Leadership isn’t just about titles or positions—it’s about impact, influence, and inspiring change. Women leaders across industries have been breaking barriers, challenging norms, and paving the way for future generations. If you’re looking for wisdom, motivation, and actionable insights, these 20 leadership books written by women will empower you on your journey.
1. Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
Brené Brown explores the importance of vulnerability in leadership and how embracing courage can transform teams and organizations.
2. Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
A modern classic, this book encourages women to take their seat at the table and navigate workplace challenges with confidence.
3. The Memo by Minda Harts
A must-read for women of color, this book tackles the unique challenges they face in the workplace and offers advice on securing a seat at the table.
4. How Women Rise by Sally Helgesen & Marshall Goldsmith
This book outlines 12 habits that may be holding women back in their careers and provides strategies for breaking through those barriers.
5. Own It: The Power of Women at Work by Sallie Krawcheck
Krawcheck, a former Wall Street executive, shares how women can leverage their unique strengths to thrive in leadership.
6. Grit by Angela Duckworth
A deep dive into the power of passion and perseverance, this book explores how grit—not just talent—drives success.
7. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
While not a traditional leadership book, Big Magic inspires women to embrace creativity, courage, and an open-minded approach to leadership and life.
8. The Likeability Trap by Alicia Menendez
This book examines how women leaders are often judged by different standards and provides strategies to break free from limiting societal expectations.
9. Drop the Ball by Tiffany Dufu
A powerful read for women juggling career and family, this book encourages leaders to delegate and redefine success.
10. You Are a Badass at Making Money by Jen Sincero
Though focused on money mindset, this book empowers women to step into leadership roles in their financial lives and careers.
11. Wolfpack by Abby Wambach
Soccer star Abby Wambach redefines leadership for women with a call to embrace teamwork, ambition, and collective success.
12. Brave, Not Perfect by Reshma Saujani
This book challenges the perfectionist tendencies that hold women back and encourages them to take bold risks.
13. The Confidence Code by Katty Kay & Claire Shipman
A science-backed exploration of how confidence influences success and how women can build more of it.
14. More Than Enough by Elaine Welteroth
Part memoir, part career advice, this book inspires women to own their voices and lead with authenticity.
15. Everything is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo
A high-energy, motivational book that encourages problem-solving and resilience in leadership and life.
16. Unfinished Business by Anne-Marie Slaughter
A thought-provoking read on work-life balance and how workplaces need to evolve to support women leaders.
17. Act Like a Leader, Think Like a Leader by Herminia Ibarra
This book emphasizes the importance of stepping into leadership roles before feeling “ready” and embracing change.
18. Powerful by Patty McCord
Written by Netflix’s former Chief Talent Officer, this book explores radical honesty and building strong leadership cultures.
19. Radical Candor by Kim Scott
A guide to effective leadership that balances empathy with direct, constructive feedback.
20. We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
A must-read on gender equality and the role of women in leadership and society.
Each of these books provides unique insights into leadership, confidence, and breaking barriers. Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder, running your own business, or simply looking to lead with more impact in your community, these reads will inspire and empower you to step into your full potential.
