Have you ever felt stuck in life, living paycheck to paycheck, or constantly comparing yourself to others? You’re not alone. Many of us grew up in a culture full of habits that hold us back—“bahala na,” procrastination, toxic pakikisama, even believing we have to work abroad to succeed.
The good news? These habits can be unlearned. And one of the best ways to start? Reading the right books.
Here are 10 life-changing books every Filipino must read—and the toxic attitudes they’ll help you let go of. Plus, I’ll link to where you can find them on Amazon (because investing in yourself is the best investment you’ll ever make).
1. Atomic Habits by James Clear
Why Read It: Practical, science-backed tips on creating small habits that lead to big results.
Toxic Habit to Let Go: “Bahala na” – Stop leaving your future to fate. Start building it, one habit at a time.
📚 Grab your copy here: Atomic Habits on Amazon
2. Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life
Why Read It: Learn the Japanese philosophy of finding your life’s purpose.
Toxic Habit to Let Go: “Walang forever” hopelessness – Discover why life is worth living when you know your why.
📚 Get it here: Ikigai
3. Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
Why Read It: Understand money, assets, and financial freedom in a way schools never taught us.
Toxic Habit to Let Go: “Pwede na yan” – Stop settling for financial mediocrity.
📚 Shop it here: Rich Dad Poor Dad
4. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
Why Read It: A refreshing, honest guide to focusing on what really matters.
Toxic Habit to Let Go: “Pakikisama kahit mali” – People-pleasing at the expense of your own values.
📚 Get it now: The Subtle Art
5. You Can Be Rich Without Leaving the Philippines by Efren Ll. Cruz
Why Read It: A money guide for Filipinos—because success isn’t just abroad.
Toxic Habit to Let Go: “Kailangan mag-abroad para yumaman” – Build wealth at home.
6. Start With Why by Simon Sinek
Why Read It: Learn why having a strong purpose changes everything.
Toxic Habit to Let Go: “Sakto lang, wag na magsimula ng bago” – Stop fearing change.
📚 Available here: Start With Why
7. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
Why Read It: A proven framework for personal and professional success.
Toxic Habit to Let Go: “Mañana habit” (procrastination) – Be proactive and take charge.
📚 Shop it here: 7 Habits
8. Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
Why Read It: Timeless principles for success and financial growth.
Toxic Habit to Let Go: “Inggit culture” – Stop comparing. Start achieving.
📚 Buy it here: Think and Grow Rich on Amazon
9. Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren
Why Read It: Spiritual and practical guide to discovering your purpose.
Toxic Habit to Let Go: “Kanya-kanya” mindset – Live for something bigger than yourself.
📚 Find it here: Purpose Driven Life
10. Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins
Why Read It: A story of resilience and grit that will inspire you to keep pushing.
Toxic Habit to Let Go: “Madali sumuko” – No more giving up when life gets tough.
📚 Check it out: Can’t Hurt Me
🔥 Pro Tip: Start with one book that resonates with your current struggle. Don’t pressure yourself to read all at once. What matters is applying what you learn.
👉 What toxic Filipino habit do you want to break first? Comment below!
And if you found this helpful, share this post with someone who needs a little life change today.