Living so much of our lives online as we do today—videos, memes, influencers and friends supply no shortage of inspirational messages aimed at lifting people up and moving them forward—it can be hard to imagine a time before personal development, a time before the introspective work of improving oneself was even considered valid, let alone mainstream.

September is self-improvement month, a time to focus on improving yourself to achieve desired goals. With the help of SUCCESS magazine, we have compiled a list of 25 books—from timeless classics such as James Allen’s As a Man Thinketh to recent bestsellers like Nike swoosh creator Phil Knight’s Shoe Dog—that provide insights on maximizing potential, overcoming fears and recognizing the pivotal […]