As HIG’s “client concierge,” I’m often asked about what books I would recommend for younger investors or those new to investing. Two obvious ones have been written about here before: The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel and Odds On by Matt Hall.

As a concierge, though, after answering the question initially asked, I like to add to an important question that may not have been asked. In this case, “What book would you recommend to my 20-something (child, grandchild, niece, nephew, godchild, etc.) about life and career?” The title that tops my short list is unequivocally, The Defining Decade: Why your twenties matter and how to make the most of them now, by Meg Jay, Ph. D.

While the clear and direct audience is the 20-something, parents, grandparents, and others can also benefit from reading the title. Meg Jay provides an outstanding framework to hold productive conversations with anyone, especially twenty-somethings, based on her years as a clinical psychologist specializing in adult development. Not surprisingly, for our regular readers, Dr. Jay brings plenty of data and evidence along with her anecdotes. 

As a parent of three kids in their twenties, I thought it was a great time to revisit this title myself. Fortunately, my wife, Jeana,  encouraged our kids to read the book while in high school or college. As all three embark on new careers or career changes, I’m forever grateful to her for discovering this title years ago. Notably, an “updated” 2021 edition provides additional data and evidence since the 2012 original publication. 

If you would like to receive a complimentary copy of the book or discuss the topic further, call me at 855-414-5500.