She Said, She Wrote: Top 10 Self-Help Books by Women, for Women
Stronger together! While 70% of self-help readers are women, the genre often misses the power of a relatable, female voice. And that’s why Blinkist presents a curated list of the top 10 self-help books written by women, for women.
And these empowering reads tackle the unique challenges women face, offering guidance, support, and a fresh perspective to help you build confidence, embrace your femininity, and become the strong, capable woman you are meant to be.
The Top 10 Self-Help Books for Women, By Women
1. Fair Play by Eve Rodsky
Ever feel like you’re drowning in laundry while your partner chills on the couch? Meet Eve Rodsky, a Harvard Law School graduate who noticed a major imbalance in household chores. Her self-help book, Fair Play, isn’t your typical “women do more housework” rant.
Women still handle the main household tasks, and Rodsky, tired of the unfair division of labor in her own home, developed a revolutionary system to help couples achieve a fair and balanced workload split.
Her book provides a step-by-step approach, complete with communication strategies and charts, to ensure everyone contributes their fair share. Imagine a home life where resentment is replaced by peace and teamwork – Fair Play can make that a reality.
Fair Play
- 19 min reading time
- audio version available
2. We Should All Be Millionaires by Rachel Rodgers
Do you believe you’re not qualified to ask for a raise, or that financial success is just for the “lucky” ones? Rachel Rodgers disagrees. She’s the founder of Hello Seven, a platform dedicated to financial empowerment for women.
And in her self-help book, We Should All Be Millionaires, Rogers unpacks the reasons why women often hold themselves back financially. But this read will also equip you with the tools to demand your worth.
From salary negotiations to budgeting strategies, Rodgers will help you build confidence, take control of your finances, and create a secure future for yourself. Because let’s face it, financial freedom is the ultimate power move!
We Should All Be Millionaires
- 20 min reading time
- audio version available
Interested in more empowering financial advice? Check out the Women’s Financial Freedom collection curated by Blinkist. This collection is dedicated to helping women manage their finances, invest wisely, and achieve independence.
And with plenty of insights on navigating the gender pay gap and strategies to build wealth, these Blinks and Shortcast episodes are essential tools for any woman ready to take charge of her financial destiny.
3. The Confidence Code by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman
Have you ever noticed how some men seem to walk into a room and command attention, while women often second-guess themselves? The Confidence Code, written by two award-winning journalists, Katty Kay and Claire Shipman, explores the “confidence gap” between men and women.
They dive deep into the science and psychology behind confidence and, more importantly, offer actionable strategies to help you believe in yourself and work on your personal growth. Whether you’re navigating a boardroom or a social gathering, this self-improvement book will equip you with the tools to project confidence and achieve your goals.
The Confidence Code
- 18 min reading time
- audio version available
4. Girl, Stop Apologizing by Rachel Hollis
Do you find yourself constantly apologizing, even when you haven’t done anything wrong? Rachel Hollis, a motivational speaker and entrepreneur, gets it. In Girl, Stop Apologizing, she cuts through the BS and reminds you that you are worthy and capable.
This is probably the best self-help book for women and a powerful call to action, urging you to stop apologizing for your dreams, your ambitions, and for simply taking up space in the world. Hollis offers practical advice and personal anecdotes to help you silence your inner critic and embrace your full potential.
Girl, Stop Apologizing
- 22 min reading time
- audio version available
5. Pleasure Activism by Adrienne Maree Brown
Do you feel like you’re constantly running on empty, giving to everyone else but neglecting yourself? Pleasure Activism by Adrienne Maree Brown challenges that narrative. Brown argues that pleasure—not just physical pleasure, but also joy, creativity, and self-expression—is a form of resistance and liberation.
And this book is all about reclaiming your right to feel good, and exploring how self-care can be a powerful tool for personal and social transformation. Pleasure Activism encourages you to reconnect with your desires, break free from limitations, and build a life filled with joy and fulfillment.
Pleasure Activism
- 20 min reading time
- audio version available
6. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
Have you ever felt like your creative spark has dimmed, or that hidden project keeps collecting dust? Meet Elizabeth Gilbert, the bestselling author of Eat Pray Love. Big Magic is not your typical “how-to” creativity guide. Gilbert, who describes herself as an “artist on assignment from the universe,” focuses on the emotional roadblocks that often hold us back—fear, self-doubt, and the paralyzing pursuit of perfection.
Her book serves as a playful and inspiring reminder to embrace messy creativity, overcome creative blocks, and rediscover the joy of simply creating. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a complete beginner, Big Magic will help you tap into your imagination and bring your creative dreams to life.
And if you’re looking to clear your mind to make more room for creativity, don’t miss the insightful guide from Dawn Madsen, The Minimal Mum. Her Blinkist 5-step program teaches you how to declutter your mind and focus on what truly matters. For a life free of clutter and rich in creativity, read more about her approach here.
Big Magic
- 12 min reading time
- audio version available
7. The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
Do you want to get creative but feel stuck in a rut? Julia Cameron, a prolific artist and writer, has developed a powerful program based on the idea that we are all inherently creative. The Artist’s Way is a 12-week course designed to help women overcome creative blocks and awaken your inner artist.
Through a series of exercises—morning pages, artist dates, and reflective walks—Cameron guides you on a journey of personal growth, self-discovery and creative renewal. If you’re ready to silence your inner critic and embrace your creative spirit, The Artist’s Way is the roadmap you’ve been searching for.
The Artist's Way
- 14 min reading time
- audio version available
8. Hold Me Tight by Sue Johnson
Feeling like your relationship with your partner has lost its spark? Dr. Sue Johnson, a renowned clinical psychologist and the founder of Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFCT), offers a lifeline in Hold Me Tight. And this self-help book for women dives deep into the emotional core of relationships, focusing on our innate need for connection and secure attachment.
Dr. Johnson equips you with powerful tools for improving communication, resolving conflicts, and fostering emotional intimacy with your partner. Whether you’re navigating a rocky patch or simply seeking to strengthen your bond, Hold Me Tight provides a practical and insightful guide to building a more fulfilling and connected relationship.
Hold Me Tight
- 15 min reading time
- audio version available
9. In the FLO by Alisa Vitti
Are you frustrated by your body’s ups and downs? Alisa Vitti, a women’s health expert and founder of FLO Living, sheds light on the powerful connection between your menstrual cycle and overall well-being in In the FLO. This book goes beyond the basics of periods, exploring how your hormones influence your energy levels, mood, and even your cravings.
Vitti provides a roadmap for working with your natural hormonal rhythm, offering practical tips on food, exercise, and lifestyle choices to optimize your health and feel your best throughout your cycle. In the FLO empowers you to take control of your health and experience a more balanced and vibrant life.
In the FLO
- 21 min reading time
- audio version available
10. You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero
Impostor syndrome, anyone? Life coach and bestselling author Jen Sincero cuts through the fluff in You Are a Badass. This book is a hilarious (and sometimes sweary!) kick in the pants to silence your inner critic and embrace your greatness.
Sincero uses a blend of humor, tough love, and practical exercises to help you identify limiting beliefs, overcome self-doubt, and go after what you truly want in life. If you’re ready to ditch the self-sabotage and step into your power, You Are a Badass is the irreverent yet effective self-help guide you need.
You Are a Badass
- 12 min reading time
- audio version available
And that’s a wrap on our power-packed list of the best 10 self-help books by amazing women! These authors aren’t just throwing knowledge at us, they’re reaching out a hand to guide us through life’s curveballs with wisdom and a healthy dose of real talk.
Whether you’re craving a creative spark, want to boss your finances, or need tips to navigate relationships (romantic or otherwise!), there’s the right book for every need.
Are you still hungry for more self-love and empowerment? Blinkist has a whole collection of Women’s Empowerment Books designed to flip the script on your world, one page (or Blink!) at a time.
And here’s the best part: Blinkist also offers a free 7-day trial. It’s the perfect chance to find more self-help books for women and guides that resonate most with YOU on your personal empowerment journey.
Start your free trial today and join a thriving community of women who are lifting each other up: