#12 Book recommendation: The Defining Decade 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 young people and not-so-spring chickens alike.
I wish I’d read it sooner and honestly it should be required reading for young people. They should hand it out at the end of high school or college as a precious gift to the next generations.
In this deeply insightful book, Jay argues that your twenties are the most important decade of your life and that the choices you make during this time will have a profound impact on your future.
She challenges the concept that your thirties are the new twenties using demonstrative examples drawn from her own clinical experience as a psychologist, as well as the latest research in neuroscience and psychology.
Jay uses relatable case studies to show how the choices you make in your twenties can shape your career, relationships and overall happiness. She also provides practical advice on how to make the most of your twenties, including how to:
- Set and achieve your goals
- Build strong relationships
- Develop your career
- Take care of your health
- Make smart financial decisions
The Defining Decade is a wise, honest and compassionate book that will help you make the most of your twenties. But it isn’t just for readers in their twenties or below, I read it as I approached my thirties and the big ideas in the book remain relevant for older readers.
Here are some of the key takeaways:
- Your twenties are the most important decade of your life.
- The choices you make in your twenties will have a profound impact on your future.
- It is never too late to start making changes, but it is better to start sooner rather than later.
- There is no one right path to success. What matters most is that you find a path that is right for you.
- Don't be afraid to take risks. Failure is a part of life, and it is often the best way to learn and grow.
- Surround yourself with positive people who support your goals.
- Take care of your physical and mental health.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
The Defining Decade is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to make meaningful choices and live a fuller life. It is a book that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.
I have read this book three times and will look back to specific chapters when I feel a little lost with certain parts of my life.
It is such an important book to me, I broke my 300-word limit for these Dispatch posts – I hope you can forgive me!
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Benjamin Craske
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