7 Books I Wish I Had Read Earlier In Life

Life is a journey of learning, but not all lessons need to come from experience. Some of the most transformative insights, mindsets, and strategies can be found between the pages of the right book—if only we knew which ones to read, and when.

We’ve all had that moment of reflection: “If I had just known this sooner…” Below is a list of 7 books i wish i had read earlier in life. Whether you’re in your 20s or your 60s, these books offer timeless wisdom that can still shift the trajectory of your life.

1. Atomic Habits by James Clear

James Clear's Atomic Habits is a masterclass in building sustainable change. Rather than promoting willpower or motivation, Clear focuses on the power of tiny habits and how small daily improvements compound over time. He introduces actionable strategies like habit stacking, environment design, and identity-based change, all backed by psychological research. The beauty of this book lies in its simplicity and clarity—anyone can apply it immediately. If read earlier, it could eliminate years of frustration with broken routines and unmet goals. It's not just a productivity book; it's a guide to becoming the person you truly want to be.

2. The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel

The Psychology of Money explores how real people make financial decisions—not with spreadsheets, but with emotions, habits, and flawed logic. Morgan Housel presents timeless lessons on wealth, greed, risk, and happiness, showing that financial success is more about behavior than intelligence. Through stories and anecdotes, he dismantles the myth that high income equals wealth and emphasizes concepts like compounding, patience, and long-term thinking. Had we read this earlier, we’d have avoided financial anxiety and made wiser, more emotionally intelligent decisions with our money.

3. Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

Thinking, Fast and Slow dives into how we think and why we often think wrongly. Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman introduces two modes of thought: System 1 (fast, intuitive) and System 2 (slow, deliberate). The book explores cognitive biases like loss aversion, anchoring, and overconfidence—mistakes we all make unconsciously. Kahneman’s work is foundational for anyone interested in decision-making, economics, or psychology. While dense, it’s incredibly rewarding. It sharpens your awareness of your own thinking and gives tools to reason more accurately. Reading this book earlier would’ve meant fewer bad choices and a deeper understanding of human behavior—including our own.

4. The Defining Decade by Meg Jay

In The Defining Decade, clinical psychologist Meg Jay argues that our 20s are not a throwaway decade—they're foundational. Drawing from her work with young adults, she explores three key areas: work, love, and the brain, urging readers to act with intention during these formative years. Jay uses compelling narratives and research to challenge the myth that “30 is the new 20,” encouraging readers to invest in their future selves now. The book is a compassionate wake-up call for young adults, and one we wish we had read sooner. It’s empowering, practical, and could change the course of your life.

5. Deep Work by Cal Newport

Cal Newport’s Deep Work is a rallying cry for reclaiming our focus in a world obsessed with multitasking and distraction. He defines “deep work” as the ability to concentrate without distraction on cognitively demanding tasks—a skill that’s becoming increasingly rare and incredibly valuable. Newport offers a mix of theory and strategy, teaching readers how to build environments that foster focus and eliminate digital noise. His advice is especially critical in an age where attention spans are shrinking. Reading this book earlier would have helped us produce higher-quality work, faster—and with less burnout. It’s a must for anyone with serious goals.

6. The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

Rooted in ancient Toltec wisdom, The Four Agreements offers a spiritual but practical guide to personal freedom. Don Miguel Ruiz outlines four simple yet profound principles: be impeccable with your word, don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions, and always do your best. These agreements, when practiced consistently, can transform relationships, self-worth, and inner peace. The language is simple, but the impact is deep. Reading this book early in life helps dismantle toxic beliefs and reactive behaviors. It’s like a manual for emotional intelligence, and its wisdom—if applied—can radically improve the quality of your inner and outer world.

7. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist is a poetic allegory about dreams, destiny, and the pursuit of one’s “Personal Legend.” It follows Santiago, a young shepherd, on a mystical journey of self-discovery, illustrating that the treasure we seek is often found within. The novel’s spiritual simplicity masks a profound truth: listening to your heart and embracing the unknown leads to growth and fulfillment. Coelho’s message is clear—when you truly desire something, the universe conspires to help you achieve it. It’s an ideal read for moments of doubt or transition. This book doesn’t just inspire—it gives permission to dream boldly and live bravely.

Conclusion

We often say, “If only I had known this earlier…” But the truth is, it’s never too late to start living with clarity, courage, and intention. The books we’ve shared here aren’t just reads—they’re reframes. They challenge assumptions, correct course, and offer blueprints for a more meaningful life.

If we had discovered these books sooner, we would have made fewer missteps, worried less about the wrong things, and moved faster toward the people we wanted to become. But hindsight is a teacher too—and now, armed with these insights, we can move forward with deeper understanding and purpose.

So here’s our invitation: Don’t wait for a crisis, a crossroads, or a wake-up call. Pick one book. Start today. Let it change the way you think, decide, and live. And then, pass it on—because someone else is still looking for the wisdom you now hold.