Hi my fellow 20-something hustlers, navigating the corporate world while trying to make a name for yourself is hard work! Our journey is a unique blend of ambition, discipline, and growth. With so much on our plate, it is important to be intentional about how we spend our time. In this blog post, I will recommend five game-changing self development books that will not only boost your productivity, but motivate you to achieve your goals.
Feel Good Productivity by Ali Abdaal
Ali Abdaal’s “Feel Good Productivity” resonates deeply with our professional ethos, emphasizing the need for balance and joy in our work. As a South Asian American, I really resonate with his story and the weight of expectations we sometimes carry. But his approach to challenges and the hustle culture is rooted in science. This is a new novel in the self development books category but has been my guide to infusing positivity into my work, aligning my efforts with personal values, and finding fulfillment in every task.
For those of us straddling the line between corporate professionalism and entrepreneurial spirit, “Feel Good Productivity” serves as a refreshing reminder that success is not just about achievements but also about how we feel along the way. Abdaal’s insights offer a bridge, acknowledging the importance of well-being in our high-achieving lives.
The Unfair Advantage: How You Already Have What It Takes to Succeed by Ash Ali and Hasan Kubba
In “The Unfair Advantage,” Ash Ali and Hasan Kubba speak directly to our experience as individuals wanting to carve our paths. The book challenges us to recognize and leverage our unique strengths, echoing the values instilled in us by our upbringings and environment. As we navigate both the corporate realm and our side hustles, this book is a guide to unlocking our innate advantages.
Ali and Kubba’s insights tap into the resilience and resourcefulness ingrained in our identity. They teach us how to be grateful for the unique advantages we have and how to leverage them. For us, success often involves blending traditional values with modern ambition. “The Unfair Advantage” encourages us to embrace our uniqueness, providing a roadmap for achieving success on our terms.
Building a Second Brain: A Proven Method to Organize Your Digital Life and Unlock Your Creative Potential by Tiago Forte
Tiago Forte’s “Building a Second Brain” is one of those self development books that serves as a digital ally for navigating the corporate hustle and entrepreneurial endeavors. In our dual roles, digital organization is crucial, and Forte’s methodology has revolutionized the way I manage information. This book has empowered me to optimize my digital workflow, unlocking creative potential in both my professional and personal pursuits.
“Building a Second Brain” acknowledges the complexities of our lives and offers practical strategies to streamline our digital realms. Even though I still love putting pen to paper, this book is incredibly helpful in finding efficiencies in our daily lives. This book has been my go-to resource for managing the digital chaos that comes with being a corporate professional and a budding entrepreneur.
Show Your Work! by Austin Kleon
In “Show Your Work!,” Austin Kleon celebrates the power of transparency and creativity. Kleon’s book resonates with our need to share our narratives as young professionals who have strong passions. Whether in the corporate world or the entrepreneurial space, “Show Your Work!” has been my companion in showcasing the multifaceted nature of my journey. The book teaches you to let go, and really just “show your work”.
This is one of the self development books that has inspired me to bring authenticity to my professional narrative, showcasing the unique blend of cultures that define my identity and passions. Hence, this blog! 🙂
Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport
Cal Newport’s “Deep Work” is a manifesto for those of us balancing the demands of corporate life and side hustles. In our pursuit of excellence, concentration is key. This book has been my guide to cultivating focused success, providing practical strategies to cut through the noise and achieve meaningful outcomes. There are so many resources out there these days and the entrepreneurial world, in any industry, can feel overly saturated. This book really helps redefine how you can find focus.
This book serves as a compass for navigating the distractions inherent in our digital age and limited attention span, helping us achieve excellence in our professional endeavors.
Final Thoughts
As young professionals in our 20s, juggling the corporate hustle and entrepreneurial dreams, these self development books are beacons of wisdom. They recognize the intricacies of our journey, offering insights that resonate with our unique identities. Let me know how these books have helped you. In the meantime, here’s to productivity, balance, and the exciting journey ahead!
With love,
Aditi <3
Aditi Rani – Figuring Out Life in Your Twenties
*Disclaimer: This is not professional advice. Some links are affiliate. By clicking and/or purchasing, I may receive a commission. It does not alter the price or change your buyer experience.
