The 9 Books That Changed My Life (Plus One Bonus Read)

As a coach, reader and lifelong learner, I’ve learned that the right book tends to find you at the right time. In Episode 25 of The Solo Coach Podcast I shared nine books that have had a profound influence on my thinking, my coaching practice and the way I show up in the world — plus a bonus fiction read that keeps coming back to me.

These aren’t casual recommendations. They’re the books that appeared when I needed them, that challenged me, and that changed me. If any of them keep appearing for you, maybe they’re meant for you, too.

1. How to Win Friends and Influence People

A timeless manual for real human connection. My top takeaways: remember and use people’s names, validate how people feel, and be genuinely interested in others. That combination is the backbone of trust and influence.

This book remains at the top of my list, as it was the most enjoyable read, and had such a pivotal effect on how I connect with people.

2. The Success Principles

A practical, action-focused guide to building a life you want. Three principles that stayed with me: take 100% responsibility for your life, “act as if” to change how you present yourself, and use visualisation to make your goals feel real.

This really is a book you won’t be able to put down! It’s my go-to Personal Development title, and often the one I recommend to those who haven’t read this genre before. Talk about a “one-stop shop!”

3. Awaken the Giant Within

Tony Robbins, one of the founding fathers of coaching, explains how our focus shapes our reality. I learned the power of the Reticular Activating System (you notice more of what you look for), the value of incantations/affirmations, and that “massive action is the cure-all”.

Tony’s books are dense, packed with value and timeless advice and strategies for achieving growth, and building a life on your own terms. He expertly blends scientifically-backed concepts with real-world examples. Prepare to get fired up for action!

4. What Colour Is Your Parachute?

The career changers’ classic. The flower exercise is one of the most useful practical tools I’ve used with my clients — it made my own next move startlingly clear. This book normalised career changes and gave me interview strategies that work.

In fact, I would add, this book enabled me to ‘manifest’ my future job, while I was travelling. Through the insightful questions within, and the activities the book offers, it really is invaluable at creating a clearer picture of your ideal future role. Give it a try, and see for yourself!

5. Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway

This book reframed fear for me. Confidence comes from doing the thing that scares you, not the other way around. The Victor mindset — leaning into discomfort and taking action — is a through-line in my coaching.

An easy book to dip into, a relatively short read and very accessible, for a low price point. Possibly the easiest first introduction to the Personal Development genre, on this list.

6. The Power of One More

A personal and motivational read about relentless consistency. Ed’s “one more” philosophy (compound pounding) is a daily reminder that small, repeated actions build extraordinary results.

I also recommend listening to Ed’s Podcast, The Ed Mylett Show. Incredibly powerful, like a metaphorical “kick up the ass” to start your day! Many episodes of The Solo Coach Podcast are inspired by Ed’s phenomenal work, and I aspire one day to be a guest on his show!

7. Think and Grow Rich

Here’s a self-development classic, and a must-read. Timeless wisdom and advice, and inspirational stories that stand the test of time. You won’t be able to put this one down, when you start reading it!

A book not just about money — about a mindset of abundance. Hill’s emphasis on desire, belief and imaginative visualisation helped me shift from scarcity thinking to possibility thinking.

Side note: This is Ed Mylett’s favourite book!

8. The Choice

This is the hardest read on my list, and also the most transformational. Edith’s story is a masterclass in the human capacity to choose how we respond to suffering. Her message — that our inner freedom remains even when everything else is taken — reshaped my compassion and gratitude.

I would warn readers that it’s an incredibly hard-hitting story of unspeakable cruelty, but this makes the authors message even stronger. This is one book I’ll remember reading, forever.

9. The Impossible Just Takes a Little Longer

A radical example of human resilience. Art’s recovery, persistence and refusal to accept limits reminded me that “impossible” is often a story we tell ourselves, not an absolute law. It restored perspective and fuelled my belief in human potential.

This is one of my more recent discoveries, and just had to feature on my top books list! Art’s story is one that will stick with you. I challenge you to read this book and not feel inspired to take action!

Bonus: The Alchemist

A fictional, poetic reminder that life sends breadcrumbs. It’s not a manual; it’s a narrative about following intuition, noticing signs and trusting the journey. A gentle, discussion-worthy read.

This one’s been passed around my entire family, and despite now being dogeared and torn, it still has pride of place on my bookshelf, as one of my top - and most enjoyable - reads. This meaningful book is ideal for solo travellers and those who have found themselves at a crossroads.

Final thoughts

Books have been my companions, teachers and mirrors. I don’t push recommendations — instead I listen for the titles that keep appearing for people. If one of these jumps out at you, it might be worth grabbing a copy, or listening to the audiobook. You never know what message might be trying to reach you!

I’d love to know: which book changed your life?

Here’s to your ongoing and future success!
- David
The Solo Coach