10 Best Books to Read in Your 20s
Your 20s are a transformative decade, filled with self-discovery, personal growth, and the pursuit of purpose. Reading books that resonate with this pivotal time can provide guidance, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of the world and yourself.
In this post, I will share 10 books to read on your 20s that provide valuable lessons and life insights. Keep scrolling to discover my top motivational books to add to your book shelf in 2025!
1. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
The Alchemist is a timeless tale that follows Santiago, a shepherd boy, on his journey to discover his personal legend. Coelho's narrative emphasizes the importance of following one's dreams and listening to the heart's desires.
In your 20s, it's common to grapple with questions about your life's direction. This book serves as a reminder that the pursuit of personal dreams is a journey worth undertaking, despite the obstacles that may arise.
When I first read The Alchemist, I was struck by the simplicity of its message: to trust in the journey and have faith in the process. It encouraged me to pursue my passions, even when the path seemed uncertain (hence, the start of The Elevate Edit!).
2. Normal People by Sally Rooney
Sally Rooney's Normal People delves into the intricate dynamics of young love and friendship. The story of Connell and Marianne explores themes of identity, class, and the impact of early relationships on personal development.
Navigating relationships in your 20s can be complex. This novel offers a nuanced portrayal of how connections can shape and influence your sense of self during these formative years.
Top tip: Reflect on your own relationships and consider how they have influenced your personal growth. Journaling about these experiences can provide clarity and insight.
3. Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab
Establishing healthy boundaries is crucial for mental well-being. In this guide, Tawwab provides practical advice on setting and maintaining boundaries in various aspects of life, from work to personal relationships.
In your 20s, you may encounter challenges in balancing personal needs with external expectations.
This book offers strategies to assert yourself confidently and create a balanced life.
Implementing the techniques from this book helped me communicate my needs more effectively, leading to healthier and more fulfilling relationships.
4. The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter—And How to Make the Most of Them Now by Meg Jay
Clinical psychologist Meg Jay argues that the 20s are a critical period for building the foundation of your future. She provides insights and advice on careers, relationships, and personal development.
This book challenges the notion that your 20s are a throwaway decade and emphasizes the importance of intentional decision-making during this time.
Actionable tip: Identify one area of your life—be it career, relationships, or personal growth—where you can take proactive steps to create positive change.
5. Educated by Tara Westover
Educated is a memoir recounting Westover's journey from growing up in a strict and isolated environment to pursuing higher education and self-discovery. Her story highlights the transformative power of education and resilience.
In your 20s, you may face the challenge of reconciling your upbringing with your aspirations.
Westover's narrative inspires readers to pursue their own path, regardless of their starting point.
Reading Educated reminded me of the importance of questioning assumptions and seeking knowledge beyond one's immediate environment.
6. Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear
This is a personal favourite and probably a book that you’ve heard of before!
James Clear provides a comprehensive guide on habit formation, emphasizing the impact of small, consistent changes over time. He introduces the concept of the "aggregation of marginal gains," illustrating how tiny improvements can lead to remarkable results.
Developing positive habits in your 20s can set the stage for long-term success. This book offers actionable strategies to build and maintain habits that align with your goals.
Here are 20 healthy habits to start in your 20s to get started!
Start by identifying one habit you'd like to develop. Implement the "Two-Minute Rule" from the book: make the new habit so easy that it takes just two minutes to complete.
7. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life* by Mark Manson
Mark Manson challenges conventional self-help advice by advocating for embracing life's challenges and focusing on what truly matters.
He emphasizes the importance of setting clear values and accepting the limitations of life.
In a decade often filled with societal pressures, this book encourages you to prioritize what's meaningful to you and let go of unnecessary concerns.
Manson's candid approach is fun and relatable. It’s the perfect book for people who don’t like the traditional cringe self-help books!
8. Becoming by Michelle Obama
In her memoir, Michelle Obama shares her journey from her childhood in Chicago to becoming the First Lady of the United States. She reflects on the personal and professional challenges she faced and the lessons learned along the way.
Obama's story is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the importance of staying true to oneself amidst external expectations.
The book will encourage you to reflect on your own journey and consider the pivotal moments that have shaped who you are today. Use these reflections to guide your future decisions.
9. Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain
In this book, Susan Cain explores the undervaluation of introverts in a society that often celebrates extroverted traits.
She highlights the strengths of introverts and the value they bring to various aspects of life.
Understanding your personality traits can enhance self-awareness and improve interactions with others. This book provides insights into embracing and leveraging introverted qualities.
10. Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
Viktor Frankl, a psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, discusses his experiences in concentration camps and introduces logotherapy—a therapeutic approach centered on finding meaning in life, even in the face of suffering. Man’s Search for Meaning is a profound exploration of purpose, resilience, and the human spirit.
In your 20s, it’s easy to feel lost or overwhelmed by life’s challenges. Frankl’s perspective provides a reminder that meaning can be found in the small, everyday moments and in how we choose to respond to adversity.
Tip: Identify three things in your life right now that give you a sense of purpose or joy. Reflect on how you can nurture these areas further to create a more meaningful life.
Why Reading These Books in Your 20s Matters
Your 20s are an exciting yet overwhelming decade. With so many options, responsibilities, and milestones, it can be easy to lose focus.
The books listed here offer guidance on everything from building habits and understanding yourself to finding purpose and improving relationships.
Also read: 10 books that help you build good habits
Whether you’re seeking inspiration, practical advice, or a fresh perspective, the right book can feel like a conversation with a wise mentor who truly understands what you’re going through.
How to Choose Your Next Book
If you’re unsure where to start, consider what area of your life you want to focus on right now.
Are you searching for career guidance? Pick up The Defining Decade.
Want to work on your habits? Go for Atomic Habits.
Craving a personal or emotional deep dive? Normal People or Man’s Search for Meaning might resonate.
Take it one book at a time. Don’t pressure yourself to rush through the list. Instead, savor the insights each book has to offer and think about how you can apply them to your life.
The books you read in your 20s have the power to shape your mindset and set the tone for the decades ahead. Think of each one as a stepping stone in your journey toward becoming the best version of yourself.
When you read these books, take notes, reflect on their lessons, and let their wisdom guide your decisions and mindset.
Which book will you pick up first? Comment below!
