The 5 Personal Development Books Every Mom Should Read

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Personal development days were a common occurrence during my 5 years as a teacher. Growth in the profession, educating ourselves on trends, and learning to be better... these things were all emphasized in the career. 

Now, as a mama, I don't have government-mandated PD days (although, now that I've written it, I think this should be a thing! Imagine it, moms getting together for the day to drink wine, talk about the crazy things their kids have done, and learn together so that they can Mom better? I'm onto something here!!).

Since this isn't a real thing (yet), I've turned to personal development books to help me learn the things I need to be a better wife, mom, and overall human. That's the goal, right? These are my top 5 recommendations for personal development books every mom needs to read!

1. The Compound Effect, by Darren Hardy

The Compound Effect was the first personal development book I read when I was a new mom and, since then, I've read it at least 3 more times. It is based on the principal that the small, seemingly-insignificant decisions you make every single day are what shape your future. Over time, those tiny decisions (like, whether to take the stairs every day or ride the elevator) will either help you care the life of your dreams OR they will do the exact opposite.

Implement the strategies in this book and I promise you... your life will change in truly amazing ways.
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2. Be That Mom, By Tina O'Connor

When I was pregnant with my daughter, my mother was in a bookstore and happened to see the author of Be That Mom, Tina O'Connor, signing copies of her book. My mum got one for me and I read it recently; now, I cannot say enough good things about this book.

Combining inspiring stories from moms with Tina's own success tips, this book emphasizes effective communication for a stress-free life. This is applicable information to quickly revolutionize your #momlife. Because seriously... who doesn't want to ignite their passion, organize their life, and embrace their family?!
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3. You Are A Badass, by Jen Sincero

Another one of my first personal development books, I recommend Jen Sincero's You Are a Badass to pretty much any and everyone. I mean, the subtitle is "How to stop doubting your greatness and start living an awesome life."

We all have days where we doubt ourselves (mom guilt can be SO STRONG). While not written for mothers specifically, this book will help you to get out of your head, get out of your own way, and remember that you are, in fact, doing an amazing job. 
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Need more book suggestions? Come check out my list of favourites, categorized for your convenience! 

4. The Miracle Morning, by Hal Elrod

Again, this book wasn't written specifically for moms... but it may have well been. The hectic morning hustle is something I do NOT miss since implementing the miracle morning strategies.

The premise is that by waking up an hour earlier, you effectively make your whole day more productive and ... just better. The book outlines activities that the most successful people do every morning.

There is also a Miracle Morning book written for families; however, I choose to not involve my family in my morning routine so that I can show up better for them when they get up.
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5. Style Your Mind, by Cara Alwill Leyba

I am a BIG fan of workbooks (in fact, I'm in the process of self-publishing my OWN journal/workbook around one of the practices that has been the most influential in my own success) and this resource from Cara Alwill Leyba is will challenge you to dig deep to design your thoughts, empower yourself, and build a beautiful life.

This journal includes questions and activities that are thought-provoking and life-changing from a master life coach and just all-around inspiring woman. You will learn so much about yourself by going through this book and really analyzing where you're at and where you want to be.

Have you read any of these books? What are your own recommendations for moms craving some personal development in their lives?