10 Powerful Books for International Women’s Day 2025

Have you ever found yourself repeatedly sabotaging your own progress just when success seems within reach? In The Mountain Is You Brianna Wiest illuminates that puzzling tendency with clarity and compassion, showing how the obstacles we struggle most to overcome are often of our own creation.

Impact for Today's Woman

As women, we frequently face external barriers in our pursuit of equality and advancement. Yet Wiest's insight—that our internal resistance can be equally formidable—resonates deeply. The book reveals how self-sabotage manifests in uniquely feminine ways: the perfectionism that keeps you from submitting that application until it's "flawless," the imposter syndrome that makes you question your seat at the table, or the people-pleasing that leaves you drained and resentful.

What distinguishes this book is Wiest's nuanced understanding that self-sabotage isn't simply a bad habit—it's often a protection mechanism developed in response to past wounds or limiting beliefs. For many women, these patterns took root in girlhood messages about staying small, being agreeable, or prioritizing others' comfort above our own ambitions.

The transformation Wiest offers isn't about forcing yourself to push harder against resistance. Instead, she guides you through the more profound work of understanding what your self-sabotage is trying to protect you from, and healing those underlying fears. Her approach acknowledges that meaningful change requires not just behavioral adjustments but emotional intelligence and self-compassion.

Through practical exercises and thought-provoking insights, you'll learn to recognize when you're unconsciously creating obstacles in your path. You'll develop tools to replace self-defeating narratives with empowering alternatives, and you'll build the resilience to persist when growth becomes uncomfortable—as it inevitably will. Let this book inspire you to climb your mountain and unlock your true potential.

‍

How to Use These Books to Drive Change

Use BeFreed to Absorb Key Insights Easier

Want to be more productive and efficient to achieve your personal goals? BeFreed, the best AI knowledge companion, built to help you excel in the areas that matter most - productivity, mental health, social skills, business, and beyond. Chat with your AI reading buddy about your life and goals, and it’ll recommend books and make a summary tailored just for you. Already reading a specific book? Dive deeper with focused discussions to enrich your understanding and learning experience.

On top of that, BeFreed grants you access to 50,000+ AI-powered book summaries, letting you absorb key insights from trending titles in under 10 minutes. Even better, with one click you can zoom in on the section that piques your interest and read a more detailed summary of that part - revolutionizing the way traditional book summary apps work. Anytime, anywhere, BeFreed turns life’s small moments into meaningful learning opportunities.

Apply Lessons to Personal and Professional Life

The lessons from these books can transform how you approach your daily life. When you read How Women Rise, you learn to identify habits that hold you back. Apply these insights to your career by embracing self-promotion and taking bold steps toward leadership roles.

Books like The Confidence Code teach you to cultivate self-assurance. Use this knowledge to make confident decisions, whether you’re negotiating a salary or pursuing a new opportunity. In your personal life, The Mountain Is You helps you overcome self-sabotage and build healthier relationships.

Every book offers tools to help you grow. By applying these lessons, you empower yourself to challenge norms and create change in your own sphere.

Share Insights on Social Media to Spark Conversations

Social media is a powerful platform for advocacy. Share your thoughts on books like Dare to Lead or Lean Out to inspire others. Highlight key takeaways and encourage your followers to join the conversation.

By sharing your insights, you amplify the message of these books. Use hashtags (such as #accelerateaction), quotes, or short reviews to engage your audience. Every post becomes a step toward building awareness and driving action for International Women's Day 2025.‍

‍Note: Social media can reach people across the globe. Use it to connect with others who share your vision for equality.