Lost in Your 20s? These Books Can Help

Are you looking for books to read in your 20s because you feel a little lost? First things first, know you are not alone! Your twenties matter! They are a major time for personal growth, looking for guidance and inspiration to become who you are meant to be. And reading books can offer just that! 

Today, we will discover the power of books to transform your life through self-discovery. As a woman in her 30s who lived and learned A LOT in her twenties, I’ve curated a list of seven essential reads that impacted my journey most. I hope these will help you find your purpose, build confidence, and achieve your dreams. 

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What Book Should I Read In My 20s?

When I first wrote this blog post about books to read in your 20s, I was 26 years old. At that time, I’d already lived so many lives!  I’ve traveled, lived abroad, built a business, found love, and called Brooklyn home.

Now, as I update this, I’m almost turning 31, moved away from New York City to a small town in Georgia, had some scary health challenges, nearly broke on my business, and had to let go of my old business model. I’m figuring out a whole new business model (that brings me so much joy, btw!), and I finally have a healthy relationship with my body. I’m still in love with my husband. 

Even though many things changed, one thing stayed the same: the knowledge I found in my 20s by reading the books I’m about to share with you gave me real-life tools and built the courage and right perspective to deal with all the trials life threw my way. It helped me build a solid base of maturity and wisdom in one of the top-defining decades. 

Like I’ve said before, I believe your 20s are a golden age of discovery. It’s to explore, experiment, and establish the foundation for your future. And what better way to do that than by immersing yourself in stories and ideas that can ignite your potential?

Here are, in no particular order, a list of the best books to read in your 20s (from my personal experience):

Awaken the Giant Within, by Tony Robbins

Okay, let’s talk about the book that made the most impact in my early 20s: Awaken the Giant Within by Tony Robbins. If you’re new to the whole self-help thing, Tony’s one of the OG’s of personal development. He’s been empowering people waaaaay before you made your debut into this world. 

Consider this book Tony’s ultimate playbook for creating a life you love. It’s complete with practical tools and mind-blowing insights. I’ve read many self-help books, but this one still stands out as a total game-changer.

Beyond is just a regular self-help book; this one is almost like a Bible of personal growth. It’s thick, heavy, and packed with actionable real life tools, exercises, and worksheets. 

I’m not kidding when I say you’ll want a pen and paper handy. Tony’s style is super engaging, and he constantly challenges you to dig deep and make real changes. Get ready for a serious life audit!

Get the book on Amazon | Get the audiobook (for free) on Audible

Everything is Figureoutable, by Marie Forleo

I’m obsessed (but not in a weird way, I promise) with Marie Forleo. Her books are like a breath of fresh air, and Everything is Figuroutable is no exception. This book is basically a big, warm hug telling you that your wildest dreams are possible.

Marie doesn’t just preach about dreaming big and being the main character; she gives you a roadmap to get there. It’s like having a super-supportive friend cheering you on every step of the way while helping you figure out your schedule and daily rituals to make your dreams come true. After just a few pages, you’ll find yourself nodding along, giggling, feeling inspired, and ready to conquer the world.

One thing I loved about this book was learning more about Marie’s journey (and even getting an inside perspective into her early and late 20s!). She’s been through some serious ups and downs, and how she’s transformed her challenges into triumphs is incredibly inspiring. Get ready to feel empowered and ready to tackle anything!

Get the book on Amazon | Get the audiobook (for free) on Audible

Super Attractor, by Gabby Bernstein

Have you ever heard of the Law of Attraction? Basically, it’s like a cosmic magnet pulling things to you based on your thoughts and feelings. Super Attractor by Gabby Bernstein is your guide to mastering this powerful law and bringing big magic into your life!

Gabby is like the queen of spirituality and one of my favorite teachers. She breaks down this sometimes-woo-woo concept into practical steps. She starts with the basics, making it easy to understand even if you’re a total newbie to the spiritual world. But don’t be fooled—this book goes deep!

I love how Super Attractor blends spirituality with everyday life. Gabby’s exercises and practices became part of my routine, and I noticed a real shift in my mindset and even humor. If you’re looking to add a little more balance and magic to your life, this book is a must-read.

Get the book on Amazon | Get the audiobook (for free) on Audible

Secrets of the Millionaire Mind, by T. Harv Eker

After reading Secrets of the Millionaire Mind by T. Harv Eker, it is almost impossible not to have a full-blown new relationship with money and finances. I’m not kidding. A mentor of mine raved about it, so I gave it a shot, and let me tell you, it was a total game-changer.

Within a year of reading this book, my financial situation did a complete 180. I started a successful business (yes, it almost broke because of some bad strategic decisions on my part, but because I had a healthy relationship with money, I could build myself up again) and lived the life I’d only dreamed of. I know it sounds wild, but this book’s principles are that powerful.

Harv Eker’s book is a key to unlocking your money mindset. It helps you identify and overcome hidden financial obstacles. The practical wisdom within these pages will enrich your mind and bank account.

Get the book on Amazon | Get the audiobook (for free) on Audible

The 5 Love Languages, by Gary Chapman

Okay, so I’m a hopeless romantic—like, really hopeless. I’ve been planning my wedding since I was four (don’t judge me!). But all the planning was worth it; I had the most absolutely gorgeous wedding day, lol). So, when I started diving into relationship books, The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman was a game-changer.

Dr. Chapman is like a relationship whisperer. After years of counseling couples, he discovered that we all give and receive love differently. It’s like we speak different love languages!

This book isn’t just about romantic relationships, though. It’s a guide for all your relationships. You can use it to improve your bond with family, friends, and even coworkers. It’s a total eye-opener that will change how you interact with everyone in your life.

Get the book on Amazon | Get the audiobook (for free) on Audible

Like She Owns the Place, by Cara Alwill

I stumbled upon Like She Owns the Place during a total travel meltdown. I was stuck in an airport, stressed to the max, trying to find something to distract me when I came across this book. Let me tell you, it was a total lifesaver (not only for my forced overnight at JFK airport)!

Cara Alwill is the ultimate confidence queen. She doesn’t sugarcoat anything. This book is like a wake-up call guide to becoming the woman you’re meant to be.

She covers everything from relationships and body image to career goals and self-doubt. It’s like she’s read your mind and knows exactly what you’re going through. This book is all about owning your power and creating the life you deserve. Trust me, you’ll finish this feeling like you can conquer the world.

Get the book on Amazon | Get the audiobook (for free) on Audible

Untamed, by Glennon Doyle

Untamed by Glennon Doyle is one of my top two favorite books (you are about to find out number one pretty soon). It’s like a big, warm hug combined with a kick in the pants. It’s raw, honest, and utterly transformative.

Glennon is like that wise, no-nonsense friend you wish you had. She gets it. She understands the pressure to be perfect, to please everyone else, and to lose yourself in the process. Untamed is a guide to breaking free from those chains and embracing your true self.

It’s a book you savor, one chapter at a time. It’s a book that makes you question everything, and that’s a good thing. It’s a book I’ll be gifting my daughter when she turns 21 because every woman needs to read it.

Get the book on Amazon | Get the audiobook (for free) on Audible

Bonus Book: The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho

And we are here: my favorite book of all time! We have to talk about The Alchemist. This novel is like a magical little universe wrapped in pages. It’s the story of a shepherd boy who dreams of finding treasure and ends up on the most epic adventure of his life.

I grew up hearing whispers about the author, Paulo Coelho, being some modern-day wizard. After reading The Alchemist, I totally get it. The way he weaves this tale is pure magic. It’s like he’s tapping into some ancient wisdom and sharing it with us beautifully, although you are reading fiction! 

This book is a roadmap to your soul. It’s about following your heart, trusting the universe, and embracing the journey. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve reread it. It’s like visiting an old friend who always knows exactly what to say.

If you’re ever feeling lost or unsure about your path, pick up The Alchemist. It might just change everything.

Get the book on Amazon | Get the audiobook (for free) on Audible

Now That You Have The Best Books To Read In Your 20s, Take The Next Step

Your 20s are a wild ride, filled with endless possibilities! These books to read in your 20s are your secret keys for navigating this exciting chapter. Sometimes, feeling lost or unsure is okay – it’s part of the journey. But with the right tools and mindset, you can create a life you absolutely love.

I can’t wait to hear about your adventures and transformations!

Share your thoughts, questions, or book recommendations in the comments below.

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