Books for Success: A Guide for Personal and Professional Growth
If you want to reach new levels in your career and personal life, one of the best places to start is with the right reading list. In fact, the most successful people in the world are voracious readers. That’s why I’ve curated this guide to the best books for success: titles that can sharpen your mindset, build habits, and accelerate your real estate business.
Why Books for Success Matter
Reading is more than a hobby, it’s a tool for transformation. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, seasoned agent, or simply someone looking to live a more fulfilled life, books for success help shape your perspective and expand your toolkit. Just 30 minutes a day can put you on a path to growth, clarity, and achievement. Even better, it’s a habit that compounds over time.
Top 20 Books for Success You Need to Read
Here are some of the most powerful books that have influenced thousands of professionals across industries, including real estate. As you go through this list, consider which titles align with your current goals and challenges:
1. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
2. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
3. The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
4. Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
5. How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
6. The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck
7. Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
8. The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
9. As a Man Thinketh by James Allen
10. Man’s Search for Meaning by Victor Frankl
11. See You at the Top by Zig Ziglar
12. The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield
13. The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale
14. The Science of Getting Rich by Wallace D. Wattles
15. The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success by Deepak Chopra
16. The Magic of Thinking Big by David J. Schwartz
17. Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers
18. Awaken the Giant Within by Anthony Robbins
19. The Power of Intention by Wayne W. Dyer
20. What to Say When You Talk to Your Self by Dr. Shad Helmstetter
Books for Success in Real Estate
For real estate agents, some books will speak directly to the challenges and opportunities in our industry. Therefore, if you want more targeted recommendations, check out my favorite real estate books. Additionally, you can explore books on mindset that will elevate your energy, performance, and confidence in every transaction.
How to Get the Most Out of These Books
To truly benefit from these reads:
- Set a daily reading goal (even 15 minutes is enough)
- Highlight passages and take notes for future reference
- Apply at least one lesson from each book in your real life
- Share key insights with your team, clients, or mentor
Common Questions About Books for Success
What are the best books for success in business?
Look for books that build mindset, systems, leadership, and financial literacy—like Think and Grow Rich or 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. These timeless reads provide a solid foundation.
Are success books still relevant today?
Absolutely. In fact, most timeless success books are rooted in universal principles of productivity, discipline, and emotional intelligence. As a result, they continue to be highly effective even in a changing world.
Can reading books really make you successful?
Books won’t do the work for you. However, they’ll give you the tools, mindset, and strategies to move with intention and take consistent action toward your goals.
Next Steps for Growth
Pick one book from the list above and get started today. Then, take it a step further by surrounding yourself with like-minded professionals. At Tom Ferry, we offer real estate coaching to keep you accountable and supported on your path to success.
Leaders are readers, and you’re just one book away from your next breakthrough.
