Summer is approaching! You may be graduating from college, taking time off from your position, or rethinking life choices. No matter what your plans are, now is the best time to sit back and consider how to regroup and work towards your potential. The best way to do so is in a stress-free way, like picking up a book—more specifically, career development and motivational books. This type of book provides reflection and learning, creating the essential framework for success whether you’re a student or CEO. Read on for our breakdown of the best summer reads of 2025 for self-improvement in both your personal and professional life.
What are the best self-improvement books?
Before fully diving into career development, it’s best to build a strong foundation of personal values, habits, and a strong mindset. The books listed below include firsthand and science-backed advice that will help you thrive in both your personal and professional life.
Atomic Habits
For individuals who cannot follow through with goals because of bad habits, Atomic Habits by James Clear is worth the read. The book argues that people are motivated and want change, but lack habit-building on a systematic level. To combat your ineffectiveness, Clear highlights how making small incremental changes daily or “getting 1% better every day” is what sets you up for success and transformational change.
Out of all of the motivational books mentioned, Atomic Habits was the #1 most recommended read by Barton employees.
The Let Them Theory
Mel Robbins may be known for many things—the five-second rule, the Let Them Theory, viral social media clips—but have you actually taken the time to read her book? Robbins’ book dives into the “Let Them Theory” and how to apply it to your daily life.
So, what does Mel Robbins mean when she says “let them”?
She emphasizes the need to stop letting things that are not in your control dictate your life. Robbins explores the “Let them” concept through various life stages and settings—whether it’s your career goals or personal relationships. Currently atop the New York Times Best-Seller List and trending worldwide—it’s worth reading the book everyone is talking about!
You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life
The “You Are a Badass” book was written to make you feel empowered to accept who you are and truly love yourself. The author, Jen Sincero, is playful in her writing—creating a perfectly balanced book full of comedy and realness. Sincero offers advice through many channels—whether it’s through mantras, personal finance, spiritual/religious practice, or fighting back against fear. Each chapter is intended to bring perspective and explain her experience. Compared to the other books mentioned, Sincero’s is the shortest, which means it’s best for slow or occasional readers.
The Alchemist
For those looking to indulge themselves with a plot and fictional background instead of non-fiction writing, consider The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. The social publishing platform Medium highlights how the story is centered around a shepherd boy named Santiago who is in pursuit of treasurers near the Egyptian pyramids. Along his journey, he encounters hardship, betrayal, and wisdom that shape his mindset. Through Santiago’s hardship, Coelho addresses the themes of self-confidence, prudence, and embracing change. According to the New York Times, the novel is “more self-help than literature” because of the lessons provided.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change
While published over 30 years ago, the book maintains its relevance by highlighting methods to be better in both your personal and professional life. Stephen Covey, the author of the book, was a highly influential and accredited professor at the Jon M. Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University. Using his background in business, Covey broke down his advice into seven key habits to take on to encourage internal change. This motivational book went on to receive accolades and recognition from high-ranking officials and news sites.
What are the best professional development books?
Based on internal recommendations and book ratings, we’ve landed on five well-received professional development and motivational books. See below for our quick summary of each and determine which one fits the best with your professional goals.
Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World
Here’s something we should all consider—finding ways to focus in our world full of distractions. The author, Cal Newport claims that “deep work” or undistracted work time is essential to fulfillment in our lives. Without it, Newport argues that you won’t be able to become the professional you want to be. Some sections of the book provide “rules” Newport lives by to feel more productive during his work day. However, it’s important to take everything with a grain of salt since some of his recommendations aren’t doable for everyone.
The Making of a Manager: What to Do When Everyone Looks to You
Whether you’re a manager or an aspiring manager, Julie Zhou, the former VP of Design at Facebook, provides valuable insights on maximizing your performance and creating a valuable team. The overarching theme of the motivational book is that exceptional managers are developed over time, not born. According to Goodreads, the book includes visuals on what makes a good manager stand out from others. Additionally, the book explores skills that help one’s career development and find answers to complex issues.
Entry Level Escape: Your Blueprint for Raises, Bonuses, and Promotions
Written by our very own VP of Data Growth Science, David Coughlin explores the topic of entry-level jobs and highlights how to accelerate your career through primary skills, complementary skills, and impact. Coughlin argues “There is no rule that one must spend a minimum amount of time in a frustrating, underpaid, underappreciated entry-level job.” He makes this claim based on his academic background and the professional growth he has gained through a variety of experiences. This book provides a blueprint for the reader to leverage their experience and reach greater heights.
Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI
Given the times we’re living in—the rise of ChatGPT and other types of generative AI, it’s essential to stay in the know of how to respond. Instead of working against it, Ethan Mollick explores what it means to engage with the tool and treat the AI platform as a co-worker and co-teacher. According to Google Books, Mollick claims it’s “imperative” to master this skill. Without doing so, we could be left behind or lose part of our identity from AI misuse.
How to Win Friends and Influence People
With over 30 million copies sold since the book’s 1936 release, Dale Carnegie has solidified himself in the self-help space. Carnegies’ book has been well received by critics, business models, and celebrities alike. In fact, Warren Buffett credits Carnegie’s teachings for how he transformed his life. In just under 300 pages, Carnegie dives into methods on how to make people like you, convince others of your way of thinking, and change people without many setbacks.
Feeling inspired? Ready to tackle the job market? Start looking for your next opportunity by visiting Barton’s job page!
