Best Motivational Books for Women With Big Dreams

The Best Motivational Books for Women – Because sometimes, a good book is all it takes to change everything.

Introduction – Why We Need Motivational Books Now More Than Ever

Let’s be real: life can get overwhelming. Between juggling work, relationships, mental health, and family members, sometimes we just need a little spark to keep going.
And what better spark than a powerful, soul-stirring book written by someone who’s been there?

Motivational books for women aren’t just about “feeling good.” They’re about:

pushing through tough times,
fighting for gender equality and women’s rights,
and discovering your own way to success and happiness.

So if you’re looking for personal stories, uplifting books, or just a new favorite for your reading list, you’re in the right place.
Happy reading, fellow book lovers!

1. Top 5 Motivational Memoirs Written by Women

📘 Becoming – Michelle Obama

This book isn’t just a memoir – it’s a powerful call to women everywhere to embrace who they truly are.

Michelle shares her journey from her modest roots to becoming a former First Lady, touching on:

her personal struggles with confidence and imposter syndrome,
her experiences as a Black woman navigating elite institutions,
and her family life, career, and love story with Barack.

Why it belongs on your shelf:

It’s empowering, elegant, and brutally honest.
It redefines what a successful woman looks like.
You’ll feel like she’s talking directly to you – like a trusted friend.

📗 Untamed – Glennon Doyle

What happens when you stop trying to please the world and start living for yourself? Glennon Doyle answers that.

This inspiring memoir is all about:

breaking free from the expectations placed on women,
learning to trust your inner voice,
and creating a new life based on courage and authenticity.

Why you’ll love it:

It’s raw, witty, and hits you right in the gut.
Glennon’s personal experience will resonate with any woman feeling stuck.
It’s like therapy, but with more wild metaphors and fewer co-pays.

📕 More Than Enough – Elaine Welteroth

Elaine, the youngest editor-in-chief at Teen Vogue, shares her rise as a Black woman in the media industry – and it’s a story you won’t forget.

Inside you’ll find:

candid personal anecdotes about her own story,
lessons on navigating corporate culture while staying true to yourself,
and reflections on themes of identity, race, and power.

What makes it shine:

It’s part-memoir, part-manifesto.
You’ll feel seen, heard, and energized.
Perfect for women looking to make their mark without shrinking.

📒 The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks – Rebecca Skloot

This one blends biography, science, and social justice into a gripping tale.
Henrietta Lacks was a Black girl whose cells changed the world – but her story was nearly erased.

This book explores:

years of research into medical ethics and race,
the impact on Henrietta’s family members,
and the dark side of science without consent.

Why it’s unforgettable:

It champions social change and gender equality.
It’s a voice for the unheard.
A good book for sparking big conversations.

📙 I Am Malala – Malala Yousafzai

Shot by the Taliban for speaking up about girls’ education, Malala’s bravery earned her the Nobel Peace Prize – and a place in history.

In her memoir, she writes about:

growing up in Pakistan under oppression,
her relationship with her father (a true best friend),
and her unstoppable belief in the power of education.

Why it’s a must-read:

It inspires gratitude, purpose, and strength.
It shows how even one voice – even a young girl’s – can change the world.
It’s hope in book form.

2. Best Inspirational Books for Career and Confidence

Not every motivational book needs to be a memoir. Some just want to light a fire under you and help you ask for that raise or finally apply for that dream job.

Here are a few that deliver practical advice and real talk for ambitious women:

💼 Lean In – Sheryl Sandberg

Facebook’s COO shows us how to own our space and stop apologizing for wanting more.

Why you’ll take notes:

It tackles gender barriers in the workplace.
Offers practical strategies for leadership and balance.
Encourages women to support women.

✨ Big Magic – Elizabeth Gilbert

Creativity doesn’t belong to the “genius few.” It belongs to all of us.

Why it’s magic:

Encourages you to create without fear.
Talks about embracing curiosity, not perfection.
A motivational guide that feels like a pep talk from your coolest aunt.

💡 The Confidence Code – Katty Kay & Claire Shipman

Confidence isn’t just a feeling – it’s a skill. This book dives into the science and shows how to build it.

What you’ll gain:

Tips tailored to your personality type,
Insight from neuroscience and interviews with successful women,
Actionable habits to boost confidence daily.

👠 Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office – Lois P. Frankel

Let’s be honest: being “nice” has a time and place… but not always in business.

What it teaches:

100+ mistakes women make at work – and how to fix them.
How to advocate for yourself without guilt.
Why good friends don’t always make good mentors.

3. Books that Celebrate Feminism, Social Justice & Strong Women

Looking for witty books and influential women who challenge the status quo? These titles combine activism with heart.

⚖️ My Own Words – Ruth Bader Ginsburg (with Jane Sherron De Hart)

A deep dive into the mind of a legend of the federal bench.

What’s inside:

Speeches, letters, and reflections from one of the greatest legal minds.
Her take on law, gender equality, and family.
Tributes to Billie Jean King, Gloria Steinem, and more.

🌎 We Should All Be Feminists – Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

A short but striking book that redefines feminism in a modern world.

Why it matters:

It’s based on her TED Talk that went viral.
It’s funny, sharp, and deeply human.
Great gift for your best friend, sister, or even your dad.

✊ The Source of Self-Regard – Toni Morrison

This collection of speeches and essays will shake you to your core.

Expect:

Profound insights into race, writing, and personal life,
Reflections from a Nobel Prize winner,
And unapologetic truth delivered with elegance.

🧠 Bad Feminist – Roxane Gay

For anyone who’s ever felt “not feminist enough,” this book is your new favorite.

You’ll love it if:

You appreciate humor, nuance, and real talk.
You want to think differently about pop culture and politics.
You believe feminism can be messy – and still matter.

4. Build Your Own Motivational Reading List

Not sure where to start or what fits your vibe? Here’s how to build a motivational book list that feels personal and powerful.

Tips for curating your list:

Think about your own experiences and where you need growth.
Mix self-help books, memoirs, and empowering fiction.
Don’t be afraid of big topics like mental health, body image issues, or social change.

Ask yourself:

Do I need a gentle push or a fiery call to action?
Do I prefer practical strategies or poetic storytelling?
Which voices do I want to hear more of – Black women, influential women, fellow dreamers?

Keep your list somewhere visible, and treat reading like self-care.
Because sometimes, a book is the most trusted friend we didn’t know we needed.

Final Thoughts – Happy Reading, Ladies

Whether you’re chasing a successful career, recovering from a setback, or just craving a moment of quiet growth – there’s a book out there for you.

Let these stories:

help you feel seen and heard,
remind you of your strength,
and bring joy back into your everyday life.

So brew some tea, grab a blanket, and pick one that speaks to you.
Here’s to countless women finding their next chapter – and writing their own story.

📌 Looking for more self-help book ideas?
You’ll love these hand-picked favorites from Cozy Life Journal:

💡 And don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more inspiring reads, mindset tips, and cozy living:
👉 CozyLifeJournal

Happy reading, fellow book lovers! 💛