Top Ten Books That Actually Help Women Grow

07.09.25

Top Ten Books That Actually Help Women Grow

By Brin Braathen, Director of Programs, FMWF Chamber

Books that help with grow laying on a table, courtesy of the Women Connect community

Some of the books for women's personal and professional growth recommended the Women Connect community.

Discover a curated guide of books that help women lead, grow and connect with purpose. Explore top resources from the Women Connect community to build your personal growth toolkit today.

Not every book changes your life.

But some change the way you show up to it.

These 10 reads have been highlighted by women in our region for a reason. They go beyond good advice, with each one helping to shift your mindset, grow your confidence, or lead with more clarity and purpose.

Here are 10 books worth bookmarking, and coming back to:

Essentialism by Greg McKeown
A guide to doing less, but better. Perfect if you’re feeling stretched thin and need to refocus.
The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown
One of the most recommended books on embracing vulnerability, belonging and self-worth.
Mindset by Carol Dweck
Explores how success is shaped by the way you think about learning and failure.
Playing Big by Tara Mohr
A must-read for any woman tired of playing small. Practical tools to move through self-doubt and into impact.
The Ideal Team Player by Patrick Lencioni
Outlines the traits that make teams thrive. A great pick for managers and team leads.
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
A thoughtful case for slowing down and living with intention.
The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins
One mental tool. Count 5-4-3-2-1. Take action. That’s it, and it works.
Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
An invitation to live a more creative life without fear or perfectionism.
Just Give a Sh*t by Jodee Bock
A raw, locally loved read that encourages bold ownership of your values and voice.
Worthy by Jamie Kern Lima
An empowering reminder that your self-worth doesn’t need to be earned or proven.

Ready to Build Your Personal Growth Toolkit?

Books don’t just fill your shelves. They shape how you lead, grow and live. That’s why having your own Chapters of Change list matters.

Whether you’re leading a team, launching a dream or simply trying to live with more purpose, these books offer practical insight and powerful encouragement.

Want even more recommendations?

If you haven’t yet, check out our recent article, Personal and Professional Growth Toolkit for Women: Building Your Own ‘Chapters of Change’ List That Lasts. It’s a thoughtful guide to curating your go-to collection of mindset-shifting tools, whether it’s a book that transformed your leadership, a podcast that rewired your thinking or a quote that grounds you in tough moments.

Check it out

Your Next Chapter Starts Here

Turn reflection into action and don’t miss our next Women Connect session:

Reclaiming Yourself in Leadership: From Quiet Drift to Radical Clarity™
Tuesday, July 29 | 3:30 to 5 p.m. | Armory Event Center

Led by Radical Clarity™ creator Kristi Huber, this powerful session will help you reconnect with your values, align your leadership and redefine success on your own terms.