Must-Read Books to Inspire and Empower Women Over 50

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In today’s hectic world, finding books that resonate with our innermost needs for empowerment, self-love, and healthy relationships is invaluable.

In this post, I have hand-picked a collection of compelling books to inspire women over 50 to embrace their sexuality, build confidence, and encourage deeper relationships. I have also included a list of podcasts for times you aren’t too tired or need additional motivation.

Women over 50 Building Confidence and Self-Empowerment

Embarking on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment is a rewarding adventure, especially for women over 50. This curated book list is designed to inspire confidence, ignite self-empowerment, and celebrate the wisdom and strength that come with experience. These transformative reads offer insights, encouragement, and practical advice to help you embrace your true potential and thrive in this vibrant stage of life.

Badass Affirmations by Becca Anderson

Inspirational affirmations to boost self-worth and power.

Daring Greatly by Brené Brown

The transformative power of vulnerability in personal and professional life.

The Confidence Code by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman

Unlocking the science and art of self-assurance for women.

You Are Not a Before Picture by Alex Light

Embracing body positivity and self-acceptance.

The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin

One woman’s journey to find happiness, and how you can too.

Good Vibes, Good Life by Vex King

Mastering the principles of positive thinking and self-love.

The Mountain is You by Brianna Wiest

Overcoming challenges and self-sabotage through emotional intelligence.

A Gentle Reminder by Bianca Sparacino

Gentle reminders and reflections to nurture your soul.

So Much To Unlearn by Amirah Morris

Unlearning societal norms to reclaim your truth.

Don’t Believe Everything You Think by Joseph Nguyen

Understanding the nature of thought and transforming your mindset.

Worthy by Jamie Kern-Lima

Embracing your inner worth and overcoming doubts.

Protect Your Peace by Trent Shelton

Practical advice on maintaining inner peace amidst life’s chaos.

What A Time To Be Alone by Chidera Eggerue

A motivational guide that empowers readers to embrace their solitude, cultivate self-love, and navigate the complexities of modern relationships.

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Enhancing Relationships As Women Over 50

Navigating relationships can be both enriching and challenging, especially as life evolves. For women over 50, enhancing and nurturing these connections becomes even more meaningful. 

This thoughtfully selected book list offers valuable insights and practical guidance to help you deepen your relationships, foster meaningful connections, and celebrate the bonds that bring joy and fulfillment to this vibrant stage of life.

The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman

Understanding and expressing love in meaningful ways.

Want Me by Tracy Clark-Flory

A personal exploration of desire and what it means for relationships.

Getting The Sex You Want by Tammy Nelson, PhD

Embarking on sexual transformation within long-term relationships.

Urban Tantra by Barbara Carellas and Annie Sprinkle

Modern practices to deepen intimacy and sexual connection.

The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by Jon Gottman and Nan Silver

Proven strategies for enhancing marital stability and happiness.

Hold Me Tight by Sue Johnson

Improving relationship bonds through the power of attachment.

Getting Past The Affair by Douglas Snyder, Donald Baucom, and Kristina Coop Gordon

Steps to healing and rebuilding trust after infidelity.

The Inner Work of Relationships by Mathew Micheletti

Cultivating mindful and conscious relationships.

Attached by Amir Levine and Rachel Heller

The science of adult attachment and how it affects your bonds.

The Shadow Work Journal by Keila Shaheen

A guide to exploring hidden parts of yourself to improve relationships.

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Helping Women Over 50 Navigate Life Transitions

Life after 50 is a time of transformation, offering new opportunities and challenges. Navigating these transitions gracefully and confidently can lead to a fulfilling and enriching journey. 

This curated book list is designed to support women over 50 as they embrace change, offering wisdom, inspiration, and practical strategies to help them thrive during this dynamic phase of life.

Goddesses Never Age by Christiane Northrup, M.D.

Embracing aging with confidence and vitality.

The Wisdom of Menopause by Christiane Northrup, M.D.

Navigating menopause with health and emotional well-being.

Feeding Your Demons by Tsultrim Allione

Transforming personal challenges into growth opportunities.

Transitions: Making Sense of Life’s Changes by William Bridges

A guide to understanding and managing the internal and emotional turmoil that comes with change, complete with practical advice.

Life Reimagined: The Science, Art, and Opportunity of Midlife by Barbara Bradley Hagerty

This book blends personal narratives with scientific research to explore how to navigate and thrive in midlife.

When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times by Pema Chodron

A spiritual guide filled with wisdom on how to face life’s challenges with grace and resilience.

The Gift of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You’re Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are by Brené Brown

While not exclusively about transitions, this book provides powerful insights that can help during times of change by promoting self-acceptance and authenticity.

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Embracing Sexuality

Embracing sexuality as women over 50 is a powerful journey of self-discovery and confidence. For women in this vibrant stage of life, exploring and celebrating their sexual identity can lead to greater fulfillment and joy. 

This list offers empowering insights, expert advice, and inspiring stories to help you embrace your sexuality confidently and enthusiastically, enriching your life and relationships.

The Ethical Slut by Janet W. Hardy and Dossie Easton

An enlightening guide to consensual non-monogamy and embracing sexual freedom.

Better Sex Through Mindfulness by Lori A. Brotto, PhD

Practical exercises to enhance sexual well-being through mindfulness.

Sex for One by Betty Dodson, PhD

Empowering women to reclaim their sexuality through solo practice.

Tongue Tied by Stella Harris

A guide to effective sexual communication and overcoming barriers.

Becoming Cliterate by Laurie Mintz, PhD

Challenging the orgasm gap and advocating for sexual satisfaction.

Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski, PhD

Exploring the science of female sexuality and pleasure.

Shameless by Nadia Bolz-Weber

A bold look at sexuality and faith, aiming to remove shame.

The Complete Illustrated Kama Sutra by Lance Dane

A comprehensive guide to the ancient texts of the Kama Sutra, enriched with detailed illustrations and modern interpretations of its teachings on love and sexuality.

Sex Matters by Mona Charen

An insightful critique on modern feminism, exploring how it can reconnect with science, love, and common sense to better serve both women and men.

Great Podcasts For Women Over 50

In today’s busy world, finding time to sit down and read can be challenging, especially for women over 50 who are juggling multiple responsibilities.

Podcasts offer a flexible and convenient way to gain motivation, inspiration, and insightful information while on the go.

Whether commuting, exercising, or doing household chores, tuning into empowering podcasts can enrich your day and keep you motivated when reading isn’t an option.

The Midlife Whisperer Podcast

Dr. Ellen Albertson hosts this podcast, and it can help women over 50 transform their lives through interviews, insights, and inspiration on health, self-love, and success.

Listen Here

The Confidence Chronicles

This podcast, hosted by Erika Cramer, discusses self-love, confidence, and overcoming life’s challenges.

Listen Here

Midlife Matters

Covers varied topics relevant to women over 50, including relationships, health, and personal growth.

Listen Here

The Pleasure Podcast

Naomi Sheldon and Anand Patel tackle topics around sexual health, pleasure, and intimacy, encouraging a healthy and positive view on sexuality.

Listen Here

Sex with Emily

Dr. Emily Morse offers frank, engaging discussions on sexual wellness, relationships, and intimacy, explicitly focusing on empowering listeners at any age.

Listen Here

"Sexuality is part of the soul and it calls for self-discovery, recognition, and above all, acceptance."

Your Next Chapter Awaits

Whether you want to deepen your understanding of sexuality, bolster your confidence, enhance your relationships, or navigate key life transitions, these books provide valuable insights and inspiration for women over 50. Check out these reads and empower yourself to live your best, most fulfilling life.

If these empowering books and podcasts inspire you, don’t stop here! Take the first step towards creating a more confident and fulfilling life. Subscribe to our newsletter for more insightful book recommendations, podcasts, and articles tailored just for you.

Do you have a book or resource that has transformed your life or would benefit women over 50? Please share it with us in the comments below! Let’s build a community of empowered women who support and uplift each other.

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10 months ago

Very interesting list, I got to get myself some of these.

Stephanie
10 months ago

These sound like some powerful and inspiring books for us women over 40. I’m glad you included several podcasts as these are great to listen to when I’m driving or just chilling out at home.

10 months ago

As someone in my early 40s, I love all these amazing book suggestions. I can’t wait to check out some I haven’t read yet.

Kelly Krebs
10 months ago

Such an awesome list! I’m nearing 40 and a lot of these books have peaked my interest. I can’t wait to check some of these out. Thanks for the suggestions and recommendations

10 months ago

I could never have enough books. As a self proclaimed book worm, I’m happy to stumble upon your blog and book list.

Katie
10 months ago

I love this list so much! I just turned 40 and while I have a few, there are so many that I need to add. Especially from the Navigating Life Transitions list