20 best books on what to do with your life – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you feeling stuck, unsure of what direction to take in life? Look no further! We have compiled a list of the 20 best books about what to do with your life that will inspire, motivate, and guide you towards finding your true purpose. Whether you’re seeking career advice, personal growth, or simply looking for a fresh perspective, these books will provide the guidance and wisdom you need. Get ready to embark on a transformative journey with these incredible book on what to do with your life.


The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

by Mark Manson

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson is not your typical self-help book about what to do with your life. It’s a refreshing and brutally honest take on how to prioritize and choose what truly matters to you.

Atomic Habits

by James Clear

If you’re on a quest to find a roadmap for your life, a compass to guide you towards success, then James Clear’s Atomic Habits is the treasure map you’ve been seeking. This gem of a book is not just another run-of-the-mill self-help guide; it’s an exhilarating adventure into the realms of personal growth and transformation.

Man’s Search for Meaning

by Viktor E. Frankl

Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl is not just another self-help book on what to do with your life. It is a profound exploration into the depths of human existence, offering invaluable insights into the meaning and purpose we all seek.

The Alchemist

by Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is an enchanting book on what to do with your life, a captivating tale that will ignite your sense of wanderlust and inspire you to chase after your dreams. Set in the mystical world of Andalusia, the story follows Santiago, a young shepherd boy who embarks on a journey to find his personal legend, his true purpose in life.

Designing Your Life

by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans

Are you feeling stuck or uncertain about what to do with your life? Look no further because “Designing Your Life” by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans is the book you’ve been waiting for!

This captivating read is not just another self-help book about what to do with your life. Instead, it takes a unique approach to help you design a life that you love. Drawing on their expertise as Stanford University educators and design thinking experts, Burnett and Evans guide you through a process of applying design principles to your own life.

Unlike traditional career or life planning books, “Designing Your Life” encourages you to experiment, prototype, and iterate to discover what truly brings you joy and fulfillment. It’s like having a personal design studio for your life!

With practical exercises, thought-provoking questions, and inspiring stories, this book will ignite your imagination and empower you to create a life that aligns with your values, passions, and aspirations. Whether you’re a recent graduate, mid-career professional, or someone going through a major life transition, “Designing Your Life” provides valuable tools and insights to help you navigate the complexities of life.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a transformative journey and unlock your full potential, this is the “what to do with your life” book you’ve been searching for. Don’t settle for a life that feels uninspiring or unfulfilling. Start designing the life you’ve always dreamed of!

The Four Agreements

by Don Miguel Ruiz

The Four Agreements: A Book on Finding Fulfillment and Purpose

If you’ve ever found yourself questioning what to do with your life, The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz is a must-read. This extraordinary book offers powerful insights and practical wisdom to help you navigate the complexities of existence and discover your true purpose.

Instead of providing a step-by-step guide or a rigid formula, The Four Agreements offers a refreshing perspective on how to live a fulfilling life. It introduces four transformative principles that can guide you towards personal freedom and happiness.

The first agreement, “Be impeccable with your word,” urges you to use your words with integrity and speak only truth, love, and kindness. By mastering this agreement, you learn to harness the immense power of your words and create a positive impact on yourself and others.

The second agreement, “Don’t take anything personally,” encourages you to free yourself from the burden of other people’s opinions and actions. By understanding that nothing others do is because of you, you can liberate yourself from needless suffering and cultivate emotional resilience.

The third agreement, “Don’t make assumptions,” invites you to let go of the habit of assuming and instead seek clarity and ask questions. By relinquishing the need to interpret and guess other people’s intentions, you can foster stronger relationships and avoid unnecessary misunderstandings.

The fourth agreement, “Always do your best,” emphasizes the importance of giving your all in every situation. By focusing on your own actions and striving for personal excellence, you can live a life free from regret and experience a profound sense of accomplishment.

Through these four agreements, Don Miguel Ruiz presents a roadmap for transforming your life and finding fulfillment. By embracing these principles and integrating them into your daily existence, you can create a life of authenticity, joy, and purpose.

The Four Agreements is a book about what to do with your life, but it goes beyond the typical self-help genre. It invites you to question your beliefs, challenge societal norms, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. With its profound insights and simple yet profound wisdom, this book has the power to guide you towards a life of true fulfillment.

Mindset: The New Psychology of Success

by Carol S. Dweck

If you’re searching for a life-changing book that unveils the secrets of success and guides you towards a fulfilling path, look no further than Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck. This captivating read is not just another run-of-the-mill self-help book, but a profound exploration of the power of our mindset.

What makes this book truly exceptional is its ability to address the eternal question of ‘what to do with your life’ by delving into the fascinating world of mindset. Dweck argues that our mindset, whether it is fixed or growth-oriented, plays a pivotal role in determining our achievements and failures.

With her extensive research and real-life examples, Dweck demonstrates that those with a fixed mindset believe that their abilities and intelligence are fixed traits, leading them to shy away from challenges and ultimately hinder their own growth. On the other hand, individuals with a growth mindset embrace challenges, view failures as opportunities to learn, and ultimately reach their fullest potential.

Through her insightful analysis, Dweck provides readers with practical strategies to cultivate a growth mindset, enabling them to unlock their true potential and achieve success in various aspects of life. Whether it’s in relationships, education, sports, or even business, this book offers valuable insights and empowering techniques to overcome obstacles and thrive.

So, if you’re seeking a book that not only answers the question of ‘what to do with your life,’ but also empowers you to take action and transform your mindset for success, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success is a must-read. Prepare to challenge your beliefs, embrace growth, and discover the limitless possibilities that await.

The Power of Now

by Eckhart Tolle

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle is not just another book about what to do with your life. It is an extraordinary guide that will completely transform your perspective on life and help you discover the true purpose of your existence.

Tolle’s groundbreaking teachings revolve around the concept of living in the present moment, rather than dwelling on the past or constantly worrying about the future. He eloquently explains how our minds are often trapped in a cycle of negative thoughts, which prevents us from experiencing true joy and fulfillment.

Through his profound insights and practical exercises, Tolle shows us how to break free from the grip of our chaotic thoughts and enter a state of deep inner peace. He teaches us to embrace the power of now, the only moment we truly have control over, and to let go of the burdens of the past and the anxieties of the future.

This book is not just a theoretical guide, but a transformative experience that will help you awaken to your true potential. It offers a path to spiritual enlightenment, showing us how to cultivate a deep sense of presence and awareness in every aspect of our lives.

So, if you’re searching for a what to do with your life book that will guide you towards a more meaningful existence, The Power of Now is the ultimate companion. Get ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and embrace the incredible power of living in the present moment.

Big Magic

by Elizabeth Gilbert

Are you seeking a compass to navigate the vast sea of possibilities that life has to offer? Look no further than Elizabeth Gilbert’s Big Magic, a captivating book about discovering your true purpose and embracing the creative forces that reside within you.

Big Magic is not just another run-of-the-mill self-help book on what to do with your life. It is a beacon of inspiration that illuminates the path towards self-discovery and fulfillment. Gilbert urges readers to tap into their inner desires and unleash their creative potential, reminding us that we are all endowed with a unique gift that yearns to be expressed.

In this remarkable book about what to do with your life, Gilbert shares her own personal anecdotes and profound insights, weaving together stories of triumph, failure, and the transformative power of creativity. She encourages readers to embrace their curiosity, take risks, and cultivate a mindset that thrives on exploration rather than fear.

Through her warm and relatable writing style, Gilbert reassures us that it is never too late to embark on a new journey or pursue a long-suppressed passion. Whether you are an artist, writer, entrepreneur, or simply someone searching for purpose, Big Magic offers a roadmap to living a more creative and fulfilling life.

So, if you are craving a book that will ignite your passion and empower you to step into your own creative realm, look no further than Big Magic. Get ready to embark on a magical adventure that will leave you inspired, motivated, and ready to embrace the infinite possibilities that await you.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

by Stephen R. Covey

Welcome to The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, a groundbreaking book on how to live a successful and fulfilling life. If you’ve ever wondered about the secret to becoming highly effective, this book is your answer. It is not just another book about what to do with your life; it is the ultimate guide to unlocking your full potential.

The Art of Happiness

by Dalai Lama XIV and Howard C. Cutler

The Art of Happiness is a remarkable collaboration between the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, and Howard C. Cutler, a Western psychiatrist. Together, they explore the timeless question of what it means to live a happy and fulfilling life.

This book is not your typical self-help guide or a step-by-step manual on what to do with your life. Instead, it offers a profound and insightful conversation between two individuals from different cultures and backgrounds. Their aim is to help readers find inner peace and lasting happiness.

Through a series of conversations, the Dalai Lama shares his wisdom and teachings on various aspects of life, including relationships, work, and facing adversity. His compassionate and practical advice encourages readers to cultivate positive emotions, such as love, compassion, and forgiveness, and to let go of negative emotions, such as anger and resentment.

The Dalai Lama’s wisdom is complemented by Cutler’s expertise as a psychiatrist. He provides scientific research and psychological insights to support the spiritual teachings, making them accessible and relevant to a wider audience.

This book is not about finding a quick-fix solution or a secret formula for happiness. Instead, it offers a deeper understanding of the human mind and emotions, and how we can work towards cultivating a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

Whether you are seeking guidance on personal relationships, searching for purpose in your career, or simply looking for a greater sense of inner peace, The Art of Happiness is a must-read. It will challenge your beliefs, inspire self-reflection, and provide practical tools for transforming your life.

The Happiness Advantage

by Shawn Achor

The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor is not just your typical self-help book about what to do with your life. It is a captivating and eye-opening guide that reveals the secret to achieving happiness and success in all areas of your life.

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 not just any ordinary book about what to do with your life. It is a game-changer, a compass for navigating the uncertain waters of adulthood. Dr. Meg Jay, a renowned clinical psychologist, takes us on a transformative journey through the pivotal decade of our twenties.

In this empowering book, Jay dives deep into the challenges and opportunities that arise during this critical period. She emphasizes the importance of making intentional choices and taking action, rather than simply waiting for life to happen. It is a book that will make you reflect on your life choices and inspire you to take charge of your own destiny.

With a perfect blend of personal stories, scientific research, and practical advice, Jay provides invaluable insights on topics like career choices, relationships, and personal identity. She debunks the myth of the “thirty-is-the-new-twenty” mentality and urges young adults to embrace their twenties as a time of growth and self-discovery.

The Defining Decade is not just a book about what to do with your life; it is a wake-up call to seize the opportunities that come with this formative decade. Jay’s writing style is engaging and relatable, making it easy to connect with her message. She offers actionable steps and strategies to help readers create a foundation for a fulfilling and successful future.

Whether you’re a recent graduate, a struggling artist, or someone questioning their life choices, this book will guide you towards making the most out of your twenties. It will challenge you to step out of your comfort zone, take risks, and embrace the inevitable uncertainties that come with adulthood.

In a world where the pressure to have it all figured out can be overwhelming, “The Defining Decade” provides a much-needed roadmap for navigating the complexities of this transformative stage of life. It is a book that will leave you feeling inspired, motivated, and ready to take on the world.

The War of Art

by Steven Pressfield

The War of Art by Steven Pressfield is not just another book on what to do with your life. It is a powerful manifesto that delves deep into the battle we all face when pursuing our creative endeavors. Pressfield brilliantly captures the essence of resistance, that invisible force that holds us back from fulfilling our true potential. Whether you’re an artist, writer, entrepreneur, or simply someone seeking personal growth, this book about what to do with your life is a must-read.

Daring Greatly

by Brené Brown

Daring Greatly by Brené Brown is a groundbreaking book that serves as a compass, guiding us on a fearless journey of self-discovery and personal growth. It isn’t just another book about what to do with your life; it’s an empowering manifesto that encourages us to embrace vulnerability and wholeheartedly embrace our imperfections.

The 5 Second Rule

by Mel Robbins

The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins is not just another book about what to do with your life. It’s a game-changing guide that will empower you to take action and overcome the hesitation and self-doubt that often hold us back from reaching our full potential.

The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari

by Robin Sharma

The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari is a captivating and enlightening book about finding purpose and meaning in life. This remarkable book on what to do with your life takes readers on a transformative journey, guiding them towards a more fulfilling and joyful existence.

The Magic of Thinking Big

by David J. Schwartz

The Magic of Thinking Big is a captivating book that serves as a roadmap for individuals searching for direction and purpose in their lives. This extraordinary guide, written by David J. Schwartz, is not just another run-of-the-mill self-help book; it is a thought-provoking masterpiece that explores the vast potential of the human mind.

Unlike any other ‘book on what to do with your life’, The Magic of Thinking Big delves deep into the power of positive thinking and the impact it can have on our personal and professional lives. Schwartz challenges readers to break free from their limiting beliefs and embrace a mindset of abundance and possibility.

Through a series of inspiring anecdotes and practical strategies, this ‘book about what to do with your life’ encourages readers to dream big, set ambitious goals, and take decisive action to turn their aspirations into reality. Schwartz emphasizes the importance of visualizing success, cultivating self-confidence, and developing a relentless determination to overcome obstacles.

With its refreshing perspective and actionable advice, The Magic of Thinking Big is the ultimate ‘what to do with your life book’ that will empower readers to unlock their full potential and achieve extraordinary success in all areas of life. Schwartz’s timeless wisdom will leave you inspired, motivated, and equipped with the tools you need to create a life beyond your wildest dreams.

The Road Less Traveled

by M. Scott Peck

The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck is a captivating guidebook for navigating life’s challenges. It is not just another run-of-the-mill book on what to do with your life, but rather a profound exploration of human psychology and spirituality. Peck emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for our own actions and choices, offering practical insights and tools for personal growth and fulfillment. Through a compelling blend of personal anecdotes, case studies, and philosophical musings, he challenges readers to confront their fears, embrace change, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and others. This book about what to do with your life will inspire you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation, ultimately leading to a more authentic and fulfilling existence.

The Purpose Driven Life

by Rick Warren

The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren is an extraordinary guidebook that helps answer the age-old question: what should you do with your life? This exceptional book on what to do with your life is filled with profound wisdom and practical advice, making it a must-read for anyone seeking purpose and meaning.

Conclusion

Discovering the right path in life can be a daunting task, but luckily there are numerous books available to guide us along the way. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking for a fresh perspective, these 20 best books about what to do with your life offer invaluable wisdom and inspiration. From practical advice to thought-provoking insights, these books will help you navigate the complexities of life and make informed decisions about your future. So, why wait? Dive into these captivating reads and unlock the secrets to living a fulfilling and purposeful life.