From building better routines to mastering mental focus, the right habits can transform every aspect of your life. This curated list of Top 10 Books About Habits draws from Amazon and New York Times bestsellers, blending timeless classics with modern science-backed strategies. Each book offers unique tools — whether it’s James Clear’s tiny changes, Charles Duhigg’s habit loop, or Jeff Olson’s steady improvement philosophy. These titles don’t just teach habit formation; they explore the mindsets, systems, and disciplines that make change stick. If you want proven methods to boost productivity, health, and success, these bestsellers are your ultimate reading roadmap.
Top 10 Books About Habits
1. Atomic Habits – James Clear
A 1 New York Times and Amazon bestseller with over 20 million copies sold, Atomic Habits reveals how small changes can compound into extraordinary results. James Clear introduces the “Four Laws of Behavior Change” – make it obvious, make it attractive, make it easy, make it satisfying – as a practical framework for habit transformation. Drawing on behavioral science, Clear emphasizes building identity-based habits rather than obsessing over outcomes. With examples from sports, business, and everyday life, he shows how subtle habit tweaks lead to meaningful life shifts over time. Action-oriented and approachable, it’s one of the most influential habit books of the decade.
+ Review of Book Atomic Habits by James Clear
2. The Power of Habit – Charles Duhigg
Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist Charles Duhigg investigates the science of habits – how they form, why they persist, and how they can be changed. Combining neuroscience, psychology, and storytelling, he explains the “habit loop” of cue, routine, and reward. The book illustrates this through case studies ranging from Olympic swimmers to corporate giants like Procter & Gamble. Duhigg empowers readers to re-engineer their routines for both personal growth and organizational success. With over 3 million copies sold and a spot on the New York Times bestseller list, it’s a cornerstone text for anyone seeking insight into behavioral change.
3. Tiny Habits – BJ Fogg, Ph.D.
BJ Fogg, a Stanford behavior scientist, dismantles the myth that massive change requires massive action. His method anchors micro-habits to existing routines – like doing two push-ups after brushing your teeth – to make change automatic and sustainable. Fogg underscores the role of positive emotions in habit formation, showing how success builds momentum. Rich with personal stories, actionable exercises, and science-backed strategies, Tiny Habits teaches readers to start small and scale change naturally. A New York Times and Amazon bestseller, it’s ideal for those who have struggled with traditional habit-change methods.
4. The Slight Edge – Jeff Olson
Jeff Olson’s The Slight Edge centers on a simple but profound concept: small, consistent actions – positive or negative – compound over time to determine success or failure. Olson frames success as a choice made in countless daily moments, from eating habits to business decisions. While the actions may seem insignificant in the short term, their cumulative effect is transformative. Using personal anecdotes, success stories, and actionable advice, Olson challenges readers to embrace discipline and patience. A long-standing Amazon bestseller, The Slight Edge resonates with those who favor steady progress over overnight transformations. It’s a mindset and habit book rolled into one.
+ Book Summary of The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson
5. High Performance Habits – Brendon Burchard
Performance coach Brendon Burchard’s research on top achievers yields six habits: seek clarity, generate energy, raise necessity, increase productivity, develop influence, and demonstrate courage. These are not innate traits but learned practices that anyone can adopt. Supported by one of the largest-ever surveys of high performers, the book mixes science, practical tools, and inspiring stories. Burchard’s style is motivating yet methodical, giving readers step-by-step ways to apply each habit. A New York Times bestseller and Amazon hit, it’s particularly aimed at professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders seeking sustainable excellence without burnout.
6. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People – Stephen R. Covey
Since its 1989 release, Covey’s The 7 Habits has remained a perennial bestseller, shaping how millions approach life and leadership. The habits are divided into three categories: independence (Be Proactive, Begin with the End in Mind, Put First Things First), interdependence (Think Win-Win, Seek First to Understand, Synergize), and renewal (Sharpen the Saw). Covey blends timeless principles with practical application, encouraging personal responsibility and integrity as the foundation for success. Its longevity on the New York Times list reflects its universal relevance for both personal and professional growth.
7. Mindset: The New Psychology of Success – Carol S. Dweck, Ph.D.
Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck introduces the concepts of fixed and growth mindsets, showing how perceptions of ability can profoundly shape outcomes. Through examples from sports, education, and business, she demonstrates how adopting a growth mindset builds resilience, fosters learning, and transforms failure into opportunity. While not solely about daily routines, Mindset addresses the mental habits that drive personal and professional progress. A New York Times bestseller, it’s become essential reading for educators, leaders, and anyone looking to reframe challenges.
8. Deep Work – Cal Newport
Cal Newport’s Deep Work addresses the attention crisis of the digital age. He argues that cultivating the habit of extended focus is critical for producing high-quality results in less time. Dividing the book into theory and practice, Newport explains why deep work is valuable, rare, and meaningful, then offers actionable strategies to create a deep work routine. A steady Amazon performer and New York Times bestseller in business categories, it resonates with readers seeking to reclaim their cognitive capacity from constant distraction.
9. The One Thing – Gary Keller and Jay Papasan
This productivity guide, a New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestseller, teaches the habit of extreme prioritization. The core principle is to identify the single most important task that will make everything else easier or unnecessary. Drawing on research and real-life examples, the authors illustrate how focusing energy on what matters most leads to extraordinary results. The book offers practical tips for habit integration, time-blocking, and eliminating distractions, making it ideal for both professionals and personal goal-setters.
10. Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less – Greg McKeown
Greg McKeown’s Essentialism is about developing the habit of focusing only on what truly matters. Through compelling stories and actionable tactics, he teaches readers how to say no gracefully, remove trivial activities, and design routines that protect deep work. A New York Times bestseller, it resonates with those seeking a more intentional, purpose-driven life. The book’s central message: doing less isn’t laziness – it’s the disciplined pursuit of better results through focus and clarity.
Engage with Us: What Are Your Favorite Books?
