your own body and emotions, ultimately allowing you to discover your true self.

Who should read How to Meet Your Self?

  • Self seekers
  • People who feel stuck on autopilot
  • Anyone who’s unhappy and doesn’t know why

67
Personality Books: Toward a Psychology of Being by Abraham H. Maslow

Toward a Psychology of Being

Abraham H. Maslow
4.5 (345 ratings)

What's Toward a Psychology of Being about?

Toward a Psychology of Being (1962) expands on famed psychologist Abraham Maslow's pivotal theories of motivation and self-actualization, which were first introduced in Maslow's 1954 book, Motivation and Personality. It presents a series of hypotheses about the human condition, dealing with important questions about people’s innate desires, the nature of well-being, and the process of psychological growth.

Who should read Toward a Psychology of Being?

  • Psychology fanatics 
  • Aspiring self-actualizers who want to get more out of their lives
  • Parents, teachers, counselors, and all those who work with young people

68
Personality Books: The Neuroscience of You by Chantel Prat

The Neuroscience of You

Chantel Prat
How Every Brain Is Different and How to Understand Yours
4.6 (704 ratings)

What's The Neuroscience of You about?

The Neuroscience of You (2022) is an accessible primer to the human brain that explores how our individual quirks arise. Packed with practical tests and cutting-edge insights into why you think differently from others, it invites you to take a closer look at your brain and discover what makes it unique– and how to understand others and their quirks better. 

Who should read The Neuroscience of You?

  • Fans of neuroscience
  • Those eager to learn about the specifics of brain functions
  • Anyone curious about where individuality comes from

69
Personality Books: The Cactus and Snowflake at Work by Devora Zack

The Cactus and Snowflake at Work

Devora Zack
How the Logical and Sensitive Can Thrive Side by Side
4.5 (171 ratings)

What's The Cactus and Snowflake at Work about?

The Cactus and Snowflake at Work (2021) offers a brand-new take on workplace relationships. It suggests that everyone falls into one of two personality types, the Cactus or the Snowflake, and that our types drive the way we think, feel, act, and collaborate. Learning your type – and how to deal with other types – can set you up for professional success.

Who should read The Cactus and Snowflake at Work?

  • Anyone who’s curious to learn if they’re a Cactus or a Snowflake
  • Workers who want to gel better with their teammates
  • Managers struggling to inspire their teams

70
Personality Books: Humor, Seriously by Jennifer Aaker & Naomi Bagdonas

Humor, Seriously

Jennifer Aaker & Naomi Bagdonas
Why Humor Is a Superpower at Work and in Life (And How Anyone Can Harness It. Even You.)
4.1 (430 ratings)

What's Humor, Seriously about?

Humor, Seriously (2021) explores the value of a human-centered approach to business, and of the funny that can be found and created in any environment. It relies on science, psychology, and humorous anecdotes from experts in the field to show how using humor can create a culture of levity, build trust, and unlock creativity.

Who should read Humor, Seriously?

  • Leaders looking to build trust
  • Managers who want to enhance creativity
  • Anyone seeking more joy in work and life

71
Personality Books: Be Your Future Self Now by Benjamin Hardy

Be Your Future Self Now

Benjamin Hardy
The Science of Intentional Transformation
4.6 (575 ratings)

What's Be Your Future Self Now about?

Be Your Future Self Now (2022) is a guide to defining your future self – and making sure you get there. It walks readers through the seven threats to your future self, the seven truths about your future self, and the seven steps you can take to be your future self today. 

Who should read Be Your Future Self Now?

  • Those ready to take their careers and lives to the next level
  • Individuals seeking clarity on their future
  • Anyone frustrated by unsuccessful New Year’s resolutions

72
Personality Books: You Owe You by Eric Thomas

You Owe You

Eric Thomas
Ignite Your Power, Your Purpose, and Your Why
4.3 (435 ratings)

What's You Owe You about?

You Owe You (2022) leaves you with no doubt as to who is responsible for changing the trajectory of your life. It implores you to identify your purpose and then turn your unique talents into assets that will make you achieve unbridled success.

Who should read You Owe You?

  • Anyone trying to take control of their lives
  • Historically disadvantaged people and minorities
  • Organizations trying to inspire their teams toward collective success and individual fulfillment

73
Personality Books: Surrounded by Narcissists by Thomas Erikson

Surrounded by Narcissists

Thomas Erikson
How to Effectively Recognize, Avoid, and Defend Yourself Against Toxic People (and Not Lose Your Mind)
4.4 (653 ratings)

What's Surrounded by Narcissists about?

Surrounded By Narcissists (2022) is a guide to recognizing narcissists and understanding how they operate. Erikson suggests simple, effective methods for dealing with any narcissists you know, whether it’s your partner, a relative, someone you work with, or possibly all three – you may be surrounded.

Who should read Surrounded by Narcissists?

  • Victims of narcissists
  • Empaths who are worried about being manipulated
  • Anyone who’s interested in psychology or personality types

74
Personality Books: Should I Stay Or Should I Go by Ramani Durvasula

Should I Stay Or Should I Go

Ramani Durvasula
Surviving A Relationship with a Narcissist
4.1 (55 ratings)

What's Should I Stay Or Should I Go about?

Should I Stay Or Should I Go (2015) is a comprehensive survival guide for those in a relationship with a narcissist. Dr. Ramani breaks down what narcissism is, highlights the red flags to look out for, and offers two concrete roadmaps – one for deciding to stay, and one for deciding to go. 

Who should read Should I Stay Or Should I Go?

  • Anyone not feeling seen, heard, or respected by a partner
  • People dealing with a narcissistic parent, friend, or colleague
  • Those struggling to decide whether they should stay in or leave a relationship

75
Personality Books: Procrastination by Jane B. Burka & Lenora M. Yuen

Procrastination

Jane B. Burka & Lenora M. Yuen
Why You Do It, What to Do About It Now
4.1 (403 ratings)

What's Procrastination about?

Procrastination (1983) is a deep dive into procrastination – and why people struggle with it. Drawing on personal and professional experience, it offers a tested program and tips on how to conquer procrastination tendencies.

Who should read Procrastination?

  • People seeking to understand why they procrastinate
  • Compulsive procrastinators looking for ways to improve
  • Friends or family of procrastinators who want to help

76
Personality Books: How Am I Doing? by Corey Yeager

How Am I Doing?

Corey Yeager
40 Conversations to Have with Yourself
4.2 (108 ratings)

What's How Am I Doing? about?

How Am I Doing? (2022) helps you dive deep into your thoughts and find yourself. It features 40 introspective questions designed to prompt you to mend yourself and discover the path to the person you want to become.

Who should read How Am I Doing??

  • People who want to gain a better understanding of themselves
  • High school or college graduates looking for their next path
  • Anyone interested in personal growth and self-improvement

77
Personality Books: DIRTY LAUNDRY by Richard Pink & Roxanne Emery

DIRTY LAUNDRY

Richard Pink & Roxanne Emery
Why adults with ADHD are so ashamed and what we can do to help
4.4 (92 ratings)

What's DIRTY LAUNDRY about?

Dirty Laundry (2023) is an honest and humorous glimpse into the daily chaos that is life with ADHD. Whether you’re diagnosed, undiagnosed, or just trying to better understand a loved one, these real-life stories and practical advice can help you learn from and live with the struggles of this chronic disorder.

Who should read DIRTY LAUNDRY?

  • Those living with ADHD who want their struggle to be seen.
  • Members of neurodivergent households looking for ways to best help the people they care about.
  • Anyone who needs to take the shame, judgment, or frustration out of living with ADHD.

78
Personality Books: The Imposter Cure by Dr. Jessamy Hibberd

The Imposter Cure

Dr. Jessamy Hibberd
Escape the mind-trap of imposter syndrome
4.5 (465 ratings)

What's The Imposter Cure about?

The Imposter Cure (2019) provides strategies for increasing confidence, overcoming fears and doubts, and learning to see oneself through the eyes of others.

Who should read The Imposter Cure?

  • Anybody who feels like a fraud
  • Grown-ups who don’t feel grown up
  • Self-sabotagers

79
Personality Books: The Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine N. Aron

The Highly Sensitive Person

Elaine N. Aron
How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You
4.2 (403 ratings)

What's The Highly Sensitive Person about?

The Highly Sensitive Person (1996) improves our understanding of that one-fifth of the population whose nervous systems pick up signals the average person can’t register. With greater self-awareness and society’s understanding, people with heightened sensitivity can flourish.

Who should read The Highly Sensitive Person?

  • Highly sensitive people
  • Parents of highly sensitive children
  • Friends, colleagues, and anyone trying to understand a highly sensitive person

80
Personality Books: Making a Psychopath by Mark Freestone

Making a Psychopath

Mark Freestone
My Journey Into Seven Dangerous Minds
4.5 (83 ratings)

What's Making a Psychopath about?

Making a Psychopath (2020) is a thrilling foray into the disturbed workings of the psychopathic mind. With the help of a series of case studies, it addresses many of the misconceptions about psychopaths that we often see in the media. Taking an empathetic approach, it humanizes the people who have this disorder and considers their prospects for recovery.

Who should read Making a Psychopath?

  • Fans of the show Killing Eve
  • Lovers of true crime
  • Anyone who wants to know whether their boss really is a psychopath

81
Personality Books: Mindreader by David J. Lieberman

Mindreader

David J. Lieberman
Find Out What People Really Think, What They Really Want, and Who They Really Are
4.5 (868 ratings)

What's Mindreader about?

Mindreader (2022) explains how to read and understand people. Written by an FBI instructor and lie-detection expert, it delves deep into how to understand situational subtext, interpret language, and determine whether a person is being honest.

Who should read Mindreader?

  • Mixed signal receivers – at work or while dating
  • Those who have trouble reading others
  • Negotiators who want to up their game

82
Personality Books: The Mountain Is You by Brianna Wiest

The Mountain Is You

Brianna Wiest
Transforming Self-Sabotage Into Self-Mastery
4.6 (1,057 ratings)

What's The Mountain Is You about?

The Mountain Is You (2020) can help you recognize the negative patterns in your life and what they are really telling you. Changing those patterns will be like climbing a mountain and the reward will be unlocking your own potential.

Who should read The Mountain Is You?

  • People with bad habits that they want to understand and change 
  • Those looking to maximize their potential
  • Anyone who feels stuck

83
Personality Books: The Rational Male by Rollo Tomassi

The Rational Male

Rollo Tomassi
3.2 (117 ratings)

What's The Rational Male about?

The Rational Male (2013) implores men to adopt a pragmatic view of intersexual relationships founded on evolutionary and behavioral concepts. Waking up to the evidence, it argues, will set men on a course to prioritizing their needs over the survival instincts of women who currently (covertly) rule the roost.

Who should read The Rational Male?

  • Members of the Manospehere and Red Pill movement
  • Anyone trying to understand the key concepts of the Manosphere 
  • People looking to understand today’s gender conflicts

84
Personality Books: Reinventing Your Life by Jeffrey E. Young and Janet S. Klosko

Reinventing Your Life

Jeffrey E. Young and Janet S. Klosko
The Breakthrough Program to End Negative Behaviour...and Feel Great Again
4.4 (327 ratings)

What's Reinventing Your Life about?

Reinventing Your Life (1994) is a manual on how to pull yourself out of negative habits and improve your life. By identifying key stumbling blocks to growth – or “lifetraps” – and presenting ways to overcome them, it guides you toward sustainable personal growth and happiness.

Who should read Reinventing Your Life?

  • Anyone who feels stuck in the same old negative loop
  • People looking to understand themselves better
  • Psychology buffs

85
Personality Books: The Perfectionist's Guide to Losing Control by Katherine Morgan Schafler

The Perfectionist's Guide to Losing Control

Katherine Morgan Schafler
A Path to Peace and Power
4.5 (358 ratings)

What's The Perfectionist's Guide to Losing Control about?

The Perfectionist’s Guide to Losing Control is about understanding your perfectionist traits and making them work for you, not against you. It details different types of perfectionists and explains how all of them can adapt to their perfectionism.

Who should read The Perfectionist's Guide to Losing Control?

  • Those who identify as perfectionists in any area of their lives
  • People interested in understanding perfectionist traits and tendencies
  • Readers who are interested in the mental health field

86
Personality Books: No More Mr. Nice Guy! by Robert A. Glover

No More Mr. Nice Guy!

Robert A. Glover
A Proven Plan for Getting what You Want in Love, Sex, and Life
4.3 (259 ratings)

What's No More Mr. Nice Guy! about?

No More Mr. Nice Guy (2000) is the Nice Guy’s guide to recovery. Learn how to stop seeking the approval of others, live your life the way you want to, and ultimately get the love, life, and sex that you crave but that your Nice Guy Syndrome actually stops you from achieving.

Who should read No More Mr. Nice Guy!?

  • Men who want to take control of their lives
  • Men who want to find love – and with it, good sex
  • Women who want to help their Nice Guy become the man they really want

87
Personality Books: The Clutter Connection by Cassandra Aarssen

The Clutter Connection

Cassandra Aarssen
How Your Personality Type Determines Why You Organize the Way You Do
4.3 (63 ratings)

What's The Clutter Connection about?

The Clutter Connection (2019) explains the root cause behind your cluttered space. It delves into the four different organizing personality styles and offers easy-to-follow, tailored suggestions for organizing your home based on your distinct style.

Who should read The Clutter Connection?

  • Messy people wanting to organize their spaces
  • Moms looking to declutter their homes
  • Anyone drowning in clutter

88
Personality Books: Love Unfu*ked by Gary John Bishop

Love Unfu*ked

Gary John Bishop
Getting Your Relationship Sh!t Together
4.3 (88 ratings)

What's Love Unfu*ked about?

Love Unfu*ked (2022) is a no-nonsense, in-your-face guide to identifying and fixing the one thing that’s stopping you from having a meaningful and fulfilling relationship: you. By accepting hard facts about yourself and your habits, you can begin making the changes necessary to be the best version of yourself and stop being the problem that you don’t even know you are.

Who should read Love Unfu*ked?

  • The married or committed who’ve grown miserable in their relationships
  • Perpetual daters who are wondering why things never work out
  • Anyone looking for a more meaningful and satisfying relationship

89
Personality Books: The Procrastination Cure by Jeffery Combs

The Procrastination Cure

Jeffery Combs
7 Steps to Stop Putting Life Off
4.5 (616 ratings)

What's The Procrastination Cure about?

The Procrastination Cure is a practical and motivational guide to overcoming procrastination. It offers strategies and personal insights to diagnose and address the root causes of this behavior, enabling readers to balance productivity and relaxation without guilt.

Who should read The Procrastination Cure?

  • Anyone who struggles with procrastination
  • People suffering from perfectionism or resistance
  • Anyone willing to introspect and develop self-awareness

90
Personality Books: Selfless by Brian Lowery

Selfless

Brian Lowery
The Social Creation of “You”
4.2 (33 ratings)

What's Selfless about?

Selfless (2023) explores the concept of the self as an entity formed by relationships and society in general. It tackles the roles of family, social groups, the country, and technology in shaping the self. 

Who should read Selfless?

  • Social psychology enthusiasts
  • Anyone interested in the idea of the self as a social creation
  • People looking to understand themselves and others better

91
Personality Books: You Are the One You've Been Waiting For by Richard C. Schwartz

You Are the One You've Been Waiting For

Richard C. Schwartz
Applying Internal Family Systems to Intimate Relationships
4.7 (52 ratings)

What's You Are the One You've Been Waiting For about?

You Are the One You’ve Been Waiting For (2008) lays out the secret for finding happiness and intimacy in modern romantic relationships. Using the established Internal Family Systems (IFS) model, it shows that true contentment and compassion come from understanding and trusting the Self – your compassionate center of peace and clarity. By adjusting your perspective and completing some practical exercises, your relationship can start to flourish like it never has before.

Who should read You Are the One You've Been Waiting For?

  • Couples who feel unable to connect despite their best efforts
  • Therapists, psychoanalysts and armchair psychologists looking for a unique perspective on relationships 
  • Those who feel unresolved inner turmoil holds them back from maintaining loving relationships

92
Personality Books: Reset by Debra Fileta

Reset

Debra Fileta
Powerful Habits to Own Your Thoughts, Understand Your Feelings, and Change Your Life
3.8 (52 ratings)

What's Reset about?

Reset (2023) is a guide to change for anyone who feels stuck. Drawing on Scripture and her experience as a counselor, Debra Fileta unpacks the psychology behind behavioral patterns and presents simple yet effective daily habits to kickstart change and healing. 

Who should read Reset?

  • Christians and believers
  • Anyone interested in spiritual approaches to self-healing
  • Counselors and therapists

93
Personality Books: Read People Like a Book by Patrick King

Read People Like a Book

Patrick King
How to Analyze, Understand, and Predict People’s Emotions, Thoughts, Intentions, and Behaviors
3.9 (188 ratings)

What's Read People Like a Book about?

Read People Like a Book (2020) unravels the complex tapestry of human behavior, guiding readers to decipher verbal and non-verbal signals broadcast by people 24/7. Marrying scholarly wisdom to sly real-world tales, the book presents the art and science of people-reading with both flair and finesse. Dive in, and soon you'll be navigating human interactions like a seasoned anthropologist.

Who should read Read People Like a Book?

  • Story seekers eyeing deeper connections
  • Negotiators seeking an edge
  • HR specialists scouting the right talent

94
Personality Books: The Power of a Graceful Leader by Alexsys Thompson

The Power of a Graceful Leader

Alexsys Thompson
Flow. Integration. Alignment.
4.2 (10 ratings)

What's The Power of a Graceful Leader about?

The Power of a Graceful Leader (2021) offers an immersive journey into a radical reimagination of your leadership approach. Focusing on aligning your core values with your actions, it provides insightful steps for self-evaluation and reflection, demonstrating how to handle any situation with grace. As you traverse this transformative path, you'll discover the secret ingredient for sustained happiness, fulfilling work, and a profound impact on the world.

Who should read The Power of a Graceful Leader?

  • Aspiring leaders seeking authentic leadership styles
  • Professionals struggling with work-life harmony
  • Individuals interested in personal growth and self-awareness

95
Personality Books: You Lead by Minter Dial

You Lead

Minter Dial
How Being Yourself Makes You a Better Leader
4.1 (51 ratings)

What's You Lead about?

You Lead (2021) argues that, no matter who you are, you already have the attributes of a great leader – you simply need to draw them out. Delving into the evolving dynamics of leadership in the contemporary world, it posits that embracing your whole self is the key to leading authentically and inspiring trust in your clients and colleagues. Through a series of insights and examples, it guides you through the importance of vulnerability, purpose, and self-awareness when leading teams in the modern workplace.

Who should read You Lead?

  • Founders and entrepreneurs looking for an effective leadership blueprint
  • Managers who want to level up their leadership style
  • Mid-level employees who want to demonstrate their leadership potential

96
Personality Books: The Borderline Personality Disorder Workbook by Daniel J. Fox

The Borderline Personality Disorder Workbook

Daniel J. Fox
An Integrative Program to Understand and Manage Your BPD
4.1 (100 ratings)

What's The Borderline Personality Disorder Workbook about?

The Borderline Personality Disorder Workbook (2019) is a practical guide to taking control of your BPD. Through expert advice and actionable exercises, this empathetic resource illuminates a path beyond unhealthy beliefs and destructive behaviors. With these proven techniques, anyone with BPD can begin to improve their emotional patterns and rebuild healthy relationships.

Who should read The Borderline Personality Disorder Workbook?

  • People diagnosed with BPD
  • Those experiencing BPD-like symptoms
  • Friends and family of people with BPD trying to learn about the disorder

97
Personality Books: How to Be a People Magnet by Leil Lowndes

How to Be a People Magnet

Leil Lowndes
Finding Friends – and Lovers – and Keeping Them for Life
4.4 (275 ratings)

What's How to Be a People Magnet about?

How to Be a People Magnet (2001) offers specific techniques for attracting friendships and romantic partners by overcoming social anxieties. Though ostensibly focused on the socially awkward, it will resonate with even the most confident extrovert who is seeking stronger connections with those around them.

Who should read How to Be a People Magnet?

  • Those looking to overcome shyness and social anxiety
  • People hoping to improve their friendships and relationships
  • Individuals wanting to become more likable and magnetic

98
Personality Books: The Highly Sensitive Person's Guide to Dealing with Toxic People by Shahida Arabi

The Highly Sensitive Person's Guide to Dealing with Toxic People

Shahida Arabi
How to Reclaim Your Power from Narcissists and Other Manipulators
4.5 (83 ratings)

What's The Highly Sensitive Person's Guide to Dealing with Toxic People about?

The Highly Sensitive Person’s Guide to Dealing with Toxic People (2020) sheds light on why empathetic individuals tend to attract those with toxic personalities and harmful behaviors. It provides a practical guide to recognizing, mitigating, and recovering from the manipulative tactics of toxic people.  

Who should read The Highly Sensitive Person's Guide to Dealing with Toxic People?

  • Sensitive types who are prone to manipulation
  • Targets for narcissists and other toxic people
  • Those seeking emancipation from controlling partners or family members

99
Personality Books: The Power of Neurodiversity by Thomas Armstrong

The Power of Neurodiversity

Thomas Armstrong
Unleashing the Advantages of Your Differently Wired Brain
4.5 (36 ratings)

What's The Power of Neurodiversity about?

The Power of Neurodiversity (2011) explores how reframing neurological differences as diversity rather than disorder can empower those with atypical minds. It covers the strengths of neurodivergent thinking, finding one's niche, positive adaptations, and envisioning a more inclusive world. It invites us to celebrate the brilliance found in all human brains.

Who should read The Power of Neurodiversity?

  • Teachers of all levels
  • Parents of children with learning or cognitive differences
  • Anyone whose brain is wired a little differently

100
Personality Books: The Winner Effect by Ian H. Robertson

The Winner Effect

Ian H. Robertson
The Science of Success and How to Use It
3.8 (39 ratings)

What's The Winner Effect about?

The Winner Effect (2012) reveals how intrinsic motivation and resilience can drive individuals to remarkable success. It explores the transformative power of grit and the nuanced influences of power, offering insights into balancing confidence and humility. Delve in and discover how your efforts and tenacity shape your destiny.

Who should read The Winner Effect?

  • Aspiring leaders seeking personal growth and success
  • Psychology enthusiasts exploring intrinsic motivation
  • Professionals pursuing effective leadership skills

Related Topics

Personality Books
 FAQs 

What's the best Personality book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Quiet as the ultimate read on Personality.

What are the Top 10 Personality books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Quiet by Susan Cain
  • Mindset by Carol Dweck
  • The Wisdom of Psychopaths by Kevin Dutton
  • You Are Not So Smart by David McRaney
  • Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman
  • Click by Rom and Ori Brafman
  • Personality by Daniel Nettle
  • The Upside of Your Dark Side by Todd Kashdan and Robert Biswas-Diener
  • The Speed of Trust by Stephen M.R. Covey with Rebecca R. Merrill
  • 59 Seconds by Richard Wiseman

Who are the top Personality book authors?

When it comes to Personality, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Susan Cain
  • Carol Dweck
  • Kevin Dutton
  • David McRaney
  • Daniel Goleman