Books to Help You Grow & Succeed 

As summer is coming to a close - end of July for a large majority of you Indiana readers - some of you may be getting ready to start your senior year or are getting ready to wrap up your last few weeks of summer before entering college or the real world. In preparation for your next big stage of life, we have curated a list of books that we believe would be helpful and add to a successful life outside of high school - this list includes a mix of personal growth, money smarts, mindset-shifting, and real-world readiness—all written in an engaging, teen-accessible way. 

All are available in physical copy, audio book & e-reader version - perfect for any kind of reader! Enjoy & make sure to tell us your favorite! 

Bonus: Many come with journals and or study guides to support your success! 

📘 Life Skills & Personal Growth

1. “Atomic Habits” by James Clear. Teaches how small habits lead to massive long-term success—great for building routines in college or the workforce.
   

2. “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens” by Sean Covey. Tailored directly to teenagers, this classic is like a life manual for time management, goals, and character.
   

3. “How to Win Friends & Influence People” by Dale Carnegie. Communication is everything in adult life. This book teaches social skills that open doors and help make life time connections.
   

4. “Do Hard Things” by Alex & Brett Harris. Challenges teens to push beyond low expectations and lead with integrity and boldness.

💸 Money, Work & Adulting

1. “I Will Teach You to Be Rich” (Young Adult Edition) by Ramit Sethi. Financial literacy 101—budgeting, saving, investing made real and relatable.
   
   

2. “Rich Dad Poor Dad for Teens” by Robert Kiyosaki (A personal favorite of mine) Introduces the mindset shift around money, jobs, and wealth-building early on to help build a strong base for lifelong success.
   
   

3. “Adulting: How to Become a Grown-Up in 535 Easy(ish) Steps” by Kelly Williams Brown. Covers the practical life stuff: laundry, taxes, resumes, relationships—with humor and honesty.
   
   

4. “Grit” by Angela Duckworth. A great explanation on why passion and perseverance matter more than talent—vital for post-high school success.
   

🧠 Mindset & Mental Wellness

1. “Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” by Carol Dweck. Growth mindset vs. fixed mindset—teens who get this early will soar in every area of life.
   
   

2. “You Are a Badass” by Jen Sincero. A confidence-boosting, funny, empowering read for anyone who feels unsure about their path. Another personal fav of mine!
   
   

3. “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck” by Mark Manson. A no-fluff guide to values, boundaries, and emotional maturity (note: more appropriate for older teens).

📚 Fiction That Teaches Life Lessons

1. “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. An inspiring, spiritual journey about finding your purpose and listening to your inner voice.
   

2. “Eleanor & Park” by Rainbow Rowell. Deals with young love, trauma, and identity—real and raw.
   

3. “Tuesdays with Morrie” by Mitch Albom. Teaches empathy, perspective, and what truly matters in life through real conversations. Such a good book - a personal fav that I have picked up multiply times and always enjoy.
   

Let us know your favorite from our list or any that you would add and why! We love to hear from you and if we can help - let us know! Now, grab a notebook, your favorite beverage & start turning those pages! We want nothing but success for you :-) 

*This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you*