Anyone who has followed me for some time knows I love reading. Well, I have intentioned my way to becoming an avid reader. I once read that leaders were readers, and that is when I started my journey to leading my life and home as a single mom. So I wanted to share some of my favorite books for single moms.
As you know, I am not always good at maintaining attention when reading hardbacks, but I have read more books since I learned about audiobooks. I could listen to them two or three times a week if I wanted to.
I want to warn you that most of these books are self-improvement and personal development books which I am all for. Some books are by Christian authors, and some are by leaders in their particular fields.
Despite any recommendations I make in this blog post, the essential book to dive into is the Bible. It is the book of life’s instruction and will see you through every challenge you will go through as a single mom.
How has reading transformed my life as a single mom?
It has been a while since I spoke about my journey as a single mom because I am entering a new life season. But I am still a single mom at the end of the day and deal with every challenge you regularly face.
In my early years of single motherhood, I unknowingly began building a circle of wisdom around myself to help me stand despite my challenges in each new season of my life. Every person who admired or looked up to their single mother’s journey and success had one thing in common: reading.
So I began to adopt their ways and opened my eyes to much more regarding how I experience life as a Christian, woman, and mother.
I remember my first book like it was yesterday when I completed it. Probably like so many of you, I joined tons of book clubs but never really engaged with the books like I needed to. But this one was different; it began pruning, cutting, and reading me to filth like no other. This book was called Emotional Healthy Woman by Geri Sczarro. This book had me in tears, laughing, mad, and intrigued all at the same time.
But at that moment, I began to grow, page by page and word by word. My heart began to soften. I began to see myself clearly in the mirror. And from that day on, I have been hungry for stories, wisdom, good thoughts, and the revelation that were written to be passed on to improve the lives of those who saw or heard it.
The best ways to find and read books for single moms
There are many ways to read a book or retrieve a book. I have my favorites, but you will always have to use what works for you. Here are a couple of options:
- Purchase from popular retailers such as Barnes & Nobles, Amazon, Target, etc.
- Purchase audiobook or e-book versions with Audible, Kindle, etc.
- Check out the website of your local library for e-books.
- Go directly to author websites from a google search on a specific topic.
- Ask your friends or other single mothers if they have books to recommend or if you are searching for a book swap.
- Join single-mom communities, small groups, or church book clubs.
No matter how you go about it, I know you will be blessed every time you turn a page. Below I share with you ten of my favorite reads that have helped me heal, grow, and blossom into the single mom I am today, living on purpose and faith.
10 Self-Help Books For Single Moms
Disclaimer: I wanted to have a little fun with each recommendation, where I write a review for each one as if I am providing an editorial review.
Emotional Healthy Woman by Geri Scazarro
“With each chapter, the author dissected everything I was doing emotionally that was toxic to myself. Especially the chapter reminding me to quit denying anger, sadness, and fear. Scazerro uses her real-life situations to convey great principles to improve your emotional health. Whether you are a pastor’s wife or a struggling single mom, there’s a word for you in each chapter!”
―Chyna, The Emotional Wreck
Checking In by Michelle Williams
“As someone who struggles with anxiety and has had my fair share of depression, Michelle’s memoir was not meant to be self-help. However, each time she shared her realness, I felt understood. For her to be a well-known singer and live the life we all dream of (especially being besties with Kelly and Beyonce, she still struggles with the everyday struggles of mental health like we all do as single moms. The part I love most is her candid accounts of the highs and lows of depression in her relationship and engagement with Pastor Chad Johnson!”
―Chyna, The Conquerer Of Anxiety and Depression
From Dating To “I Do” by Abigail Brooks
“I recommend this book to anyone looking to get back out there, single mom or not. Mrs. Brooks touches on some key spots that help prepare you before you get out in these streets or online to mingle. The author also provides practical steps and reflective questions to set yourself up for success through the dating process with marriage in mind. She also has an awesome Facebook group and training program to support the book. Here dating to I DO story is one of a kind!”
―Chyna, The Single And Ready To Mingle
Atomic Habit by James Clear
“Okay, this is not a book for single moms exclusively. However, this book is for single moms like me who don’t have all their ducks in a row or procrastination in their blood. What I enjoyed most was the science behind his habit-building method and appreciated the lack of pressure I felt reading this. Even if I fell short, I can jump back on and set myself up for success with the strategies provided.“
―Chyna, The ADHD Mom That Procrastinates And Hates Routine
God Loves The Single Mom by Teresa Whitehurst
“This book was one of the first books I read when becoming a single mom. Teresa’s down-to-earth advice, strategies, and tips helped me move past some of the concerns I had as a single mom and navigate my relationship with God. Even though the author is a psychologist, this book never felt like a textbook but a resource I can return to when I feel my worst on my single mother’s journey. This is my go-to book for single moms!”
―Chyna, The Daughter Of A God Who Sees Her
Kingdom Woman by Crystal Evans Hurst & Tony Evans
“Even though I struggle from time to time with being a kingdom woman due to the challenges I face, I love the reminder every time I open these pages of all that I can be and that God wants me to be. If you want a go-to read to help grow your relationship with God and truly walk as a Christian woman, this read is for you!”
―Chyna, The Powerful Woman Of God Ready To Disciple The World
The Kicka** Single Mom by Emma Johnson
“Are you a single mom that wants to take this world by storm? Then this book is for you! With her wealth of knowledge from her journey and sharing everything that made her the successful single mom she is today, Emma has truly made a name for herself. Her blog has become the go-to single mom resource, and she even provides money grants for single moms in need. I read this book because I want to be like her when I grow up!”
―Chyna, The Boss Single Mom That Refuses To Be A Statistic
Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend
“If you know me, then you know I have been addicted to the Boundaries series and any other literature by Dr. Henry Cloud. The Boundaries book was my very first grab for relationship self-help. It made me reflect on all my past relationships’ shortcomings and how I can move forward out of unhealthy patterns and all my different relationships!”
―Chyna, The Retired Yes Girl, Not Taking No More Stuff
Relational Intelligence by Dr. Dharius Daniels
“This relationship read was next level for me. From the wisdom on alignment and placement of relationships to the connection of using Jesus’ principles when it comes to a relationship to revolutionalize your life. I’m going to say that you need to read it asap!”
―Chyna, The Lover And Student Of Others
The Gifts Of Imperfections by Brene Brown
“Brene Brown is an amazing author that has transformed my perspective on my flaws and the things that have plagued me. In this book, I was reminded to let go of ten things that have kept me from truly enjoying who I am in the present. If you struggle with being yourself, are your toughest critic, and care too much about what others think, this book is for you!”
―Chyna, The Woman Who Is Aware Of Her Flaws And Shortcomings But Doesn’t Let Them Define Her
All in all,
These are some books that have impacted my single motherhood journey. What are some books for single moms you are reading or have read?
Need help finding books for your specific needs? Check out the resource guide.
You can also join the Women Seeking Confidence Facebook group for a community of women headed in the same direction as you in regards to growing in relationships:
Here are some other blog posts about books for single moms as well:
