Your 20’s are a wild time. You graduate college, enter the workforce, you can legally drink, finally rent a car all the while, you’re figuring out who you are, what your priorities are and so much more. As we navigate such an important time in our lives, our first decade as adults, here are a few books I recommend reading this summer. And if you get around to it, put a picture on Instagram and tag @Eleven18Collection !!! Let us know your thoughts.
The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter—and How To Make The Most Of Them Now by Meg Jay
The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter—and How To Make The Most Of Them Now by Meg Jay is a must-read for anyone in their twenties. This book explores the importance of the decade and provides strategies on how to make the most of it. Through personal stories and expert advice, Jay offers insight into why this period of life is so crucial for developing a successful future. She emphasizes that taking risks and making mistakes can open opportunities to develop fulfilling relationships and meaningful careers. The book also provides advice on how to achieve success in various fields such as work, love, money, education, and identity. This inspirational guide encourages young adults to focus on self-development and to make the most of their twenties. Ultimately, it is a must-read for those looking to gain insight into why this period of life is so important and how to make the most out of it.
How Should a Person be? by Sheila Heti
How Should a Person Be? by Sheila Heti is a thought-provoking work of fiction that explores the nature of identity and self-discovery in our modern world. The book follows the lives of three female friends living in Toronto as they grapple with life's big questions. Through conversations, interviews, and candid reflections, Heti reveals the unique and often conflicting desires of each character, as well as her own. The story is both funny and heartbreaking, taking readers on an emotionally charged journey to find out what it means to be a person in today's world. Heti ultimately asks us to consider our own idea of self-fulfillment, and how we can best go about achieving it. In the end, the book offers no easy answers – only an opportunity to think deeply and reflect on how we should each be.
The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri
Highly recommend The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri (especially for my desi girlies). This novel follows an Indian family to Cambridge, Massachusetts. Experience their highs and lows as they work to assimilate to American culture while also holding on to their Indian heritage. It was near and dear to my soul, watching my parents work to find their footing in America and navigate the conflicting cultures. The novel jumps between timelines which makes it an interesting read. I truly enjoyed seeing my experiences reflecting in this family’s life and I think, no matter your background you’ll also be able to relate.
Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes
Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes chronicles the life-changing journey of Shonda Rhimes, who is best known for her hit shows Grey's Anatomy and Scandal. After years of being a successful writer but feeling like she was missing out on living life to its fullest, she decided to take up a challenge that would change her life: For one year, she would say “yes” to every opportunity that came her way. Through this journey, Shonda learned how to break out of her comfort zone and embrace life head-on. She attended events such as the White House Correspondents' Dinner and met with high profile figures such as President Obama. As the author recounts her experiences, she offers readers empowering advice about taking brave risks and living an authentic life. Year of Yes is a truly inspiring read that will inspire readers to take control of their own lives.
Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams by Matthew Walker
Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams by Matthew Walker is an enlightening exploration into the power and importance of sleep. In it, Walker examines how a lack of sleep can have dire consequences on physical and mental health. He also discusses the science behind dreams, how insufficient rest affects our alertness, memory, and even our ability to learn new skills. Walker also details how sleep can affect our emotional and social lives, as well as provide insight into our mental states. Finally, he offers practical advice for achieving a better night's rest, from changing one’s sleep environment to creating healthy habits that will help produce high-quality sleep. By combining insights from scientific research with personal anecdotes, Walker provides readers with the tools to unlock the power of sleep and live healthier lives.