In a year full of uncertainty and distractions, we all need some escape. But not the kind that numbs you—the kind that feeds you. That reminds you who you are. That pushes you to do the scary thing. That keeps you grounded when the world feels chaotic.
2025 is giving “next level only,” and whether you’re building a brand, healing from burnout, fixing your finances, or just trying to stay ten toes down, these seven books are the exact energy reset you didn’t know you needed.
While flipping pages might be your thing, let’s be clear—audiobooks count too. Catch a chapter on your commute, wind down before bed, or listen while you hit the treadmill. It’s all about feeding your mind, your way.
From money moves to mindset shifts, from Black excellence to soul work—here are 7 must-reads that belong on every MVEMNT reader’s shelf this year.
1. The Memo by Minda Harts
Black Author
Let’s keep it real: corporate spaces weren’t built for us. Minda Harts breaks that wide open with practical, powerful guidance for women of color navigating leadership, bias, and pay gaps. It’s more than a career guide—it’s the blueprint for owning your voice, your value, and your seat at the table.
2. We Should All Be Millionaires by Rachel Rodgers
Black Author
Yes, we’re talking about real money moves. Rachel Rodgers doesn’t just want you to budget better—she wants you to think different. This book shows why wealth-building for women of color is revolutionary and gives you step-by-step guidance to shift your mindset, income, and future.
3. The Mountain Is You by Brianna Wiest
Self-sabotage? Imposter syndrome? Procrastination dressed up as perfectionism? Yeah, this one reads us. But it also delivers. Wiest dives deep into why we hold ourselves back—and how to stop. This is healing meets accountability, and it’ll have you choosing growth every time.
4. Build the Damn Thing by Kathryn Finney
Black Author
If you’re dreaming about starting something big (or already in the middle of the chaos), Kathryn Finney’s got you. Part tough love, part game plan, this book is for the Black woman entrepreneur who’s done playing small. It’s honest, affirming, and refreshingly practical.
5. Atomic Habits by James Clear
You’ve seen it all over social media—but trust, it’s worth the hype. Clear teaches how small habits turn into big results, and how the real flex is consistency. If you’re ready to leave chaos culture behind and finally get into rhythm—this one’s for you.
6. Start Where You Are by Pema Chödrön
Life feels heavy sometimes. This book is a balm. It’s for the folks who don’t need another hustle strategy—they need softness, breath, presence. This book doesn’t rush your journey; it reminds you that every step forward counts.
7. Your Next Level Life by Karen Arrington
Black Author
Quick read, big energy. Karen Arrington offers that real-talk, big-sister kind of motivation we all need. This one’s for the dreamers, the late bloomers, the go-getters looking to level up with intention. No fluff—just strategy, soul, and bold encouragement.
Whether you’re deep in your healing era, your boss-up season, or just trying to find some peace in the noise—these reads will meet you where you are and carry you forward.
Add a few to your rotation and thank us later. Your 2025 glow-up depends on it.