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51 Self-Discipline Books for Personal Growth

Want to stop hitting snooze on your dreams? Self-discipline isn't about punishment, it's your secret weapon for crushing goals and living life on your terms. Whether you're battling procrastination (hello, S.J. Scott's 'How to Stop Procrastinating'), need a kick from former Navy SEAL Jocko Willink's 'Discipline Equals Freedom,' or crave the psychology behind willpower in Peter Hollins' 'The Science of Self-Discipline,' the right book can be your game-changer.

Ready to transform from "I'll start tomorrow" to "I'm already doing it"? Start changing your habits and becoming a better version of yourself today with our carefully curated selection of must-read books.

Best books about discipline

Self-discipline is the ability to give short-term pleasure for a long-term goal. It motivates you to do your job well, even when you are exhausted; it helps you stay on track and achieve challenging goals when unexpected obstacles arise.

Is it worth learning to exercise impressive self-control? Yes, if you want to achieve your goals, be productive, and develop professionally and personally. Any of us can become self-disciplined – it’s just about practice. We also recommend reading books about discipline to deepen your understanding.

It has been proven that self-discipline helps improve learning ability and increase productivity. Students with a high level of self-discipline learn more knowledge and perform tasks more efficiently.

Are there people who are self-disciplined from birth? Perhaps. But it has been proven that this skill can and should be improved. Developing discipline is like going to the gym. The more you work on it, the stronger you become.

You’re self-disciplined if you:

  • Keep your promises: If you can't keep a promise, don't make it. People are counting on you.

  • Are punctual: Not being late for school, work, important meetings, and even dates is very important. Nobody likes to wait.

  • Make important things a priority: Start with the most difficult, and by the end of the day, you can do everything you've planned.

  • Plan the day and follow through: Every evening, write a to-do list for tomorrow and so on, so that you don't miss anything important.

  • Aren’t dependent on gadgets: It’s important to put your phone away while working. 

  • Set a timer for work: By setting a deadline, you can get your work done faster.

Best books on discipline

One reason people don't live the lives they want is that they lack self-discipline. We can't become more disciplined in our thinking and behavior if we don't understand how our habits and skills work. To learn how the human brain works, cultivate useful habits, manage emotions, or motivate yourself to change, turn to books on discipline.

Discipline is closely related to self-control and self-regulation. It refers to our ability to agree with ourselves to perform unpleasant work or a difficult task.

Critical additional skills are:

  • Management of negative emotions that can interfere with the completion of the task

  • The ability to overcome analytical paralysis

  • The ability to work outside our comfort zone

Many people get lost when taking the first steps and trying to understand how to develop self-discipline. After all, it’s difficult to decide where to apply new skills first because personal life, work, and health all seem important. The main thing is not to overload yourself; otherwise, you’ll not be able to form a positive impression of discipline.

Remember, nobody is born disciplined, but then nobody is born a quitter or a procrastinator either. We have learned these behaviors through our upbringing and our own experiences.

How Not to Hate Your Husband After Kids

by Jancee Dunn

What is How Not to Hate Your Husband After Kids about?

This insightful guide explores the challenges of maintaining romance and partnership after the arrival of children. Blending humor and practical advice, it delves into the stress and changes that parenting brings to relationships. Through candid anecdotes and expert tips, it encourages couples to navigate conflicts, improve communication, and ultimately, rekindle connection while embracing the joys and trials of parenthood.

Who should read How Not to Hate Your Husband After Kids

New parents seeking relationship advice
Couples navigating parenthood challenges
Readers interested in marriage and parenting dynamics

A Guide to the Good Life

by William B. Irvine

What is A Guide to the Good Life about?

This insightful guide explores the principles of Stoic philosophy and how they can be applied to modern life. Through practical advice and reflections, the author encourages readers to cultivate tranquility, resilience, and contentment amidst life's challenges. The book offers techniques for overcoming negative emotions, achieving a fulfilled life, and embracing the joy found in simplicity and mindfulness. It serves as an accessible introduction to Stoicism for anyone seeking personal growth.

Who should read A Guide to the Good Life

Readers seeking practical philosophy for modern living.
Individuals pursuing personal happiness and resilience techniques.
Those interested in ancient wisdom for contemporary challenges.

Declutter Your Mind

by S. J. Scott, Barrie Davenport

What is Declutter Your Mind about?

This practical guide offers strategies to help you clear your mind of clutter, reduce anxiety, and combat negative thoughts. Through actionable steps and exercises, it provides readers with tools to cultivate mindfulness and resilience. By identifying and addressing mental habits that contribute to worry, the book empowers you to lead a more focused and peaceful life.

Who should read Declutter Your Mind

Individuals struggling with anxiety and stress management.
Readers seeking practical tips for mental clarity.
Anyone interested in personal development and mindfulness.

The Daily Stoic

by Ryan Holiday, Stephen Hanselman

What is The Daily Stoic about?

This book offers daily insights derived from ancient Stoic philosophy, designed to help readers cultivate mental clarity and emotional resilience. Each day's meditation provides practical wisdom and actionable advice, encouraging personal reflection and mindfulness. By exploring themes of self-discipline, purpose, and acceptance, it guides individuals toward achieving serenity and effectiveness in their daily lives, making ancient wisdom applicable in the modern world.

Who should read The Daily Stoic

Philosophy enthusiasts seeking daily inspiration.
Busy professionals wanting to enhance personal effectiveness.
Individuals pursuing mental clarity and inner peace.

Can't Hurt Me

by David Goggins

What is Can't Hurt Me about?

This powerful memoir delves into the author’s transformation from a troubled youth into a Navy SEAL and ultra-endurance athlete. Through grueling personal anecdotes, he reveals how to harness mental strength, overcome adversity, and push beyond perceived limits. With practical strategies and a no-excuses mindset, it inspires readers to cultivate resilience and take control of their lives, proving that the biggest obstacles often lie within.

Who should read Can't Hurt Me

Fitness enthusiasts seeking mental resilience.
Individuals overcoming personal struggles and adversity.
Motivational readers aiming for self-improvement and discipline.

Bright Line Eating

by Susan Peirce Thompson, PhD

What is Bright Line Eating about?

This book presents a groundbreaking approach to weight loss and healthy living by integrating science with practical strategies. It emphasizes the connection between food and the brain, offering insights into why many diets fail. Through a structured program, readers learn to rewire their relationship with food, enabling them to achieve lasting weight loss and a happier, more fulfilled life. The focus is on emotional well-being and sustainable habits for lasting change.

Who should read Bright Line Eating

Individuals seeking effective weight loss strategies
Health enthusiasts interested in eating psychology
People struggling with emotional eating challenges

15 Secrets Successful People Know About Time Management

by Kevin Kruse

What is 15 Secrets Successful People Know About Time Management about?

This book unveils powerful time management secrets practiced by highly successful individuals across various fields. Through insights from billionaires, athletes, scholars, and entrepreneurs, it illustrates practical habits and strategies that enhance productivity and efficiency. Readers will discover how to prioritize tasks, eliminate distractions, and maximize their time to achieve personal and professional goals, ultimately transforming their approach to managing the most valuable resource of all: time.

Who should read 15 Secrets Successful People Know About Time Management

Busy professionals seeking better time management strategies.
Students aiming for academic excellence and productivity skills.
Entrepreneurs looking to optimize their daily routines.

Extreme Ownership

by Jocko Willink, Leif Babin

What is Extreme Ownership about?

This book presents the leadership principles learned by former Navy SEALs in combat and how these lessons can be applied to business and life. Through engaging stories and practical insights, the authors emphasize the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions, fostering teamwork, and maintaining high standards, ultimately demonstrating that effective leadership is about owning one's decisions and guiding others to success.

Who should read Extreme Ownership

Military personnel seeking leadership insights.
Entrepreneurs aiming to enhance team performance.
Students interested in discipline and resilience.

How to Stop Procrastinating

by Steve Scott

What is How to Stop Procrastinating about?

This practical guide offers effective strategies to help readers tackle procrastination and cultivate productive habits. Through straightforward techniques, it addresses the psychological barriers that lead to avoidance of difficult tasks. The book emphasizes setting achievable goals, maintaining motivation, and developing a disciplined approach to work. With actionable advice, readers can learn to overcome procrastination and enhance their productivity in both personal and professional spheres.

Who should read How to Stop Procrastinating

Students seeking to improve their study habits.
Professionals struggling with deadlines and time management.
Anyone wanting to enhance productivity and motivation.

How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk

by Adele Faber, Elaine Mazlish

What is How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk about?

This practical guide teaches parents and caregivers effective communication skills to foster cooperation and understanding with children. It emphasizes empathy, active listening, and constructive dialogue, offering techniques to handle conflicts and encourage positive behavior. By using relatable examples and engaging illustrations, the book empowers adults to connect with kids, enhance their problem-solving abilities, and develop better relationships, ultimately creating a more harmonious family dynamic.

Who should read How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk

Parents seeking effective communication strategies with children.
Educators looking for techniques to engage students better.
Childcare professionals wanting to improve relationships with kids.

The Dichotomy of Leadership

by Jocko Willink, Leif Babin

What is The Dichotomy of Leadership about?

This book explores the delicate balance of leadership through the lens of extreme ownership, highlighting the dualities leaders face. It presents strategies for effectively managing competing priorities, fostering teamwork, and building trust while making tough decisions. Drawing on real-life military experiences, it emphasizes the importance of accountability, humility, and clarity, offering practical insights for leaders at all levels to navigate challenges and achieve success.

Who should read The Dichotomy of Leadership

Aspiring leaders seeking practical leadership strategies.
Veterans transitioning to civilian leadership roles.
Managers aiming to enhance team accountability and performance.

Discipline Equals Freedom

by Jocko Willink

What is Discipline Equals Freedom about?

This practical guide emphasizes the importance of discipline as a foundation for personal freedom and success. Drawing on military experiences, the author shares strategies for building self-discipline in various aspects of life, including fitness, work, and mental resilience. Through concise, motivational advice and actionable steps, the book inspires readers to take control of their lives, cultivate a strong mindset, and achieve their goals through disciplined action.

Who should read Discipline Equals Freedom

Military personnel seeking leadership strategies.
Fitness enthusiasts aiming for mental toughness.
Professionals looking to enhance productivity and discipline.

First Man In

by Ant Middleton

What is First Man In about?

This gripping memoir provides an insider’s look at the life of a former Special Forces operative, detailing the high-stakes experiences and the leadership philosophies gained on the front lines. The author shares powerful stories of resilience, teamwork, and mental strength, offering lessons on overcoming adversity and leading with integrity. With a focus on personal growth, it inspires readers to embrace challenges and push their limits.

Who should read First Man In

Aspiring leaders seeking motivation and inspiration.
Fans of military memoirs and personal development.
Individuals interested in resilience and teamwork strategies.

The Spartan Way

by Brett McKay, Kate McKay

What is The Spartan Way about?

Exploring the principles of discipline, resilience, and camaraderie from ancient Spartan warriors, this book offers modern men a blueprint for personal growth. By emphasizing physical fitness, mental fortitude, and ethical leadership, it provides actionable insights for cultivating a purposeful life. Through historical anecdotes and practical advice, readers are encouraged to embrace challenges and develop a warrior mindset, fostering strength and character in today’s fast-paced world.

Who should read The Spartan Way

Men seeking personal growth and resilience.
History buffs interested in ancient warrior cultures.
Fitness enthusiasts looking for motivational strategies.

The Perfect Day Formula

by Craig Ballantyne

What is The Perfect Day Formula about?

This insightful guide provides practical strategies for achieving personal and professional success by mastering your daily routine. It emphasizes the importance of structure, goal-setting, and accountability in transforming chaotic days into productive ones. Readers will learn how to prioritize tasks, eliminate distractions, and cultivate habits that lead to a more fulfilling life. With actionable tips, this book empowers individuals to take control of their time and ultimately, their destiny.

Who should read The Perfect Day Formula

Busy professionals seeking time management strategies.
Entrepreneurs aiming to enhance productivity and focus.
Individuals looking for a structured daily routine.

The 12 Week Year

by Brian P. Moran, Michael Lennington

What is The 12 Week Year about?

This book introduces a revolutionary approach to productivity, emphasizing the importance of focusing on shorter, more intense periods of work. By breaking the year into 12-week segments, it encourages readers to set concrete goals and execute plans with urgency. This method helps individuals and teams achieve significant results in a fraction of the time, transforming how one plans and accomplishes work, while fostering accountability and motivation.

Who should read The 12 Week Year

Busy professionals seeking increased productivity.
Students striving for effective time management skills.
Entrepreneurs looking to enhance goal achievement strategies.

Living with a SEAL

by Jesse Itzler

What is Living with a SEAL about?

This memoir chronicles the author's unconventional month spent training with a former Navy SEAL. Through grueling workouts and intense challenges, he pushes his physical and mental limits while exploring themes of discipline, resilience, and personal growth. The experience transforms his perspective on comfort and motivation, leading to profound life lessons and a renewed commitment to self-improvement. It's an inspiring account of determination and the power of an extreme mentor.

Who should read Living with a SEAL

Fitness enthusiasts seeking intense motivation.
Business professionals looking for personal growth techniques.
Adventure lovers craving unique experiences and challenges.

The Happiest Toddler on the Block

by Harvey Karp, MD, Paula Spencer

What is The Happiest Toddler on the Block about?

This guide offers parents effective strategies to foster patience and cooperation in toddlers aged one to four. By understanding child development and employing respectful communication techniques, caregivers can eliminate tantrums and nurture happier, more emotionally resilient children. Filled with practical advice and real-life examples, it emphasizes the importance of patience and validation in raising well-adjusted toddlers.

Who should read The Happiest Toddler on the Block

Parents of toddlers seeking effective discipline strategies.
Caregivers looking for ways to reduce toddler tantrums.
Child development enthusiasts eager for practical parenting advice.

The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did)

by Philippa Perry

What is The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did) about?

This insightful guide explores the intricacies of parenting and relationships, emphasizing the importance of emotional communication. Drawing on psychological principles, it offers practical advice for fostering healthy connections with children and understanding one's own upbringing. By encouraging self-reflection, the author equips parents with tools to engage more empathetically, ultimately enabling them to break negative cycles and promote a nurturing environment for future generations.

Who should read The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did)

Parents seeking better communication with their children.
Caregivers wanting to improve their emotional understanding.
Young adults aiming to learn about parenting styles.

The Procrastination Cure

by Damon Zahariades

What is The Procrastination Cure about?

This guide offers practical strategies to overcome procrastination, helping readers identify and tackle their time-wasting habits. With 21 proven tactics, it empowers individuals to enhance their productivity, manage their time effectively, and cultivate a proactive mindset. Whether faced with daily tasks or long-term projects, this book provides the tools needed to break free from the cycle of delay and achieve outlined goals with confidence.

Who should read The Procrastination Cure

Students struggling with time management and deadlines.
Professionals seeking to enhance productivity and efficiency.
Anyone interested in overcoming procrastination for personal growth.

FAQs on books about discipline

What books should I read for discipline?

To improve self-discipline, it is worth reading books that will help you form positive habits and change your thinking. These include 'Atomic Habits' by James Clear, 'Flexible Mindset' by Carol Dweck, and 'The 12 Week Year' by Brian P. Moran and Michael Lennington.

What books talk about discipline?

Books on discipline and self-control include 'Atomic Habits' by James Clear, 'Willpower' by Kelly McGonigal, and 'Discipline is Freedom.' Other recommended books include 'The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People' by Stephen Covey and 'Eat That Frog!' by Brian Tracy. You might find 'The Marshmallow Test' by Walter Mischel useful.

How can I fix poor discipline?

To be disciplined, you must formulate goals clearly, plan your day, prioritize, and break down large tasks into smaller steps. Develop healthy habits, plan your day, learn to say "no" to unwanted things, and analyze your achievements and mistakes. Forming a daily routine helps you build consistency. Include time for work, exercise, rest, and hobbies.

What are the five pillars of self-discipline?

Self-discipline is based on hard work, acceptance, willpower, diligence, and persistence. Acceptance helps you see reality as it is, without excuses or denial. Willpower enables you to act on your goals, even when difficult. Hard work, diligence, and persistence build the habit of being consistent, overcoming obstacles, and not giving up, which makes self-discipline the key to personal growth and success.

How can I teach myself self-discipline?

Self-discipline is the skill to move forward, stay motivated, and take action no matter how you feel physically and emotionally. It requires constant practice and nurturing.

Write down your goals so you can see them every day. Remind yourself why you started and what you will achieve when you finish. Set small goals first to build your confidence. Also ask friends to check your accountability, so you can motivate and support each other.

What are some good books on discipline?

These good books on discipline offer practical strategies for developing self-control, forming habits, and achieving goals: 'Discipline Is Destiny' by Ryan Holiday, '12 Rules for Life' by Jordan Peterson, 'No Excuses!: The Power of Self-Discipline' by Brian Tracy and 'Atomic Habits' by James Clear. Your choice of book depends on your personal needs.