How These 7 Books Shaped Who I Am Today

From Fiction to Self-Help, these Must-Read Books Will Change Your Life in Your 20s

Hey there, friend! Let's chat about one of my favourite topics: reading! As someone who loves to curl
up with a good book, I truly believe that reading can change your life. Not only is it a fun way to pass
the time, but it can also open your mind to new ideas and perspectives that you may never have
considered before.

And here's the thing: your 20s are the perfect time to start exploring different types of books. This is
a time in your life when you're figuring out who you are and what you want, and there's no better
way to do that than by diving into some thought-provoking literature.

That's why I want to share with you seven books that have truly changed my perspective of life and
that I believe are essential reading for anyone in their 20s. These books cover everything from
personal development to history to fiction, and each one has the power to inspire and empower you
in its own unique way. So, Let's dive into these amazing books together and see how they can
transform your life!

1: "Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor Frankl

"Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose
one's attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one's own way." - Viktor Frankl

"Man's Search for Meaning" is a powerful memoir and meditation on the meaning of life, written by
Holocaust survivor Viktor Frankl. In the book, Frankl recounts his experiences as a prisoner in Nazi
concentration camps and reflects on the lessons he learned about human nature and the human
spirit. He argues that even in the darkest of circumstances, we can find meaning and purpose in our
lives, and that this sense of purpose is essential for our emotional and spiritual well-being.

Reading "Man's Search for Meaning" was a transformative experience for me. I had always heard
about the Holocaust and knew that it was a horrific event, but reading Frankl's first-hand account
brought a new level of understanding to the depths of human suffering and resilience. Frankl's story
is one of unimaginable hardship and loss, but it's also a story of hope and resilience, and that's what
made it so impactful for me.

Before reading this book, I had always thought of meaning and purpose as abstract concepts that
were nice to have, but not necessarily essential to our happiness. But "Man's Search for Meaning"
made me realize just how important these things are. Frankl's experiences showed me that when we
have a sense of purpose and meaning, we can withstand even the most difficult circumstances. It
also made me more aware of the ways in which I find meaning and purpose in my own life, and how I
can cultivate that sense of purpose in others.

"Man's Search for Meaning" is a must-read for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the
human experience. It's a book that will challenge you, inspire you, and make you appreciate the
precious gift of life.

2: "Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind" by Yuval Noah Harari

"Culture tends to argue that it forbids only that which is unnatural. But from a biological perspective,
nothing is unnatural. Whatever is possible is by definition also natural." - Yuval Noah Harari
"Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind" is a sweeping history of human evolution, from the
emergence of Homo sapiens in Africa to the present day. Author Yuval Noah Harari traces the key
developments that have shaped our species, including the agricultural revolution, the rise of
empires, and the scientific and technological advances of the modern era. Through it all, he raises
thought-provoking questions about what it means to be human, and where we might be headed as a
species.

I was blown away by "Sapiens" from the very first page. Harari's writing style is engaging and
accessible, and he manages to cover a vast amount of material without ever feeling overwhelming. I
was fascinated by the insights he provided into the evolution of human society and the way that our
species has adapted and changed over time. It was like a crash course in anthropology, history, and
philosophy all rolled into one.

Reading "Sapiens" made me realize just how interconnected everything in human history is. I had
never really thought about the ways in which developments in one part of the world could have far-
reaching consequences for people in other parts of the world. Harari's book also made me think
more deeply about the way that we as a species have shaped the world around us, and the
responsibility that comes with that power. It made me more aware of the ways in which my own
actions and choices can have ripple effects that extend far beyond my immediate surroundings.

3: "1984" by George Orwell

"Freedom is the freedom to say that two plus two make four. If that is granted, all else follows." -
George Orwell

"1984" is a dystopian novel that paints a bleak picture of a future society where individual freedom
is non-existent and the government has complete control over every aspect of citizens' lives. The
story follows protagonist Winston Smith as he rebels against the oppressive regime, and ultimately
pays a heavy price for his defiance.

I first read "1984" in my early twenties, and was struck by the powerful message about the dangers
of totalitarianism and the importance of protecting individual freedom. The book's depiction of a
society where even thoughts and emotions are controlled by the government was both terrifying and
thought-provoking. It forced me to consider the ways in which governments can abuse their power,
and the importance of remaining vigilant against such abuses.

"1984" had a profound impact on my perspective, particularly in regards to the importance of

4: "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho

"And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it." - Paulo
Coelho

"The Alchemist" is a book about a shepherd named Santiago who goes on a journey to fulfil his
personal legend, or his life's purpose. Along the way, he meets a series of characters who help him
learn important life lessons about love, faith, and the power of the universe. The book is a blend of
spirituality, philosophy, and adventure, and has become a beloved classic around the world.
 I first read "The Alchemist" during a time in my life when I was feeling lost and unsure of my path.
Like Santiago, I was searching for my own personal legend and trying to make sense of the world
around me. Reading the book felt like a balm to my soul, as Coelho's writing is both poetic and
profound. I found myself underlining passages and jotting down notes, as the book felt like a
guidebook for life.

"The Alchemist" helped me see the world in a new way. Coelho's message about following one's
dreams and listening to the signs of the universe resonated deeply with me, and I began to pay more
attention to the small moments of magic and synchronicity in my life. The book also helped me let go
of my fear of failure and embrace the unknown, as Santiago does on his journey. "The Alchemist"
taught me that life is a journey, not a destination, and that the most important thing we can do is
follow our hearts.

5: "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen Covey

"Most of us spend too much time on what is urgent and not enough time on what is important." -
Stephen Covey

"The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" is a classic self-help book that has sold millions of copies
worldwide. In the book, author Stephen Covey outlines seven key habits that he believes are
essential for success and fulfilment in life. These habits include being proactive, beginning with the
end in mind, and seeking to understand before being understood. Covey argues that by adopting
these habits, we can transform our lives and achieve our goals.

I was initially sceptical about reading "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," as I had never been a
big fan of self-help books. But from the moment I started reading, I was hooked. Covey's writing is
engaging and practical, and I found myself nodding along to his advice and insights. I particularly
appreciated the emphasis he placed on personal responsibility and the power of our own choices.

Reading "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" made me more aware of the ways in which my
own habits and behaviours were impacting my life. I realized that by making small changes to my
daily routines and thought patterns, I could start to achieve the results I wanted. Covey's book also
made me more aware of the importance of setting clear goals and working towards them
consistently over time. It was a reminder that success is not something that happens overnight, but
rather a result of sustained effort and commitment.

6: "Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking" by Susan Cain

"The secret to life is to put yourself in the right lighting. For some, it's a Broadway spotlight; for
others, a lamplit desk." - Susan Cain

"Quiet" is a book that challenges the idea that extroversion is the only path to success and
happiness in life. Author Susan Cain argues that introverts - people who tend to be more quiet,
reflective, and sensitive - have unique strengths and abilities that are often overlooked in our society.
Through a mix of research, anecdotes, and personal reflections, Cain makes a compelling case for the
value of introversion.

As an introvert myself, I was immediately drawn to "Quiet" when it was first recommended to me.
The book did not disappoint. Cain's writing is both informative and relatable, and I appreciated the
way she presented a balanced view of introversion, highlighting both its strengths and potential
challenges. Reading "Quiet" was a validation of my own personality and an encouragement to
embrace my introverted nature rather than try to hide or change it.

"Quiet" had a profound impact on the way I think about myself and others. Before reading the book,
I had always viewed my introversion as a weakness or a flaw. But Cain helped me see that
introversion is simply a different way of being, with its own set of unique strengths and talents. I also
came to appreciate the importance of creating spaces that are welcoming to introverts, whether
that's in the workplace or in social settings. "Quiet" was a reminder that diversity is not just about
race or gender, but also about personality types and ways of being in the world.

7: "The Power of Now" by Eckhart Tolle

"Realize deeply that the present moment is all you have. Make the NOW the primary focus of your
life." - Eckhart Tolle

"The Power of Now" is a spiritual guidebook that teaches readers how to live in the present moment
and find inner peace. Tolle argues that most people spend their lives either dwelling on the past or
worrying about the future, and that this prevents them from experiencing true happiness. By
learning to focus on the present moment, Tolle argues, we can transcend our ego and connect with a
deeper sense of self.

I first read "The Power of Now" during a time in my life when I was struggling with anxiety and
depression. Tolle's message about the importance of living in the present moment spoke to me
deeply, as I realized that much of my suffering came from worrying about the future or dwelling on
the past. As I read the book, I began to practice mindfulness and meditation, and found that I was
able to experience a greater sense of peace and calm.

"The Power of Now" changed my perspective on life in many ways. It taught me that happiness is
not something that can be found outside of oneself, but rather is something that can be accessed
through the present moment. Tolle's message about the importance of letting go of our ego and
connecting with a deeper sense of self also resonated with me, as I realized that much of my own
suffering came from a sense of separateness from others.

Why You Should Read These Books in Your 20s

In your 20s, you are at a unique time in your life where you are still figuring out who you are and
what you want to do with your life. Reading these books can help you gain a better understanding of
yourself and the world around you, and can provide valuable insights into how to live a fulfilling and
meaningful life.

From "Man's Search for Meaning" to "The Power of Now," these books cover a wide range of topics
and themes, but they all share a common goal: to help you become the best version of yourself. They
offer valuable lessons on everything from personal growth and self-improvement to critical thinking
and questioning authority.

So, whether you are just starting out in your 20s or are nearing the end of the decade, I encourage
you to take the time to read these books. These books have had a significant impact on my life and
the way I view the world, and I believe they have the potential to do the same for you.