My Favorite Books That Changed How I Think About Success

I used to think success had a very specific look: a polished résumé, a packed schedule, maybe a corner office with a title that made people nod in approval. And while those things can be part of success, I've come to learn that success—real success—is way more personal, way more internal, and often way less Instagrammable than we’re led to believe.

A lot of this shift in perspective came from books. Not courses. Not podcasts. Just honest, powerful, well-told truths that forced me to slow down, reflect, and reframe what I wanted out of life.

So today, I’m sharing the books that completely changed how I think about success, whether in business, leadership, or just becoming a more grounded human being.

Atomic Habits by James Clear

This one lives up to the hype.

I used to set big goals and then beat myself up when I didn’t hit them in three months flat. Atomic Habits taught me to zoom in. Success isn’t a grand moment—it’s the result of small, consistent choices stacked over time. It gave me a practical framework for building routines that support the kind of life I want, rather than chasing unrealistic productivity highs.

Takeaway: Tiny changes really do lead to big results. Habits > hustle.

The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson

This book reinforced what Atomic Habits started. It's all about how small, seemingly insignificant daily actions can either move you toward success or away from it. It's not flashy—it’s foundational.

What struck me most was how Olson frames success as a curve: you're either going up or down, but you're never staying still. That changed how I look at every little choice, from my morning routine to how I follow up with clients.

Takeaway: Success isn’t a single event—it’s a curve built over time through discipline.

The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown

This one hit me emotionally more than professionally, but honestly, that's where the deepest transformation started.

I had to unlearn the idea that I needed to be perfect, polished, and always “on” to be worthy of success. Brené gave me permission to show up as myself—messy parts and all—and trust that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.

Takeaway: Letting go of perfection is where true success—and peace—begins.

Deep Work by Cal Newport

This book was a wake-up call in the best way. It forced me to look at how much time I was reacting to things—emails, social media, to-do lists—and not creating meaningful work.

Cal makes the case that the ability to focus deeply is becoming rare—and incredibly valuable. This book helped me create more boundaries, work with more intention, and stop confusing “busy” with “productive.”

Takeaway: Success requires focused, undistracted effort—not just doing more.

Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

If you’re a creative or entrepreneur, this one is like a warm hug and a pep talk all at once.

Gilbert talks about fear, creativity, and what it means to make something just because you feel called to do it—not because it’s marketable, perfect, or profitable. It reminded me that success can simply be showing up to your calling, even when no one’s watching.

Takeaway: Don’t wait for permission to pursue what lights you up. Just start.

Final Thoughts

Success isn’t just about strategy—it’s about mindset, perspective, and knowing what actually matters to you. These books helped me redefine success on my own terms, and they continue to shape how I show up in work and in life.

If you’re feeling stuck, burnt out, or just curious about how others have navigated their own paths, I highly recommend adding one (or all!) of these to your nightstand.

And if you’ve read something that changed the game for you, drop it in the comments—I’m always looking to grow.

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