/r/BettermentBookClub

Photograph via snooOG

Discussing the books that will make you a better person. Share your book summaries or ask for a recommendation!

Welcome to The Betterment Book Club!

This subreddit is designed for those of us that want to discuss self-improvement type books with like-minded people. The goal is to increase our discipline and self-worth.

How It Works

We want to read YOUR summaries, thoughts and questions on books you have read. We also host monthly book discussions based on the book subscribers voted on. The discussion hub is stickied and includes comment threads for each chapter. At the end of the month, there is a final discussion on the book's themes, how to apply its advice to our lives, and other ideas gleaned from it.

 

All our previous discussions are found below:

2017 Books

2016 Books

  2015 Books

2014 Books


To suggest future books or give feedback, send us a moderator mail.


Interesting subreddits:


Please visit /r/GetDisciplined for general discussion about self-discipline and improvement.

NIGHT MODE NORMAL

/r/BettermentBookClub

65,131 Subscribers

3

How do we know you are you?

Grew up gay, Mormon, American, with social media, laser precise algorithms and marketing, influencers, media bias, how do I know what’s me and what’s not? Can anyone recommend a book on deconstructing and figuring this out?

9 Comments
2024/11/10
18:18 UTC

32

Books like 48 laws of power?

9 Comments
2024/11/07
17:31 UTC

10

How to get out of this loop?

The problem with self-help books is that the more content I read, the more I realize how less I know, the more panic it creates, then before taking any action in real world I dive into reading more self-help stuff just to make sure that I know "just enough", so that you can begin safely.

And ultimately I find myself stuck in the endless cycle of paralyses of analyses.

5 Comments
2024/11/06
20:27 UTC

31

Book about not regretting your past?

Last year, I saw the post of a person that survived their suicide attempt and they were not upset over the situation nor their missing limbs.

They were happy with who they are and the person they have become through their hardships. They did not regret their past and saw it as essential for their betterment.

Are there any books that help you get a positive mindset over your past, like theirs?

12 Comments
2024/11/05
22:00 UTC

24

Reading Buddies Wanted! 📚

Hey everyone!

I’m looking for fellow book lovers to share my thoughts, discuss(or sometimes debate about) the content, and motivate each other to reach our goals.

We can choose a book monthly and meet virtually or in person (I live in Berlin and speak Tamil, English and a little German). What genres or books excite you?

Is anyone Interested? I am also open to join the existing group/community!

Edit 1: I have created a WhatsApp group for now, where we can discuss how to begin, take it further. Please feel free to join the group using the following link. See you there 😉

29 Comments
2024/11/01
08:31 UTC

3

Social Media Management against a Backdrop of Political Tension

Hello friends. I've been looking to learn more about posting content amid times of tension, where you know the public is enraged with, let's say, the Government and other key national issues, and because you represent an institution that can be easily associated thereto, you have to contend with rather nasty comments not associated with the content you posted.

That said, are there any books on the matter at hand?

0 Comments
2024/11/01
07:42 UTC

7

Thoughts on Dr Nicole LePera specifically How to be the love you seek

I think I started to listen to “how to do the work” I can’t recall why I didn’t finish it, possibly if i had activities that would make it more preferable to do on a physical book.

I’m considering checking out “how to be the love you seek” what have your thoughts been reading it, especially if you’ve dealt with some emotional neglect.

1 Comment
2024/10/29
14:21 UTC

12

Getting to know yourself

Does anyone have any good recommendations for books to get to know yourself/ building self efficacy in specific? Prefereably a workbook or something with reader participation. Thanks!

4 Comments
2024/10/29
04:39 UTC

14

Books to help prepare adolescents for future

Until the age of 18, children are usually kept in a protective environment and then suddenly left on their own to figure out everything by themselves. Schools and parents usually focus on technical things & idealistic/positive things and children are never trained to regulate their emotion, coping mechanisms, identify manipulators, effect of peer groups, negative things in society, financially responsible and some other social aspects of life.

Right now I am working on this problem for age 11-14, are there any books for this problem - to help prepare them for future? Although this book will not be read by an adolescent, instead used by me to develop a solution, but it has to be suitable for that age group.

Any advice appreciated, thanks!

4 Comments
2024/10/28
13:34 UTC

10

I can't stop Writing(Journaling), any book advice?

It feels like I have millions of great ideas in my head, and they all contradict each other in some way. So, I can't stop myself from learning(reading) more and connecting the dots that will never end.

That's becoming a huge problem for me. It's holding me back from working on the things that will make any difference. I spend most of my attention and energy on writing and most of the day ends like this.

Please recommend any book that will help with

- Letting go of things.

- Perfectionism.

- Becoming Mindful.

- Finding Purpose.

Thank You.

11 Comments
2024/10/26
13:22 UTC

11

Does anyone have recommendations on books to decrease jealousy and comparison to others?

9 Comments
2024/10/26
03:53 UTC

14

How many books do you read at a time ?

I've recently gotten into reading books. Never read a book in my whole life I found it very boring but something clicked inn my head and now I be wanting to read every single book there is. I finished reading reasons not to worry... how to be a stoic in chaotic times. Now I'm reading the 33 strategies of war. Bought 8 other books as well. Should I read 2 at a time or finish

24 Comments
2024/10/25
19:49 UTC

8

What books have you read that are similar to this one?

This is the guy that built the Getty Museum in LA:

This was done with the help of Grok:

What are 8 great takeaways from the book As I see it: by J Paul Getty?

Answer
"As I See It: The Autobiography of J. Paul Getty" provides insights into the mind of one of the 20th century's most successful businessmen. Here are eight great takeaways from the book:

Wealth is a Means, Not an End - Getty often spoke of wealth not for its own sake but for what it could achieve. A key takeaway is that money should be seen as a tool for building, investing, and accomplishing larger goals rather than an end in itself.

The Importance of Patience - Getty's success did not come overnight. He emphasized the virtue of patience in business and investments, understanding that true value often takes time to realize.

Value of Information - Getty was an avid reader and believed in the power of information. He would stress that staying informed about your industry, global events, and economic trends is crucial for making wise business decisions.

Understanding Human Nature - Getty had a keen sense of understanding people, which he used in negotiations and business dealings. A takeaway would be the importance of psychology in business; knowing what motivates people can give you an edge in any deal.

Embrace Risk but Manage It - While known for taking risks, Getty's approach was about managing risk through knowledge and strategy. He would advocate for calculated risks where the potential downside is understood and can be mitigated.

The Art of Persistence - Getty faced numerous failures and setbacks before achieving success. His life teaches that persistence and the ability to keep going in the face of adversity are critical for long-term success.

Diversification - Getty diversified his investments, particularly in the oil business but also in other sectors. This principle underscores the importance of not putting all your eggs in one basket to safeguard against market volatility.

The Power of Negotiation - Throughout his career, Getty honed his negotiation skills, which he used to build his empire. A lesson here is that everything in business (and life) is negotiable, and mastering this skill can lead to better deals and partnerships.

0 Comments
2024/10/21
10:41 UTC

47

Books which are like Action Plan

I am early 30s, good career, doing ok in life bit feeling lost. My life has no structure. just surviving day to day -- wake up just in time to go to office, work, come back, dinner with YouTube, spend little time with spouse and sleep.

I want some books which will help me overhaul my life in next year -- get more structure, ensure the foundations are solid. What books would you recommend?

I would prefer books which are like 52 weeks xxx -- books which basically give me a list of items to focus on every week or month and I can execute

Thanks

10 Comments
2024/10/21
09:58 UTC

230

Books that make you smart

No books like atomic habits or something like that please, Need some genuinely-good book abt something historical or philosophical maybe. I honestly dk what im looking for but i sure as hell dont want to read fiction & these “Motivation” Books lol

75 Comments
2024/10/21
04:17 UTC

10

Help guyz

Is there any book which make your mind very strong so nobody can destroy my mental health. And also any book which help me to not care about anyone what they think and make them love you.

17 Comments
2024/10/20
18:26 UTC

9

Which Psycho Cybernetics version should I read?

I've heard that the expanded editions are all a bit incomprehensible and deviates from the original concepts. One review especially said how they had loved the 2000 copy but had to re read many paragraphs in the Expanded and Enhanced edition. Some people also recommended reading the 1960 version. I'm not very proficient in English and am a stranger to psychological terminology. And I'm also a 16 year old aspiring to crack a tough exam if that's any necessary info.

6 Comments
2024/10/20
13:57 UTC

5

Books on dealing with negative people

i find myself being surrounded by certain friends who always gossip and talk smack about others , and always have something negative to say about something or someone. i find myself super drained when she starts complaining/ranting/gossiping and im starting to become more toxic as well.

due to complicated reasons im unable to cut her off, so i would like to read some books about how to handle such people and not be affected by them. thanks a lot!

4 Comments
2024/10/19
15:19 UTC

17

Books on building self confidence

I am looking for good books on improving or building self confidence. I’m not necessarily picky so any recommendation I’m okay with, just hoping someone out there has a book that really helped them.

13 Comments
2024/10/19
11:47 UTC

9

Psychology/science based books for self-improvement

I really like reading science based self-improvement books, rooted in science, whether that be psychology or some other science. Some examples:

  • Katy Milkman: How to change
  • Angela Duckworth: Grit
  • Aylet Fischbach: Get it done
  • Tiny Habits: BJ Fogg

Anyone have any other recommendations which are also based in science, written by scientists/PhDs?

3 Comments
2024/10/16
11:01 UTC

61

Psychology books to get to know who i am why i do what i do and how to be better at being me?

Hey y'all , I'm in my early twenties, I feel lost and unsure about who I really am. I don’t know what I stand for or what my principles are, and it’s tough to figure it all out on my own. I want to be better and become the person I dream of being—someone confident and secure in themselves. But without anyone in my life to help guide me, I’m turning to psychology books for answers.

I believe that understanding myself is the first step. I want to learn about my values, recognize my strengths, and identify my triggers and any bad habits that hold me back. Lately, I’ve been feeling bitter and frustrated, but I can’t quite figure out what I’m doing wrong. Sometimes i feel i dont even know the basics of anything.

I’m looking for books that can help me navigate different situations while staying true to who I am. I want to build better relationships without compromising my identity. Also please dont suggest motivational books, I have all the motivation in the world; I just need to find the right path to a happier life where I can feel secure in myself.

15 Comments
2024/10/16
10:46 UTC

13

Monthly book club worth it?

In Sept we had a number of members express their interest in starting up a book club whereby we all read the same book and discuss it.

I’ve seen this be attempted and fail a few times before but “the past doesn’t dictate the future” so optimistically I helped coordinate this new approach.

It seems like very few people are contributing to the discussion (I don’t think one comment counts as a “discussion” does it?), so was wondering, do we discontinue this and chalk it up to a “good in theory, but doesn’t work when people aren’t committed or contributing”.

I don’t want to keep flogging a dead horse by adding more chapter discussion posts just to hear the sound of my own keyboard clack, over the sound of tumbleweeds and crickets coming from the comment section. lol

Thoughts? Continue? Discontinue?

4 Comments
2024/10/15
11:45 UTC

10

A book to help get to know myself? Ideally not too complex for now. ( help her please I'm also following!😊)

7 Comments
2024/10/14
00:45 UTC

43

Books on how to be articulate

I'm moderately well versed in many topics but being an introvert and having never actually talked much I find my communication lacking, I wish to be more articulate. I've read of an emperor who used to practise all his lines which gave me the idea to make such a list of common phrases for myself but I still struggle with random conversation. Any books on this would be appreciated, I prefer older books or classics than modern books.

16 Comments
2024/10/13
08:12 UTC

27

Book suggestions for starting over at 40ish and getting out of a rut?

Looking for a good book suggestion for starting over from broke at 40-ish years old (turning 40 this year) and feel like I've been stuck in a rut for the last year or so. Any suggestions?

My mental health isn't great, but it's not bad. I'm employed, married, no debt other than a mortgage. Just trying to get my mojo (motivation) back after trying to start a business over the last few years, failing hard, and losing all of my life savings & retirement (~$500k). I've had a decent job for the last year or so and everything is going good there, just not sure how to get my edge back.

I've read Extreme Ownership. Any suggestions other than that one are appreciated! LOL!

11 Comments
2024/10/11
00:25 UTC

10

'The New One Minute Manager' might be the worst book I've ever read.

The "3 secret rules" are actually helpful, but could be explained in a short article or blog post. This feels like a freshman psychology student was given the task of writing a fictional story around these three super secret tools for success as a manager, they threw it into chatGPT, and this is the crap it spit out.

It was just so on the nose it was painful and cringy. I get what the author was trying to do by taking these instructions and making it easier to understand by using them in a fictional setting, but it's just so poorly done. Since this was the updated version, they used "The NEW One Minute Manager" every time and it was extremely cringeworthy.

Normally I'd roll my eyes and move on, or DNF, but this was so bad I felt I needed to warn others or see what others thoughts were. I found this recommended a lot on reddit, so I was really surprised how bad it was.

2 Comments
2024/10/10
19:16 UTC

28

Books to heal myself from childhood trauma and family trauma

Helpppp! Phew

27 Comments
2024/10/10
18:52 UTC

17

Anybody read The Psychology of Money?

Is it more about using your existing money wisely or more about making more money?

Or maybe a bit of both?

I find it hard to tell from reading the synopsis and chapter names

8 Comments
2024/10/09
06:19 UTC

3

Can you help me identifying this book?

Hello, I was recently reading a book (I think it was a self improvement book) where the books starts of with an example where a nurse in training sees her father at a party and instinctively says something is wrong with him. Turns out she saves him from either a heart attack or stroke. The book then goes on to talk about how people make split second decisions successfully.

It is most probably a very famous book and I want to complete it, but for the life of me I can't remember the title. Any help please?

13 Comments
2024/10/08
17:57 UTC

4

Suggestions for learning social cues

I am looking for top three books that help you read a room, specifically social situations and social awareness.

Most say you either have it or you don’t it’s an intuitive feeling etc. for those of us who can’t what books or strategies work?

I’m social and approachable and don’t have issues connecting or listening but I can’t always understand a social situation or underlying meanings or peoples intentions and this is what I want to improve.

What books do you recommend for the covert socially inept?

3 Comments
2024/10/07
20:56 UTC

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