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Being a working mom is a juggling act—balancing career, kids, and some semblance of personal time can feel like a superpower. But even superheroes need a little inspiration and guidance.
That’s where these working moms’ books come in. We’ve rounded up the 10 best working moms books that offer wisdom, humor, and practical advice for moms trying to do it all without losing their sanity.
From navigating mom guilt and setting healthy boundaries to mastering time management and finding joy in the chaos, these books are your supportive, no-judgment zone. Ready to feel seen, inspired, and a little less overwhelmed? Let’s dive in.
Best Books for Working Moms
1. Lean Out: The Truth About Women, Power, and the Workplace by Elissa Shevinsky
Lean Out is a refreshing, thought-provoking read that flips the script on gender and success in the corporate world. Instead of pushing women to fit into existing systems, Marissa Orr challenges the traditional “Lean In” mindset, urging women to define success on their own terms.
She explores workplace culture, leadership, and the gender pay gap, revealing the systemic barriers women face. But it’s not just critique—Lean Out offers actionable insights for creating workplaces that genuinely support women.
It’s a must-read for anyone rethinking gender equality, leadership, and what it truly means to succeed in the business world.
2. Drop the Ball: Achieving More by Doing Less by Tiffany Dufu
Drop the Ball by Tiffany Dufu is a game-changing read for working moms who are tired of chasing perfection. Dufu shares her own journey of letting go, showing how embracing imperfection can lead to more balance and fulfillment.
With relatable stories and practical tips, she teaches readers how to delegate, set boundaries, and focus on what truly matters. This isn’t just another self-help book—it’s a permission slip to drop unrealistic expectations and create a life that aligns with your values.
For any working mom feeling stretched thin, Drop the Ball is an inspiring, guilt-free guide to reclaiming your time and energy.
3. The Fifth Trimester: The Working Mom’s Guide to Style, Sanity, and Success After Baby by Lauren Smith Brody
The Fifth Trimester by Lauren Smith Brody is a must-read for new moms heading back to work. Packed with practical advice, relatable stories, and expert insights, it’s your guide to navigating the tricky transition from maternity leave to the office.
Brody tackles everything from postpartum challenges and pumping at work to juggling family life and career goals. Her honest, down-to-earth style makes you feel seen and supported.
With tips on time management, self-care, and building a support system, this book empowers working moms to embrace their new roles without losing their professional edge. It’s a sanity-saving resource for working moms.
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4. Overwhelmed: Work, Love, and Play When No One Has the Time by Brigid Schulte
Overwhelmed by Brigid Schulte is a refreshing reality check for anyone feeling crushed by the chaos of modern life. Schulte tackles the “busyness” epidemic head-on, exploring why we’re all so stressed and constantly running on empty.
Through eye-opening research and relatable stories, she dives into time management, work-life balance, and the gender dynamics of caregiving.
Schulte doesn’t just highlight the problem—she offers practical solutions for reclaiming your time, setting boundaries, and finding joy in the everyday. Whether you’re a working mom or just tired of feeling stretched thin, Overwhelmed is a must-read guide to living with more balance and intention.
5. I Know How She Does It: How Successful Women Make the Most of Their Time by Laura Vanderkam
In I Know How She Does It, Laura Vanderkam takes readers behind the scenes of high-achieving women and their time management secrets. Forget the myth of “not enough hours in the day”—Vanderkam uses real-time logs from successful women to show how they actually balance careers, family, and personal time.
With a mix of analysis and practical tips, she reveals that there’s often more time than we think, if we use it wisely. Vanderkam’s insights help readers ditch the constant busyness, make intentional choices, and build well-rounded, fulfilling lives.
It’s a must-read for any woman seeking productivity without burnout.
6. Mommy Wars: Stay-at-Home and Career Moms Face Off on Their Choices, Their Lives, Their Families, edited by Leslie Morgan Steiner
Mommy Wars by Leslie Morgan Steiner is a thought-provoking collection of essays that dives into the ongoing debate between stay-at-home moms and working moms. But this isn’t about choosing sides—it’s about understanding.
Steiner brings together diverse voices, offering raw, honest perspectives from both camps. The book highlights the unique challenges, joys, and struggles each group faces, showing that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to motherhood.
More than just a discussion, Mommy Wars is a call for empathy, solidarity, and open dialogue. It’s a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the different ways women navigate motherhood.
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7. The Ambition Decisions: What Women Know About Work, Family, and the Path to Building a Life by Hana Schank and Elizabeth Wallace
The Ambition Decisions by Hana Schank and Elizabeth Wallace is a refreshing, honest dive into the complex world of women’s ambitions. Through candid interviews and personal stories, Schank and Wallace explore how women navigate the tricky balance between career, family, and personal fulfillment.
They shine a light on the choices, trade-offs, and challenges women face while pursuing success on their own terms. This book isn’t just about climbing the corporate ladder—it’s about redefining what success looks like for each individual.
Perfect for any woman reevaluating her goals, The Ambition Decisions offers relatable insights and practical wisdom for crafting a meaningful life.
8. The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance—What Women Should Know by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman
The Confidence Code by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman is a must-read for women looking to boost their confidence and conquer self-doubt.
Backed by scientific research and real stories from successful women, this book dives into the unique challenges women face in building confidence, whether it’s battling imposter syndrome, breaking free from perfectionism, or navigating workplace dynamics.
Kay and Shipman unpack how biology, social norms, and self-beliefs shape confidence, but they don’t stop there. With practical tips and empowering advice, they show readers how to embrace their strengths, take risks, and step boldly into their potential. It’s a confidence booster in book form.
9. Working Mom’s Survival Guide: How to Run Around Less & Enjoy Life More by Suzanne Riss and Teresa Palagano
Working Mom’s Survival Guide by Riss and Palagano is a sanity-saver for busy moms trying to juggle careers and family life. This practical book is packed with real-world tips, from mastering time management and setting boundaries to practicing self-care and advancing your career.
Riss and Palagano know the struggle and offer empathetic, actionable advice for streamlining tasks, avoiding burnout, and finding fulfillment both at work and home. It’s not just another parenting book—it’s a toolkit for thriving as a working mom.
Whether you’re struggling with mom guilt or just trying to keep it all together, this guide has your back.
10. The Feminine Mistake: Are We Giving Up Too Much? by Leslie Bennetts
In The Feminine Mistake, Leslie Bennetts takes a bold, thought-provoking look at the hidden costs of leaving the workforce to focus solely on caregiving. Bennetts challenges the idea that opting out is a purely fulfilling choice, highlighting the long-term impact on financial independence, career growth, and personal identity.
Using research and real stories, she reveals how stepping away can lead to unexpected consequences. But this isn’t just a cautionary tale—it’s a wake-up call for women to make informed, empowered choices.
The Feminine Mistake encourages readers to rethink societal expectations and prioritize their financial security and personal fulfillment.
These ten empowering books for working moms are a testament to the shared experiences, challenges, and triumphs of juggling a career and motherhood.
Whether seeking practical advice, inspiration, or a fresh perspective, these books offer valuable insights and wisdom to help you thrive in your multifaceted role.
So, grab a cup of tea, find a cozy corner, and embark on a transformative journey through the pages of these empowering reads. You deserve it, Supermom!
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