A new year brings fresh opportunities, renewed motivation, and the perfect moment to reset your mindset. Whether your goal is to get healthier, gain confidence, pursue your passion, or simply declutter your life—starting with the right book can set the tone for the months ahead.
Below are five of the best motivational books to start the new year strong, each designed to inspire clarity, focus, resilience, and personal growth. All titles include direct Amazon links for convenient access.
1. Relentless by Tim S. Grover
If you want to start the year with a no-excuses, high-performance mindset, Relentless is a must-read. Tim Grover—trainer to elite athletes like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant—breaks down the psychology of greatness and what separates winners from everyone else.
Perfect for:
✔ High achievers
✔ Entrepreneurs
✔ Athletes
✔ Anyone ready to push beyond limits
2. You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero
This bestselling motivational classic blends tough love, humor, and practical guidance. Jen Sincero helps readers break through self-doubt, become more confident, and boldly step into the life they want.
Perfect for:
✔ Boosting self-confidence
✔ Manifesting goals
✔ Overcoming procrastination
✔ Rewriting negative beliefs
If you want an ultra-motivating start to the year, this book will give you the energy and clarity to go after your dreams.
3. The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning by Margareta Magnusson
This isn’t just a decluttering book—it’s a peaceful, thoughtful guide to simplifying your life. The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning encourages you to clear out belongings you no longer need so you can focus on what truly matters.
Perfect for:
✔ Decluttering your home
✔ Starting the year fresh
✔ Reducing mental and emotional load
✔ Embracing minimalism
A lighter home often leads to a lighter mind—ideal for starting the new year with clarity.
4. Start With Why by Simon Sinek
One of the most influential leadership books of the last decade, Start With Why challenges readers to uncover their purpose. Simon Sinek shows how understanding your “why” drives success, leadership, and long-lasting motivation.
Perfect for:
✔ Entrepreneurs & business leaders
✔ Anyone seeking clarity
✔ Goal-setters
✔ People making big life decisions
If you’re planning major changes this year, starting with your “why” provides a solid foundation.
5. How to Age Without Getting Old by Joyce Meyer
Joyce Meyer offers an uplifting and refreshing take on aging—emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and physically. This book inspires readers to embrace every season of life with strength, vitality, and positivity.
Perfect for:
✔ Reinventing your lifestyle
✔ Building healthy habits
✔ Staying positive
✔ Improving wellness and mindset
A motivating and empowering read for anyone wanting to start the year feeling renewed.
Final Thoughts: Start the New Year With Purpose and Power
Whether you’re looking to boost confidence, find clarity, declutter your life, or ignite unstoppable drive, these five motivational books offer powerful insights to help you start the new year strong.