Your 20s can feel like both a magical adventure and a confusing mess. Between figuring out who you are, what you believe in, and what you want to pursue, it’s easy to feel lost in the noise of it all.
For me, books became my compass.
At 16, I attended a high school for the gifted in my hometown—not because I believed I was gifted, but because I was insatiably curious, a trait nurtured by my love for reading. By 17, my persistence paid off with a full scholarship to Pearson College UWC, part of a global network dedicated to using education as a bridge for peace and a sustainable future, reflecting the ideals of its founder, German educator Kurt Hahn.
Pearson was transformative. I met incredible students from over 100 countries and was inspired daily by the legacy of Lester Bowles Pearson and the ethos of the UWC movement. After graduating, I took a gap year to volunteer in various global slums, including Bangkok’s largest, Klong Toey, where the children taught me profound lessons in love, gratitude, and the sheer joy of living.
I continued my educational journey at Skidmore College on a full scholarship, immersing myself in Business & Management while minoring in Fine Arts. The vibrant community and late nights in art studios enriched my college experience, fueling my aspiration to one day own an art studio. Post-college, I ventured to the UK to pursue a master’s at the University of Southampton and then entered the hedge fund industry in London, where the city’s dynamic arts scene and diverse people greatly influenced me.
Throughout all those years — from slums to studios, from classrooms to corporate — books stayed with me. They challenged me, guided me, comforted me.
Here are five books that truly shifted my mindset — from how I think about success to how I connect with myself. If you’re navigating your 20s or looking for a reset, I hope one of these books finds its way into your hands.
1. The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
Theme: Presence and stillness
This was the first book that truly helped me understand what it means to live in the present moment. I used to be either caught up in overthinking or anxious about the future — until I read Tolle’s words.
“Realize deeply that the present moment is all you ever have.”
It taught me how to pause, breathe, and just be. That insight started showing up in my daily routine: I became more mindful during training, more patient in conversations, and more at ease during stress.
2. Atomic Habits by James Clear
Theme: Small actions, big change
This book completely changed how I approach goals. I used to set massive goals (train for a triathlon, write every day, meditate consistently) — but always felt overwhelmed.
Clear’s concept of identity-based habits shifted everything.
Instead of focusing on outcomes, I started embodying the identity I wanted: I’m a writer → I write daily. I’m an athlete → I train consistently.
One of my favorite ideas was habit stacking: attaching a new habit to an existing one. It made building new routines feel effortless.
3. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Theme: Purpose and personal legend
Reading this felt like receiving permission to dream again. Coelho’s storytelling is simple yet profound — and it reminded me that the journey matters just as much as the destination.
“And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”
That quote alone gave me strength during times of doubt, whether in my career, personal goals, or even during a long race when I wanted to give up.
4. Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins
Theme: Mental toughness and grit
This book kicked me into gear.
Goggins is not for the faint of heart — his language is raw, and his story is intense. But his message is clear: you’re capable of way more than you think.
During my Ironman training, I reread certain chapters just to remind myself that pain is temporary, but purpose is everything. His story helped me find a deeper resilience inside me — both physically and mentally.
5. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
Theme: Creative courage
This one is for your soul.
Big Magic helped me reconnect with my creativity without fear. I always loved writing and creating, but I was so caught up in doing it “perfectly” or “professionally” that I forgot how to just enjoy the process.
Gilbert’s advice? Create because you want to. Share when you’re ready. But don’t let fear hold you back.
“Done is better than good.”
That quote gave me permission to launch my blog, share my story, and write from the heart — even when I felt unsure.
Final Thoughts
These five books didn’t just entertain me — they helped shape who I am today. They gave me practical tools, spiritual guidance, and emotional strength to navigate the wild ride of my 20s.
If you’ve read any of them, I’d love to hear what resonated with you. And if you haven’t, I hope you’ll give at least one a try.
Let me know your favorite life-changing book in the comments!
✨ Here’s to growth, grit, and a good book. ✨