There are too many ladies out there lacking in self-love and low on self-esteem … which is no good at all! We lack self-love for many reasons. It could be due to a messy divorce, financial worries, an abusive relationship, an ongoing medical problem … or any number of other things. If you're looking for tools to help you reconnect with yourself, self-love books for women can be a powerful place to start.
See below for our carefully curated list of self-love books for women to help get you back on track, loving yourself and loving life.
Further reading: 15 Powerful self love crystals to enhance your life.
You Can Heal Your Life by Louise Hay
“If we are willing to do the mental work, almost anything can be healed,” says author Louise Hay in a book that demonstrates the power of thoughts to shape our daily experience. Her first-hand experience of “curing herself” after a cancer diagnosis will no doubt inspire others who are struggling with their own issues, whether it’s illness, job loss or the end of a relationship.
Recommended for: Recommended for: Anyone having difficulty getting their lives back on track due to persistent negative thoughts and feelings.
How to Stop Feeling Like Sh*t by Andrea Owen
It’s time to start living your best life with Andrea Owen’s no-nonsense advice to awaken your brilliant, awesome self. In this book, you’ll learn how to overcome self-destructive behaviours, like catastrophizing, people-pleasing and constant criticism, that derail your best-laid plans for self-improvement. Each chapter is filled with practical tips to create a happier, better version of you.
Recommended for: If you dislike touchy-feely self-help and prefer a straight-shooting approach, this book is for you.
The Untamed by Glennon Doyle
If you are a fan of Glennon Doyle’s other work, you’ll love this empowering memoir. This book is all about finding yourself by letting go of what you should be according to other people’s expectations, trusting your inner voice, and being brave. Because “the braver we are, the luckier we get.” It’s about listening to your heart and being that person, instead of someone the world wants you to be.
Recommended for: Anyone who feels lost or unsure and looking for inspired advice to point them in the right direction.
Love for Imperfect Things by Haemin Sunim
Written by a Zen Buddhist monk, Love for Imperfect Things is all about self-care and accepting yourself, flaws and all. Because it’s only when we have compassion for our imperfect selves that we can finally build fulfilling relationships and love others. In short, “be good to yourself first, then to others.” The lovely illustrations are the perfect accompaniment to the deceptively simple nuggets of wisdom at the heart of this book.
Recommended for: Women who need a little help loving themselves more.
You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero
Speaking of entertaining self-love books for women, this one by Jen Sincero is a must-read. It’s about how to become a badass and create a life you truly love. According to Jen, being a badass starts with understanding what makes you tick, changing what you don’t love and loving what you can’t change. Even if it doesn’t turn your life around, you’ll enjoy the hilarious stories, words of wisdom and easy exercises.
Recommended for: People who like funny, in-your-face self-help and practical self-transformation tips.
The Self-Love Experiment by Shannon Kaiser
Anyone who has struggled with body issues will relate to Shannon Kaiser’s experience in the Self Love Experiment, a book about being kind to yourself and getting the confidence you need to reach your goals. Sometimes, we need to prioritise our own interests to achieve our ideal body, dream job, or partner. Her process is simple and actionable: changing daily habits and banishing fear-based thoughts.
Recommended for: Those struggling with weight issues and need a confidence/positivity boost.
Self-Love Workbook for Women by Megan Logan
When you just want to roll up your sleeves and get right to improving your life, this Self Love Workbook for Women by therapist Megan Logan is what you need. She provides goal-setting exercises, quizzes, affirmations and other creative activities to kick-start your self-love journey. These tools and Logan’s sage advice will help you get in touch with your feelings and build a self-care arsenal.
Recommended for: Women of all ages looking for a step-by-step guide to building self-love and positivity habits.
The Most Powerful Woman in the Room Is You by Lydia Fenet
We could all use more confidence when it comes to reaching our goals. Lydia Fenet teaches you how to “sell your way to success” in all areas of your life, whether in business or relationships. You’ll learn a signature move to help you feel confident in any situation, overcome fears, and motivate others. Her tips are collected from personal stories and case studies from some of the world’s most successful women.
Recommended for: Anyone who needs a confidence boost.
Final Thoughts on Self-Love Books for Women
Each of these 8 self-love books for women offers something unique—whether it’s a boost of confidence, emotional healing, or simply a gentle reminder that you are enough, exactly as you are.
Remember, self-love isn’t a destination—it’s an ongoing relationship with yourself. And the right book, at the right time, can be just the nudge you need to begin that journey or deepen it.
Pick the one that speaks to you most, pop the kettle on, and start turning the pages towards a more empowered, self-loving you. You’re worth it, always.
Further reading: 7 Self-love courses you can do online
