8 Books to Stop Making Bad Decisions

Bad decisions can derail careers, relationships, and life plans. Developing sound judgment is essential, and the right books can be powerful tools in building this crucial life skill. Below is a list of the 8 most insightful books to help you stop making bad decisions—each grounded in psychology, behavioral science, and real-world strategy. These books will sharpen your thinking, train your awareness, and help you master the art of wise decision-making.

1. Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

Daniel Kahneman’s Thinking, Fast and Slow explores how our brains operate in two modes: the fast, intuitive System 1 and the slow, rational System 2. The book dissects the mental shortcuts and biases we rely on, often unknowingly, that lead to flawed reasoning and poor choices. Kahneman draws on decades of research in cognitive psychology to explain how heuristics distort perception and judgment. By understanding these systems, readers can begin to consciously apply more critical thinking to their decision-making process. This book is essential for anyone seeking to develop self-awareness about mental blind spots and make smarter, more deliberate choices.

2. Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely

In Predictably Irrational, behavioral economist Dan Ariely uncovers the surprising ways in which human behavior consistently deviates from logic. Ariely uses real-world experiments to show how emotions, expectations, social norms, and subconscious influences affect our decisions. He challenges the myth of rational decision-making and explains why people often make illogical financial, romantic, and professional choices. From the power of free offers to the influence of relativity, Ariely’s insights help readers spot their own irrational patterns. By becoming aware of these behavioral triggers, individuals can counteract them and make wiser, more informed decisions that align with long-term goals rather than immediate impulses.

3. How to Think by Alan Jacobs

In How to Think, cultural critic Alan Jacobs offers a timely and compelling guide on resisting tribalism, groupthink, and lazy mental shortcuts. The book emphasizes the importance of engaging with opposing views, thinking independently, and avoiding ideological rigidity. Jacobs draws from philosophy, psychology, and literature to explain how true thinking is an intentional, reflective act—one that requires effort and humility. He critiques the culture of instant reactions and teaches how to reclaim intellectual clarity in a noisy, polarized world. This book is ideal for those who want to strengthen their critical thinking and avoid the pitfalls of emotional reasoning.

4. The Scout Mindset by Julia Galef

The Scout Mindset contrasts two mental approaches: the “soldier mindset”, which defends beliefs at all costs, and the “scout mindset”, which seeks truth regardless of personal bias. Author Julia Galef, a rationalist and co-founder of the Center for Applied Rationality, explores why intellectual honesty is so rare—and so powerful. Through compelling examples and psychological insights, she shows how people can train themselves to be more curious, open-minded, and intellectually flexible. It's a transformative read for anyone seeking to see reality more clearly and act wisely.

5. Fooled by Randomness by Nassim Nicholas Taleb

Fooled by Randomness examines how we often mistake luck for skill and how randomness influences outcomes more than we realize. Nassim Nicholas Taleb, a former trader and philosopher, argues that many perceived patterns in life and markets are actually due to chance. Our brains are wired to seek causality, even where none exists, which can lead to dangerous overconfidence and faulty conclusions. This book urges readers to embrace humility in their reasoning and avoid drawing conclusions from insufficient evidence. Taleb’s thought-provoking analysis encourages deeper skepticism of success stories and a greater understanding of how unpredictability shapes our lives.

6. The Paradox of Choice by Barry Schwartz

Through psychological research and real-life examples, Schwartz demonstrates how excessive options can overwhelm, paralyze, and even depress decision-makers. He introduces the concepts of “maximizers” vs. “satisficers” and explains how the relentless pursuit of the “best” option often leads to regret, anxiety, and dissatisfaction. The book provides practical strategies for simplifying choices and finding contentment without obsessing over every possibility.

7. Blink by Malcolm Gladwell

Blink explores the science behind snap judgments—those rapid decisions made without conscious thought. Malcolm Gladwell investigates when these decisions lead to success and when they backfire. He introduces the concept of thin-slicing, or making accurate conclusions based on minimal information, and explains how experience and expertise can enhance this ability. However, the book also warns of the dangers of biases, such as stereotyping, that can corrupt instinctual thinking. It’s a fascinating read on when to trust your gut and when not to.

8. The Undoing Project by Michael Lewis

It explains how we think, why we make mistakes, and how psychological research reshaped economics, medicine, and public policy. Unlike traditional self-help books, it presents a compelling blend of biography and science, offering readers an inside look at the minds that redefined how we understand decisions. It’s a must-read for anyone wanting to grasp the origin of modern decision theory.

Final Thoughts

By absorbing the wisdom in these eight books, you can drastically reduce the frequency and severity of bad decisions, leading to greater happiness, success, and peace of mind.