Lapses in self-confidence can hit whenever; before an interview or social gathering, or — more bothersomely — all the time. And it can focus on work, like a classic case of imposter syndrome, or — again, more bothersomely — in all areas of life. The main thing to remember is there are lots of things that can help.

A good starting point can be reading around the subject, to help you understand why you’re feeling like you’re feeling and what can be done about it. And it’s not all positivity-boosting affirmations, there are styles to suit everyone — ranging from positivity lit to full-on psychology.

We’ve rounded up the best self-confidence books for you to read any time you could do with a boost…

1. On Becoming Fearless… In Love, Work, And Life by Arianna Huffington

Best for: Dealing with confidence issues related to being a woman

One of the most badass women of our time, Huffington covers her self-confidence issues — ranging from aesthetic to social — while basically taking over the world. Surprisingly un-annoying, given the gravity of her success, she seems relatable and surprisingly normal as she retells her own experiences of confronting and overcoming the almost inevitable worries and fears that come with being female.

2. What To Say When You Talk To Yourself by Shad Helmstetter

Best for: A reminder not to be too harsh on yourself

Rather than continuing in negative thought patterns, where you likely beat yourself up about how you’re feeling, Helmstetter helps you to control your mind and boost your confidence through thinking more positively and translating it into action.

3. The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance — What Women Should Know by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman

Best for: Understanding why you feel imposter syndrome in the workplace

A guide to understanding confidence at all ages and stages, Kay and Shipman look at the continued domination of males in the workplace. Citing experiences from women in mostly female and mixed industries, it inspires readers not too accept the gender divide and to push for what everyone deserves.

4. The Power Of Now: A Guide To Spiritual Enlightenment by Eckhart Toll

Best for: Understanding what’s going on and why when it feels like anxiety is winning

Not directly a confidence-building book, but an inspiring read for helping you get out of your brain and into your life through understanding that not feeling confident doesn’t have to control your life. It can help things feel a little lighter when anxiety bogs things down.

5. Daring Greatly by Brene Brown

Best for: People who are too harsh on themselves

Basically anything by Brown will be a life-improver, but Daring Greatly is particularly poignant at reimagining our society’s opinion on vulnerability. Rather than a curse, she moots that it’s in fact a hugely important part of our key emotions and life in general as avoiding vulnerability means avoiding experiences that help us grow.

6. Feel The Fear And Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers

Best for: A clear, step-by-step guide to channeling more positive vibes

An oldie but a goodie, Jeffers’ seminal book walks through techniques to help you free yourself from negative thinking patterns, inaction and the fear that’s stopping you. Through exercises and insights, it helps you come to the realisation that confidence is something we can nurture and build. Two decades on, it’s still a real inspiration.

7. Six Pillars Of Self-Esteem by Nathaniel Branden

Best for: A real, chunky textbook-style read about understanding your lack of self-confidence and then how to increase it

One in a whole serious of infamous confidence-related books by Branden, Six Pillars Of Self-Esteem collates years of research into a pretty comprehensive book. It’s not for anyone wanting a flit into esteem-boosting lit, it explores the psychology behind a lack of confidence, helping you understand yourself through explanations and exercises.

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