10 Best-Selling Emotions Books Millions Love
Discover expert-recommended Emotions books praised by Tony Robbins, Daniel Gilbert, and Kirk Borne for insightful emotional mastery




There's something special about books that both critics and crowds love—especially when it comes to understanding emotions. Emotions shape every interaction and decision we make, influencing our personal growth and relationships. Given the surge in interest around emotional mastery, these best-selling books offer proven, expert-validated insights that resonate widely.
Experts like Tony Robbins, who highlights "The Emotion Code" for its holistic healing approach, and Daniel Gilbert, Harvard psychology professor advocating for "How Emotions Are Made" as a scientific breakthrough, bring credibility and depth to these picks. Meanwhile, Kirk Borne, a principal data scientist, praises emotion science's growing role in AI development, underscoring the books’ relevance today.
While these popular books provide proven frameworks and profound insights, readers seeking content tailored to their specific emotions needs might consider creating a personalized Emotions book that combines these validated approaches for a customized learning journey.
Recommended by Deke Bridges
Entrepreneur and social media strategist
“Current read... fascinating IQ vs EQ. Worthy book.” (from X)
by Travis Bradberry, Jean Greaves, Patrick M. Lencioni··You?
by Travis Bradberry, Jean Greaves, Patrick M. Lencioni··You?
Unlike most emotions books that dwell on theory, this one lays out four concrete skills—self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management—that you can actually develop to raise your emotional intelligence. Dr. Travis Bradberry, equipped with dual Ph.D.s and deep experience with Fortune 500 companies, pairs research with practical tools, including a 28-question online EQ assessment to track your progress. You’ll learn how to recognize your emotional triggers, manage impulses, interpret others' feelings, and navigate social complexities more effectively. This book suits anyone aiming to improve workplace interactions or personal relationships through better emotional understanding and control.
Recommended by Daniel Gilbert
Harvard Psychology Professor, Author
“A brilliant and original book on the science of emotion, by the deepest thinker about this topic since Darwin.” (from Amazon)
by Lisa Barrett··You?
Lisa Feldman Barrett, a distinguished psychologist and neuroscientist, challenges the traditional view that emotions are hardwired and automatic. Drawing from her extensive research, she reveals how emotions are actively constructed by the brain through a dynamic interplay with the body and cultural context. You’ll gain insights into how this framework reshapes our understanding of psychology, medicine, and even legal systems. For example, one chapter explores how culture influences emotional experiences, offering a fresh lens on human behavior. This book suits anyone curious about the science behind feelings and how new discoveries could impact diverse fields, though it’s less about personal emotion management and more about scientific understanding.
by TailoredRead AI·
This tailored book explores proven methods for mastering emotional control and enhancing connection with others, focusing on your unique interests and background. It examines key emotional concepts such as self-regulation, empathy, and resilience, presenting insights that match your specific goals. The book reveals how emotions influence behavior and relationships, offering a personalized journey that integrates popular validated knowledge with your own experience. By concentrating on your individual needs, it provides a targeted exploration of emotional mastery that many readers have found valuable. This personalized approach makes complex emotional dynamics accessible and practical, empowering you to navigate your feelings with confidence and build deeper connections.
by Ph.D. John Gottman, Joan Declaire, Daniel Goleman·You?
by Ph.D. John Gottman, Joan Declaire, Daniel Goleman·You?
John Gottman, a psychologist renowned for his research on relationships, co-authored this book to address a gap he noticed in parenting: helping children navigate their emotions effectively. You learn a five-step emotion coaching process that includes recognizing a child’s feelings as opportunities for connection and guiding them to label and manage emotions constructively. The book offers practical insights on empathy and communication that can reshape your approach to parenting at any child’s age. If you're seeking to foster emotional resilience and stronger bonds with your children, this book provides clear frameworks without overcomplicating the subject.
Recommended by Tony Robbins
Business and life coach, motivational speaker
“I believe that the discoveries in this book can change our understanding of how we store emotional experiences and in so doing, change our lives. The Emotion Code has already changed many lives around the world, and it is my hope that millions more will be led to use this simple tool to heal themselves and their loved ones.” (from Amazon)
by Dr. Bradley Nelson, Tony Robbins··You?
by Dr. Bradley Nelson, Tony Robbins··You?
What started as Dr. Bradley Nelson's exploration into bioenergetic medicine became a unique guide to uncovering "trapped emotions" that silently influence your health and relationships. In this book, you learn to identify and release these emotional energies that may cause physical pain and mental blocks, using specific techniques rooted in clinical practice and energetic healing. The chapters detail how emotional baggage accumulates and offers tools to free yourself, potentially opening your heart to greater love and abundance. If you seek a different approach to emotional well-being that blends holistic insight with practical methods, this book offers a clear path, especially for those curious about the unseen influences on their health.
by Dr. Anita Phillips, Sarah Jakes Roberts··You?
by Dr. Anita Phillips, Sarah Jakes Roberts··You?
Unlike most emotions books that urge control or suppression, Dr. Anita Phillips invites you to embrace your feelings as a path to transformation. Drawing from her work as a trauma therapist and mental health expert, she blends neurobiology, faith, and personal research to show how nurturing your emotional life can strengthen your body, calm anxiety, and ignite spiritual power. You'll find insights on reversing trauma’s impact and cultivating emotional well-being rooted in the heart’s true nature. This book suits anyone ready to rethink emotional struggle and grow a more authentic, resilient self.
by TailoredRead AI·
by TailoredRead AI·
This tailored book explores a focused one-month journey to revitalize your emotional health through daily, actionable steps. It covers essential concepts in emotional wellbeing, guiding you through personalized practices that match your background and goals. Combining widely validated knowledge with your unique interests, it reveals how to effectively navigate emotions, reduce stress, and build resilience. By addressing your specific emotional challenges and aspirations, this book creates a learning experience crafted just for you, making it easier to adopt positive changes and deepen your self-awareness. It embraces a highly engaging, tailored approach that supports your progress every day, helping you reset and recharge your emotional life effectively.
Recommended by Jim Oshaughnessy
Founder/Chairman OSAM LLC, Podcast Host
“@BrianRoemmele Interesting (somewhat dated) book on the subject: "Molecules Of Emotion: The Science Behind Mind-Body Medicine – February 17, 1999" by Candace B. Pert” (from X)
by Candace B. Pert, Deepak Chopra·You?
by Candace B. Pert, Deepak Chopra·You?
What started as Candace B. Pert's groundbreaking research into the brain's opiate receptors evolved into a revealing exploration of the biochemical basis of emotions. This book takes you through the science connecting mind and body, explaining how molecules influence feelings and how this challenges traditional Western medicine. You'll gain insight into the physiological mechanisms behind emotions and their impact on health, backed by examples from Pert's own research and clinical implications discussed alongside Deepak Chopra. If you're intrigued by the intersection of neuroscience and emotional experience, this book offers a focused look at how your feelings are rooted in biology.
Recommended by The Dalai Lama
Spiritual leader and advocate for compassion
“This book succinctly explains how to deal with emotions creatively and employ our intelligence in a beneficial way.” (from Amazon)
by Travis Bradberry··You?
by Travis Bradberry··You?
Dr. Travis Bradberry draws on decades of psychology and neuroscience research to offer a straightforward guide for boosting your emotional intelligence through manageable habit changes. You’ll explore practical ways to enhance self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship skills, supported by an online EQ test to pinpoint your strengths and areas for growth. The book doesn’t just explain EQ concepts—it breaks them down into specific micro behaviors, like managing toxic interactions and building confidence, that you can apply daily. If you want to improve how you handle emotions and relationships without wading through jargon, this book offers clear, focused strategies.
Recommended by Drew Huston
Co-Founder and CEO of Dropbox
by Daniel Goleman··You?
by Daniel Goleman··You?
Daniel Goleman, with his extensive background reporting on behavioral and brain sciences for the New York Times, explores why emotional intelligence can outweigh IQ in shaping success and well-being. You’ll learn to recognize and develop skills like self-awareness, empathy, and self-discipline through insights drawn from neuroscience and psychology, including how these capabilities influence health, relationships, and work performance. For anyone curious about the interplay between emotions and cognition, this book offers a clear explanation of how emotional intelligence can be cultivated beyond childhood, supported by research and practical examples such as the concept of our “two minds.” If you want to understand what truly impacts achievement and personal growth, this book guides you through the science and application of emotional skills.
by Esther Hicks, Jerry Hicks·You?
by Esther Hicks, Jerry Hicks·You?
When Esther and Jerry Hicks introduced the teachings of Abraham, they offered a fresh lens on emotions that moves beyond the usual reactive patterns. You learn to recognize the meaning behind each feeling and how to navigate them with awareness rather than impulsivity. The book breaks down emotional experiences to reveal their role in guiding your personal growth and desires, inviting you to accept your current state while opening doors to new possibilities. If you want to deepen your understanding of emotions as signals rather than obstacles, this book provides a thoughtful framework to shift your perspective and relationship with your feelings.
The breakthrough moment came when Jennie Allen challenged the widespread notion that emotions are untrustworthy or sinful. Drawing from her master of biblical studies and personal journey, she presents a five-step method to identify and understand your feelings without judgment. You’ll discover how emotional maturity can deepen your connection with God and others, as well as practical ways to sit with uncomfortable emotions through biblical insight and therapeutic research. This book suits those looking to shift from emotional suppression to a healthier, spiritually grounded engagement with their feelings.
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Conclusion
This curated collection reveals clear themes: the power of emotional intelligence as a practical skill, the scientific exploration of what emotions are, and holistic approaches to emotional healing. If you prefer proven methods to improve your workplace and personal interactions, start with "Emotional Intelligence 2.0" and "Emotional Intelligence Habits." For a deeper scientific understanding, combine "How Emotions Are Made" with "Molecules of Emotion."
Parents and caregivers aiming to foster emotional growth may find "Raising An Emotionally Intelligent Child" indispensable, while those drawn to spiritual and trauma recovery perspectives can turn to "The Garden Within" and "Untangle Your Emotions."
Alternatively, you can create a personalized Emotions book to combine proven methods with your unique needs. These widely-adopted approaches have helped countless readers navigate the complex world of emotions with confidence and clarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?
Start with "Emotional Intelligence 2.0" for practical skills or "How Emotions Are Made" for scientific insights. Both offer accessible entry points into understanding emotions effectively.
Are these books too advanced for someone new to emotions?
Not at all. Many books, like "Emotional Intelligence Habits," break down concepts into manageable steps, making them suitable for beginners eager to improve emotional awareness.
What's the best order to read these books?
Begin with foundational titles like "Emotional Intelligence" or "Emotional Intelligence 2.0," then explore specialized books such as "The Emotion Code" or "The Garden Within" based on your interests.
Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?
You can certainly pick one or two books that match your goals. Each offers distinct perspectives, so choosing based on whether you want practical skills, science, or healing is key.
Which books focus more on theory vs. practical application?
"How Emotions Are Made" and "Molecules of Emotion" lean toward theory and science, while "Emotional Intelligence 2.0" and "The Emotion Code" offer practical tools you can apply immediately.
Can I get focused insights tailored to my needs without reading multiple books?
Yes! While these expert books provide valuable frameworks, you can create a personalized Emotions book that combines proven methods with your unique goals for efficient, targeted learning.
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