5 Books you NEED to read in your 20s!

TOP 5 BOOKS TO READ IN YOUR 20s!

Your 20s are a defining decade—a time when you step into adulthood, take on new responsibilities, and start shaping your future. It’s exciting, but let’s be real, it can also be overwhelming. Suddenly, you’re expected to figure out your career, finances, relationships, and personal growth, all at once. With no rulebook to follow, it’s easy to feel lost. That’s why learning from the best—whether through books, parents, or mentors—can make a huge difference. Gaining wisdom from those who’ve been there before can help you navigate this phase with clarity and confidence.

Here are 5 must-read books for anyone in their 20s:

1. 📖 The Alchemist – For chasing dreams & finding purpose

Stuck wondering if your passion is worth pursuing? *The Alchemist* is your kick in the pants to go after what lights you up. Paulo Coelho’s classic follows a shepherd’s journey to find treasure—but it’s really about trusting your gut, embracing detours, and realizing that the “why” behind your goals matters more than the destination. For 20-somethings feeling lost or playing it safe, this book whispers: Your dreams aren’t silly. Start chasing.

2. 💰 The Psychology of Money – To get smarter about finances

Money stress in your 20s? Same. But this isn’t a boring finance textbook. Morgan Housel serves real talk about why we make dumb money moves (even when we know better) and how to build wealth without being a Wall Street pro. Learn why “getting rich slow” beats risky bets, why ego ruins budgets, and how your childhood money baggage affects you today. Spoiler: It’s less about math, more about mindset.  

3. 😎 The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck – For mastering mindset & priorities  

Overwhelmed by Instagram-perfect lives? Mark Manson’s blunt AF guide slaps you awake: You can’t care about everything—so pick what matters. This book isn’t about being apathetic; it’s about ditching FOMO, setting boundaries, and owning your flaws. For 20-somethings drowning in comparison traps or people-pleasing, it’s a reality check: Stop chasing “happiness” and start building a life that actually feels like yours.  

4. ⏳ The Defining Decade – Because your 20s matter more than you think  

“I’ll figure it out later” vibes? Psychologist Meg Jay begs you to rethink that. The Defining Decade uses science and stories to prove your 20s aren’t a practice round—career moves, relationships, and habits you build now shape your 30s and beyond. Scared of commitment? Stuck in a dead-end job? This book gives actionable steps to avoid “future you” regrets. TL;DR: Your 20s are low-key powerful. Use ‘em.  

5. 🌌 The Midnight Library – A thought-provoking take on life’s choices

What if you’d chosen a different major, job, or partner? Matt Haig’s novel takes you through a library of alternate lives, showing the what-ifs we all obsess over. For 20-somethings paralyzed by decisions or haunted by “failure,” it’s a gentle reminder: No path is perfect, but regret is optional. Perfect for anyone needing a mental reset on self-compassion and embracing the messy, unplanned journey of adulthood.  

Why These Books Work for Your 20s:

They’re relatable, actionable, and cut through the noise of “adulting” chaos. Whether you’re stressing about student loans, career pivots, or existential dread, these reads offer clarity without the fluff. Plus, they’re way cheaper than therapy. 😉