Books For Ambitious Woman: A Personal Curation
1) Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
This one’s my personal favourite. I picked this book up more than a decade ago, after watching Sheryl Sandberg’s famous TED talk on “Why we have too few women leaders”. This book gave me the words for what I had long felt at work but hadn’t yet known how to express. It’s not just a manifesto on ambition it’s a powerful reminder to take up space, unapologetically. Through her words, I realised I could be both nurturing and bold, and that career ambition isn’t something to be hidden it’s a force for change. The phrase she mentions in the book “What would you do, if you weren’t afraid?” has stuck with me till date.
2) You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero
My friend was reading this book and suggested me to pick it up. Glad, I did. This book reminded me that confidence isn’t something you’re born with it’s something you build, moment by moment, through mindset, belief, and bold action.
What stood out most to me? The author’s unapologetic belief in the power of energy, intention, and self-worth. It’s a book that makes you laugh, cringe a little at your own excuses, and most importantly act.
If you’ve ever felt stuck, hesitant, or like you’re living at 70% of your potential, You Are a Badass is the fiery nudge you need to turn your dreams into decisions. It’s not just motivation it’s a mindset shift.
3) Radical Candor by Kim Scott
If you’ve ever struggled between being “nice” and being “honest,” this book is your game changer. Kim Scott breaks down how to care personally while challenging directly. As a woman leader, I found this approach liberating. We don’t have to mute ourselves to be liked, or turn cold to be respected. You can lead with heart and backbone.
4) Playing Big by Tara Mohr
This book came to me as a surprise birthday gift from a dear friend and what a gift it was. Play Big by Tara Mohr spoke straight to that quiet little voice in my head that sometimes whispers, “You’re not ready yet… you don’t know enough… who are you to do this?” Her words felt like a gentle shake and a big hug at the same time. She reminded me that we’re not here to shrink ourselves or wait for permission. We’re here to show up. One idea that really stayed with me was the concept of the “inner mentor.” Now, whenever I’m unsure, I pause and ask myself, “What would future me say?” and somehow, the answers always feel clearer.
5) Own It by Sallie Crawcheck
I read Own It by Sallie Krawcheck when I was pregnant and looking back, the timing couldn’t have been more perfect. That phase of life made me think deeply about what kind of role model I wanted to be to my son, not just as a mother, but as a woman navigating career and life. It made me realise that financial independence isn’t about being aggressive or greedy it’s about having choices, stability, and the freedom to live life on your own terms. Every woman deserves that kind of security.
6) My Life in Full by Indra Nooyi
My Life in Full by Indra Nooyi is one of those books I didn’t just read - I felt. I’ve always loved listening to her talks; it’s like sitting across from a wise mentor who’s walked the road before you and is gently guiding you forward.
What I loved most is how deeply human she is. She doesn’t pretend to have it all figured out. Instead, she shows how values, hard work, and bold thinking can co-exist. This book reminded me that you can lead with strength and softness, with intellect and empathy. It’s not about choosing between work and life, it’s about redefining what success looks like, on your own terms.
Go on girl, pick your power potion! 💪
Whether you’re navigating your next big career move, building confidence, or simply craving a fresh perspective - there’s a book in this list waiting for you. Pick the one that speaks to where you are right now, and let it guide you to where you’re meant to go. One page, one mindset shift, one bold decision at a time.