The Best Books to Improve Your Way of Thinking: Must-Reads for Your 20s
Your 20s are a transformative time—filled with self-discovery, growth, and navigating the many complexities of life. This is the perfect time to nourish your mind and expand your perspectives. Reading the right books can inspire, challenge, and help shape the person you're becoming. If you're looking to improve your mindset, foster deeper relationships, and embrace a more fulfilling life, here are some must-read books that everyone in their 20s should pick up.
1. All That You Deserve by Jacqueline Whitney
A beautiful collection of poetry and prose, All That You Deserve is like a comforting friend who reminds you of your worth. Whitney’s writing emphasizes self-love, healing, and the realization that you deserve all the good things in life. This book is perfect for anyone going through a time of uncertainty, loss, or self-doubt, offering gentle encouragement and a boost of inner strength.
2. Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton
Dolly Alderton’s Everything I Know About Love is a memoir that dives deep into the wild, messy journey of love, friendship, and growing up. Alderton shares her raw and honest experiences of navigating love in all its forms—romantic, platonic, and self-love—making it a relatable and insightful read for anyone in their 20s. Her wisdom helps you feel less alone in your own path of figuring things out.
3. The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston
This magical realism novel explores themes of time, love, and destiny. The Seven Year Slip follows Clementine, who unexpectedly finds herself slipping between the present and seven years into the past. This unique narrative challenges the way we think about love, regret, and second chances. It’s a thought-provoking reminder that life often doesn't follow the timelines we expect, and that’s okay.
4. The Mountain Is You by Brianna Wiest
If you're looking to overcome self-sabotage and transform your mindset, The Mountain Is You is a must-read. Wiest’s book digs into the reasons we hold ourselves back and offers practical advice on how to break free from limiting patterns. It's an empowering guide that teaches you how to turn obstacles into opportunities for personal growth, making it perfect for anyone on a journey of self-improvement.
5. Conversations on Love by Natasha Lunn
Conversations on Love explores love in all its forms through insightful discussions with thought leaders, authors, and psychologists. Lunn delves into the complexities of romantic relationships, the importance of friendships, and the art of cultivating lasting connections. This book invites you to rethink what love means to you and how to navigate its ups and downs, offering valuable insights on how to approach relationships with more depth and intention.
6. 101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think by Brianna Wiest
If you're searching for a book that will truly shift your perspective, 101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think is a powerful collection. Wiest covers topics like emotional intelligence, self-awareness, mindfulness, and the subconscious mind. These essays will inspire deep reflection and help you adopt a healthier, more empowered mindset. It’s the kind of book you’ll want to revisit again and again as you grow.
7. Dear Dolly: On Love, Life, and Friendship by Dolly Alderton
In Dear Dolly, Alderton shares her advice on the complexities of modern love, friendships, and the challenges of growing up. Drawing from her popular advice column, this book is full of heartfelt and witty guidance on navigating life’s ups and downs. It’s perfect for anyone seeking relatable wisdom as they move through their 20s, filled with honest, practical tips on how to thrive in relationships and beyond.
8. Happy Place by Emily Henry
Happy Place by Emily Henry is a novel about love, friendship, and finding happiness. This heartwarming story of a couple pretending to still be together during a group vacation challenges the reader to rethink their own ideas about love, happiness, and the value of true connections. It’s a great reminder to nurture the relationships that bring you joy and to seek happiness in unexpected places.
9. Atomic Habits by James Clear
Atomic Habits is the ultimate guide to building good habits and breaking bad ones. Clear breaks down the science of habit formation and provides simple, actionable steps to make lasting changes. This book is perfect for anyone looking to improve their productivity, health, and overall well-being. By focusing on small, incremental changes, Atomic Habits teaches you how to create a foundation for long-term success.
10. The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, The Four Agreements offers a simple yet profound guide to personal freedom and inner peace. Ruiz outlines four principles—be impeccable with your word, don't take anything personally, don't make assumptions, and always do your best—that can transform the way you live and interact with others. This timeless wisdom is essential for anyone seeking to cultivate a life of authenticity, joy, and self-mastery.
How These Books Have Changed My Life
These books aren’t just about improving the way you think—they’re about transforming your relationship with yourself, others, and the world around you. They challenge you to reflect deeply on your habits, mindset, and connections, offering practical wisdom for navigating the complexities of your 20s and beyond.
