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    • 12 min read

25 Best Nonfiction Books of All Time According to Businesswoman Arianna Huffington



Are you on the hunt for some of the most profound and influential nonfiction books ever written?


Look no further.


Renowned businesswoman and media mogul Arianna Huffington has recommended a list of the 25 remarkable nonfiction books.


These literary gems span various genres and topics, from personal development and mindfulness to entrepreneurship and global insights.


Join us on a literary journey through the minds of the world's most brilliant thinkers and authors.


Affiliate Disclaimer: This post features Amazon affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links.




In "Originals," Adam Grant explores the lives and ideas of innovators and non-conformists who have left an indelible mark on the world. He investigates what sets them apart from the crowd and how their unique perspectives drive meaningful change in society. Grant provides actionable insights for readers, encouraging them to nurture their originality and pursue their creative visions.


“In the deepest sense of the word, a friend is someone who sees more potential in you than you see in yourself, someone who helps you become the best version of yourself.”― Adam M. Grant, Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World




BJ Fogg, a renowned behavioral scientist, introduces readers to the transformative power of tiny habits. He argues that lasting change is best achieved through small, manageable adjustments to daily routines. Fogg's book offers practical guidance on how to identify, implement, and maintain these tiny habits, making personal growth and self-improvement accessible to all.


“In order to design successful habits and change your behaviors, you should do three things. Stop judging yourself. Take your aspirations and break them down into tiny behaviors. Embrace mistakes as discoveries and use them to move forward.”― B.J. Fogg, Tiny Habits: The Small Changes That Change Everything




Marie Forleo's book is a rallying cry for those facing obstacles or pursuing their dreams. She firmly believes that with the right mindset, determination, and resourcefulness, anyone can overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Forleo shares personal anecdotes, practical strategies, and motivational insights to empower readers on their journey toward success.


“The most powerful words in the universe are the words you say to yourself.”― Marie Forleo, Everything is Figureoutable




Dr. Daniel Siegel, a leading expert in the field of interpersonal neurobiology, delves into the concept of mindfulness and presence. Drawing from scientific research and personal experiences, he elucidates how cultivating awareness can enhance emotional intelligence, improve relationships, and foster well-being. "Aware" serves as a guide to living a more fulfilling and connected life.


“Mental presence is a state of being wide awake and receptive to what is happening, as it is happening in the moment, within us and between the world and us. Presence cultivates happiness.”― Daniel J. Siegel, Aware: The Science and Practice of Presence--A Complete Guide to the Groundbreaking Wheel of Awareness Meditation Practice




Anthony Scaramucci shares his entrepreneurial journey, replete with failures and triumphs. Through personal anecdotes and lessons learned, he underscores the importance of resilience, adaptability, and embracing setbacks as opportunities for growth. His book is an inspirational resource for aspiring entrepreneurs navigating the unpredictable world of business.


“Rabbit holes are inevitable. It's how you hop over them that will define your success.”― Anthony Scaramucci, Hopping over the Rabbit Hole: How Entrepreneurs Turn Failure into Success




"Memories, Dreams, Reflections" is the autobiography of Carl Jung, one of the most influential psychologists of the 20th century. In this introspective work, Jung provides readers with an intimate view of his life, his pioneering work in psychology, and his exploration of dreams and the unconscious mind. It offers profound insights into the development of his groundbreaking theories.


“As a child I felt myself to be alone, and I am still, because I know things and must hint at things which others apparently know nothing of, and for the most part do not want to know.”― Carl Gustav Jung, Memories, Dreams, Reflections

On Amazon




Jamil Zaki's book delves into the critical role of empathy in an increasingly divided world. Drawing from neuroscience, psychology, and real-life examples, he explores the science of empathy and how it can be nurtured and applied to bridge societal divides. "The War for Kindness" is a compelling call to action for fostering greater compassion and understanding.


“As the great psychologist and Holocaust survivor Victor Frankl writes, “A man who becomes conscious of the responsibility he bears toward a human being…will never be able to throw his life away. He knows the ‘why’ for his existence, and will be able to bear almost any ‘how.”― Jamil Zaki, The War for Kindness: Building Empathy in a Fractured World




Stewart D. Friedman explores the intersection of parenthood and leadership in "Parents Who Lead." He offers a framework for parents to lead purposeful lives, both in their families and careers. Drawing on extensive research and personal stories, Friedman provides actionable strategies for achieving a harmonious balance between these two essential aspects of life.


“The only failure is the failure to learn from conscious and deliberate efforts to make things better, even if those attempts fall short of the mark.”― Stewart D. Friedman




Johann Hari delves into the modern crisis of attention span and focus. He investigates the societal factors contributing to distractibility and offers practical solutions for regaining the ability to think deeply and concentrate effectively. This book challenges the status quo of digital distractions and advocates for a more mindful approach to life.


“The truth is that you are living in a system that is pouring acid on your attention every day, and then you are being told to blame yourself and to fiddle with your own habits while the world’s attention burns.”― Johann Hari, Stolen Focus: Why You Can't Pay Attention - and How to Think Deeply Again




Bob Roth, a seasoned teacher of Transcendental Meditation (TM), reveals the transformative power of this ancient practice. Drawing on decades of experience and scientific research, he demonstrates how TM can reduce stress, enhance creativity, and improve overall well-being. "Strength in Stillness" provides readers with a roadmap to inner peace and self-discovery.


“effortlessly access the deep stillness that lies within every human being – in a way that was tailored specifically for that person”― Bob Roth, Strength in Stillness: The Power of Transcendental Meditation




Kai-Fu Lee's book is a comprehensive exploration of the ongoing AI revolution and its global implications. He provides unique insights into the competition between China and Silicon Valley in the AI arena and discusses the potential consequences for economies, industries, and society at large.


“AI ever allows us to truly understand ourselves, it will not be because these algorithms captured the mechanical essence of the human mind. It will be because they liberated us to forget about optimizations and to instead focus on what truly makes us human: loving and being loved.”― Kai-Fu Lee, Ai Superpowers: China, Silicon Valley, and the New World Order




Ray Dalio, a prominent investor and entrepreneur, offers a compelling analysis of the dynamics that determine the success or failure of nations. Drawing from historical data and economic principles, he sheds light on the forces shaping the global order and provides valuable insights for navigating an ever-changing world.


“History has shown that we shouldn’t rely on governments to protect us financially.”― Ray Dalio, Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order: Why Nations Succeed and Fail




Scott Harrison's memoir is a deeply personal account of his transformation from a nightclub promoter to the founder of Charity: Water, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing clean water to communities in need. His journey is a testament to the power of purpose and the potential for individuals to make a meaningful impact on the world.


"the hopes and dreams in a mother's heart are the same anywhere in the word”― Scott Harrison, Thirst: A Story of Redemption, Compassion, and a Mission to Bring Clean Water to the World




Tiffani Bova's book is a valuable resource for business leaders and entrepreneurs seeking to navigate the complex landscape of business growth. Drawing on her extensive experience in strategy and innovation, she provides actionable advice for making informed decisions that drive business success.


“If we have a good quarter, it’s because of the work we did three, four, and five years ago. It’s not because we did a good job this quarter. —JEFF BEZOS”― Tiffani Bova, Growth IQ: Master the 10 Paths to Grow Your Business




Sandro Galea's book takes a comprehensive and holistic approach to health. He explores the broader societal factors influencing well-being, from economic inequality to social determinants of health. Galea advocates for a broader conversation about health, one that extends beyond individual behaviors to encompass systemic change.


“We cannot escape the fact that our well-being will never be a matter of pure self-sufficiency; it is deeply dependent on our interactions with the people around us, the people with whom we share a “room”—our world.”― Sandro Galea, Well: What We Need to Talk About When We Talk About Health




Adam Grant's book explores the dynamics of giving, taking, and matching in professional life. Drawing from extensive research and real-world examples, he argues that helping others can lead to personal and professional success. "Give and Take" challenges conventional thinking and provides actionable strategies for creating a more generous and collaborative work environment.


“The more I help out, the more successful I become. But I measure success in what it has done for the people around me. That is the real accolade.”― Adam Grant, Give and Take: Why Helping Others Drives Our Success




Lori Gottlieb's insightful memoir offers readers a unique perspective on therapy, mental health, and the human experience. Through her experiences as a therapist and a patient, she illuminates the complexities of human relationships, self-discovery, and the universal quest for understanding and happiness.


“We can’t have change without loss, which is why so often people say they want change but nonetheless stay exactly the same.”― Lori Gottlieb, Maybe You Should Talk to Someone




Chade-Meng Tan, a former engineer at Google, presents a groundbreaking approach to personal and professional development in "Search Inside Yourself." This book introduces readers to the concept of emotional intelligence and mindfulness, offering practical techniques to cultivate both. Tan's approach aims to enhance success, happiness, and even world peace by fostering inner well-being, self-awareness, and compassionate leadership.


“happiness is not something that you pursue; it is something you allow.”― Chade-Meng Tan, Search Inside Yourself: The Unexpected Path to Achieving Success, Happiness




Agapi Stassinopoulos offers readers a treasure trove of 52 meditations and practices designed to cultivate joy, inner peace, and well-being. Her book serves as a practical guide to finding happiness and contentment in the midst of life's challenges.


“Our golden opportunity is in every moment of every day as the question-Do I shut down or do I choose to open up one more time, even deeper?”― Agapi Stassinopoulos, Wake Up to the Joy of You: 52 Meditations and Practices for a Calmer, Happier Life




Keith Ferrazzi's book challenges traditional models of leadership and introduces the concept of co-elevation. He explores how fostering a culture of collaboration and shared responsibility can break down silos, drive innovation, and reinvent teamwork in organizations.


“Uncertainty is where new value is created. Everything you want in life is on the other side of all your excuses for not trying.”― Keith Ferrazzi, Leading Without Authority: How the New Power of Co-Elevation Can Break Down Silos, Transform Teams, and Reinvent Collaboration




Patty McCord, former Chief Talent Officer at Netflix, shares her insights into building a dynamic company culture. Drawing from her experiences at Netflix, she provides a blueprint for creating an empowered, high-performing workforce. Her book is a must-read for business leaders looking to transform their organizations.


“Great teams are not created with incentives, procedures, and perks. They are created by hiring talented people who are adults and want nothing more than to tackle a challenge, and then communicating to them, clearly and continuously, about what the challenge is.”― Patty McCord, Powerful: Building a Culture of Freedom and Responsibility




Steve Hilton advocates for a people-centric approach in an increasingly automated and technologically driven world. He explores how prioritizing human values and connections can lead to a more compassionate, equitable, and fulfilling society.


“According to Green Cross Switzerland, 9 trillion gallons of water are used annually in textile production around the world. Most of it is dumped untreated.3”― Steve Hilton, More Human: Designing a World Where People Come First




In "Principles," Ray Dalio, a highly successful investor and entrepreneur, shares the fundamental principles that have guided his life and career. This comprehensive work offers readers a blueprint for decision-making and problem-solving, both in personal and professional contexts. Dalio's commitment to radical transparency and thoughtful analysis provides invaluable lessons in achieving success and fulfillment.


“If you’re not failing, you’re not pushing your limits, and if you’re not pushing your limits, you’re not maximizing your potential”― Ray Dalio, Principles: Life and Work




Join filmmaker David Lynch as he explores the profound connection between meditation, consciousness, and the creative process. In this book, Lynch shares personal insights and experiences that have fueled his imaginative genius. It's a captivating read for artists and seekers of creative inspiration alike.


“Ideas are like fish. If you want to catch little fish, you can stay in the shallow water. But if you want to catch the big fish, you’ve got to go deeper. Down deep, the fish are more powerful and more pure.They’re huge and abstract. And they’re very beautiful.”― David Lynch, Catching the Big Fish: Meditation, Consciousness, and Creativity




Gisele Bündchen, the iconic supermodel and philanthropist, shares her personal journey and the profound lessons she has learned along the way. From her modeling career to her dedication to environmental causes, Bündchen offers insights into living a purposeful and meaningful life, driven by values and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world.


“Other people’s words have almost nothing to do with you and almost everything to do with them.”― Gisele Bündchen, Lessons: My Path to a Meaningful Life



 


If you enjoyed these book recommendations, check out more similar list on my on my blog — https://www.honbasicbooks.com/nonfiction


These 25 books cover an array of topics, from personal development and mindfulness to leadership and global trends.


Whether you're seeking inspiration, practical advice, or a deeper understanding of the world, this diverse collection of nonfiction books has something to offer everyone, making them essential additions to your reading list.

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