Most of us are in search of ways to live a more balanced lifestyle, but with so much advice to choose from it can be challenging to know where to start. So we assembled our editors, scoured listener reviews, polled our most-trusted colleagues and friends, and practically listened our ears off to bring you this list of 100 must-listen well-being titles on Audible. Whether you’re looking to get organized, stay motivated, find creative inspiration, or relieve stress, these need-to-know audiobooks and podcasts are packed with inspirational insights from leading self-development and wellness experts to help you take the next step—or the first step—in your personal journey.
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Get Motivated
“Dreams are lovely. But they are just dreams. Fleeting, ephemeral. Pretty. But dreams do not come true just because you dream them. It’s hard work that makes things happen. It’s hard work that creates change.” —Shonda Rhimes, Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand in the Sun and Be Your Own Person
The Worthy Project by Meadow DeVor. Do you believe worthiness is only for others? Chock-full of meaningful insights, this listen teaches the invaluable lesson of owning your self-worth.
Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed. In this revelatory listen, acclaimed author Cheryl Strayed answers questions from readers about love, loss, heartbreak, and living life.
The Light We Carry by Michelle Obama. Written and performed by the former FLOTUS herself, this bold memoir converses directly with the listener, encouraging the cultivation of inner strength.
This Year Will Be Different by Domonique Bertolucci. Happiness expert Domonique Bertolucci blends tangible strategies with inspirational guidance—giving listeners the tools to change their lives in just one year.
Self-Care for Black Women by Oludara Adeeyo. This listen compiles more than 150 self-care exercises designed specifically to help Black women prioritize their mental health and radically choose themselves.
Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes. Lauded producer Shonda Rhimes embarks on a year of unabashed openness and reflects on how the experiment drastically improved her world.
More Than Enough by Elaine Welteroth. Award-winning journalist Elaine Welteroth relives her revolutionary leadership experience at Teen Vogue and distills her most valuable lessons.
You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero. Life coach Jen Sincero wants you to learn one thing: Once you truly believe in yourself, the life you long for is completely possible.
The Courage to Be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi & Fumitake Koga. Accessible yet profound, this listen based on the philosophies of 19th century great Alfred Adler espouses the power of releasing the limitations we live by.
You Gotta Be You by Brandon Kyle Goodman. Hilarious, down-to-earth, and relatable, this listen is full of advice for loving yourself when your community tells you not to.
Rejection Proof by Jia Jiang. Leveraging counterintuitive self-therapy, author Jia Jiang gains precious insight into himself and the art of handling rejection.
Quit by Annie Duke. Drawing on examples from elite athletes and executives, author and narrator Annie Duke distills compelling evidence as to why quitting is necessary for success.
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F#ck by Mark Manson. Sick of positive thinking? Mark Manson cuts through the feel-good crap to help you get real and do the work to lead a fulfilling life.
You've Already Changed Your Life by Jade Chang. Exploring the big impact of small moments, novelist Jade Chang gently guides you to discover all the ways you have built strength and improved yourself.
Can't Hurt Me by David Goggins. David Goggins recounts his grim childhood through to his success as one of the world’s top endurance athletes and explains his life-changing "40 percent rule."
Untamed by Glennon Doyle. In this utterly moving memoir, Glennon Doyle shares how she finally learned to listen to her formerly silenced inner voice—and how you can too.
Discover the Classics
“Instead of condemning people, let’s try to understand them. Let’s try to figure out why they do what they do. That’s a lot more profitable and intriguing than criticism; and it breeds sympathy, tolerance and kindness.” —Dale Carnegie, How to Win Friends and Influence People
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie. Perhaps the most influential self-development title of all time, Dale Carnegie’s popular approach to networking is a great place to begin expanding your opportunities.
The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts by Gary Chapman. Hoping to improve communication in a relationship? Consider Gary Chapman’s iconic look at how we often move beyond our words to express our affection.
The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel. Acclaimed author Morgan Housel uses 19 real-life examples to explore the myriad ways people think about money—and explains how listeners can think more effectively.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey. Narrating his time-tested, bestselling guide to reinvigorating everyday routines for success, Stephen R. Covey delivers his specific steps for setting clear, straightforward goals with enthusiasm.
The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle. Narrating his acclaimed bestseller, Eckhart Tolle shares his simple method of living fully in the moment to find deep contentment and embrace your true self.
The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. Based on the teachings of the Toltecs, this listen explores the different agreements we make—with ourselves, others, or a higher power—and how they impact our freedom.
Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl. Frankl’s complex musings are all centered on the author’s main theory: The primary motivating force for every human being is their search for purpose and understanding.
The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo. Longing to declutter? Listen to the joy-sparking guide that inspired a Netflix series and made Marie Kondo a household name, narrated by Emily Woo Zeller.
Build Better Habits
“Mortality makes it impossible to ignore the absurdity of living solely for the future.” ―Oliver Burkeman, Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals
Atomic Habits by James Clear. Want to build better habits? This easy-to-understand listen written and performed by James Clear distills complex information from psychology, biology, and neuroscience into actionable advice.
The Easy Way to Stop Smoking by Allen Carr. The OG guide to quitting and still the best. Carr’s aptly named “Easy Way” has helped millions stop smoking (and gambling, drinking, overeating, and more) with its uniquely powerful method.
The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg. Using scientific studies and wide-ranging examples, Charles Duhigg delves into how habits are made and how developing the right ones can make all the difference.
Switch by Chip and Dan Heath. Feeling stuck? In this research-based, story-driven listen, Chip and Dan Heath show how successful change follows a pattern you can use to reach your goals.
Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman. Oliver Burkeman captured our attention with his approach to time management: We have less time than we think, so seek joy above all else.
How to Train Your Mind by Chris Bailey. Mindfulness facts grounded in reality. If you’re looking for a real-life, down-to-earth approach to meditation stripped of all the hooey, then this listen’s for you.
High Performance Habits by Brendon Burchard. Based on surveys of high performers, this compelling listen explores the six habits that move the needle in helping you succeed.
The High 5 Habit by Mel Robbins. The queen of self-help wrote and voiced this fantastic follow-up to her smash hit The 5 Second Rule. It’s sure to help you take control of your routines.
Reach Your Career Goals
"[The] most dazzling human achievements are, in fact, the aggregate of countless individual elements, each of which is, in a sense, ordinary.” ―Angela Duckworth, Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance
Mastering the Skill of Reinvention by Pamela Mitchell. Reinvention expert Pamela Mitchell provides a manageable step-by-step process for thinking about big changes—career or otherwise.
The Confidence Gap by Russ Harris. Utilizing key components of ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), author Russ Harris teaches listeners how to build confidence and transform thinking around fear and anxiety.
Thanks for the Feedback by Sheila Heen & Douglas Stone. Does feedback make you uncomfortable? Learn how to get the most out of constructive advice and have more productive conversations to grow your career.
Blindspot by Mahzarin R. Banaji & Anthony G. Greenwald. Everyone has hidden biases. Banaji and Greenwald help listeners uncover them in this critical research-backed resource for good people who want to be even better.
Grit by Angela Duckworth. Psychologist and professor Angela Duckworth explains why the one thing that’s far more important than talent, skill, or experience in determining success is grit.
Tools of Titans by Tim Ferriss. Improve your routine with insights from some of the world’s top performers: superstar celebs, champion athletes, special ops commanders, and genius scientists among them.
12 Months to $1 Million by Ryan Daniel Moran. Want to be an entrepreneur? Expert Ryan Daniel Moran provides a three-step solution for building a thriving business in one year or less.
Presence by Amy Cuddy. Being yourself has never been easier. Learn to overcome high-pressure situations with these scientifically founded methods.
Ignite Your Creativity
“Deciding what you’re not before you decide what you are lets you stand strong in your own category.” ―Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson, Creative Quest
Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman. This accessible study of how the brain influences behavior transports listeners into the fascinating mind of Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman.
Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert. With her soothing narration, bestselling author Elizabeth Gilbert guides listeners to find inspiration in the world and live a more creative lifestyle.
Creative Quest by Questlove. Musician, bandleader, and self-described “cultural omnivore” Questlove gets listeners into the groove of being original, sharing his insights on how artists tap into creativity.
The Gift by Lewis Hyde. Lewis Hyde's transformational framework for establishing a new creative economy based on sharing—not profit—is necessary listening for right-brain thinkers everywhere.
Focus on Your Mental Health
“All of us are going through something. If you haven’t, you will. It’s just the way life is. When we share who we are, when we let down our guard, we can start to shed this stigma and live better.” —Dr. Jessica Clemons, Be Well
Be Well by Jess Clemons. Humanizing the challenges faced by millions, Dr. Jess Clemons lays a foundation for dismantling stigma around mental health issues, inviting hope for improved psychiatric practices.
Codependent No More by Melody Beattie. For anyone who struggles to prioritize themselves, Melody Beattie narrates this beloved audiobook, updating her classic with a sensitive new chapter on trauma recovery.
Dopamine Nation by Anna Lembke. Psychiatrist Dr. Anna Lembke threads scientific discoveries through the lens of lived experience to reveal how the relentless pursuit of pleasure ultimately leads to pain.
Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess by Caroline Leaf. Neuroscientist Dr. Caroline Leaf’s five-step process for positive thinking, "Neurocycle", targets the roots of anxiety and depression, leading you toward a more joyful life.
Good Anxiety by Wendy Suzuki. This science-backed guidebook written and read by neuroscientist Dr. Wendy Suzuki, details how to unpack anxiety and turn it into a powerful asset.
When the Body Says No by Gabor Maté. Yes, psychological stress can make you physically sick, as Dr. Gabor Maté affirms, with medical evidence and moving true stories, in this informative, healing guide.
Bittersweet by Susan Cain. Why be sad? Embracing feelings of sorrow and longing can be healing and inspiring, as the acclaimed author of Quiet shows in this empowering listen.
The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel A. van der Kolk. Pioneering researcher Bessel A. van der Kolk explains how trauma literally reshapes both body and brain, aggravating sufferers’ pain, and offers new paths to healing.
The Power of Regret by Daniel H. Pink. No regrets? Drawing on wide-ranging research, bestselling author Daniel H. Pink shows how regret can be a positive force, making life more rewarding and meaningful.
Darkness is Golden by Marry Hoang. Heartbroken? Hopeless? In this immersive listen, music psychologist Mary Hoang guides you to explore your shadows for hidden rays revealing the path to brighter days.
Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb. With wisdom and humor, Lori Gottlieb shares how seeing a therapist helped her grow as a person—and as a therapist. Brittany Pressley narrates, impeccably.
I Am Not Sick I Don't Need Help! by Xavier Amador. Frustrated by a loved one who won’t accept treatment? Take heart in Dr. Xavier Amador’s method and learn how to LEAP—listen, empathize, agree, partner.
Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents by Lindsay Gibson. Clinical psychologist Lindsay Gibson guides you to heal from the pain and confusion of your parents’ emotional immaturity and create positive new relationships as an adult.
First, We Make the Beast Beautiful by Sarah Wilson. Bestselling author Sarah Wilson helps listeners accept their chronic anxiety on their way to coping with the condition in this poetic and healing listen.
Stillness Is the Key by Ryan holiday. Feeling overwhelmed? Ryan Holiday taps into ancient stoic wisdom and guides listeners to find happiness by avoiding distraction and discovering new insights.
What Happened to You? by Bruce D. Perry & Oprah Winfrey. Written and performed by Bruce D. Perry and Oprah Winfrey, this listen explores the lasting effects of childhood trauma, addressing patterns that hold us back.
You Are Your Best Thing by Tarana Burke & Brené Brown. Activist Tarana Burke and bestselling author Brené Brown create a space to address the trauma, shame, and resilience in Black experiences in this crucial anthology.
Feeling Good by David D. Burns. Psychiatrist David D. Burns guides listeners to a complete mindset shift with scientifically proven methods for building self-esteem and feeling good on a daily basis.
The Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine N. Aron. Sensitive people experience more anxiety and emotional turbulence than most others—and this listen provides perspective and guidance on managing the world as an HSP.
The Gift of Fear by Gavin de Becker. Using memorable scenarios and hypothetical situations, Gavin de Becker illuminates how anyone can predict when someone intends to cause us physical harm.
Be Kind to Your Body
“Gradually, for one reason or another, your body is gonna stop working the way it once did. And as your skin wrinkles and sags, you'll be forced to reckon with what lies underneath it all. And the wisdom you've gained from that inevitable reckoning will always trump the naïve glory of your physicality.” ―Jessamyn Stanley,Yoke: My Yoga of Self-Acceptance
Skin Revolution by Vanita Rattan. "Where science meets self-love," this guide offers tips for personalizing your skincare routine, in addition to exposing how the market could better consider people of color.
The Sleep Revolution by Arianna Huffington. Co-founder of The Huffington Post and bestselling author Arianna Huffington exposes why sleep is essential to achieving success, especially in the era of nonstop work.
Yoke by Jessamyn Stanley. Yoga is so much more than a series of poses. Centering self-acceptance, Jessamyn Stanley offers a contemplative manual for connecting your practice to everyday life.
How Not to Die by Michael Greger. Dr. Michael Greger’s passion for studying the impacts of animal products translates into a compelling selection for anyone seeking applicable advice on healing through diet.
My Body, My Podcast by Elizabeth Banks. Joined by therapists, activists, parents, and celebrities alike, actor Elizabeth Banks explores the importance of sexual pleasure to our health, relationships, and communities.
Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski. Offering spot-on research and her signature wit, educator Emily Nagoski explores female sexuality in this radical listen for anyone seeking a new perspective on pleasure.
Gutfull: What to Eat for a Happy Gut by Joanna McMillan. Dr. Joanna McMillan takes a lively approach to dissecting the gut-brain connection, making digestive health all the more engaging with her delightful Aussie accent.
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi. Facing terminal cancer, Paul Kalanithi explores how to live in the moment in this moving memoir, expertly performed by Sunil Malhotra and Cassandra Campbell.
Peak Performance by Brad Stulberg and Steve Magness. Infused with anecdotes from athletes, artists, and intellectuals, this award-winning listen advocates for recovery using scientific evidence, helping all types of performers avoid burnout.
Clean(ish) by Gin Stephens. Celebrating the (ish) in Clean(ish), Gin Stephens emphasizes that perfection is impossible as her guide offers small steps on how to heal through diet.
The Body Is Not an Apology by Sonya Renee Taylor. Poet and activist Sonya Renee Taylor invites us all to get radical and practice self-love—to conquer body-shaming and create a world of good.
Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker. Sleep expert Matthew Walker spotlights how getting (or foregoing) a good night’s rest affects one’s health in this eye-opening audiobook, narrated by Steve West.
Connect to Others
“When someone shares their hopes and dreams with us, we are witnessing deep courage and vulnerability. Celebrating their successes is easy, but when disappointment happens, it’s an incredible opportunity for meaningful connection.” ―Brené Brown, Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience
Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab. Ever struggled to say “no” without offending others? Nedra Glover Tawwab helps us identify and express our needs clearly and without apology.
Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown. In Atlas of the Heart, Brené Brown goes beyond her previous works to mine her personal biography, revealing new layers of vulnerability and wellness.
Cues by Vanessa Van Edwards. You only get one shot at first impressions, and more often than not your body language speaks first. This listen will help anyone project themselves in ways that match their goals.
How to Raise an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi. National Book Award-winning author Dr. Ibram X. Kendi shares the critical advice every caregiver needs to talk to the next generation about racism.
Mating in Captivity by Esther Perel. Renowned psychotherapist Esther Perel explores how sexual excitement differs from the responsibilities of a healthy domestic relationship—and how committed & loving couples can have both.
Good Inside by Becky Kennedy. Clinical psychologist and a mom to three, Dr. Becky leans on her years of experience to guide parents through tantrums, sibling rivalry, anxiety, and more.
Attached by Amir Levine & Rachel Heller. Why do some people seem to effortlessly navigate relationships? Attached lays out the three most common personal attachment styles, leading to better and longer-lasting relationships.
How to Talk to Anyone by Leil Lowndes. Career coach Leil Lowndes teaches listeners how to communicate their way to success through 92 tips for strengthening relationships and networking.
Find Your Inner Self
“New moons are a time to dream, to believe in yourself, and to remind yourself of how deserving you are of living a joyous life.” —Valerie Tejeda, Self Care by the Moon
You Are the Guru by Gabrielle Bernstein. In a soothing-yet-strong voice, mindfulness powerhouse Gabrielle Bernstein makes a compelling case for harnessing inner wisdom and learning to follow your own advice.
The Ojibwe Dreamcatcher by Linda LeGarde Grover. Let beloved performer Keke Palmer lull you into a restful state with this beautiful piece of Ojibwe folklore, centered on the dreamcatcher and its connection to nature.
Crystal Bowl Breathing by Jesse Israel. Inhale and exhale in harmony with the relaxing vibrations of crystal bowls, played by Jackie Cantwell, while guided by the founder of The Big Quiet.
Feeding the Soul by Tabitha Brown. “Hello There!” In this listen, peppered with her catchphrases and tasty vegan recipes, Tabitha Brown shares her secrets for living well and her uplifting life story.
The Four Foundations of Mindfulness in Plain English by Bhante Gunaratana. A Buddhist monk, Bhante Gunaratana distills revered teachings on mindfulness into an accessible practice for spiritual seekers and anyone yearning for a more fulfilling life.
Mind Body Zone: Living Outside the Box by Deepak Chopra. Harness a mind-body connection through renowned spiritual advisor Deepak Chopra's guidance and meditations. Featuring a range of guests, including Layla Saad and Joy Harjo.
Maejor Frequency by Maejor. Music producer Maejor explores the relationship between sound and wellness. Each episode explores a different healing frequency to create an audio experience like no other.
Start Where You Are by Pema Chödrön. Framed around the teachings of 59 traditional Tibetan Buddhist slogans, American Buddhist Pema Chödrön guides listeners to accept their flaws and build compassion.
Sound Bath by Sara Auster. Struggling with traditional meditation? Leading wellness guru Sara Auster introduces listeners to the therapeutic, reflective nature of sound baths and even includes a 10-minute sample.
The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down by Haemin Sunim. Buddhist meditation teacher Haemin Sunim leads us to inner-peace in this internationally bestselling mindfulness listen that explores eight distinct areas of well-being and happiness.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. This classic parable about following your dreams is the perfect self-development story, rich in inspiration and encouragement.
Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom by Rachel Pollack. Known as the “Bible of Tarot,” this guide for aspiring tarot practitioners offers a thorough introduction to card reading and tarot as a way of life.
Self Care by the Moon by Valerie Tejeda. Astrologist and well-being expert Valerie Tejeda shares the steps for connecting to the lunar cycles, helping listeners to a plane of existence outside of our earthly worries.
The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer. Looking to learn to remain present under any circumstances? Michael A. Singer has the answer in this spiritual take on self-realization.
Think Like a Monk by Jay Shetty. Former monk and life coach Jay Shetty draws insights from personal experience and science to help listeners lead more purposeful lives through daily gratitude practice.
The Book of Joy by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu & Douglas Carlton Abrams. Co-written by Nobel Prize winners His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, this essential listen explores the practices that lead to deep happiness.
