Dear readers, do you want to boost your confidence and change the way you think? Today, we present the top 5 self-help books for you to add to your reading library. The author of this write-up also tells what's inside each book for you to learn.

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In this ever-evolving field of medicine, we doctors are always gripped by our medical books trying to learn about the new developments and technologies in the field of medicine. From learning new techniques to staying updated with recent product launches or reading about some new research protocol or a new paper our clinic racks are usually stacked up with such magazines or brochures and journals. But there is much more one can read than just medical literature.

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The power of habit

Charles Duhigg

Why we do, what we do in our life and business. As the line says this book very nicely describes the facts that how habits can influence a lot of factors in our lives. Award-winning New York Times business reporter Charles Duhigg takes us through the thrilling edge of scientific activities and discoveries with a combination of fascinating anecdotes that show that habits exist and how they can be changed to achieve a certain goal we wish to accomplish in our lives.

Depicting this concept through small stories of inspirational people who achieved some path-breaking success by simply identifying and following a definite track of habits, the author clearly defines human nature in a completely new way and simultaneously focuses on the potential of transformation.

By reading this book one can learn the following:

1. Habits shape our lives and how we can shape our habits.
2. Right habits are crucial for success.
3. Motivational short stories with inspiring journeys.
4. Everything is possible by just consciously changing our habits.
5. Habits aren't destiny. They need to be made and built with conscious effort.

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How to win friends and influence people

Dale Carnegie

Do you often find yourself caught in a situation where you cannot get around with your words around people? Then this book is a must-read!

This self-help book was launched in 1936 and has many revised versions to date but yet remains one of the best in the category. Dale Carnegie through his 12 subsections in the book has focused on techniques to influence people to like you right away and keep your points through without offending anyone.

It also focuses on how you can win people through your way of thinking and every chapter of the book will help you self-reflect and analyse your inner self. It also highlights aspects of leadership skills and teaches you the right technique to hand people the right away with the appropriate skills.

By reading this book one can learn the following:

1. Helps you master the principles of human relations.
2. Techniques to handle people.
3. How one can avoid criticism and negative words yet get through a tough situation with people.
4. Embracing your own mistakes.
5. Leadership qualities.

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The power of your subconscious mind

Joseph Murphy 

One of the best sellers right from its first publication in 1963, this self-help book is a perfect amalgamation of spiritual and scientific insights into your subconscious mind. The hidden strength of your own mind and how you, yourself are the owner of your thoughts and actions are beautifully explained in every chapter of this book. The author explains that all life events are a result of the workings of your conscious and subconscious mind. The book also suggests some excellent and practical techniques that when applied can help you achieve some life-changing transformations through the power of this miraculous energy gifted to you by your subconscious mind.

By reading this book one can learn the following: 

1. The visualisation technique can be used to see yourself achieving a goal, you actually wish to achieve.
2. When in doubt, give yourself some time and sleep over it because often one can make more confident decisions post a good night’s sleep.
3. Ways to unleash the hidden energy of your subconscious mind.
4. Always wish the best for others, for what you think, you get.
5. Have faith in the process of transformation.

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The secret

Rhonda Byrne

Ever walk into a bookstore and see a fiery-coloured rack? Walked towards this rack and thought what could this book be about? We recommend walking closer to that rack and picking a copy because this book is something you would not want to miss! The Secret is all about the law of attraction. What you want, is what you think about and that’s what you get. The book is all about working towards your own goal with your own driving force of your thoughts.

By reading this book one can learn the following:

1. Ask- This is about being specific to yourself as to what you want from your life.
2. Believe- Have undoubted confidence in your goals and faith in the process.
3. Receive- Imagine how you will feel once you get what you always wished for and enjoy that feeling of accomplishment. This will channelise your efforts in the right direction.
4. Think positive, pay attention to detail and prep for success, work hard towards it and enjoy it.
5. Your thoughts have all the power.

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Why has nobody told me this before?

Julie Smith

Difficult times in life can make you feel weak and vulnerable and the easiest of the solutions can be difficult to reach out to. This can take a serious toll on our mental health and finding a leisure activity in such a trying time can be a great relief and a good break from all the stress. This book written by a clinical psychologist herself is a perfect compilation of coping techniques which can help you fortify your mental health and keep you uplifted.

These techniques are practical ones which are easy to learn and apply and are more relatable to day-to-day challenges and problems. This book also teaches you to learn the art of cultivating that feeling of motivation and energy to increase the chances of it appearing more often. It teaches you to reach your goal irrespective of any hurdle and emotional challenge. Dealing with your life and its goals with determination and consistency with a positive mindset is the ultimate goal.

By reading this book one can learn the following:

1. Dealing with failures and changing your outlook towards them.
2. It’s not about being perfect, every little bit of your effort counts.
3. Build self-confidence and overcome self-doubt.
4. Changing your mindset will change your relationship with stress.
5. Take one day at a time, living a meaningful life.

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Disclaimer- The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of M3 India.

About the author of this article: Dr Ridima Surve is a practising dentist from Mumbai.