The 5 Best Books for Young People with Gigantic Dreams

As a college student and a creative entrepreneur, I am always on the lookout for books and articles all about getting there. I think reading books has been one of the best motivators for me when I feel stuck in my work on my website, my articles for WayUp or my work on Her Track.

If you’re a fellow college student with big dreams and goals for the future, my best tip to get motivated or inspired is to pick up one of these fantastic books!

1. #GIRLBOSS by Sophia Amoruso

Can I just say that I am obsessed with this book?  Don’t let the title scare you; this book is for everyone, not just women. Sophia Amoruso is very blunt and comical, and she talks about everything that allowed her to get her clothing empire, Nasty Gal, off the ground with no loans or investors whatsoever. Sophia Amoruso emphasizes the idea that a person must earn his or her success and be very smart with their finances. She is also very assertive about her point of maintaining the company values herself, not just expecting them for others.

2. You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero

This book is often compared to #GIRLBOSS in its comical and blunt tone; in fact, it ‘s described as a “verbal meat cleaver” in it’s Google profile. Jen Sincero is very relatable and displays a bit of that teen angst that millennials tend to enjoy. If you’re up for some comical advice on being a “badass” (excuse my language), pick up this book.

3. Becoming the Boss: New Rules for the Next Generation of Leaders by Lindsey Pollak

I love the title of this book! I truly believe that business does run differently nowadays. As millennials who don’t have a lot of respect in the professional world due to stereotyping, the ways in which to “become the boss,” so to speak, have changed. Lindsey Pollak begins with her story of “becoming the boss,” making her a very relatable writer. She provides clearly defined rules and actions for millennial leaders to follow through with.  

4. Do Over: Rescue Monday, Reinvent Your Work, and Never Get Stuck by John Acuff

This is an excellent book for college students, especially those who feel they are stuck in the wrong career path and aren’t sure where to go. John Acuff talks all about doing it over and reinventing your work rather than throwing it away. Acuff has said that he took 16 years to write this book, and the long wait doesn’t disappoint. If you need to reset and update, this book will help you do it.

5. Manage Your Day-to-Day: Build Your Routine, Find Your Focus, and Sharpen Your Creative Mind by Jocelyn K. Glei

This book is seriously amazing! I truly believe that routine is a life changer. Glei talks about various well known people who feel the same way such as Woody Allen, Twyla Tharp, and Ross Bleckner. Glei covers how to lay down a routine and get into your groove. She talks about every possible aspect of a routine, from specific morning routines to utilizing certain tasks such as meditation. If you want a step by step for your day to day, this book is your best bet!

What are your favorite books to encourage leadership, creativity and learning? Have you read any of these? Let us know in the comments below!